Digital Photography Blog: Digital Camera Reviews, Ratings, News, Tips and Tutorials.
February 2010
February 2009
January 2009
August 2008
July 2008
April 2008
March 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005
April 2005
March 2005
February 2005
January 2005
December 2004
November 2004
October 2004
September 2004
August 2004
July 2004
June 2004
May 2004
April 2004
March 2004
February 2004
January 2004
December 2003
November 2003
October 2003
September 2003
Many people are getting digital cameras for Christmas and as a result the number of times we've been asked in the last few days for advice on how to use them has been on the rise. So today I thought I'd compile a list of a few of the online tips resources that I've had good feedback on from readers. I hope you find them helpful.
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Canon Powershot S80 Digital Camera and writes - 'All in all the Canon PowerShot S80 is an extremely interesting digital camera. It seems a rather stubborn one, but definitely one that proves itself worthy. The PowerShot S80 is found on the top in its price range. Most changes compared to the S70 are for the user's benefit. A few minor changes (like the return of RAW format!) and the Canon PowerShot S80 will be one of the best versatile digital cameras currently available; it's absolutely a recommendable camera!'
Read more about the Canon Powershot S80
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot S80 8MP Digital Camera with 6x Wide Angle Optical Zoom
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!'
Read more reviews of the Pentax Optio WPi
Get the Latest Price on the Pentax Optio WPi Digital Camera
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.'
Read more reviews of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Apple have just updated Aperture to a new version (1.0.1). The update addresses a few issues of reliability and performance. Some of the areas addressed include:
- White balance adjustment accuracy and performance
- Image export quality
- Book and print ordering reliability
- Auto-stacking performance
- Custom paper size handling
Read more about the update and download it at Apple - Support - Downloads - Aperture 1.0.1 Update
DP Review has posted an excellent review of the Kodak EasyShare P850 digital camera where they give it a rating of 'recommended' and write - 'Ultimately then, there is much to like here - the P850 is positively bristling with features, and is one of the few cameras in its class to offer easy, menu-free access to all the most commonly used photographic functions. On paper it also offers a very compelling feature set at a competitive price, including some (RAW capture, flash hot shoe) that are pretty much unique in this class of camera. But the poor low light performance (focusing and high ISO noise), the softness, the excessive noise reduction and sharpening and the fact that this is the first camera I've tested in years that actually crashed on me more than once (requiring the removal of the battery to reset it) means I can't unreservedly recommend it. And the idea (exposed in Kodak's publicity material) that this is a serious alternative to a DSLR is, frankly, to be taken with a hefty pinch of salt.'
Read more reviews of the Kodak Easyshare P850
Get the Latest Price on the "Kodak Easyshare P850
infodigitalcamera.com points to a Korean Website that has pictures and rumors of a Samsung DSLR - the GX-1 (update: pictures now deleted)
It's in the rumor bin at present - but the main consensus among many in the know is that this is a re-branded Pentax DSLR (the Pentax * st DL) and represents the first step in the Pentax Samsung collaboration that we reported previously in October.
The collaboration between Pentax and Samsung will take Pentax further into the Korean market and is of obvious benefit to Samsung as they suddenly have themselves a DSLR.
We've posted more pictures of the Samsung GX-1 DSLR below the fold.
Samsung unveils its first digital SLR - the GX-1S
* 6 mega-pixels CCD
* Light weight and portable - only 505g
* Large bright 2.5 inch colour TFT LCD screen
* Pentaprism technology provides clear, bright viewfinder
* 11 point auto focus
* High sensitivity up to ISO 3200
Samsung is announcing its advance into the digital SLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera arena with the launch of the six mega-pixel GX-1S.
Launching in February, the new interchangeable lens GX-1S is Samsung's first digital SLR camera, developed in conjunction with Pentax. Samsung now provides a full offering of digital cameras to cater for the needs of everyone - from point and shooters to advanced enthusiast photographers.
Offering high portability and mobility through its compact design, the GX-1S will weigh just 505 grams and house a 23.5mm x 15.7mm CCD image sensor. The 3200 ISO equivalent allows high sensitivity shooting in indoor environments.
The GX-1S also provides a continuous shooting speed of 2.8 frames per second (up to eight frames in JPEG mode).
Lens The GX-1S will utilize the new advanced Schneider Kreuznach D-Xenon lens system and Pentax's lens KAF bayonet mount technology - all Pentax DSLR lens will be mountable on the GX-1S.
Viewfinder The large TFT colour LCD screen (2.5 inch and 210K pixels) and Pentaprism technology ensure a clear and bright view. The field of view is 95% with magnification at 0.95x (50mm F1.4 lens).
Focusing, Shutter & Flash Modes include AF Single (with focus lock) and manual focus together with continuous AF . Shutter speed is 30 ~ 1/4,000 sec. with Bulb. The flash is a built-in retractable P-TTL auto pop-up offering the following modes: Auto, Manual, Auto/Red-eye reduction, Manual/red-eye reduction. Angle of view coverage is 28mm wide-angle (equivalent to 35mm). Recharge time is 3 seconds.
Samsung announced its vision of becoming a world class digital camera manufacturer in May 2005. Since then, Samsung has seen strong success and rapid sales growth via the launch of innovative slim style cameras such as the Digimax i5 and i50 MP3. Its advanced technology was recognized again in the high-end camera Pro815 for semi-professional photographers.
Sigma have today announced that some of their lenses are not able to be used with the new Nikon D200 DSLR. THe lenses in question are their HSM equipped lenses. The good news is that Sigma is planning on releasing a firmware update to fix the current problem.
Following is Sigma's announcement.
Sigma News Release
Notice to end users of Sigma's HSM equipped lenses with the Nikon D200 Camera
To our valued customers,
Sigma HSM equipped lenses do not operate when the "AF operation button" on the back of the body of Nikon "D200" digital SLR camera (recently introduced to the market by Nikon) is used. We have determined that this problem is caused by a firmware "bug" in our HSM equipped lenses.
We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause our customers who own D200 cameras and we are committed to correcting this situation. We will start updating the firmware of these lenses free of charge in the near future.
Please contact your nearest authorized Sigma Service Center for further information
Please also note that if the camera's shutter button is used for AF operation of HSM equipped lenses, such camera and lens combination functions normally.
This problem occurs with HSM equipped lenses only. Non-HSM models of Sigma lenses function properly with the D200 camera.
Following is a list of HSM equipped lenses which would require an update for the D200 camera:
• Fixed Focal Length Lenses
- 14mm F2.8 EX ASPHERICAL HSM
- 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM
- APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO MACRO 180mm F3.5 EX HSM / APO MACRO 180mm F3.5 EX DG HSM
- APO 300mm F2.8 EX HSM / APO 300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO 500mm F4.5 EX HSM / APO 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM
- APO 800mm F5.6 EX HSM / APO 800mm F5.6 EX DG HSM
- APO 800mm F5.6 EX HSM / APO 800mm F5.6 EX DG HSM
Zoom Lenses
• 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM
- 12-24mm F4.5-5.6 EX DG ASPHERICAL HSM
- 17-35mm F2.8-4 EX DG ASPHERICAL HSM
- APO 50-500mm F 4-6.3 EX HSM / APO 50-500mm F 4-6.3 EX DG HSM
- APO 70-200mm F 2.8 EX HSM / APO 70-200mm F 2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO 100-300mm F4 EX HSM / APO 100-300mm F 4 EX DG HSM
- APO 120-300mm F 2.8 EX HSM / APO 120-300mm F 2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO 300-800mm F 5.6 EX HSM / APO 300-800mm F 5.6 EX DG HSM
CNET reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 and recommends'Though small and compact, this SLR-styled 5-megapixel camera brings with it a 10x optical zoom capability. This should please general photography users who wish to capture out-of-reach subjects occasionally. However, handling the camera was a little tricky, especially when we kept mistaking the barrel for a manual zoom lens.... We were generally satisfied with the quality of images taken with the mini-SLR camera.'
Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix S5600
Get the Latest Price on the "Fujifilm Finepix S5600 (also known as the S5200)
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.'
Read more reviews of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
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. '
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix L1
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix L1
Popular Photography reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 and writes - 'In our lab tests, the AF was quick and reliable. The bright red assist lamp may distract your subjects, but you can turn it off. The tiny flash doesn't do too much. At ISO 400, it covers just over eight feet (a few feet better than the T1).... About the only thing missing is some form of image stabilization. Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FX9 and Konica Minolta's DiMAGE X1 both include IS. But not for $350. And that leaves a little extra cash to splurge on the party.'
Read more about the Sony Cybershot DSC-T5
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSCT5 5.1MP Digital Camera
Pocket-lint reviews the Fuji FinePix S5600 digital camera and writes - 'The 5600 provides just enough in terms of new kit and more advanced shooting options to make it a worthy upgrade of the 5500. The EVF is a nightmare, as was macro focusing, but the overall package, with its improved image noise suppressions and manual controls make it worthy of scrutiny if you’ve got £299.99 to spare on a digital camera.'
Read more about the Fujifilm FinePix S5600
Get the Latest Price on the “Fujifilm Finepix S5600 (also known as the S5200)
CNET reviews the Pentax Optio S45 and writes - 'The 4-megapixel sibling of Pentax's 5-megapixel Optio S55, the Pentax Optio S45 offers the same ultracompact body, large LCD, 3X optical zoom, and streamlined feature set as its predecessor. It also has a number of helpful and fun features that aren't as easy to find as they could be, so you'll need to read the manual to acquaint yourself with everything this camera can do. But for out-of-the-box use, the Optio S45 is snapshot simple.'
Read more reviews of the Pentax Optio S45
CNET reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 and writes - 'Cameras made for advanced amateurs are often tuned for capturing high-quality images quickly and easily, and they're stripped of extraneous gimmicks, such as an overabundance of scene modes. The 8-megapixel Kodak EasyShare P880, at the top of the company's flagship Performance Series, offers a wide-angle zoom lens, as well as design elements, features, and specs that place the camera in that category but delivers them in an uneven and frequently disappointing implementation.'
Read more about the Kodak EasyShare P880
Get the Latest Price on the Kodak Easyshare P880
There's more news beginning to surface around the web of a new Pro DSLR from Fujifilm - the Fujifilm S4 Pro. A forum contributer at DP Review writes:
'The facts are that there is most certainly an S4 Pro in the final stages of development. This unit will be built around a Fuji adaptation of the Nikon F6 body. The AA battery configuration is being carried over. The comment from him about the battery decision is that this is set in concrete with Fuji because they have apparently had massive positive feedback on it with the S3.Of course there's no official word yet - but hopefully at some point in the new year there'll be more to report on with the Fujifilm S4 Pro DSLR.
The most tantalizing info, about the sensor, is info that he just won't part with. However, there are currently five internal "test" units each with a different sensor for extensive in the field testing.'
Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 has an impressive specification, outstandingly good handling and above average performance, all for a very good price. There are few cameras that can match its zoom range, and the anti-shake system means that it’s usable even at full zoom. It would suit a birdwatcher, keen amateur photographer or anyone who appreciates good design.'
Read more reviews of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6
Get the Latest Price on the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6
Creative Pro Reviews Apple's Aperture 1.0 and writes - 'You'll most likely develop a love/hate relationship with Aperture. The fact is, it's really fun to use. Or at least, it is unless an image doesn't convert well. And it's not so fun when too many edits bring your Mac to its knees. Nevertheless, for a version 1.0 product, the program has a stunning array of features, a very well-designed interface, and some breakthrough comparing and sorting tools. I recommend that you wait until the next version and see whether Apple addresses Aperture's major shortcomings. But if you relish being on the bleeding edge and buy it anyway, you'll find a program that's useful, though you'll probably need to adjust your workflow practices and buy more storage and a faster video card to get the most out of it.'
Read more about Aperture 1.0 from Apple
Get the latest Price on “Apple Aperture Post Production Tool for Photographers
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.'
Read more about the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
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.'
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix P2
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix P2
if you're looking for a little inspiration for your photography a good site to check out at the moment is TIME Magazine's Best Photos of the Year 2005 which has some stunning images of some horrifying situations from the past year around the globe.
The photography is quite amazing - the stories behind them remind us of the massive year that our world has just had.
After you've looked at the images vote for your favorite.
Be warned that some of the images are fairly graphic.
Photoxels reviews the Olympus FE-110 and writes - 'The Olympus FE-110 is an entry-level digital camera for those most particularly interested only in an affordable snapshooter. If you are into photography, and want to learn and grow in it, the Olympus FE-110 does not have the features or image quality you need for that. But if you are looking for an affordable present for a young child or an easy-to-use point-and-shoot for someone who wants to use it for their blogs, we would recommend that you look into the Olympus FE-110 instead of a “no-name” brand. Besides getting Olympus support, you would also get a quality Olympus lens, a well-built body, easy menu structure and peace of mind.'
Read more about the Olympus FE-110
Get a Price on and/or order the Olympus FE-110 5MP Digital Camera with 2.8x Optical Zoom
Steves Digicams reviews the Olympus SP-310 and recommends - 'When we first saw the specs of this model, it looked very appealing. And we loved its ergonomics, image quality, and versatile exposure modes. However the poor shooting performance and short battery life really brings it down and it is very hard for us to recommend this model. We feel the shooting performance suffers due to the very slow recording media (xD-picture card.)'
Read more about the Olympus SP-310
Order an Olympus SP-310.
Steves Digicams reviews the Olympus SP-350 and writes - 'Image quality was actually quite good for an 8-megapixel consumer model. The majority of our outdoor samples were sharp and well exposed, but I did see some noticeable edge blurring, like image noise, which can only be seen when viewing images at 100% and is very unlikely to be seen in any of your prints. Speaking of noise, I found levels were average at lower ISO speeds, noticeably increasing at ISO 200 and 400. Like many Olympus models, the SP-350's white balance and exposure systems work very well, with the Auto WB setting producing accurate color temperatures in a variety of lighting conditions. I was especially pleased with all of our outdoor people shots when using its dedicated Portrait scene mode. Our samples were tach sharp, well exposed, and showed true skin tones.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus SP-350
Order the Olympus SP-350.
Pocket Lint reviews the Casio EX-Z500 and writes - 'The Casio is a solid camera that will produce good results. The large screen will appeal to the party set that like to share the images straight after they’ve taken them and the end results are good for printing too. Things to bear in mind are the need to lug the docking station around with you if you are hoping to dock on the move and the fact that you’ll have to invest in an SD card from day one if you are looking to take more than three pictures at a time. '
Read more reviews of the Casio EX-Z500
Get the Latest Price on the Casio - EX-Z500 Digital Camera
PC Mag reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC N1 and writes - 'With its signature slick, stylish design and a large, 3-inch touch screen, Sony's latest Cyber-shot DSC-N1 looks very cool, but it has a lot more than good looks going for it. This 8.1-megapixel ultracompact doesn't unseat the current ultracompact Editors' Choice, the Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital Elph, but it has a lot of great features that make it an appealing choice for style- and performance-conscious shutterbugs.'
Read more about the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-N1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-N1
Camera Labs reviews the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f4~5.6 IS USM lens and writes - 'At first glance the three lenses on test appear to deliver roughly identical wide-angle coverage, but look a little closer and there are differences. The 18-55mm EF-S unsurprisingly delivers a slightly reduced field of view, but interestingly the 17-85mm EF-S captures a slightly wider field than the 17-40mm despite having the same quoted wide focal length. The 17-40mm is the only one of the three which can also work on a full-frame body though, delivering considerably wider views and supporting possible future body upgrades.'
ePhotoZine reviews the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens and writes - 'I can’t help feeling that Canon have pushed the focal range a tad too far at the wide end of this optic because from the 20mm mark through to the 85mm end it is a cracking walkabout lens. It is only the widest few millimetres that let it down a touch. Having said that, with a little judicious work post processing images at that end, they are still very usable. The Image Stabilisation system is a boon in low lighting conditions and made pictures in those situations quite viable. For owners of the cameras that the lens will fit, it is a good addition to the camera bag.'
Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot A610 and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot A610 is an very worthy addition near the top of that line, offering a 5-megapixel CCD and a very good quality 4x optical zoom lens. It offers everything from fully automatic to fully manual exposure control, with a healthy set of scene modes thrown in to make it easy to bring back great-looking photos from what might otherwise be challenging situations. In the past, we've often found that 5-megapixel cameras suffer a little in the image noise department, but were quite pleasantly surprised by the A610's high-ISO image quality. ISO 400 shots from it showed a little noise when printed as large as 8x10 inches, but would certainly be acceptable to most consumers for typical wall or tabletop display. Bottom line, this is just an excellent “all around” digital camera, and an excellent bargain.'
Read more about the Canon Powershot A610
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot A610
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Canon Powershot A620 and writes - 'The Canon Powershot A620 is another excellent entry into the market from Canon. Along with its 5 megapixel brother, it makes an excellent upgrade to the model that it replaces, the A95. The DIGIC II processor makes for a much better shooting experience with quicker operation and better battery life. A larger LCD and a longer optical zoom also make this replacement attractive. The shooting modes of the camera are impressive as well, with multiple degrees of manual control and the fun My Colors mode (you can take a picture of your car in a different color).'
Read more reviews of the Canon Powershot A620
Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620
Imaging Resource reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 Digital Camera and writes - 'While somewhat more advanced than the typical EasyShare model, the new P850 offers a wide range of exposure and creative control without compromising usability. The P850 offers partial and full manual exposure modes for the more advanced consumers, but also maintains a healthy selection of automatic and preset shooting modes for novices. Plus, the P850 continues with Kodak's popular EasyShare features, including printer and camera dock compatibility, the Share menu for tagging images for printing, downloading, and emailing, as well as the Favorites mode for viewing a digital photo album. '
Read more reviews of the Kodak EasyShare P850
Get the Latest Price on the “Kodak Easyshare P850
DCRP reviews the Olympus SP-350 and writes - 'I have mixed feelings about the Olympus SP-350. While I like the design, features, and photo quality, the camera always felt sluggish when I was using it. While I'm not asking for D-SLRs speeds, it would've been nice if the camera was at least as responsive as other cameras in its class. The SP-350 gets my recommendation, but with the footnote “not the best camera if you want to take or view pictures quickly”.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus SP-350
Order the Olympus SP-350 today.
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.'
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix S4
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S4 6MP Digital Camera
This Sigma 28-300mm F3.5-6.3 DG MACRO digitally optimized lens covers all the focal lengths from 28mm wide angle to 300mm telephoto with 10.7:1 high zoom ratio as well as macro capability.
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 through the entire zoom range. This lens features two Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements and four aspherical lenses for excellent correction of all types of aberration and displays a high level of optical ability. The use of aspherical lenses in the construction of this lens not only corrects aberrations but also produces a very compact and lightweight lens design. The 28-300mm F3.5-6.3 DG MACRO lens has a minimum focusing distance of 50cm at all focal lengths and is equipped with a macro mechanism for close-up photography at 300mm telephoto, allowing a reproduction ratio of 1:3. This design allows for stability and compactness in design as changes in focus are made in an internal lens grouping. This also gives the advantage of a non-rotating front lens assembly, which is of great benefit when using polarizing filter and Petal-type hood. Petal-type hood (LH680-01) is included as a standard accessory.
Imaging Resource reviews the Fuji FinePix S9000 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Fujifilm FinePix S9000 makes a pretty compelling case for itself, offering an excellent 10.7x zoom lens (that extends to a very useful wide angle equivalent focal length of 28mm) and loads of resolution at a price a hundred dollars or more less than the least expensive d-SLR equipped with only a modest 3x zoom. It doesn't quite approach the quickness or low light/high ISO prowess of most d-SLRs, but certainly does well enough in these areas to suit the needs of most amateur photographers. A flash hot-shoe permits the use of powerful external strobes, and it even offers a threaded cable-release socket on its shutter button. (Why more digital camera makers don't offer this is beyond us, it can't cost more than a few pennies to add to a camera, and is very useful for all sorts of situations where you don't want to jostle the camera by pressing the shutter button.) Control-wise, the Fuji S9000 offers a full range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual, with program, aperture-priority and shutter-priority in between, as well as a good handful of useful scene modes. This is a camera that a pure novice can start with and grow into as their skills mature. No camera is perfect, and the S9000 has its own set of foibles, but on balance, it's a great choice for enthusiast photographers on a budget.'
Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix S9000
Get the Latest Price on the Fujifilm Finepix S9500 (also known as the S9000)
CNET Reviews the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and gives it a rating of 6.0 out of 10. They write - 'Like a brother or a sister who might be mistaken for a twin, Nikon's new entry-level point-and-shoot digital camera is nearly identical to its more expensive sibling. Outwardly, the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and the Coolpix 5600 look exactly the same, but the 4600 has a 4-megapixel sensor instead of the 5600's 5.1-megapixel chip. And while the 4600 has the same video specs as the 5600, it doesn't record video with sound. Like the 5600, the 4600 has several novice-friendly features, including Blur Warning, D-lighting, and Best Shot Selector, which provide automatic solutions to problems you might otherwise solve with manual settings. This camera, however, doesn't offer manual settings because its likely owners aren't interested in fiddling with them. Add the Coolpix 4600's small size, solid construction, and 3X optical zoom, and you have a camera that's worth considering if you're a casual snapshot photographer on a tight budget. '
Read more reviews and ratings of the Nikon Coolpix 4600
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix 4600
CNET Reviews the Kodak EasyShare Z700 and writes - 'What makes the Kodak EasyShare Z700 a viable offering in the universe of low-cost, noncompact, non-EVF 4-megapixel cameras is what you get for the price. The surprising amount of manual control with programmed, aperture-priority, and shutter-priority modes, the 5X zoom lens with unexpected telephoto reach, and the Z700's decent image quality all exceed what you might expect from a camera in this class. And for just a little more than the camera-only price, you can buy it packaged with a handy Kodak Printer Dock 3.'
Read more reviews of the Kodak EasyShare Z700
Buy the “Kodak Easyshare Z700 4MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Zoom”
Photobird reviews the Canon PowerShot SD450 Digital Elph and writes - 'If you're looking for a tiny digital camera to take along with you wherever you go, then the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent choice. It has 5 megapixels, 3x zoom, and a large 2.5" LCD screen -- a group of features that hits the "sweet spot" of today's tiny digital cameras. The Canon PowerShot SD450 is very well built, easy-to-use, and takes excellent photos. The only thing I really missed was a protective covering for the camera, which you can easily find on your own. At about $300, the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent investment that should provide you with thousands upon thousands of precious memories. '
Read more about the Canon Powershot SD450
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD450
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.'
Read more reviews and recommendations on the Nikon Coolpix S4
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S4 6MP Digital Camera
HP today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire bilderservice.de GmbH, which operates PIXACO – a leading online photo services and products site in Europe.
The acquisition of the privately-held company will enable HP to rapidly extend the reach of its online photo services throughout Europe, building on the purchase of Snapfish earlier this year. HP plans to extend many of its Snapfish capabilities to the PIXACO service – bringing European customers greater choices for printing, sharing and storing their photos.
“This acquisition gives HP the ability to quickly become Europe’s largest online photo service, just as it is in the U.S. today,� said Ben Nelson, vice president and general manager, Snapfish, Digital Photography and Entertainment, HP. “Together, Snapfish and PIXACO have the experience and scope to provide a world-class online photo experience that will uniquely meet the needs of consumers in Europe.�
Today, Snapfish has 20 million registered users in the United States and United Kingdom and is adding up to 1 million new users every month.
The acquisition also is expected to foster the growth of Internet-to-retail digital photography services in Europe. Currently, Snapfish powers online photo services for more than two dozen leading retailers, Internet service providers and consumer brands in both the United States and United Kingdom, and will now look to align with similar partners throughout Europe.
Since PIXACO was established in 2003 by bilderservice.de, customers in 11 countries across Europe have come to recognize and trust the products and services made available through the PIXACO site.
“With this move, Europeans will now be exposed to a whole new level of digital photography services in addition to the best-value offering that they have come to expect from PIXACO,� said Karsten Schneider, chief executive officer and founder, bilderservice.de GmbH. “We look forward to providing our customers with a more powerful and sophisticated online digital photography experience.�
PIXACO customers will continue to enjoy the same benefits they receive today, along with new features and services from HP’s Snapfish portfolio of digital photography solutions.
More information about all of Snapfish’s products and services is available at http://www.snapfish.com.
Megapixel reviews the Kodak Easyshare P880 and writes - 'Featuring an 8-megapixel resolution, a super wide — 24 to 140 mm — 5.8 X manual zoom manufactured by Schneider-Kreuznach; a 2.5-inch, 115,000 pixel LCD monitor; and a 237,000 pixel electronic viewfinder, the P880 is aimed at users looking for more flexibility than is available with a point and shoot, short of moving to a dSLR.'
Read more about the Kodak Easyshare P880
Get the Latest Price on the Kodak Easyshare P880
Pocket-lint reviews the Pentax ist*DL DSL and writes - 'So, if you’re looking to upgrade from a compact or a first-time digital camera this is a good option. You will produce good images once you’ve set the camera up and you will have the flexibility of interchangeable lenses and external flashguns. If you’re looking for a good mid-range digital SLR then maybe you should think about something from the big two – Nikon and Canon - as their models are dropping in price and have better pedigrees, and in my mind are easier to handle despite their comparatively bigger sizes. '
Read more reviews of the Pentax ist*DL
Get the Latest Price on the Pentax *ist DL
I've just taken delivery of a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens for my Canon EOS 20D have just spent the last hour out in the garden harassing every beetle and flower I could find.
Since buying the 20D a few months ago I had been finding myself enjoying photographing the smaller things of life using the zoom lenses that I'd bought so I thought it was time to get myself a purpose built macro. The 100mm lens gets wonderful reviews around the web so I placed my order.
I've included a few of the photos I took in the backyard above and below (click to enlarge). Note that these were rush jobs and handheld shots on a breezy day. They've not had any post shot production. Having said all that I think the lens has real promise.
100mm gives plenty of working lenth and allows you to get in nice and close. Focussing is fast (although it takes some practice to get a bug in front of a distant background). Contrast and sharpness seem good although I'm looking forward to using it on the weekend with my tripod attached.
The lens is a little bigger than I was expecting but not as heavy as some of my other lenses. I've heard it's a very good portrait lens also so this one might be regular feature on my 20D.
Watch bugs and beetles everywhere! Here's a couple more shots.
Compare prices on the Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens
Buy the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens at Amazon.
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.'
Read more reviews and recommendations of the Nikon Coolpix P1
Get the Latest Price on the "Nikon Coolpix P1
Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Casio Exilim EX-Z500 where they write - 'The Casio Exilim EX-Z500 is a superb mid-range pocket snapshot camera at a competitive price. It has style, performance, a good list of features and the picture quality to match. The Best Shot mode will be useful for beginners, while the versatile menu options will appeal to the more experienced user. All in all, an excellent little camera.'
Read more about the Casio Exilim EX-Z500
Get the Latest Price on the Casio - EX-Z500 Digital Camera
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.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the Ricoh Caplio R3
Rob Galbraith reports that the Nikon D200 availability date is delayed in Canada. It still looks like it'll be in shops by Christmas but only just with the new ETA 19 December. There's no word on whether these delays are world wide or just a Canadian issue. I've not heard of similar delays yet in Australia - but time will tell.
Read more about the Nikon D200 DSLR.
Pre Order the Nikon D200 from Amazon.
With Christmas just under a month away we've noticed an increase in traffic here at Digital Photography Blog from people looking for the perfect digital camera to give as a Christmas gift.
Here are some of the hottest Digital Cameras that people are looking for this Christmas
Kodak EasyShare Z760 - to quote Eric Zoolander (as you do) - if this camera were a male model we'd say 'he's so hot right now'. This is the most searched for digital camera on DPB. It retails through Amazon for $279.99.
Kodak cameras were recently announced to be the most popular brand of digital camera in the US and this 6.1megapixel camera is set to lead the charge into 2006. It has a nice 2.2inch LCD screen, 3x Optical Zoom and the ability to get a little creative with some manual control over exposure (if desired). Get more information on the Kodak EasyShare Z760 here. Also pretty hot in this range is the Kodak EasyShare Z740 (with 10x Optical Zoom) which retails at $269.94.
Canon Powershot SD400 (IXUS 50) - This camera is apparently walking out of Melbourne camera stores at an incredible rate at present. Canon are renowned for their quality when it comes to image sensors and this camera produces some lovely results. It's got a 5MP sensor, 3x Optical Zoom, 2.0inch LCD and is retailing at Amazon for $264.94 (US). Also extremely popular in the Canon Powershot SD range is the 7.1MP SD550 (IXUS 750) which retails for $399 and the entry level SD200 (IXUS 30) which retails for $169.88.
Read more about the Canon Powershot SD400 (IXUS 50)
Canon Powershot A510 - Canon's other point and shoot range worth considering are the 'A' Series digital cameras which would make great gifts also. Particularly popular on the site here this week has been the Canon Powershot A510 - it has a 3.2 megapixel sensor and a 4x Optical Zoom for that little extra zoomage (I think I just made up a word). You can pick it up at Amazon for an affordable $159.99.
Also popular is the 4 megapixel version - the Canon Powershot A520 which sells for $174.94. At the top of the A series range is the incredibly popular Canon Powershot A620 which has a 7.1MP sensor and 4x Optical Zoom. It's selling well at $354.92.
Sony Cybershot DSC-S40 It's not all Canon and Kodak this year though - the entry level Sony Cybershot DSC-S40 has also had some attention in the past month or so. It has a 4.1MP sensor, 3x Optical Zoom and retails at $154.94.
Sony Cybershot DSC-T7 - If you're looking for something with a few more features in the Sony Cybershot range then you'll want to check out the 'T' Series of digital cameras which I'm sure will be selling like hot cakes as Christmas gifts this year. We've especially noticed a lot of attention around the sleek Sony Cybershot DSC-T7. This digital camera features a 5.1MP sensor and fold away 3x Optical Zoom. It will set you back $399.45 at Amazon.
Also in the sleek Sony 'T' range is the Sony Cybershot DSC-T33 which is retailing at present at the $339.99 mark.
Konica Minolta Dimage X1 - Speaking of sleek - check out the lines on the lovely little Konica Minolta Dimage X1. It might be small but it packs a punch with an 8MP sensor and 3x Optical anti shake Zoom. It's selling for $309.99 at Amazon and is a nice piece of equipment.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ2 - The Lumix range from Panasonic have been a bit of a surprise package for some digital camera buyers this season. One retailer that I spoke with told me he'd been selling quite a few. The Lumix DMC-LZ2 is an interesting feature combination with a 4MP sensor and an unusual 6x Optical Zoom which differentiates it from the 3x Zoom crowd. It's also a little different because it occupies the gap in price range between the mid $100's and mid $200's cameras - retailing at $198.94.
Also performing very well in the Panasonic range is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1. It's a feature packed camera with an 8.1MP sensor and 4x Optical zoom. Not cheap - but a quality camera at $569.99.
Canon Rebel XT - The Canon Rebel XT has been a very popular DSLR this year and would make most digital camera owners incredibly happy this Christmas. It has an 8 megapixel sensor and shoots at up to 3 frames per second. I have quite a few friends with this camera and they are always telling me how much they love it which lines right up with the reviews we've been linking to on the camera on our Rebel XT page. Amazon are currently selling the Canon Rebel XT for $875 (with 18-55mm lens).
Canon EOS 5D - you'd be a lucky person to get one of these as a Christmas gift but we thought we'd include it as it's one of the most searched for digital cameras on the web at present. The 12.8 megapixel 5D DSLR (yep - I said 12.8) is not for the faint hearted - it is a full frame DSLR and retails at $3249.95 (body only).
Nikon D70s - one of the biggest selling DSLRs through our partners this year has been the Nikon D70s which was announced this past April. It's an update to the award winning Nikon D70 and features a larger 2inch LCD, redesigned menus and better auto focus. I've played with the D70s on a few occasions and it feels like a good solid performer. It retails at Amazon with a kit lens at $1199.
Nikon D50 - Also new in the Nikon DSLR range this year is the D50. Packing 6.1 megapixels it's been getting some great reviews - retailing at a much more affordable $709.94 (this will be one of the best sellers this Christmas if the predictions of my retail buddies are anything to go by).
Nikon D200 - The most popular DSLR on this site at present is definitely the 10.2 megapixel Nikon D200. It's still not actually available but Amazon seem to be taking pre-orders on it for $1900. It's one to put on your belated Christmas Present List (or to keep an eye on for a birthday gift next year.
The next advance in cameras is becoming a reality at the University of Rochester. Imaging chips revolutionized the photography industry, and now the chips themselves are being revolutionized. A pair of newly patented technologies may soon enable power-hungry imaging chips to use just a fraction of the energy used today and capture better images to boot - all while enabling cameras to shrink to the size of a shirt button and run for years on a single battery. Placed in a home, they could wirelessly provide images to a security company when an alarm is tripped, or even allow mapping software like Google's to zoom in to real-time images at street level. The enormous reduction in power consumption and increase in computing power can also bring cell-phone video calls closer to fruition.
The team of Mark Bocko, professor of electrical and computer engineering, and Zeljko Ignjatovic, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, has designed a prototype chip that can digitize an image right at each pixel, and they are working now to incorporate a second technology that will compress the image with far fewer computations than the best current compression techniques.
"These two technologies may work together or separately to greatly reduce the energy cost of capturing a digital image," says Bocko. "One is evolutionary in that it pushes current technology further. The second may prove to be revolutionary because it's an entirely new way of thinking about capturing an image in the first place."
The first technology being developed integrates an oversampling "sigma-delta" analog-to-digital converter at each pixel location in a CMOS sensor. "CMOS" is a common semiconductor fabrication process used in most chips manufactured today. Previous attempts to do this on-pixel conversion have required far too many transistors, leaving too little area to collect light. The new designs use as few as three transistors per pixel, reserving nearly half of the pixel area for light collection. First tests on the chip show that at video rates of 30 frames per second it uses just 0.88 nanowatts per pixel - 50 times less than the industry's previous best. It also trounces conventional chips in dynamic range, which is the difference between the dimmest and brightest light it can record. Existing CMOS sensors can record light 1,000 times brighter than their dimmest detectable light, a dynamic range of 1:1,000, while the Rochester technology already demonstrates a dynamic range of 1:100,000.
Traditional image sensors use an array of light-sensitive diodes to detect incoming light, and transistors located at each photodiode to amplify and transmit the signal to an analog-to-digital converter located outside of the photodiode array. Other designs can convert the signal to digital at the pixel site, but require high precision transistors, which take up considerable chip space at each pixel and reduce the amount of surface area on the chip devoted to receiving light. The new design not only uses smaller transistors at each pixel, and thus can allow more light to be detected, but the transistors can be scaled down in size without diminishing the sensor performance as advances in semiconductor fabrication technologies allow the size of transistors to shrink. This means that much denser, higher-resolution chips can be developed without the prohibitive problems of the existing sensor designs. When transistors are reduced in size, they also become faster, allowing incoming light to be sampled more frequently and accurately.
What makes Bocko and Ignjatovic's method work so elegantly is its feedback design. Traditional CMOS image detectors apply a voltage to charge up a photodiode, and incoming light triggers a release of some of that charge. An amplifying transistor then checks the remaining voltage on the diode, and the diode is recharged again. Bocko and Ignjatovic's design also begins with a charged photodiode that discharges when light reaches it, but the discharge is then measured against a one/zero threshold and the resulting bit is delivered off the chip. If the result of a measurement is a one, then a packet of charge is fed back to the diode, effectively recharging it. The design also uses significantly less power than existing sensor designs, which is especially important in smaller devices like cell phones and digital cameras where battery size is restricted.
The second advance has taken many researchers by surprise. Called "Focal Plane Image Compression," Bocko and Ignjatovic have figured out a way to arrange photodiodes on an imaging chip so that compressing the resulting image demands as little as 1 percent of the computing power usually needed.
Normally, the light-detecting diodes on a chip are arranged in a regular grid - say 1,000 pixels by 1,000 pixels. A picture is snapped and each diode records the light hitting it. A computer in the camera then runs complex computations to compress the image so that instead of taking up 10 hefty megabytes, it might only take up 100 kilobytes. The common picture type "JPEG," used on the Web and on many cameras and phones, is an example of this. This compression, unfortunately, takes a tremendous amount of computing power, and hence battery power.
Ignjatovic and Bocko of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, came up with a way to make the physical layout of the light-sensitive diodes simplify the computation. The normal way to perform compression includes a computation called the discrete cosine transform, which checks how much a segment of an image resembles a series of cosine waves. Both the image and the cosine waves are sampled at regular intervals and the transform requires that the image and cosine wave samples be multiplied together and added. Since the cosine wave samples can have a value anywhere between -1and +1, the computation requires multiplication by non-integers, which demands the bulk of the computing power.
But Ignjatovic and Bocko have laid out the pixels to lie at the peaks of cosine waves resulting in a non-uniformly distributed array, instead of an evenly spaced one. By using this trick, the amount of computation required to compress the image is slashed by nearly five-fold. Since each pixel is positioned exactly where each cosine wave has a peak where the cosine value is "one," multiplying by one is unnecessary. With no multiplication and only a little addition, the processor uses less power.
The team members are now looking to build a prototype chip that incorporates both technologies into a single unit to see how much real-world processing power the designs will save. They plan to integrate the technology into wireless security cameras at first.
"Wireless security cameras offer the perfect proving ground for these technologies," says Bocko. "These cameras need to capture, compress, and transmit high quality images as quickly as they can without consuming precious battery power. As we develop the chips further, we'll look more into consumer cameras and cell phones to see how much battery and processing power we can save them as well."
Source: News Release
The first and only 39 MP digital camera back - the best image quality in the industry
Phase One, today begins shipping the highest quality digital camera back ever - the P 45. The P 45 - the world's only digital camera back with a 39 Mega Pixel sensor - captures images that are sharper and more detailed than ever before. It is the latest release of Phase One's revolutionary P-series digital camera backs. Offering unsurpassed image quality, the P 45 is the ultimate in medium and large format digital photography equipment.
With the release of the P 45, Phase One once again rises above its competition and stands alone in fulfilling the aspirations of professional photographers. Commercial photographers in the advertising and marketing fields achieve incredible speed and efficiency through the P 45's capture rate of 35 frames per minute and write speed of up to 20 MB per second. Whether shooting for giant billboards or high-end fashion magazines, the P 45's 117 MB per file size capabilities provides industry leading image quality.
Using Phase One's Capture One software with the P 45 enables professional commercial photographers to capture, adjust, prepare for print and archive perfect images in mere minutes. This increased workflow efficiency and impeccable image quality significantly decreases the amount of time spent in post-production, enabling studios to take on more clients and ultimately increasing studio profits.
The P 45 digital camera back also includes Phase One's revolutionary secure storage system (3S) technology. The 3S technology eliminates the risk of writing to damaged storage media by first checking the validity on every compact flash storage card inserted in the camera back.
Henrik Hkonsson, CEO of Phase One said, "Today is a landmark in digital photography. The availability of the P 45 throws off many technical limitations experienced by professional photographers. Photographers using the P 45 will achieve exceptional image quality never before possible in professional photography. They will also spend less time in post-production and can focus more on their craft and creativity."
Outbackphoto reviews the Phase One P45 and writes - 'The RAW files are developed using CaptureOne Pro without any sharpening, tone correction or artifact removal. In Photoshop I use the Raw Presharpener by Nik Software for initial unsharp masking. The files, which come out from Capture One, are very smooth and highly saturated with colors. The information in these files is really great – mainly after presharpening – and to my eyes far superior to what I know from 4x5”. Of course a 8x10” drum scan brings some more information but this is quite close now.'
Digicam Review has reviewed the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 and writes - 'The Panasonic Lumix FX9 is a very stylish ultra compact digital camera that provides very good 6 megapixel images. The camera improves on the FX7 with a high resolution screen, much better battery life, more megapixels, and much better video mode, yet is available for less that the FX7 was. The camera is very good, with good image quality and very good features. There are only one or two problems that may put you off buying this otherwise excellent camera - they are: high noise and high noise reduction that reduces details, and higher than average purple fringing. However, the positives far outweigh the negatives and I would definitely recommend this digital camera! '
Read more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9
Compare prices on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 and get a price on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 at Amazon
Blogging Baby has a cool article on the topic of The best digital cameras to give your kids this holiday where they take a look at which digital cameras are best for children in the following five categories:
Hopefully it's an article that will help you decide which digital cameras are best gifts for your kids this Christmas.
PC World reviews the Olympus SP-500 Ultra Zoom and writes - 'The biggest thing about the Olympus SP-500 Ultra Zoom is the lens: It's an impressive 10X model that is significantly longer than those on most point-and-shoot cameras. However, it has no type of image stabilization, so this long zoom can be a mixed blessing. It lets you get close to the action, but in anything other than bright sunlight you may end up with blurry pictures because the long zoom amplifies camera shake, especially with long shutter times.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus SP-500
Get the latest price and/or order an Olympus SP-500 Ultra Zoom 6MP Digital Camera with 10x Optical Zoom
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.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus Evolt E-500
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
Shutterbug reviews the Nikon’s D50 and writes - 'Both novices and some photo enthusiasts will love the Nikon D50 for its versatility, speed, and reliability. Others will gladly pay extra for the larger D70s in order to get slightly more rugged construction and specific extra features that they consider essential. There’s really no wrong decision but the D50 clearly offers maximum value for the money. On the other hand, the D70s is more of a serious shooter’s camera that will expand to meet new needs and pay dividends for a willingness to experiment with additional capabilities.'
Read more reviews of the Nikon D50 DSLR
Buy the Nikon D50 DSLR
APCMag reivews the Kodak EasyShare One and writes - 'By and large Kodak has succeeded with the EasyShare One. People with home wireless networks will benefit from the flexibility that Wi-Fi brings. Those who love to travel should find the Wi-Fi functions open new doors for sharing travel memories with friends, as long as you don’t stray far from Telstra hotspots.'
Read more reviews of the Kodak EasyShare One
Buy the Kodak EasyShare One
Sanyo Portugal seem to have spilled the beans on a new Xacti - the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1EX (the 'ex' means it's the European version - a camera capable of 5 megapixel still iamges and 1280x720 MPEG-4 video.
A translated version of the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1ex's website lists the following features:
• 5,08 million pixels
• Sensory CCD of 1/2.5“
• Monitorial OLED of 2.2”(210,000 pixels):
Raised Contrast/Fast Capacity of Reply
• Film in High Definition (Máx Resolution.
Film: 1,280 X 720)
• Zoom: Digital optic 10 x/10 x/Reproduction 58 x
• 3 Ways of Flash
• Raised Sensitivity in Clip Video
• Easiness “Webcam”
• Correcção de Movimento, Twinkle e
Noise of Wind in Clip Video
• Directa Impression saw handle USB (PictBridge)
• Timer of Automatic Detonation (2 the 10 second.)
• Ultra-Compacta
• Ultra-Leve
• Incorporated Stereo Microphone
• 2,0 Interface USB High-Speed
• Exit AV
• S-Vídeo Exit
Digital Camera Info reviews the Olympus SP-500 and writes - 'The Olympus SP-500 UZ has a cheap plastic body but includes a lot of nice features and manual functionality at a very reasonable $379 price. With 6 megapixels, this digital camera has a complete set of recording modes: manual, priority, automatic, movie, and an extensive list of 21 scene modes. These are complemented by the Olympus ED 10x optical zoom lens that works in the movie mode as well as the still image recording modes. '
Read more reviews and ratings of the Olympus SP-500
Get the latest price and/or order an Olympus SP-500 Ultra Zoom 6MP Digital Camera with 10x Optical Zoom
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. '
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix P2
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix P2
Cameras.co.uk reviews the Panasonic DMC LZ1 and writes - 'Apart from one shot I was delighted with the quality of the images I was able to take with the DMC LZ1. For a camera in this price range the overall standard is very good indeed. Looking through the images there were two points that really stand out. The first one is the sharpness of each shot and the second one is the vibrant colours the camera managed to produce.... If you do not want to spend a fortune on a digital camera, but you are still looking for image quality then buy the Panasonic DMC LZ1. It is rare that I make such a recommendation for a camera, but at this price I think the camera is an absolute steal. It is so easy to use and is certainly worth the money. '
Read more reviews of the Panasonic DMC-LZ1
Get the Latest Price on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ1
Steves Digicams reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 and writes - 'the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 is an awesome consumer digital model. It offers a great deal of flexibility, full of exposure modes for every level of photographer in your family. Interchangeable aspect ratios for various applications, speedy shooting performance and great image quality help make this camera a tight little package. With 8-megapixels, you can create stunning 13x19-inch borderless prints or photo-lab quality 4x6s of heavily cropped images. So, if you're in the market for a compact model that has a great deal to offer, the DMC-LX1 just might be the model for you. Although it's a bit expensive at $599 (MSRP), it offers a great BANG for your buck!'
Read more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1
Get the Latest Price on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1K 8MP Digital Camera with 4x Image Stabilized Optical Zoom (Black)
There have been more rumors over the weekend of a new budget level DSLR from Canon. Some are calling it the Canon EOS 3000D.
The pictures look pretty similar to the Rebel XT and it's said to be priced at the $499 (US$) mark for a body only or $599 with a kit lens.
The Canon EOS 3000D is said to be a 6 megapixel DSLR with 2 frames per second shooting (up to 4 frames). It is said not to work with RAW images.
As usual this is all rumor and speculation but if there is a Canon EOS 3000D we'll update this page with all the latest.
Steves Digicams reviews the Pentax *ist DS2 Digital SLR and writes - 'The *ist DS2's default Image Tone setting of Bright produced well-saturated images right out of the camera. Colors were natural, but a bit soft; most users will prefer a hard sharpness setting, or the application of an image editor's unsharp mask filter. The image noise was practically non-existant at ISO 200, at ISO 400 it's still very clean, and at ISO 800 shadow noise becomes noticeable. At ISO 1600 noise becomes noticeable in highlights, but the images are quite usable. I would use ISO 3200 only if it made the difference between capturing an image or not. While noise is present at the higher ISO settings, the *ist DS2 compares favorably in this respect with the high-end prosumer digicams that overlap its price range.'
Learn more about the Pentax *ist DS2 DSLR
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.'
Read more about the Nikon Coolpix S4
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S4 6MP Digital Camera
Steves Digicams reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 and writes - 'Bottom line - the Lumix DMC-FX9 will make a great choice for anyone who is looking for a simple to use consumer model which performs well and has the ability to capture quite pleasing images as well as the added bonus of being able to slip snuggly into almost any size pocket or handbag. Its 6-megapixel Fine images have enough resolution to create awesome 13x19-inch prints. At $399 (MSRP) it offers the price conscious user an excellent value and is sure to be a popular model this holiday season.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9
Compare prices on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 and get a price on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX9 at Amazon
The next advance in cameras is becoming a reality at the University of Rochester. Imaging chips revolutionized the photography industry, and now the chips themselves are being revolutionized. A pair of newly patented technologies may soon enable power-hungry imaging chips to use just a fraction of the energy used today and capture better images to boot - all while enabling cameras to shrink to the size of a shirt button and run for years on a single battery. Placed in a home, they could wirelessly provide images to a security company when an alarm is tripped, or even allow mapping software like Google's to zoom in to real-time images at street level. The enormous reduction in power consumption and increase in computing power can also bring cell-phone video calls closer to fruition.
The team of Mark Bocko, professor of electrical and computer engineering, and Zeljko Ignjatovic, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, has designed a prototype chip that can digitize an image right at each pixel, and they are working now to incorporate a second technology that will compress the image with far fewer computations than the best current compression techniques.
"These two technologies may work together or separately to greatly reduce the energy cost of capturing a digital image," says Bocko. "One is evolutionary in that it pushes current technology further. The second may prove to be revolutionary because it's an entirely new way of thinking about capturing an image in the first place."
The first technology being developed integrates an oversampling "sigma-delta" analog-to-digital converter at each pixel location in a CMOS sensor. "CMOS" is a common semiconductor fabrication process used in most chips manufactured today. Previous attempts to do this on-pixel conversion have required far too many transistors, leaving too little area to collect light. The new designs use as few as three transistors per pixel, reserving nearly half of the pixel area for light collection. First tests on the chip show that at video rates of 30 frames per second it uses just 0.88 nanowatts per pixel - 50 times less than the industry's previous best. It also trounces conventional chips in dynamic range, which is the difference between the dimmest and brightest light it can record. Existing CMOS sensors can record light 1,000 times brighter than their dimmest detectable light, a dynamic range of 1:1,000, while the Rochester technology already demonstrates a dynamic range of 1:100,000.
Traditional image sensors use an array of light-sensitive diodes to detect incoming light, and transistors located at each photodiode to amplify and transmit the signal to an analog-to-digital converter located outside of the photodiode array. Other designs can convert the signal to digital at the pixel site, but require high precision transistors, which take up considerable chip space at each pixel and reduce the amount of surface area on the chip devoted to receiving light. The new design not only uses smaller transistors at each pixel, and thus can allow more light to be detected, but the transistors can be scaled down in size without diminishing the sensor performance as advances in semiconductor fabrication technologies allow the size of transistors to shrink. This means that much denser, higher-resolution chips can be developed without the prohibitive problems of the existing sensor designs. When transistors are reduced in size, they also become faster, allowing incoming light to be sampled more frequently and accurately.
What makes Bocko and Ignjatovic's method work so elegantly is its feedback design. Traditional CMOS image detectors apply a voltage to charge up a photodiode, and incoming light triggers a release of some of that charge. An amplifying transistor then checks the remaining voltage on the diode, and the diode is recharged again. Bocko and Ignjatovic's design also begins with a charged photodiode that discharges when light reaches it, but the discharge is then measured against a one/zero threshold and the resulting bit is delivered off the chip. If the result of a measurement is a one, then a packet of charge is fed back to the diode, effectively recharging it. The design also uses significantly less power than existing sensor designs, which is especially important in smaller devices like cell phones and digital cameras where battery size is restricted.
The second advance has taken many researchers by surprise. Called "Focal Plane Image Compression," Bocko and Ignjatovic have figured out a way to arrange photodiodes on an imaging chip so that compressing the resulting image demands as little as 1 percent of the computing power usually needed.
Normally, the light-detecting diodes on a chip are arranged in a regular grid - say 1,000 pixels by 1,000 pixels. A picture is snapped and each diode records the light hitting it. A computer in the camera then runs complex computations to compress the image so that instead of taking up 10 hefty megabytes, it might only take up 100 kilobytes. The common picture type "JPEG," used on the Web and on many cameras and phones, is an example of this. This compression, unfortunately, takes a tremendous amount of computing power, and hence battery power.
Ignjatovic and Bocko of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, came up with a way to make the physical layout of the light-sensitive diodes simplify the computation. The normal way to perform compression includes a computation called the discrete cosine transform, which checks how much a segment of an image resembles a series of cosine waves. Both the image and the cosine waves are sampled at regular intervals and the transform requires that the image and cosine wave samples be multiplied together and added. Since the cosine wave samples can have a value anywhere between -1and +1, the computation requires multiplication by non-integers, which demands the bulk of the computing power.
But Ignjatovic and Bocko have laid out the pixels to lie at the peaks of cosine waves resulting in a non-uniformly distributed array, instead of an evenly spaced one. By using this trick, the amount of computation required to compress the image is slashed by nearly five-fold. Since each pixel is positioned exactly where each cosine wave has a peak where the cosine value is "one," multiplying by one is unnecessary. With no multiplication and only a little addition, the processor uses less power.
The team members are now looking to build a prototype chip that incorporates both technologies into a single unit to see how much real-world processing power the designs will save. They plan to integrate the technology into wireless security cameras at first.
"Wireless security cameras offer the perfect proving ground for these technologies,'Â? says Bocko. 'Å“These cameras need to capture, compress, and transmit high quality images as quickly as they can without consuming precious battery power. As we develop the chips further, we'll look more into consumer cameras and cell phones to see how much battery and processing power we can save them as well."
Digicam review has posted a user review of the HP Photosmart R717 where they write - 'Image quality is good - the images have really good pleasing colour, good detail although images could do with a sharpen and suffer from corner softness. Images have fairly low noise as long as you stick to ISO50 or ISO100 and depending on how much adaptive lighting changes the image. There is very little purple fringing, although it can be spotted. Image compression doesn't seem to cause jpeg artifacts, and there is an additional high quality (4 star) mode for even higher quality images.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the HP Photosmart R717
Buy the HP Photosmart R717
CNET has reviewed the Olympus IR-500 and writes - 'The Olympus IR-500 wants to be the iPod of digital cameras: cool, convenient, and especially versatile in playback mode. Although it's a competent enough 4-megapixel snapshot camera, with 17 scene modes--but only a limited 2.8X 40mm-to-112mm (35mm-camera equivalent) zoom lens--it really excels as a playback device. Nestled in the bundled docking station, it can display any of 12 different slide shows, each with as many as 100 voice-narrated pictures. Lengthy shows are most practical when you link the dock to the optional 16-ounce 40GB S-HD-100 hard drive. The IR-500 has nine PowerPoint-like transition effects, including zoom up and down, checkerboards, faders, swivels, and Venetian blinds. It can also display your images sorted by shooting date, as a sort of visual diary. The slide show and "diary" modes have their own easy-access positions on the mode dial.'
Read more about the Olympus IR-500 digital camera
"Olympus IR-500 with Docking Station
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.'
Read more reviews of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Lets Go Digital reviews the Sanyo Xacti E6 Digital Camera where they recommend - 'The new Xacti E6 is a fine camera, offering enhanced user's convenience for its money. It features good image quality, a strong friendly operation and it is ease to carry around with you thanks to the compact size. The innovative features of the Sanyo Xacti E6 are mainly responsible for taking the camera on a higher level than its competitors. Users can fully enjoy the large sized monitor. And if Sanyo decides to apply the large monitor and the Touch sensor on an advanced digital camera, taking into account the demanding photographer, a strong concept can be set down; one that can easily compete with high quality digital cameras. The Sanyo E6 isn't perfect but clearly and undoubtedly we are dealing with a very strong concept here. The camera is perfectly suitable for the snapshot photographer and this target group will effortlessly be convinced by the Sanyo Xacti E6 digital camera. '
Read more reviews of the Sanyo Xacti E6
Get more details from digitalkamera - (translated english version).
DP Review has posted a review of the Samsung Pro815 digital camera and writes - 'Compared to a digital SLR the Pro815 certainly offers a lot of 'bang for your buck', and the lens is excellent, but it's bigger and heavier than most entry-level DSLRs, and - if you shop around - you could pick up a body and a lens or two for not a great deal more, which will give you a more responsive camera and much, much better high ISO performance. It's perfectly possible, for example, to buy the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D body for under $600, which will leave you a couple of hundred dollars towards your lens collection. And for $200 more you could look at the Sony R1, which may not have the zoom reach, but it has a wider short end and much better sensitivity.' They give The Samsung Pro 815 a rating of 'recommended'.
Read more reviews and ratings of the Samsung Pro 815
Compare prices on the Samsung Digimax Pro 815 and get the Latest Price on the Samsung Digimax Pro 815 at Amazon.
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.'
Read more about the Olympus Evolt E-500
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
Megapixel reviews the Canon Powershot A620 and writes - 'The PowerShot A620, the current flagship of the A-series, is an excellent example of a camera that integrates some the most recent developments in digital photography such as a 7-megapixel CCD, while remaining affordable. Although a compact camera in a mostly plastic body, the A620 is equipped with a 2-inch pivoting LCD monitor and yet still has an optical viewfinder, and provides a 4X zoom lens when most others only have 3X zooms.'
Read more reviews of the Canon Powershot A620
Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620
Cameras.co.uk reviews the Casio Exilim EX-Z110 where they write - 'The Casio EXILIM EX-Z110 certainly offers a very cheap route into digital cameras with manual exposure modes. The specification is impressive for the price and shutter lag is more or less non existent. Unfortunately the camera is far from perfect. I would like to have seen much sharper images. The camera also struggles in lowlight.'
Read more reviews of the Casio Exilim EX-Z110
Get the Latest Price on the Casio Exilim EX-Z110
Trusted Reviews has reviewed the Nikon D50 DSLR and writes - 'The D50 kit is a mixed bag. On the one hand it is a truly affordable, easy-to-use digital SLR that offers an entry point into the huge Nikon system. It is well designed, well made and performs admirably. On the other hand it has a sub-par lens and some problems with image quality. Maybe the D50 would be better with a more expensive lens, but there’s no denying that at under £500, it is going to be found under a lot of trees this Christmas.'
Read more about the Nikon D50 DSLR
Buy the Nikon D50 DSLR
PhotographyBLOG reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 and writes - 'The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 is a unique, innovative and intriguing camera. It's the first ever model to offer a choice of image aspects, from widescreen 16:9 to the more conventional 4:3. If you are interested in panoramic photography, but also want to take “normal” images, then the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 is the only choice at the moment. It also offers a wealth of advanced features that all serious photographers will love - only the excruciatingly slow RAW mode and the poor supplied RAW software spoil the show for the prosumer. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 is almost the perfect, carry-anywhere compact digital camera.'
Read more reviews of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1
Get the Latest Price on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1K 8MP Digital Camera with 4x Image Stabilized Optical Zoom (Black)
Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot A620 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot A620 is an estimable addition at the top of that line, sporting a 7-megapixel CCD and a very good quality 4x optical zoom lens. It offers everything from fully automatic to fully manual exposure control, with a healthy set of scene modes thrown in to make it easy to bring back great-looking photos from what might otherwise be challenging situations.Thanks to its high-speed DIGIC-II processing chip, it's also very responsive, and its movie capability is impressive as well. We've generally found that the current crop of 7-megapixel cameras do better in terms of image noise than many of their lower-resolution cousins, and the A620 follows suit, with surprisingly good-looking images even at ISO 400. (Even 8x10“ prints on our Canon i9900 studio printer made from the A620's ISO 400 shots were quite acceptable, a noticeably better than we've come to expect from consumer-level digital cameras operating at that ISO level.) '
Read more about the Canon Powershot A620
Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620
Photoxels has posted a review of the Olympus Stylus 600 and writes - 'The Olympus Stylus 600 Digital is well designed, fast in operations and the all-weather feature means that you can use it most anywhere. Improvement suggestion: image quality gives results that are good enough for most snapshooters, but more advanced photographers would prefer at least one quality level up. The LCD gain up feature is easily the best we've seen and its many Scene Modes make it point-and-shoot simple to use.'
Read more about the Olympus Stylus 600
Get the Latest Price and/or order the Olympus Mju Digital 600
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.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Sigma Press Release
10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC for Konica Minolta and Pentax digital SLR cameras.
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC lens for Konica Minolta and Pentax digital SLR cameras. This exclusively designed zoom lens allows enjoyment of super wide-angle photography and it is a very powerful tool for indoor shooting and landscape photography with APS-C size image sensors of digital SLR cameras. It covers a super wide angle of view 109.4 degree to 70.5 degree and has a wide-angle perspective throughout the zoom range. 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 through the entire zoom range.
Three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements are employed for effective compensation of color aberration, which is a common problem with super-wide angle lenses. One piece of glass mold and two hybrid aspherical lenses, offer excellent correction for distortion, as well as all types of aberration.
This lens incorporates an internal focusing system, which provides high speed AF performance as well as a minimum focusing distance of 24cm (9.4in.) throughout the entire zoom range. It is also equipped with a Petal-type hood to block out extraneous light.
Sigma 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC lens features
THE SPECIFICATIONS
Corresponding Digital SLR cameras
KONICA MINOLTA AF : α-7 DIGITAL(Maxxum 7D / Dynax 7D), αSweet DIGITAL(Maxxum 5D / Dynax 5D)
PENTAX AF : ist D, ist DS, ist DS2, ist DL
Optional Accessories
Nikon Press Release
Update of Voluntary Product Recall: Additional Batch Numbers to be checked by Users of Nikon D50, D70 and D100 and the rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3
Amsterdam, December 6th, 2005 - As announced on November 8th, 2005, Nikon has detected that on rare occasions some rechargeable Li-ion batteries of the type EN-EL3 for Nikon Digital SLR cameras may become defective, resulting in overheating during recharging. In the worst case, Nikon cannot rule out the possibility that the battery could catch fire as a result of the defect. The rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL3 battery is provided as a supplied accessory with the Nikon D100, D70 and D50 Digital SLR cameras. It is also sold as a separate accessory for these camera models and can be used with the Nikon D70s.
Owners of the Nikon cameras D100, D70 and D50 and users of the Li-ion battery EN-EL3 are asked to carefully recheck their batteries as additional batch numbers were included into the list of possibly defective batteries. The additional batch numbers (51AA, 51AB, 51AC, 51AD, 51AE, 51AF, 51AG, 51AH, 53AA, 53AB, 54AE, 54AF, 54AH) are highlighted in the list below.
Batteries that are affected can be found in the list below and should be returned to Nikon for replacement. Customers should follow the on-line procedure described at http://www.europe-nikon.com/support. Assistance with completing the procedure can be obtained by calling Nikon at the dedicated national numbers as follows:
Country Hotline number
Greece
+30 2109406740
Denmark
+45 (08) 233 2713
Spain
+34 (091) 375 4528
The Netherlands
+31 (020) 654 5256
Portugal
+351 (02) 1316 4044
Norway
+47 (023) 50 0117
Italy
+39 02 7541 9723
United Kingdom
+44 2871 305 500
France
+33 (01) 4993 2325
Austria
+43 (01) 360 277 1462
Germany
+49 (069) 9530 7386
Sweden
+46 (08) 5199 2136
Hungary
+36 1 232 13 71
Czech & Slovak Republic
+420 267 154 577
Russia
+7 095 733 9170
Poland
+48 22 607 94 16
Finland
+358 (09) 8171 0155
Belgium
+32 263 940 22
Qualifying returned EN-EL3 batteries will be replaced with a new EN-EL3a or EN-EL3e free of charge.
The voluntary recall and replacement program applies only to units of the model EN-EL3 bearing the following batch numbers, which are printed on the surface of the battery.
BATCH NUMBERS OF POSSIBLY DEFECTIVE BATTERIES
44AC
46AC
46AD
46AE
46AF
46AG
46AH
46AI
46AJ
46AK
46AL
46AM
46AN
46AO
46AP
46AQ
46AT
46AU
46AV
46AW
46AX
46AY
47AA
47AB
47AC
47AD
47AE
47AF
47AG
47AH
47AI
47AJ
47AK
47AL
47AM
47AN
47AO
47AP
47AQ
47AR
47AS
47AU
47AV
47AW
47AX
47AY
48AA
48AB
48AC
48AD
48AE
48AF
48AG
48AH
48AI
48AJ
48AK
48AL
49AA
49AB
49AC
49AD
49AE
49AF
49AG
49AH
49AI
49AJ
49AK
49AL
49AM
49AN
49AP
49AQ
49AR
49AS
49AT
49AU
4AAA
4AAB
4AAC
4AAD
4AAE
4AAF
4AAG
4AAH
4AAI
4AAJ
4AAK
4AAL
4AAM
4BAA
4BAB
4BAC
4BAD
4BAE
4BAF
4BAG
4BAH
4BAI
4BAJ
4BAK
4BAL
4BAN
4CAA
4CAB
4CAC
4CAD
4CAE
4CAF
4CAH
4CAI
4CAJ
51AA
51AB
51AC
51AD
51AE
51AF
51AG
51AH
53AA
53AB
54AE
54AF
54AH
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.'
Read more about the Pentax Optio S6
Pentax Optio S6DCRP reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 and writes - 'The P850 has features that beginners and enthusiasts will like. For the beginners there are numerous automatic and scene modes, a very easy-to-understand interface, support for camera and printer docks, and the best photo sharing system in the industry. Enthusiasts will dig the full manual controls, RAW format support, hot shoe and conversion lens support, and the custom spots on the mode dial. Both groups will like the P850's movie mode, with its VGA (30 fps) video quality and the ability to use the zoom lens during filming. The camera's playback mode was also nice, with nice still photo, RAW image, and movie editing features.'
Read more reviews of the Kodak EasyShare P850
Get the Latest Price on the "Kodak Easyshare P850
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.'
Read more about the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Kingston Technology News Release
100x Write Speed Helps Maximize Camera Functions and Gives Photographers Competitive Edge in High-Speed Shooting Conditions
Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the release of its new "Ultimate" line of CompactFlash(R) cards.
With a sustained write speed rating of 100x, Kingston's CompactFlash Ultimate cards offer the performance that high-end digital cameras and other fast capture and storage function devices need to perform at peak levels. The one, two and four-GB storage capacities of Kingston's CompactFlash Ultimate cards meet the increased demands of today's professional photographers by delivering reliability and dependability.
"Kingston's CompactFlash Ultimate cards are designed for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who depend on reliable digital media that can deliver the speed and capacity to complete their most challenging assignments," said Mike Kuppinger, digital media manager, Kingston(R). "Photographers and digital enthusiasts can maximize the performance of their high-end digital equipment. Kingston's Ultimate series CompactFlash cards will have the fastest write time in the industry and give photographers the freedom and flexibility to capture life around them when it happens, as it happens," Kuppinger added.
"X" Speed Ratings
Similar to CD-ROM drives, many devices are currently sold with an 'X' speed rating to give users a performance indicator of how fast a card can transfer (read and/or write) images. The write speed of a media card determines how quickly images captured with a digital camera are actually written to the memory card. Delays in writing images to the card can slow down the overall performance of the camera and cause photographers to miss the perfect shot. Faster memory cards, such as Kingston's CompactFlash Ultimate cards, can write images to the card as they are captured by the camera, allowing a seamless flow of imaging information from camera to memory card and maximizing the overall speed and functionality of the camera system. This means that photographers will always be at-the-ready to capture that perfect series of images.
Kingston's CompactFlash Ultimate cards are 100-percent tested and backed by a lifetime warranty and 24/7 live technical support.
Kingston CompactFlash Ultimate Cards
Part Number Capacity and Features MSRP (U.S. only)
CF/1GB-U 1-GB CompactFlash Ultimate card $89.00
CF/2GB-U 2-GB CompactFlash Ultimate card $159.00
CF/4GB-U 4-GB CompactFlash Ultimate card $289.00
Kingston CompactFlash Ultimate Features and Specifications:
• Capacities - 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB
• Dimensions - 1.43" x 1.68" x .13" (36.4mm x 42.8mm x 3.3mm) - CF Type 1
• Speed Rating** - up to 18 MB/sec. read rate and up to 15 MB/sec. write rate; 100d
• Operating Temperature - 32 degrees F to 140 degrees F (0 degrees C to 60 degrees C)
• Storage Temperature - -4 degrees F to 185 degrees F (-20 degrees C - 85 degrees C)
• Standardized - complies with CompactFlash Association specification standards
• Small - one-third the size of full-size PC card
• Easy - plug and play
• Guaranteed - lifetime warranty
• Versatile - compatible with PC Card Type II adapters
• Economical - autosleep mode preserves system battery life
Camera Labs reviews the Konica Minolta Dynax 5D / Maxxum 5D and writes - 'The 5D's built-in Anti-Shake is a truly valuable feature which genuinely works. Like similar technologies it won't perform miracles, but you really are looking at a two to three stop advantage when handholding. This allows you to handhold shots at exposures two to three times slower than normal, thereby allowing you to shoot under dimmer conditions without worrying about camera shake or being forced to increase the ISO and compromise quality. The fact you get this built-in for roughly the same price as rival budget digital SLRs is remarkable. The bundled 18-70mm lens also has a longer and more useful range than the usual 18-55mm lenses bundled with its rivals.'
Read more reviews of the Konica Minolta Dynax 5D
Get the Latest Price on the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-70mm Lens Get the Latest Price on the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
CNET Reviews the Olympus SP-350 and writes - 'The smart-looking, matte-black, 8-megapixel Olympus SP-350 is one of three cameras that launched Olympus's SP line; the other two are its 7-megapixel twin, the SP-310, and the 6-megapixel, 10X-zoom SP-500 UZ. The Barbie-size SP-350 is not only one of the most affordable 8-megapixel cameras on the market but also one of the smallest. Its 24 scene modes will appeal to snapshooters, while enthusiasts will appreciate this pocketful's manual controls, raw-capture and custom settings, and optional conversion lenses, external flash, and underwater housing. Once you get past those attractions, however, you're left with relatively mediocre performance and photos. '
Read more about the Olympus SP-350
BIOS reviews the Canon IXUS 750 and writes - 'There are three things that strike you about the IXUS 750 (PowerShot ELPH SD550 in the US): its compact size; solid and robust design; and the large 2.5-inch screen which occupies most of the camera's rear. The fact that the camera offers a capture resolution of 7.1-Megapixels (3072x2304 pixels) is also impressive.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the Canon IXUS 750
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD550
Bob Atkins has posted a comparitive review of the range of Canon Speedlite flashes - the 580EX, 430EX, 420EX, 220EX, 380EX, 550EX:
'If I was a typical amateur photographer who was looking for a new speedlite to go with a new DSLR, I'd probably go for the old 420EX if I could find one, unless I was really serious about flash photography. It has most of the features that average photogrpher is likely to need for single flash work. If you want to use multiple flash units, then the master wireless control features of the 580EX makes it the better buy, but you'll still need a 420EX, 430EX (or another 580EX) as your wireless slave! The 580EX is also required if you want manual control of flash power and stroboscopic operation. It's clearly a better and more capable flash, but it's an extra $200.'
Imaging Resource reviews the Canon Powershot S80 Digital Camera and writes - 'Like Canon's other mid-size PowerShots, the S80 presents itself as a well-built, high-quality instrument. The size and style are reminiscent of a point-and-shoot model, even though it offers an eight megapixel sensor and a wide range of shooting options -- from fully manual operation to programmed, automatic, and a wide range of preset exposures. Its interface is quite a bit different from past models in the line, with several new ideas, and a few borrowed from the Canon G6. The telescoping 3.6x zoom lens is made with Canon's UA optical glass, which stands for Ultra-high refractive index Aspherical Lens, providing a physically shorter lens with a wider angle of view than cameras earlier than the S60 and S70 in this line. The lens is protected by a sliding lens cover that blends well into the camera's front panel. As with the majority of Canon's high-end digicams, primary functions are accessed via external controls, providing quick and easy adjustments to flash, exposure compensation, manual focus, and light metering modes. This combination of compact design, sturdy construction, and flexible exposure options makes this camera a real pleasure to work with, and a good value for the $549 list price, occupying as it does the higher end of the category.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the Canon Powershot S80
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot S80 8MP
Snapfish today announced that it is powering a new online photo service for Publix, one of the largest volume U.S. supermarkets.
The new service, available at www.publix.com/photo, enables Publix customers to upload digital photos to the site for free online photo sharing and editing, unlimited online storage and wireless imaging services.
Additionally, Publix customers can order professionally developed digital camera prints for as low as 10 cents each, film developing for $2.99 per roll and more than 90 photo products, including calendars, mugs and mouse pads. The first 20 prints are free for new users to both Publix and Snapfish.
“This relationship with Publix allows Snapfish to expand its reach in the market by enabling many new customers to enjoy sharing photos, and even more importantly memories, with family and friends around the globe,� said Ben Nelson, vice president and general manager, Snapfish, HP. “As digital photography continues to move mainstream, we are using our proprietary co-branded solution to provide Publix customers and others with the same world-class products and features found at Snapfish, plus our best value pricing.�
According to a recent study by InfoTrends/CAP Ventures, retailers are expected to help drive higher year-over-year online photo service growth rates in terms of the number of users as well as the number of prints ordered online.(1)
“Our customers rely on Publix for convenient, high-quality services and the Publix Photo Center, presented by Snapfish, delivers high-quality photos with the convenience of online photo processing, photo sharing and photo storage, all at a great value,� said Maria Brous, director, Media and Community Relations, Publix. “We want to make sharing memories as easy as making memories.�
Snapfish now provides customized online photo service solutions for more than two dozen leading retailers, Internet service providers and consumer brands.
More information about all of Snapfish’s products and services is available at www.snapfish.com.
Pentax News Release
PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the smc PENTAX DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm F3.5-4.5 ED [IF] lens. Designed exclusively for use with the PENTAX line of digital SLRs, this interchangeable lens offers fish-eye (180° diagonal angle of view at a focal length of 10mm) to super wide-angle performance in a single unit.
Mounted on the PENTAX *ist D series of digital SLRs, the new PENTAX lens will capture fish-eye imagery with a 180 degree angle of view and a focal length of 10mm as well as super wide-angle performance that allows photographer to make use of dramatic angles-of-view resulting from slight changes in focal length. This super wide-angle capability also will capture images with an expanded perspective including creative deformation of subjects and sharp pan focus that extends throughout the entire frame.
The image circle of this new lens will match the image recording area (23.5mm x 15.7mm) of the *ist D series to ensure precise optical performance ideally suited to the camera’s digital imaging characteristics. The smc PENTAX DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm F3.5-4.5 ED [IF] lens design also features lightweight, compact dimensions compared with 35mm format, SLR interchangeable lenses with equivalent specifications.
The new lens will ship in January 2006 with an anticipated price of $579.95 US.
PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of cameras, sport optics, lenses, mobility products, and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan. PENTAX is a trademark of PENTAX Corporation.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE PENTAX DA FISH-EYE LENS
High Optical Performance
Employing ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, this lens compensates for chromatic aberration throughout the image. And with new optical architecture and a ghost-free lens coating, ghosting and flare are suppressed to produce clear, high-quality images more of the time.
Super Macro Shooting
The advanced internal focus system allows photographers to focus from as close as approximately one inch (2.5cm) with the power to fill the whole frame with surprisingly small subjects.
Newly Developed SP Coating
A newly developed SP (Super Protective) coating made of a special fluoride compound has been applied to the front surface of the lens with a unique evaporation process. As a result, the lens offers excellent water and oil-repellant performance and makes for easier cleaning.
Other Features
* Exclusive PENTAX Quick-Shift Focus System for instant shift to manual focus once the subject is captured by AF.
* Durable metallic lens mount.
* Exclusive lens cap constructed from high-quality aluminum.
Pentax Fisheye 10-17mm Lens Main Specifications
• Lens mount: PENTAX KAF mount
• Lens construction: 10 elements in 8 groups
• Angle of view: 180°- 100° (with an *ist D series camera body)
• Diaphragm control: Automatic
• Number of aperture blades: 6
• Minimum aperture: F22 (at 10mm) -32(at 17mm)
• Metering system: TTL open-aperture metering
• Minimum focusing distance: 0.46 feet. (0.14m) over entire zoom range
• Maximum magnification: 0.23X (10mm) - 0.39X (17mm)
• Dimensions (maximum diameter x length): 2.7 inch x 2.8 inch (68mm x 71.5mm)
• Weight: 11.3 ounces (320g) with lens body and built in lens hood
• Lens hood: Built-in
* Optical system for this product was jointly developed and designed with Tokina Co, Ltd.
* PENTAX, and smc PENTAX are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation.
* Design and Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Pretec Electronics Corp., the 1st in the world to demonstrate MMC 4.0 card since 2004, and the 1st in the world to offer 4GB SD card since July 2005, has released 2GB miniSD, the largest capacity miniSD card today at IT Month 2005 (Hall 3, Booth G165) in Taipei.
Mobile devices using the Pretec 2GB miniSD card can store more than 500 MP3 songs or more than 4000 digital photos. The Pretec 2GB miniSD card also provides a tremendous advantage for the latest multimedia mobile phones designed with a miniSD slot, which typically require larger capacity when hours of recorded audio and/or video data (such as MPEG4 movie) are needed; the 1st in the world, Pretec 2GB miniSD card can extend from 0.5-1 hour of high quality MPEG-4 playback/recording to 1-2 hours by doubling or even quadrupling the maximum capacity available for today’s advanced high quality PDA/mobile phones.
Pretec is the first in the world to provide the largest capacity SD card (4GB); now available from major retail channels in USA such as Fry’s and Radioshack. Pretec 2GB miniSD is available now with retail price of US$299 each, scheduled to hit retail stores around the world for Christmas season.
Source: Pretec News Release
DALSA Corporation, an international high performance semiconductor and electronics company, today announced that its customer, Mamiya, has set a shipping date for its new Mamiya ZD medium format camera. The professional grade camera, which integrates DALSA’s 22 million pixel image sensor chip, will be available in Japan on December 21st, 2005, and will be released world-wide in January 2006.
The Mamiya ZD is the world’s first medium format digital SLR camera that is both fully integrated and portable. Medium format cameras are used extensively by commercial photographers for advertising, wedding, portrait, and landscape work. Compared to the smaller 35mm format, the imaging area on a medium format camera is two times larger, providing sharper, higher quality images with significantly more detail. As in other areas of photography, medium format is rapidly transitioning from film to digital. The move is being fueled by the availability of viable digital camera and workflow solutions that allow commercial photographers to eliminate film costs and significantly increase productivity.
“We are very pleased that Mamiya has incorporated our 22 megapixel sensor into the Mamiya ZD,� commented Brian Doody, President of DALSA Digital Imaging. “Our image sensor technology and product roadmap allow Mamiya to gain a strong performance advantage. We’re fully prepared to meet the anticipated strong demand for the Mamiya ZD.�
“We appreciate being supported by DALSA as a key supplier in the development and introduction of the Mamiya ZD camera,� said Mitsunori Takizawa, President of Mamiya. “Combining Mamiya's optical technology and DALSA's leadership in digital imaging technology allows us to differentiate our new camera product in the professional digital photography marketplace.�
Pentax are the latest in a long line of digital camera manufacturers to release a service advisory statement regarding CCD sensor defects. Pentax Optio Cameras that could have problems include the Optio 330RS, Optio 330GS, Optio 33L, Optio 43WR, Optio 550 and Optio 555.
Get full details at Pentax's service advisory.
The Sanyo Xacti VPC-C40 combines a 4 megapixel image sensor with 60 frames per second video (MPEG4). It also features a 5.8x Optical Zoom lens and 1.8inch LCD screen.
The Sanyo Xacti VPC-C40 will retail for $399 (US$) and should hit stores in January of 2006.The new SANYO Xacti C40 Digital Media Camera has a lightweight (6.1 oz., including battery and a standard SD memory card), compact design (2.7 x 4.2 x 1.3 inches) that easily fits in a pocket or purse. Ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip, the ultra-portable C40 can be held easily in one hand, and its stylish and lightweight vertical design makes it easy to hold steady while shooting.
The C40 utilizes a 1/2.7" 4.23-Megapixel CCD. 4-pixel mixture technology ensures video recording with fourfold sensitivity and low noise. It also enables shooting VGA-size video clips, as well as high-resolution 4.0 Megapixel still images. The advanced industry standard MPEG-4 recording format captures VGA-size video clips at 30 fps. The camera also offers smooth 60 fps video playback via the TV output of clips originally recorded at 30 fps.
Video clips recorded by the SANYO Xacti C40 can be played back clearly, even on a large-screen TV. With an optional 1GB SD card, users can record approximately 60 minutes of video in TV-HQ mode. The camera employs a highly efficient, bright 5.8x optical zoom lens (f/3.5) and offers a 10x digital zoom for a combined zoom capability of up to 60x.
SANYO Xacti C40 features include:
- 4-pixel mixture technology for four-fold video sensitivity and low noise
- Digital image stabilizer
- 60 fps playback via TV output
- 5.8x Optical zoom
- 1.7 second fast recording from standby mode
- Red-eye correction
- Trans-Reflective Amorphous Polysilicon TFT 1.8-Inch LCD monitor
- 1/2.7 inch, 4.23 Megapixel CCD (total)
- Recording media: SD memory card
- Real-Time interpolation (3264 x 2448 pixels output) for 8-Megapixel still images
- Talking Navigation Guide
- Super Macro shooting down to a minimum distance of 1 cm
- Cut and Joint for video editing
- Quick Standby: immediately shoot or play back when LCD monitor is opened
- Digital Zoom: max. 10x playback; max 51x (8M mode)
- Playback, max 51x (8M Mode)
- Voice Recorder function: up to 16.8 hours recording with optional 1GB SD Memory Card
- Exif Print and PRINT Image Matching III
- PictBridge-capable for PC-Free printing with PictBridge-compatible printers
- Lithium-ion battery and charging AC adapter included
Source Sanyo Xacti VPC-C40 Press Kit
The Sanyo Xacti VPC-C6 is another camera that seeks to combine digital still and video images into the one device.
On the digital still image side of things the Sanyo Xacti VPC-C6 has a 6 megapixel image sensor that is capable of shooting during video caputure. The video is recorded at 30fps and can be viewed at up to 60fps.
The Sanyo Xacti VPC-C6 has a 5x Optical Zoom and 2 inch LCD screen. The Sanyo Xacti VPC-C6 will hit stores in January of 2006 in the US and retail at $599 (US$).
Get the latest price on the Sanyo VPC-C6 6MP MPEG4 Digital Camcorder w/5x Optical Zoom
Steves Digicams review the Sanyo Xacti VPC-C6 and writes - 'The overall image quality when using its 6-megapixel High mode is good. Our outdoor sample images were nice and sharp thanks to its internal 5x optical zoom lens and 5-point AF system. The lens covers an above average range of 38 - 190mm (35mm equivalent), offering a great deal of versatility over your typical 3x zoom lens. We noticed moderate barrel distortion at full wide-angle, with slight pin cushioning present at the telephoto extremes. The zoom mechanism is smooth and quiet throughout its range, allowing it to be used while recording video. The majority of our shots were well exposed and showed pleasing color saturation. Consumer digicams tend to be a bit oversaturated as this is what your average user likes - bright, breath-taking colors. The white balance system also does an excellent job in the Auto position, producing accurate color temperatures in a variety of different lighting conditions.'
SANYO Xacti C6
The slim, pocket-sized SANYO Xacti C6 digital camera offers cutting-edge portability and an ergonomic and comfortable one-handed grip, making the C6 as fun to take with you as it is easy to use. Compared to its predecessor, the 5-Megapixel C5, the most obvious improvement in the C6 is an upgrade to 6-Megapixel still images. Other key product upgrades include: a newly developed, extremely low-noise CCD sensor that produces brilliant, exceptionally clear pictures; and advanced new 9-pixel mixture technology for improved low-light response, allowing the C6 to record clear video in a wide variety of low-light situations.
The C6 is the world’s lightest (at 5.6 oz., including battery and a standard SD memory card), thinnest (.9-in.) and smallest (2.7 x 4.2 inches) model among video cameras with a 1-Megapixel-or-higher image sensor and an optical zoom lens.
The C6 utilizes an onboard digital image stabilizer for steady video recording designed to significantly reduce camera shake. The camera is thumb-operable for simplified operation and convenient control over nearly all camera functions, including taking digital stills and recording video movies. As with previous SANYO digital media cameras, the Xacti C6 features fast shooting and the capability to capture still images while simultaneously recording full-resolution digital video.
As a result of SANYO-developed motion-detection technology, the Xacti C6 achieves the world’s first 60 fps (frames-per-second) TV output. The result is notably smoother video playback on your TV screen.
The C6 records still images to the industry standard JPEG-format and records video to the high-quality MPEG-4 standard. Both formats are recorded to a Secure Digital memory card (SD memory cards sold separately). CD-quality stereo sound is captured in the AAC format. When using an optional 1GB Secure Digital memory card, users can record up to 1 hour of full standard definition TV (VGA size) video at 30 frames-per-second in the camera’s “TV-HQ” mode (MPEG-4 bit rate: 2 Mbps).
>b>SANYO Xacti C6 features include:
* 9-pixel mixture technology for increased video sensitivity in low light
- Digital image stabilizer
- 60 fps playback via TV output
- 5x Optical zoom lens
- 1.7 second fast recording from standby mode
- 1/2.5 inch, 6.37 Megapixel CCD
- Recording media: SD memory card
- Red-eye correction
- Trans-Reflective Low-Temperature Polysilicon TFT 2.0-Inch LCD monitor
- Real-Time interpolation (3680 x 2760 pixels output) for 10.2-Megapixel still images
- Multifunction docking station
- Talking Navigation Guide
- Super Macro shooting down to a minimum distance of 1 cm
- Quick standby: immediately record or play back when LCD monitor is opened
- Digital Zoom: max. 12x playback; max 58 times (10M mode)
- Voice recorder function: up to 16.8 hours recording time with optional 1 GB SD Memory Card
- Lithium-ion battery and charging AC adapter included
- Remote control included
- Exif Print and Print Image Matching III
- PictBridge-capable for PC-Free printing with PictBridge-compatible printers
Get the latest price on the Sanyo VPC-C6 6MP MPEG4 Digital Camcorder w/5x Optical Zoom
'More than two-thirds of the estimated 17 billion prints from digital cameras made this year were created from the comfort of snap-happy American homes.
Another 27 percent came from the photofinishing services of retailers, where people either use the self-serve computer terminals at the counter or place their orders online for pickup later at the store.
The remainder, according to market researcher IDC, were delivered straight to consumers via online services that nowadays charge as low as a dime a print, not counting shipping costs.'
Read more at Digital Photo Printing Easier, Cheaper
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Kodak EasyShare P850 Digital Camera and writes - 'Overall I walk away impressed with the P850. Image quality is excellent, the 30 fps video mode could almost double as video camera, image stabilization helps in many less-than-ideal shooting situations, and the 2.5" LCD is a joy to use. What it lacks for in speed (vs. digital SLRs) it makes up for in controls and image and video quality. For the photographer looking to go beyond the basic, wanting manual creativity of the shot, and not seeking to dump $1000 plus into a digital SLR, the P850 is the ticket.'
Read more reviews and ratings of the Kodak EasyShare P850
Get the Latest Price on the "Kodak Easyshare P850
Pentax has announced the smc PENTAX DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm F3.5-4.5 ED [IF] lens. Designed exclusively for use with the PENTAX line of digital SLRs, this interchangeable lens offers fish-eye (180Â diagonal angle of view at a focal length of 10mm) to super wide-angle performance in a single unit.
Mounted on the PENTAX *ist D series of digital SLRs, the new PENTAX lens will capture fish-eye imagery with a 180 degree angle of view and a focal length of 10mm as well as super wide-angle performance that allows photographer to make use of dramatic angles-of-view resulting from slight changes in focal length. This super wide-angle capability also will capture images with an expanded perspective including creative deformation of subjects and sharp pan focus that extends throughout the entire frame.
The image circle of this new lens will match the image recording area (23.5mm x 15.7mm) of the *ist D series to ensure precise optical performance ideally suited to the camera's digital imaging characteristics. The smc PENTAX DA FISH-EYE 10-17mm F3.5-4.5 ED [IF] lens design also features lightweight, compact dimensions compared with 35mm format, SLR interchangeable lenses with equivalent specifications.
The new lens will ship in January 2006 with an anticipated price of $579.95 US.
Cameras.co.uk reviews the Olympus SP 350 and writes - 'The Olympus SP 350 is an advanced digital camera at a very reasonable price. The camera is absolutely packed with features and I like the way the camera handles in general. On the whole photos are incredibly sharp with strong colours. Unfortunately the camera struggled badly in my shutter lag test though. If it wasn't for the shutter lag issue I would be tempted to keep this camera for myself.
Read more about the Olympus SP-350
Order the Olympus SP-350 today.
DigiCamReview has a review of the Olympus FE-120 X700 and writes - 'The Olympus FE-120 / X700 is a compact 6 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and is excellent value for money, however, even more impressive is that the camera produces good to very good results, with good quality pictures with good colour and detail. The camera is consistantly able to focus, even in low-light although slow focusing may put some people off - the high success rate should compensate for the delays. The huge number of scene modes make this already easy to use camera even easier to use, and help achieve very good results. The Olympus FE-120 / X700 is definitely a bargain, and is definitely recommended for those looking for an easy to use point and shoot camera capable of making large prints.'
Read more about the Olympus FE-120
Get a Price on and/or order the Olympus FE-120 6MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom
There's excitement in the Apple community today with Macsimum News reporting that Apple have been granted a reissue of an earlier patent for a digital camera:
'On Nov. 29, the US Patent & Trademark Office revealed that Apple was granted a reissue patent number “RE38,896� for “Apparatus and method for rotating the display orientation of a captured image.� This Reissue Patent makes clear reference to Apple’s QuickTake digital camera that was discontinued in 1997.
Could Apple be preparing to reintroduce a digital camera in 2006, or better yet, at MacWorld in January? On Oct. 19, Apple introduced Aperture, “the first all-in-one post production tool that provides everything photographers need after the shoot. Aperture offers an advanced and incredibly fast RAW workflow that makes working with a camera’s RAW images as easy as JPEG. So the timing for Apple to introduce a next generation digital camera could be just right.'
Digital Camera Info reviews the Fujifilm FinePix 5200 and writes - 'The FinePix S5200 will be a satisfying camera for certain types of snapshooters: it's the right camera for someone who wants something more versatile than a typical point-and-shoot, but whose primary uses are ones that a typical point-and-shoot could handle. With strong color reproduction and a sharp lens, the S5200 will do an excellent job taking that kind of picture. This camera is ideal for the user who won't use the maximum zoom too much – if that focal length is important, then image stabilization is too.'
Read more about the Fujifilm FinePix 5200 (also known as the 5600)
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.'
Read more about the Ricoh Caplio R3
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."
Read more ratings and reviews of the Nikon Coolpix L1
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix L1