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The Panasonic DMC-LS80 is an 8.1 megapixel point and shoot camera with a 3x optical zoom lens.
It features a Lumix DC Vario branded 3x optical zoom lens with maximum aperture range of f/2.8 - f/5.1 as well as a 2.5 inch LCD with 230,000 pixel resolution.
The Panasonic DMC-LS80 has 24 megabytes of internal memory, will take up to 270 shots with oxyride batteries
and includes a similar array of features as other cameras announced by Panasonic today with their 'intelligent' technologies (image stabilization, intelligent ISO, intelligent scene selection etc).
THe Panasonic DMC-LS80 will have a retail price of $149.95 when it hits stores in February and will come in pink, black and silver.
Panasonic DMC-LS80 News Release
PANASONIC ADDS NEW COMPACT, AA-BATTERY POWERED DIGITAL CAMERA TO ITS 2008 LUMIX LINE
New LUMIX LS80 Sports User-Friendly Technologies to Help Digital Photographers of All Levels
Panasonic today introduced its newest LUMIX digital camera, the DMC-LS80, which features advanced, yet easy-to-use settings that help even the entry-level digital photographer take great photos. Encased in a compact design and powered by AA batteries, the LS80 offers convenience and increased usability. With a newly developed LUMIX DC VARIO lens system, 3x optical zoom and 8.1-megapixel high resolution, the LS80 is feature-rich and user-friendly digital camera, all at an affordable price.
At the core of the DMC-LS80's easy-to-use operation is a comprehensive system of intelligent technologies that operate within the camera automatically, without any extra effort from the user. The Panasonic LUMIX LS80 integrates four distinct features aimed at making it easy to capture perfect images.
* MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and an Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) lens system shifts to compensate, preventing hand-shake from creating a blurry image and instead, providing a clear and crisp photo.
* Intelligent ISO – With this feature, the digital camera can determine if the photo subject is moving and change ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus enabling a blur-free photo.
* Auto Macro – The LS80 automatically switches to the Macro setting when in close proximity to the photo subject, ideal for those extreme close-up shots.
* Quick AF – With the Quick AF (Auto Focus) system, the LS80 will focus on the photo subject without the user needing to press the shutter button, producing the fastest shutter speed by minimizing the AF time.
“Continuing on the success of our 2007 line of LUMIX digital cameras, all our 2008 models will also include two advanced anti-blur technologies, Intelligent ISO and MEGA O.I.S., helping all our consumers – from the beginners to the advanced DSLR-users – take high-quality photos they are proud to share,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Committed to the idea that digital photography should be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience, our Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras offer intuitive features, like Auto Macro, that are seamlessly integrated into the photography process, so the user doesn’t need to change any settings.”
Another new intuitive technology of the LS80 includes the Intelligent LCD, which means the brightness of the LCD automatically adjusts as the ambient light level changes. With the Intelligent LCD, which comes with 230,000-dot high resolution, images are clear, bright and easy to see – regardless whether it is day or night; inside or outside.
Other features of the Panasonic DMC-LS80 include:
* Venus Engine III Processor: High-quality, high-performance image processing with the Venus Engine III. With its multi-task image processing capability, the Venus Engine III boasts outstanding response time. Shutter release time lag is as short as 0.005 second*. In the consecutive shooting mode, it is possible to shoot at 2.5 frames per second in full resolution**; and in High-Speed Burst shooting mode***, the LS80 fires off an incredible 5.5 shots per second. Also, with unlimited consecutive shooting, the user can snap photos continuously until the SD Memory Card is full ****.
* High Definition Compatible: With the LUMIX LS80, consumers are able to take 1920x1080 pixel photos, ideal for viewing on wide-screen (16:9) High Definition televisions. The complete Panasonic VIERA line of Plasma and LCD HDTVs comes equipped with an internal SD card slot, so viewing digital photos is as easy as taking the SD card out of the LS80 and inserting it into the front of the Panasonic VIERA.
* Video Recording: In addition to recording standard VGA (640 x 480), the DMC-LS80 can also record WVGA (848 x 480) motion pictures at 30 frames per second. Fitting a wide-screen HDTV perfectly, these wide-aspect motion images make for impressive viewing.
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LS80 will be available in pink, black and silver models in February 2008 for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $149.95.
*Not including the time for AF.
**Maximum 7 images in standard mode / 4 images in fine mode.
*** In 2-megapixel(4:3), 2.5-megapixel(3:2), 2-megapixel(16:9) recording
**** The speed of the consecutive shooting varies depending on the memory card. The number of recordable pictures depends on the memory card size, battery life, picture size and image compression.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 is an 8.1 megapixel point and shoot camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD.
It features face detection technology, image stabilization, intelligent scene selection, intelligent ISO, megabytes of internal memory and much more.
The FS3 comes in blue, pink, green, silver and black.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 will have a retail price of $199.95 when it becomes available in February.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS3 News Release
PANASONIC UNVEILS FS-SERIES, WITH SLIM AND STYLISH DESIGN, ADDING TO ITS LINE OF COMPACT LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERAS
LUMIX FS3 Packs Advanced Features Into Pocket-Sized Digital Camera
LAS VEGAS, NV (January 29, 2008) – Panasonic today unveiled a new compact line of LUMIX digital cameras, the new FS-Series, including the DMC-FS3 which features 8.1 megapixels, a f2.8 Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens, 3x optical zoom, and Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto Mode. The FS-Series, a sister line to the world-acclaimed FX-Series, also includes the newly announced DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5, and the entire series offers easy and intuitive operation that helps consumers produce high-quality images.
The DMC-FS3 features a new image-processing LSI, the Venus Engine IV, which contains a more advanced signal processing technology for rendering higher-quality images and produces a faster response time. In addition, the camera boasts the new Intelligent LCD, meaning the 2.5-inc LCD screen detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors.
“Many consumers today are looking for pocket-sized, easy-to-use cameras that take crisp, high-quality pictures,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “With the DMC-FS3, we’re giving consumers what they want: a sleek, stylish compact digital camera that still packs powerful advanced imaging technologies, such as Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto Mode.”
Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto Mode is comprised of five distinct technologies designed to provide users with intuitive and automatic camera adjustments no matter the shooting condition and without the user having to do anything manually. Intelligent Auto Mode consists of the following:
* MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
* Intelligent ISO – Can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
* Intelligent Scene Selector – Senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode.
* Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects up to 15 faces anywhere in the frame, even if they are moving, and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp.
* Quick AF – The Quick AF (auto focus) system starts focus on the subject by just pointing the camera to the subject, thus minimizing the AF time.
Additional features of the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FS3 include:
* Title Edit function which allows the consumer to input text to accompany a photo, for instance, the names of children or travel locations.
* 50 MB internal memory.
* Records WVGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second in a 16:9 aspect ratio, ideal for viewing on High Definition televisions, such as Panasonic VIERA Plasmas and LCDs.
* Compatible with optional marine case, DMW-MCFS5, for underwater shooting.
The DMC-FS3, available in blue, pink, green, silver and black models, has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $199.95 and will be available in February 2008.
The Panasonic Lumix LZ8 is an 8.1 megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 32-160mm).
It features a 2.5 inch LCD, 20 megabytes of internal memory, face detection technology and ISO of 100 to 1600 (extendable further).
The Panasonic Lumix LZ8 will have a retail price of $179.95 USD when it hits stores in February.
Panasonic Lumix LZ8 News Release
PANASONIC INTRODUCES LUMIX LZ-SERIES DIGITAL CAMERAS, AFFORDABLE MODELS WITH PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY FEATURES
New Point-and-Shoot Models Feature Wide-Angle Shooting, Leica DC Lenses, Manual Controls and Intelligent Auto Technologies
Panasonic today announced new members to its growing family of full-featured and high-performing LUMIX digital cameras with the introduction of two more point-and-shoot models, the DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8. Featuring two key enhancements from last year’s DMC-LZ7, the new LZ-Series models feature Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses and wide-angle shooting – 30mm on the LZ10 and 32mm on the LZ8. Furthermore, each new LZ-Series model boasts manual controls, convenient AA-battery operation, a 5x optical zoom, Intelligent Auto Mode and the Venus Engine IV, the new high-speed, image-processing LSI.
“Not long ago it would have been hard to imagine a user-friendly and affordable digital camera packed with features professional photographers would envy, such as wide-angle Leica lenses, and manual controls,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “However, Panasonic’s commitment to research and innovation, our partnership with Leica, and our dedication to providing our consumers with the technologies they need to take professional-quality images resulted in an extraordinary feat with the 2008 LUMIX LZ-Series.”
The LZ10 and LZ8 are perfect for consumers who expect a digital camera that blends power, performance and quality, helping them to maximize the digital photography experience. The LZ-Series’ lenses were developed by Panasonic, passing Leica's stringent standards to deliver an exceptional optical performance for Panasonic LUMIX consumers. With the LZ10’s 30mm wide-angle lens and the LZ8’s 32mm wide-angle lens consumers can capture larger group photos or more expansive scenic shots.
To provide digital photographers with added creative elements and performance, both LZ models sport manual control over aperture and shutter speed, thanks to the camera’s newly-adopted iris. When shooting manually, users can choose from three modes: A-aperture priority, S-shutter speed priority and M-manual and enjoy added control and creativity normally reserved for higher end models. Also new to the LZ-Series is Advanced Scene Mode – a feature that gives consumers manual control using some of the frequently-used scene modes: Portrait, Sports, Landscape and Night portrait.
While in Advanced Scene Mode, when selecting the Portrait or Sports mode, the consumer is then presented with additional settings, with the option of choosing outdoor or indoor. When selecting Landscape mode, there are options to specify if the shot is nature or architecture. For budding photographers who desire even more artistic freedom, they can choose Creative mode, which adds more manual controls over an aperture or a shutter speed.
For consumers not quite ready for complete manual control, the LZ-Series also features Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto Mode, which is comprised of five distinct technologies designed to provide users with intuitive and automatic camera adjustments, regardless of the shooting condition and without the user having to do anything manually. The LZ10, with 10.1 megapixels, and the LZ8, with 8.1 megapixels, both feature Intelligent Auto Mode, consisting of the following features:
* MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
* Intelligent ISO – Can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
* Intelligent Scene Selector – Senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode.
* Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects up to 15 faces anywhere in the frame, even if they are moving, and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp.
* Quick AF – The Quick AF (auto focus) system starts focus on the subject by just pointing the camera to the subject, thus minimizing the AF time.
Each camera also features new 230,000-dot high-resolution LCDs, complete with the new Intelligent LCD, meaning the 2.5-inch LCD screens detect the lighting condition and controls the brightness level to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors. The cameras also include the popular High Angle mode which makes the LCD screen easy to view when held high, to shoot over a crowd or a tall object.
Additional highlights of the Panasonic LUMIX LZ-Series include:
* Newly added speaker lets consumer enjoy a slide show with music, selecting from natural, slow, urban or swing tunes; or add voice to a motion video.
* Title Edit function which allows the consumer to input text to accompany a photo, for instance, the names of children or travel locations.
* Ability to record WVGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second in a 16:9 aspect ratio, ideal for viewing on High Definition televisions, such as Panasonic VIERA Plasmas and LCDs.
* The ability to shoot 1920x1080 pixel High-Definition ready photos, ideal for wide-screen viewing on a 16:9 VIERA Plasma or LCD.
* The DMC-LZ10 can shoot up to 160 images and DMC-LZ8 shoots 180 images with the included Alkaline batteries and 460(LZ10) /470(LZ8) images with optional Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (2600mAh)*.
* A record/playback mode switch, which lets the photographer switch between recording and playback modes, while always knowing the current mode
The DMC-LZ10 and the DMC-LZ8 will be available in black and silver models in February for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $249.95 and $179.95 respectively.
*Based on the CIPA standard.
The Panasonic Lumix LZ10 is a 10.1 megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens.
It features a maximum aperture range of f/3.3 to 5.9 on its Leica DC Vario-Elmarit branded lens, a 2.5 inch LCD (with 230,000 pixels), 20 megabytes of internal memory and the ability to take 460 shots per charge of it's batteries.
The LZ10 has face detection, quick auto focus and a range of 'intelligent' automatic modes.
The Panasonic Lumix LZ10 will have a retail price of $249.99 USD when it hits stores in February.
Panasonic Lumix LZ10 News Release
PANASONIC INTRODUCES LUMIX LZ-SERIES DIGITAL CAMERAS, AFFORDABLE MODELS WITH PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY FEATURES
New Point-and-Shoot Models Feature Wide-Angle Shooting, Leica DC Lenses, Manual Controls and Intelligent Auto Technologies
Panasonic today announced new members to its growing family of full-featured and high-performing LUMIX digital cameras with the introduction of two more point-and-shoot models, the DMC-LZ10 and DMC-LZ8. Featuring two key enhancements from last year’s DMC-LZ7, the new LZ-Series models feature Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses and wide-angle shooting – 30mm on the LZ10 and 32mm on the LZ8. Furthermore, each new LZ-Series model boasts manual controls, convenient AA-battery operation, a 5x optical zoom, Intelligent Auto Mode and the Venus Engine IV, the new high-speed, image-processing LSI.
“Not long ago it would have been hard to imagine a user-friendly and affordable digital camera packed with features professional photographers would envy, such as wide-angle Leica lenses, and manual controls,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “However, Panasonic’s commitment to research and innovation, our partnership with Leica, and our dedication to providing our consumers with the technologies they need to take professional-quality images resulted in an extraordinary feat with the 2008 LUMIX LZ-Series.”
The LZ10 and LZ8 are perfect for consumers who expect a digital camera that blends power, performance and quality, helping them to maximize the digital photography experience. The LZ-Series’ lenses were developed by Panasonic, passing Leica's stringent standards to deliver an exceptional optical performance for Panasonic LUMIX consumers. With the LZ10’s 30mm wide-angle lens and the LZ8’s 32mm wide-angle lens consumers can capture larger group photos or more expansive scenic shots.
To provide digital photographers with added creative elements and performance, both LZ models sport manual control over aperture and shutter speed, thanks to the camera’s newly-adopted iris. When shooting manually, users can choose from three modes: A-aperture priority, S-shutter speed priority and M-manual and enjoy added control and creativity normally reserved for higher end models. Also new to the LZ-Series is Advanced Scene Mode – a feature that gives consumers manual control using some of the frequently-used scene modes: Portrait, Sports, Landscape and Night portrait.
While in Advanced Scene Mode, when selecting the Portrait or Sports mode, the consumer is then presented with additional settings, with the option of choosing outdoor or indoor. When selecting Landscape mode, there are options to specify if the shot is nature or architecture. For budding photographers who desire even more artistic freedom, they can choose Creative mode, which adds more manual controls over an aperture or a shutter speed.
For consumers not quite ready for complete manual control, the LZ-Series also features Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto Mode, which is comprised of five distinct technologies designed to provide users with intuitive and automatic camera adjustments, regardless of the shooting condition and without the user having to do anything manually. The LZ10, with 10.1 megapixels, and the LZ8, with 8.1 megapixels, both feature Intelligent Auto Mode, consisting of the following features:
* MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
* Intelligent ISO – Can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
* Intelligent Scene Selector – Senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode.
* Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects up to 15 faces anywhere in the frame, even if they are moving, and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp.
* Quick AF – The Quick AF (auto focus) system starts focus on the subject by just pointing the camera to the subject, thus minimizing the AF time.
Each camera also features new 230,000-dot high-resolution LCDs, complete with the new Intelligent LCD, meaning the 2.5-inch LCD screens detect the lighting condition and controls the brightness level to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors. The cameras also include the popular High Angle mode which makes the LCD screen easy to view when held high, to shoot over a crowd or a tall object.
Additional highlights of the Panasonic LUMIX LZ-Series include:
* Newly added speaker lets consumer enjoy a slide show with music, selecting from natural, slow, urban or swing tunes; or add voice to a motion video.
* Title Edit function which allows the consumer to input text to accompany a photo, for instance, the names of children or travel locations.
* Ability to record WVGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second in a 16:9 aspect ratio, ideal for viewing on High Definition televisions, such as Panasonic VIERA Plasmas and LCDs.
* The ability to shoot 1920x1080 pixel High-Definition ready photos, ideal for wide-screen viewing on a 16:9 VIERA Plasma or LCD.
* The DMC-LZ10 can shoot up to 160 images and DMC-LZ8 shoots 180 images with the included Alkaline batteries and 460(LZ10) /470(LZ8) images with optional Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (2600mAh)*.
* A record/playback mode switch, which lets the photographer switch between recording and playback modes, while always knowing the current mode
The DMC-LZ10 and the DMC-LZ8 will be available in black and silver models in February for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $249.95 and $179.95 respectively.
*Based on the CIPA standard.
The Panasonic Lumix FS20 is another 10.1 megapixel camera. It comes with a 4x optical zoom lens (Leica DC Vario-Elmarit branded F3.3 - F5.8) and a variety of 'intelligent' modes that sense moving subjects and camera movement to choose the right settings for you.
It features a 3.0 inch LCD (230,000 pixels).
It has face detection technology and Quick Auto Focus for focussing without having to hit the shutter button at all.
The Panasonic Lumix FS20 will have a retail price of $299.95 USD when it hits stores in February.
Panasonic Lumix FS20 News Release
PANASONIC LAUNCHES BRAND-NEW FS-SERIES TO POPULAR LUMIX DIGITAL STILL CAMERA LINE
New LUMIX DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 Feature Intelligent Auto Technologies, 10.1-Megapixels, and 30mm Wide-Angle, 4x Optical Zoom Leica DC Lens
LAS VEGAS, NV (January 29, 2008) – Panasonic today announced the launch of the new LUMIX FS-Series of digital cameras, debuting a pair of 10.1-megapixel models, the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5, both which feature 30mm wide-angle Leica DC lens with 4x optical zoom. The FS models, a stylish sister-line of the highly-acclaimed LUMIX FX-Series, combines easy operation with a slim and sleek look, enabling both beginner and advanced users to take beautiful digital photos with a model they can slip in their pocket. Both cameras also have Intelligent Auto Mode, an advanced intuitive system of technologies that help users take better photos more easily.
“Panasonic added the FS-Series to our LUMIX line of digital cameras to address the needs of consumers who want a point-and-shoot camera that is not only affordable, intuitive and easy-to-use, but also stylish and small enough that they slip it in their pocket or into a small purse,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The FS-line packages Leica lenses, Intelligent Auto Mode, powerful image processing and superior memory power in a small, sleek design. We want our LUMIX digital cameras to have features that enable great digital photos regardless of the level of the photographer.”
The FS20 and FS5 feature Intelligent Auto Mode, comprised of five functions: Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Quick AF (auto focus).
* MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
* Intelligent ISO – With Intelligent ISO, the FS20 and FS5 can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
* Intelligent Scene Selector – Intelligent Scene Selector senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode. This intuitive technology, helps the consumer use the most common scene modes that are built into the camera, but often go unused, without making any manual adjustments.
* Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects faces anywhere in the frame and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp. Detecting up to 15 faces, Panasonic’s Face Detection can even track a face if the subject is moving.
* Quick AF – The Quick AF (auto focus) system starts focus on the subject by just pointing the camera to the subject, thus minimizing the AF time.
In addition to powerful the Intelligent Auto Mode, the fourth generation high-performance image-processing Venus Engine IV LSI helps produce higher-quality pictures with an advanced signal processing system. It adds a new high-performance noise reduction system that helps reproduce even the most delicate parts of images naturally and without color bleeding. The Venus Engine IV reduces shutter release time lag while still enabling high-resolution picture taking, making it easier to capture spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.
Other features of the DMC-FS20 and the DMC-FS5 include approximately 50 MB of internal memory and a 3.0-inch LCD for the FS20 and a 2.5-inch LCD for the FS5 – perfect for easy-to-see viewing of images. Furthermore, these models feature Intelligent LCD, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors.
The LUMIX DMC-FS20, with a manufacturer’s retail price (MSRP) of: $299.95 will be available in pink, black and silver models, and the DMC-FS5 (MSRP: $249.95) will be available in red, black and silver models. Both will be available in February 2008.
The Panasonic Lumix FS5 is a 10.1 megapixel camera with a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit branded f3.3 - f5.8 4x optical zoom. It features a 2.5 inch LCD with 230,000 pixels and 50 megabytes of internal memory.
The Panasonic Lumix FS5 comes with Intelligent ISO, intelligent scene selector, quick auto focus (for focussing without having to push down the shutter half way) and has face detection technology.
It comes in Red, Black and Silver.
The Panasonic Lumix FS5 will have a retail price of $249.95 USD when it hits stores in February.
Panasonic Lumix FS5 News Release
PANASONIC LAUNCHES BRAND-NEW FS-SERIES TO POPULAR LUMIX DIGITAL STILL CAMERA LINE
New LUMIX DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5 Feature Intelligent Auto Technologies, 10.1-Megapixels, and 30mm Wide-Angle, 4x Optical Zoom Leica DC Lens
Panasonic today announced the launch of the new LUMIX FS-Series of digital cameras, debuting a pair of 10.1-megapixel models, the DMC-FS20 and DMC-FS5, both which feature 30mm wide-angle Leica DC lens with 4x optical zoom. The FS models, a stylish sister-line of the highly-acclaimed LUMIX FX-Series, combines easy operation with a slim and sleek look, enabling both beginner and advanced users to take beautiful digital photos with a model they can slip in their pocket. Both cameras also have Intelligent Auto Mode, an advanced intuitive system of technologies that help users take better photos more easily.
“Panasonic added the FS-Series to our LUMIX line of digital cameras to address the needs of consumers who want a point-and-shoot camera that is not only affordable, intuitive and easy-to-use, but also stylish and small enough that they slip it in their pocket or into a small purse,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The FS-line packages Leica lenses, Intelligent Auto Mode, powerful image processing and superior memory power in a small, sleek design. We want our LUMIX digital cameras to have features that enable great digital photos regardless of the level of the photographer.”
The FS20 and FS5 feature Intelligent Auto Mode, comprised of five functions: Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Quick AF (auto focus).
* MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
* Intelligent ISO – With Intelligent ISO, the FS20 and FS5 can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
* Intelligent Scene Selector – Intelligent Scene Selector senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode. This intuitive technology, helps the consumer use the most common scene modes that are built into the camera, but often go unused, without making any manual adjustments.
* Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects faces anywhere in the frame and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp. Detecting up to 15 faces, Panasonic’s Face Detection can even track a face if the subject is moving.
* Quick AF – The Quick AF (auto focus) system starts focus on the subject by just pointing the camera to the subject, thus minimizing the AF time.
In addition to powerful the Intelligent Auto Mode, the fourth generation high-performance image-processing Venus Engine IV LSI helps produce higher-quality pictures with an advanced signal processing system. It adds a new high-performance noise reduction system that helps reproduce even the most delicate parts of images naturally and without color bleeding. The Venus Engine IV reduces shutter release time lag while still enabling high-resolution picture taking, making it easier to capture spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.
Other features of the DMC-FS20 and the DMC-FS5 include approximately 50 MB of internal memory and a 3.0-inch LCD for the FS20 and a 2.5-inch LCD for the FS5 – perfect for easy-to-see viewing of images. Furthermore, these models feature Intelligent LCD, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors.
The LUMIX DMC-FS20, with a manufacturer’s retail price (MSRP) of: $299.95 will be available in pink, black and silver models, and the DMC-FS5 (MSRP: $249.95) will be available in red, black and silver models. Both will be available in February 2008.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 (known in Asia as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX36) is a 10.1 megapixel (CCD) camera with a 4x optical zoom lens (Leica DC Vario-Elmarit branded). The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 to f/5.4 and at it's widest is the equivalent of 25mm.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 features a 2.5 inch LCD (230,000 pixels), 50 megabytes of internal memory and comes in silver, black and blue.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 will have a retail price of $349.99 USD when it becomes available in March.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 News Release
PANASONIC'S NEW SUPER-SLIM LUMIX FX35 DIGITAL CAMERA OFFERS LINE'S FIRST 25MM WIDE-ANGLE LENS
LUMIX FX35 Packs a 25mm Ultra-Wide-Angle Leica Lens, Capturing Almost Double the Viewing Area*, Plus Panasonic’s Advanced Intelligent Auto Mode
LAS VEGAS (January 29, 2008) – Panasonic today announced the newest addition to its popular line of super-slim LUMIX FX-Series digital cameras, with the introduction of the DMC-FX35, complete with Panasonic’s first-ever 25mm ultra-wide-lens. The FX35, with 10.1 megapixels, also features a 4x optical zoom, Panasonic’s Advanced Intelligent Auto mode, a LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens offering f2.8 brightness and the new fourth-generation
“ With the Panasonic LUMIX FX35’s 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens, we are providing consumers with a camera that captures remarkable and unprecedented width and depth – all available in a slim camera that is small enough to carry in a pocket or small purse,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Consumers are gradually beginning to understand the value of wide-angle lenses. When they fully understand that the FX35 can help them capture almost double the frame, meaning they can squeeze twice as many friends into the group shot, we’re confident we’ll have some happy digital photographers.”
To achieve a 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens in the slim design of the FX35, Panasonic developed a new unevenly thick concave meniscus EA (Extra high refractive index Aspherical) lens. Working closely with Leica to meet their strict standards on lenses, the LUMIX FX35’s lens compromises of seven elements in six groups, including four aspherical lenses with six aspherical surfaces.
Panasonic’s Advanced Intelligent Auto mode expands Panasonic’s system of intuitive technologies with the addition of Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction. Consisting of seven advanced and intuitive technologies, with Advanced Intelligent Auto mode, the consumer is able to rely on the advanced technologies happening automatically, without them changing any settings, thus taking high-quality photos is easy and effortless. Advanced Intelligent Auto mode includes:
The FX35 features a fourth-generation high-performance image processing LSI, the Venus Engine IV. The Venus Engine IV produces higher-quality digital photos, as compared to the Venus Engine III predecessor, with an advanced signal processing system that produces a quick response time. The shutter release time lag is as short as 0.005 second, making it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities. In burst shooting mode, the DMC-FX35 can snap 2.5 shots per second at full resolution**. Also, in High-Speed Burst shooting mode***, it fires an incredible 6 shots-per-second, plus unlimited consecutive shooting****, which lets the consumer snap photos until the memory card is full.
Consumers can view slideshows on the FX35’s 2.5-inch LCD, and new this year, can also add mood-appropriate music, choosing from natural, slow, urban or swing tunes. The LUMIX FX35 incorporates an Intelligent LCD, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD in 11 fine steps, to offer a display with the most appropriate clarity in any situation. Users can also enjoy slideshows of captured images with music effects to match the mood of the images. Furthermore, the High Angle mode makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as when shooting over a crowd.
The LUMIX FX35 is capable of recording 720p High Definition motion pictures and 1920 x 1080 pixel High Definition-ready photos that perfectly fit a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV. Panasonic VIERA Plasma or LCD HDTVs that have an integrated SD Memory Card slot, so viewing still images is simple as inserting the SD card. In addition, with the newly added HD component output capability, consumers can enjoy watching still and motion images in stunning HD quality taken by simply taking the DMC-FX35 and connecting the camera via an optional component cable (DMW-HDC2).
The DMC-FX35 will be available in March 2008 in silver, black and blue, models with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $349.95.
*Comparison to 35mm film camera
** Maximum 5 images in standard mode/ 3 images in fine mode.
*** In 2-megapixel (4:3), 2.5-megapixel (3:2), 2-megapixel (16:9) recording.
**** The consecutive shooting speed varies with the memory card, image size, and image compression mode. The number of shots depends on the memory card size, battery life, image size and image compression mode.
The Panasonic Lumix TZ5 (known in Asia as the TZ15) is an 10.71 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with 10x optical zoom (Vario-Elmar Branded) with an aperture maximum of F3.3-F4.9.
The Panasonic Lumix TZ5 has a 3.0 inch LCD with 460,000 pixel resolution (pretty impressive) and 20 megabytes of internal memory. It has face detection, continuous auto focus, red eye correction (in camera), intelligent exposure, intelligent scene selector and intelligent ISO (lots of intelligent modes - meaning it'll sense a lot of what's going on in your scene and set your camera up for it automatically).
The TZ5 will last for 300 shots per charge of it's Lithium Ion battery.
The TZ5 will have a retail price of around $350.00 USD when it is released in March.
Panasonic Lumix TZ5 News Release
PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS AWARD-WINNING TZ-FAMILY OF LUMIX COMPACT, SUPERZOOM DIGITAL CAMERAS
New LUMIX TZ5 and TZ4 Offer 10x Optical Zoom, 28mm Wide-Angle Lenses and Advanced Intelligent Auto Mode Technologies for Increased Ease-of-Use
LAS VEGAS, NV (January 29, 2008) – Panasonic today introduced two new additions to its award-winning TZ-family of LUMIX digital cameras, the DMC-TZ5 and DMC-TZ4 – both packing a 28mm wide-angle, 10X optical zoom Leica DC lens in a compact design, ideal for the active user needing a versatile camera. By combining a 28mm wide-angle lens, which lets the user capture a wider-framed shot when compared to a traditional 35mm camera, with the TZ-Series 10x optical zoom – consumers are empowered to take expanded shots, both wide and far. Adding to these feature-rich digital cameras, Panasonic also expands its Intelligent Auto technologies with new Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction.
“Panasonic is taking digital photography to a new level and recognizes that everyone, not just professionals, should be equipped with a digital camera powerful enough to take high-quality photos, but compact enough to carry with them everyday,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “With the success of the TZ3, we’re confident that the enhancements we’ve made to the 2008 TZ-family will make them a must-have for consumers who appreciate advanced, intuitive and versatile digital cameras.”
With the addition of Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction, Panasonic’s Advanced Intelligent Auto mode consists of seven intuitive technologies, all which are specifically designed to help make photo-taking an enjoyable and seamless process unnoticed by the consumer – helping them to take clear photos. When in Advanced Intelligent Auto mode, the following technologies all operate automatically; the consumer does not need to change any settings:
• Intelligent Exposure – With this new feature, photos will no longer be under- or over-exposed. Instead, the TZ5 and TZ4, instantly analyze the framed image and adjusts the brightness in areas that are too dark because of dim lighting, backlighting or the use of the flash. The camera will automatically adjust the brightness accordingly.
• Digital Red-eye Correction*– This feature helps to eliminate the red-eye problem that sometimes results when taking flash shots at the night. Incorporated into the built-in flash, the camera emits a small preliminary flash before the main flash, detects red-eye and will digitally correct it.
• MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
• Intelligent ISO – With Intelligent ISO, the TZ4 and TZ5 can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
• Intelligent Scene Selector – Intelligent Scene Selector senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode. This intuitive technology, helps the consumer use the most common scene modes that are built into the camera, but often go unused, without making any manual adjustments.
• Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects faces anywhere in the frame and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp. Detecting up to 15 faces, Panasonic’s Face Detection can even track a face if the subject is moving.
• Continuous AF – The Continuous AF (auto focus) system maintains focus on the subject even without pressing a shutter button halfway, thus minimizing the AF time.
Also new to the TZ5 and the TZ4 is the Venus Engine IV, Panasonic’s new high-performance image processing LSI. The Venus Engine IV produces higher-quality pictures than its predecessor, the Venus Engine III, by using a more advanced signal processing system. The new Venus Engine IV also improves noise reduction, elevates the detection accuracy and corrective effects in both MEGA O.I.S. and Intelligent ISO and reduces the shutter release time lag. Both models also incorporate Intelligent LCD, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD in 11 fine steps, to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors. With a newly developed 460,000-dot high resolution in the TZ5’s 3.0-inch LCD and 230,000-dot in the TZ4’s 2.5-inch LCD, photos can be easily viewed on the display, regardless of the shooting environment.
The TZ5, with 9.1 megapixels is capable of recording 720p High Definition motion pictures, and because of its support of SD Memory Cards, is easily compatible with Panasonic VIERA Plasma HDTVs that have an integrated SD Memory Card slot, so viewing photos is simple. The TZ4, with 8.1 megapixels, joins the TZ5 in its ability to take 1920 x 1080 pixel High Definition-ready photos that perfectly fit a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV. Also, with the newly added HD component output capability, users can also connect the TZ models to an HDTV and watch a slideshow complete with mood-appropriate music, choosing from natural, slow, urban and swing.
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ5 is available in blue, black and silver models for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $349.95, while the DMC-TZ4 is available in black and silver for an MSRP of $299.95. Both models will be available in late March 2008.
*Digital Red-eye Correction available only on the LUMIX DMC-TZ5.
The Panasonic Lumix TZ4 (known in Asia as the TZ11) is an 8.1 megapixel (CCD) digital camera with 10x optical zoom (Vario-Elmar Branded) with an aperture maximum of F3.3-F4.9.
The Panasonic Lumix TZ4 has a 2.5 inch LCD with 230,000 pixel resolution and 20 megabytes of internal memory. It has face detection, continuous auto focus, red eye correction (in camera), intelligent exposure, intelligent scene selector and intelligent ISO (lots of intelligent modes - meaning it'll sense a lot of what's going on in your scene and set your camera up for it automatically).
The TZ4 will have a retail price of around $300 USD when it is released in March.
Panasonic Lumix TZ4 News Release
PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS AWARD-WINNING TZ-FAMILY OF LUMIX COMPACT, SUPERZOOM DIGITAL CAMERAS
New LUMIX TZ5 and TZ4 Offer 10x Optical Zoom, 28mm Wide-Angle Lenses and Advanced Intelligent Auto Mode Technologies for Increased Ease-of-Use
Panasonic today introduced two new additions to its award-winning TZ-family of LUMIX digital cameras, the DMC-TZ5 and DMC-TZ4 – both packing a 28mm wide-angle, 10X optical zoom Leica DC lens in a compact design, ideal for the active user needing a versatile camera. By combining a 28mm wide-angle lens, which lets the user capture a wider-framed shot when compared to a traditional 35mm camera, with the TZ-Series 10x optical zoom – consumers are empowered to take expanded shots, both wide and far. Adding to these feature-rich digital cameras, Panasonic also expands its Intelligent Auto technologies with new Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction.
“Panasonic is taking digital photography to a new level and recognizes that everyone, not just professionals, should be equipped with a digital camera powerful enough to take high-quality photos, but compact enough to carry with them everyday,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “With the success of the TZ3, we’re confident that the enhancements we’ve made to the 2008 TZ-family will make them a must-have for consumers who appreciate advanced, intuitive and versatile digital cameras.”
With the addition of Intelligent Exposure and Digital Red-eye Correction, Panasonic’s Advanced Intelligent Auto mode consists of seven intuitive technologies, all which are specifically designed to help make photo-taking an enjoyable and seamless process unnoticed by the consumer – helping them to take clear photos. When in Advanced Intelligent Auto mode, the following technologies all operate automatically; the consumer does not need to change any settings:
• Intelligent Exposure – With this new feature, photos will no longer be under- or over-exposed. Instead, the TZ5 and TZ4, instantly analyze the framed image and adjusts the brightness in areas that are too dark because of dim lighting, backlighting or the use of the flash. The camera will automatically adjust the brightness accordingly.
• Digital Red-eye Correction*– This feature helps to eliminate the red-eye problem that sometimes results when taking flash shots at the night. Incorporated into the built-in flash, the camera emits a small preliminary flash before the main flash, detects red-eye and will digitally correct it.
• MEGA O.I.S. – Gyrosensors detect hand-shake and the lens system shifts to compensate, helping to prevent hand-shake from creating a blurry image.
• Intelligent ISO – With Intelligent ISO, the TZ4 and TZ5 can determine if the photo subject is moving and change the ISO setting and shutter speed accordingly, thus giving a blur-free photo.
• Intelligent Scene Selector – Intelligent Scene Selector senses the ambient conditions, recognizes the shooting environment and will automatically select the appropriate scene mode from: Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night Portrait or Night Scenery mode. This intuitive technology, helps the consumer use the most common scene modes that are built into the camera, but often go unused, without making any manual adjustments.
• Face Detection – Panasonic’s Face Detection detects faces anywhere in the frame and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure settings so portraits come out clear and crisp. Detecting up to 15 faces, Panasonic’s Face Detection can even track a face if the subject is moving.
• Continuous AF – The Continuous AF (auto focus) system maintains focus on the subject even without pressing a shutter button halfway, thus minimizing the AF time.
Also new to the TZ5 and the TZ4 is the Venus Engine IV, Panasonic’s new high-performance image processing LSI. The Venus Engine IV produces higher-quality pictures than its predecessor, the Venus Engine III, by using a more advanced signal processing system. The new Venus Engine IV also improves noise reduction, elevates the detection accuracy and corrective effects in both MEGA O.I.S. and Intelligent ISO and reduces the shutter release time lag. Both models also incorporate Intelligent LCD, which detects the lighting condition and controls the brightness level of the LCD in 11 fine steps, to offer optimal clarity in any situation, whether dark or light; indoors or outdoors. With a newly developed 460,000-dot high resolution in the TZ5’s 3.0-inch LCD and 230,000-dot in the TZ4’s 2.5-inch LCD, photos can be easily viewed on the display, regardless of the shooting environment.
The TZ5, with 9.1 megapixels is capable of recording 720p High Definition motion pictures, and because of its support of SD Memory Cards, is easily compatible with Panasonic VIERA Plasma HDTVs that have an integrated SD Memory Card slot, so viewing photos is simple. The TZ4, with 8.1 megapixels, joins the TZ5 in its ability to take 1920 x 1080 pixel High Definition-ready photos that perfectly fit a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV. Also, with the newly added HD component output capability, users can also connect the TZ models to an HDTV and watch a slideshow complete with mood-appropriate music, choosing from natural, slow, urban and swing.
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ5 is available in blue, black and silver models for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $349.95, while the DMC-TZ4 is available in black and silver for an MSRP of $299.95. Both models will be available in late March 2008.
*Digital Red-eye Correction available only on the LUMIX DMC-TZ5.
Sony have announced that they've been working on a full frame CMOS image sensor for upcoming models in their DSRLR range.
The sensor will have an effective resolution of 24.81 megapixels with 12-bit on-chip A/D conversion. It will shoot at up to 6.3 frames per second at full resolution.
There's no details on what cameras will be released with this new image sensor but they do say it'll go into production in 2008.
Sony News Release
Sony Develops 35mm full size CMOS Image Sensor with 24.81 Effective Mega pixel resolution and extremely high signal conversion speed for use in Digital SLR Cameras
~ All-pixel scan mode of 6.3 frame/s ~
Sony Corporation today announced the development of a 35mm full size (diagonal:43.3mm/Type 2.7) 24.81 effective megapixel, ultra-high speed high image quality CMOS image sensor designed to meet the increasing requirement for rapid image capture and advanced picture quality within digital SLR cameras.
Development background
In recent years, the demand for digital SLR cameras featuring high resolution and wide graduation ranges capable of capturing every detail of the subject matter has continued to increase, particularly among high-end amateur users. Additionally, the increasing user requirement to shoot from the same focal length and angle as 35mm film cameras using interchangeable lenses has led to significant interest in the development of 35mm, full size CMOS image sensors.
However, there are a number of technical challenges to developing full (large) size image sensors, such as the propagation delay caused by using extended power circuitry and signal lines, and the difficulty of maintaining uniform sensitivity and signal saturation across the surface of the screen.
Furthermore, because current semiconductor exposure systems are unable to cover the entire chip surface of 35mm full size CMOS image sensors, multiple exposures are required. This results in the difficulty of accurately controlling exposure variance and matching circuit patterns.
Advantages of this device
The newly developed CMOS image sensor combines unique circuit design technology with Sony's advanced fabrication expertise, including a system of joining multiple exposed patterns together and advanced planarization for minimizing fluctuation, to realize 35mm, full size, 24.81 effective megapixel resolution. Sony's "Column-Parallel A/D Conversion Technique" also provides each column within the sensor with its own A/D converter, minimizing image degradation caused by the noise that arises during analog processing while at the same time delivering an extremely high signal conversion speed.
The enhanced image quality generated by the sensor's 24.81 effective megapixel resolution, wide range of graduation expression achieved by its full size broad dynamic range, and the low noise, high resolution, ultra-responsive performance provided by Sony's Column-Parallel A/D Conversion technique enable it to meet the ever-increasing requirements within high performance digital SLR cameras.
Sony will target for mass production of this CMOS image sensor within this year.
Major features
1. High picture quality in 35mm full size image sensor with 24.81M effective pixels
2. "Column-Parallel A/D Conversion method" achieves high S/N and high-speed imaging
* CDS/PGA(24dB) Circuit (PGA: Programmable Gain Amplifier)
* 12bit-AD Converter on chip
* Diversified readout mode
o All-pixel scan mode 6.3 frame/s (12bit)
o Window readout
3. High-speed digital output (12 channel parallel LVDS output)
Device Structure
Image size Diagonal width: 43.3mm (Type 2.7)
Total number of pixels: 6236(H) x 4124(V) approx. 25.72M pixels
Number of effective pixels: 6104(H) x 4064(V) approx.24.81M pixels
Number of active pixels: 6096(H) x 4056(V) approx.24.73M pixels
Chip size: 41.0mm (H) x 31.9 mm (V)
Unit cell size: 5.94um (H) x 5.94um (V)
The Sony Alpha A300 DSLR is a 10.2 megapixel DSLR. It features Sony's new Quick AF Live View system which allows you to frame images in the camera's 2.7 inch LCD yet still be able to focus images quickly. The LCD tilts up and down to allow you to view it from different angles.
The Sony Alpha A300 DSLR shoots at up to 3 frames per second.
It will ship with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens for a retail price of around $800 USD.
The Sony Alpha A300 will hit stores in April.
Sony Alpha A300 DSLR
"Sony Introduces Two Mainstream DSLR Cameras With Unique 'Quick AF Live' View System
Sony is bringing live-view shooting to its digital SLR camera line with today’s introduction of a 14.2-megapixel α (alpha) DSLR-A350 camera and 10.2-megapixel α (alpha) DSLR-A300 model. Both cameras feature new technologies that make picture taking faster, easier, and more familiar for first-time DSLR users.
Quick AF Live View System
They both offer Sony’s new “Quick AF Live View” technology so you can frame photos on the camera’s LCD without sacrificing auto-focusing speed common to other live-view systems.
Sony’s innovative Pentamirror Tilt mechanism directs light to a dedicated live view image sensor, enabling fast and responsive TTL phase-detection auto-focusing, even during live view.
Eliminating the focus delay of other systems, the new models are equally responsive whether using live view or optical viewfinder.
With its two sensor design, Quick AF Live View can even continuously focus-track the subject and provide live view during burst shooting, helping you capture that special moment.
Taking further advantage of Quick AF Live View is the models’ variable angle 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD screen. This makes it easy to frame scenes from high or low positions difficult to reach when using an eye-level viewfinder.
With Live View and an adjustable LCD, the cameras do not need to be in front of the user’s face, allowing parents, for example, to maintain eye-contact when photographing their children.
“Mainstream users stepping up to DSLRs are looking for a similar experience to their point and shoot cameras, but without compromise in speed or performance” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. “Quick AF Live View gives these new models a familiar shooting style without compromising speed – ideal for the growing market of first-time SLR users.”
Exceptional Image Quality
The new models produce images with fine detail, rich tonality and vibrant color due to their APS-C CCD image sensors and BIONZ processing engine. To aid shooting in low light, Super SteadyShot image stabilization enables shutter speeds 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower than otherwise possible, with every compatible Minolta Maxxum and Sony a (alpha) lens (sold separately) attached to the camera.
High sensitivity operation at ISO 1600 and 3200 and very low noise are made possible by the user-selectable high-ISO noise reduction features. Sony’s D-Range Optimizer delivers suitable tonality and exposures with rich shadow and highlight detail, even under high contrast situations.
Powerful Performance, Easy to Use
The DSLR-A300 model can shoot about three continuous frames per second and the DSLR-A350 model can shoot up to two-and-a-half continuous frames per second, when using the optical viewfinder. Both are powered by the Bionz processing engine and supplied InfoLITHIUMTM battery for fast start-up times, quick response and long battery life – up to 730 shots per full charge when using the optical viewfinder and up to 410 shots per full charge in live-view mode.
Both models feature lighter, slimmer bodies for easy handling; an improved user interface; an automatic pop-up flash; a comfortable camera grip with an easily accessible mode dial; an anti-dust system to keep the CCD image sensor clean for spot-free pictures; and JPEG and RAW file format support. Both have a slot for CompactFlash Type I/II media cards.
An adaptor for Memory Stick Duo media cards is also available for the cameras and sold separately.
The new DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350 cameras are compatible with a range of accessories, including the ergonomic Sony VG-B30AM vertical grip. Also available as an option is the new Sony HVL-F42AM flash unit. It offers advanced features such as automatic white balance adjustment with color temperature information, adjustable bounce angles, ADI metering and wireless remote operation to suit the needs of most photographers.
Price and Availability
The DSLR-A300 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens will ship in April for about $800. The DSLR-A350 camera body will be available in March for about $800, and the DSLR-A350 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 3.9x zoom lens will be available for about $900 at the same time.
The Sony Alpha A350 is a 14.2 megapixel (CCD) DSLR with a 2.7 inch tilting (to give the ability tot see it from different angles) LCD. The LCD has a live view mode.
Due to it having more megapixels it is limited to 2 frames per second shooting at full resolution. It has an ISO range of 100 to 3200 and a shutter speed range of 30 to 1/4000 second.
The Sony Alpha A350 will be bundled with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens and have a retail price of around $900 USD. It is expected to hit stores in March.
Sony Alpha A350 DSLR
"Sony Introduces Two Mainstream DSLR Cameras With Unique 'Quick AF Live' View System
Sony is bringing live-view shooting to its digital SLR camera line with today’s introduction of a 14.2-megapixel α (alpha) DSLR-A350 camera and 10.2-megapixel α (alpha) DSLR-A300 model. Both cameras feature new technologies that make picture taking faster, easier, and more familiar for first-time DSLR users.
Quick AF Live View System
They both offer Sony’s new “Quick AF Live View” technology so you can frame photos on the camera’s LCD without sacrificing auto-focusing speed common to other live-view systems.
Sony’s innovative Pentamirror Tilt mechanism directs light to a dedicated live view image sensor, enabling fast and responsive TTL phase-detection auto-focusing, even during live view.
Eliminating the focus delay of other systems, the new models are equally responsive whether using live view or optical viewfinder.
With its two sensor design, Quick AF Live View can even continuously focus-track the subject and provide live view during burst shooting, helping you capture that special moment.
Taking further advantage of Quick AF Live View is the models’ variable angle 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD screen. This makes it easy to frame scenes from high or low positions difficult to reach when using an eye-level viewfinder.
With Live View and an adjustable LCD, the cameras do not need to be in front of the user’s face, allowing parents, for example, to maintain eye-contact when photographing their children.
“Mainstream users stepping up to DSLRs are looking for a similar experience to their point and shoot cameras, but without compromise in speed or performance” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. “Quick AF Live View gives these new models a familiar shooting style without compromising speed – ideal for the growing market of first-time SLR users.”
Exceptional Image Quality
The new models produce images with fine detail, rich tonality and vibrant color due to their APS-C CCD image sensors and BIONZ processing engine. To aid shooting in low light, Super SteadyShot image stabilization enables shutter speeds 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower than otherwise possible, with every compatible Minolta Maxxum and Sony a (alpha) lens (sold separately) attached to the camera.
High sensitivity operation at ISO 1600 and 3200 and very low noise are made possible by the user-selectable high-ISO noise reduction features. Sony’s D-Range Optimizer delivers suitable tonality and exposures with rich shadow and highlight detail, even under high contrast situations.
Powerful Performance, Easy to Use
The DSLR-A300 model can shoot about three continuous frames per second and the DSLR-A350 model can shoot up to two-and-a-half continuous frames per second, when using the optical viewfinder. Both are powered by the Bionz processing engine and supplied InfoLITHIUMTM battery for fast start-up times, quick response and long battery life – up to 730 shots per full charge when using the optical viewfinder and up to 410 shots per full charge in live-view mode.
Both models feature lighter, slimmer bodies for easy handling; an improved user interface; an automatic pop-up flash; a comfortable camera grip with an easily accessible mode dial; an anti-dust system to keep the CCD image sensor clean for spot-free pictures; and JPEG and RAW file format support. Both have a slot for CompactFlash Type I/II media cards.
An adaptor for Memory Stick Duo media cards is also available for the cameras and sold separately.
The new DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350 cameras are compatible with a range of accessories, including the ergonomic Sony VG-B30AM vertical grip. Also available as an option is the new Sony HVL-F42AM flash unit. It offers advanced features such as automatic white balance adjustment with color temperature information, adjustable bounce angles, ADI metering and wireless remote operation to suit the needs of most photographers.
Price and Availability
The DSLR-A300 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens will ship in April for about $800. The DSLR-A350 camera body will be available in March for about $800, and the DSLR-A350 kit with a DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 3.9x zoom lens will be available for about $900 at the same time.
The SAL70300G lens incorporates the optical performance of Sony’s G series in a compact and flexible telephoto zoom lens ideal for sports and portrait photography. Constructed of 16 elements in 11 groups, with one extra-low dispersion element, this lens offers superb contrast and sharpness across its wide focal length range.
The use of extra-low dispersion glass compensates for chromatic aberrations which challenge long telephoto zoom lens design, maintaining excellent optical characteristics from center to periphery. Internal focus construction not only realizes compact size, but also a close focusing capability of just 47 inches (1.2m), unusual for a lens of this focal length range.
Like the SAL2470Z, focus drive is provided by Sony’s Super Sonic wave Motor (SSM) technology. Silent and highly accurate, the SSM system is ideal for providing larger lenses with the speed and rotational precision often required by telephoto shooting. To match auto focus operation to the situation, a focus range limiter can be set to a minimum distance of three meters. A lens barrel mounted focus hold button locks focus if desired.
Price and Availability The 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G lens will be available for about $800.
Co-developed with Carl Zeiss®, the SAL2470Z model is a wide angle 24-70mm zoom lens with a large f/2.8 aperture, ideally suited for discerning landscape and portrait photography. Constructed of 17 elements in 13 groups with two aspheric elements and two extra-low dispersion elements, this lens exhibits excellent contrast and center-to-edge resolution. Its exclusive Carl Zeiss T* (T star) coating technology provides higher light transmission, and minimizes flare to produce images of luminous clarity, color and sharpness.
The SAL2470Z lens excels in difficult lighting circumstances thanks to its f/2.8 aperture, which remains constant throughout the focal length range. The nine-blade, circular iris is especially useful in controlling background defocusing in portrait and landscape images. Combined with Sony’s in-camera Super SteadyShot® system, this lens is the only compatible large aperture standard zoom with the benefit of image stabilization available in the industry.
Quick and precise focusing is delivered by Sony’s Super Sonic wave Motor (SSM) technology. This SSM system utilizes a solid-state focus drive motor that features silent, high-speed response with high-torque and fine rotational control – especially important for large, wide aperture lenses. A mode selector for manual and automatic focus as well as a focus hold control is provided on the lens barrel.
Price - The Vario-Sonnar T* 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA lens will be available for about $1,750 USD.
The Nikon D60 is a 10.2 megapixel DSLR with a 2.5 inch LCD (230,000 pixels). It features an ISO rane of 100 to 1600 (extendable to 3200), image stabilization and dual dust reduction technology. The Nikon D60 measures 126.0 x 94.0 x 64.0mm and weights 495 grams. It boasts a fast start up time of 0.18 seconds.
The Nikon D60 is being bundled with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens. There's no word yet on price for the Nikon D60 - or availability for that matter but it's sure to be announced soon enough by Nikon.
Buy the Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
Nikon, Inc., today introduced the new D60 digital SLR camera, which provides consumers with stunning picture quality and versatility in an easy-to-use, compact camera design. The D60 joins Nikon's award-winning line of D-series digital SLR cameras and shares a form factor similar to the D40 - Nikon's smallest D-SLR camera ever. With 10.2 effective megapixels and a wealth of innovative and user-friendly features, the D60 enables both photo enthusiasts and those new to digital SLR photography to capture incredible images like never before.
"The Nikon D60 makes stepping up to digital SLR photography easy for anyone, but is also a wonderful choice for photo enthusiasts looking for remarkable performance in a compact package," said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. "This model, like the wildly popular Nikon D40, greatly simplifies use and builds confidence in the user. With a host of innovative features, such as a visually intuitive LCD information display, Nikon's highly regarded EXPEED image processing concept, new dual dust reduction countermeasures, in-camera editing tools and exciting creative options, the D60 enhances the picture-taking experience for picture-takers of all skill levels."
Users will immediately appreciate the D60's fast 0.18-second start-up time and split-second shutter response, which combine to eliminate the frustration of shooting lag - a common issue with many point-and-shoot digital cameras. With a fast and accurate autofocus and the ability to shoot continuously at up to three pictures-per-second, the D60 faithfully captures pictures that other cameras often miss. The D60 does all this while delivering extraordinarily vivid and detailed pictures, ensuring that fleeting expressions, special moments and memorable events are captured beautifully.
Packaged with Nikon's new AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, the D60 camera and lens outfit delivers striking image sharpness. What's more, Nikon's proprietary VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization technology also dramatically reduces blur caused when shooting handheld pictures, especially in low light.
The camera's 10.2 megapixel CCD sensor delivers crisp, high-resolution images with astounding color and clarity, while Nikon's advanced 3-D Color Matrix Metering II ensures that images are exposed beautifully and automatically, even in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, Nikon's new digital image processing concept, EXPEED, delivers smooth tones and accurate color for vibrant pictures and flattering portraits.
The D60 also offers consumers comprehensive in-camera functionality, such as Active D-lighting. Through this innovative Nikon feature, the camera can, with the option selected, further optimize shadow and highlight detail--as pictures are taken. Shots that once required adjustment with photo editing software can now go straight to the printer, bypassing the computer altogether.
For added fun and creativity while reducing or helping to eliminate time spent manipulating pictures later, the D60's In-camera Retouch Menu enables users to accomplish a wide variety of tasks without a computer. The D60 offers new in-camera editing capabilities, including adjustable cross-screen star effects, color-intensifying filters as well as D-lighting, Red-eye correction, Image Trim and more. The D60's Stop-Motion Movie mode is a D-SLR first that enables users to create stop-animation movie clips from a series of as many as 100 consecutive JPEG picture files. More experienced photographers will also enjoy shooting in the lossless NEF (RAW) format, and then adjusting image parameters, such as size, format, and white balance, all within the camera.
While many cameras now feature a dust cleaning function, the D60 takes this idea one step further. In addition to offering an Image Sensor Cleaning function that quickly and silently shakes off specks of image degrading dust, the camera also minimizes the dust that can come into contact with the sensor through a unique Airflow Control System. This design works to channel particles away from the sensor with every click of the shutter, resulting in even further reduction of dust particles and the spots they can leave on pictures.
Ergonomically designed with intuitively placed controls, the D60 is a camera that's compact and ready to go wherever life leads. It also features a new power conserving Eye Sensor that turns the big 2.5-inch color LCD monitor on and off automatically when the user alternates between taking pictures and reviewing camera settings.
A customizable LCD monitor user interface rounds out the D60's convenient features, as users can create their own wallpapers and adjust color settings to adapt to their preferences. The D60's design also supports Eye-Fi memory card functionality, enabling the convenient wireless transfer of images from the D60 to a computer, when using Eye-Fi memory cards.* Additionally, photos can be securely written to readily available SD cards, high-capacity SDHC cards and Eye-Fi memory cards, offering users a range of data storage options.
The D60 will be packaged with the 3x zoom AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens and will be available throughout the United States beginning in February 2008. Pricing information will be available approximately 30 days prior to sales availability.
The D60, along with Nikon's entire line of photography, optics and digital imaging solutions, will be on display at the PMA 2008 International Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 at exhibitor booth # G220.
DP Review has posted a review of the Nikon D60 and writes - 'In reality the biggest challenge the D60 faces is the competition; there's been an explosion of small, affordable entry-level SLRs in the 18 month or so since the D40 first appeared, and though I've never actually used live view outside the studio there's no denying it's a strong selling point at this end of the market, as is in-body stabilization. Cameras such as the Olympus E-410 (and its promising successor the E-420) offer a fuller feature set in an equally small (and affordable) body, and you can't ignore the imminent arrival on the shelves of Canon's seriously beefed-up (though pricier) forthcoming new entry-level model, the EOS 450D, not to mention the new Sonys or the Pentax K200D.'
Buy the Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 16-85mm Lens News Release
Nikon's New AF-S DX Nikkor 16-85mm Lens Offers Broad Focal Range And Vr Image Stabilization For Photographers Of All Levels
Nikon, Inc., today announced the new AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens, which offers Nikon digital SLR photographers exceptional wide-angle capability along with superb telephoto versatility. The wide-ratio zoom makes this new lens suitable for a broad range of shooting situations, including indoor and outdoor events; streetscapes; and portraits and scenery, making it ideal for everyday use. It incorporates several of Nikon's most advanced lens design attributes such as Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass, Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) and Nikon VR (Vibration Reduction image stabilization), delivering the outstanding optical performance that has made NIKKOR lenses the choice of so many professional photographers.
"The new AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens fulfills a need among Nikon digital SLR customers for a compact wide ratio zoom lens that offers a dramatic wide angle perspective, up to a practical and useful telephoto view, as well as advanced optical features," said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon, Inc. "Whether on vacation or on assignment, the new 16-85mm lens' versatility and remarkable image integrity are sure to make it one of Nikon's most popular advanced performance Zoom-NIKKOR lenses."
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a compact lens that offers an array of versatile Nikon technologies, including VR II (Vibration Reduction II image stabilization), which allows photographers to shoot at shutter speeds up to four stops* slower than would otherwise be possible, while dramatically reducing the image blur caused by camera shake in handheld photography. The lens also features Nikon's compact Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology for quiet, fast and accurate autofocus performance that ensures every moment is captured crisply.
This digitally optimized lens also features two ED glass elements and three aspherical elements that provide higher resolution and superior contrast, while minimizing chromatic aberration. Additionally, Nikon's Super Integrated Coating reduces instances of lens flare and ghosting for sharp, faithful images.
Configured for optimum performance on Nikon DX-format digital SLR systems and compatible with Nikon's newest flagship model, the FX-format D3, the new 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6 lens offers a 5.3x zoom range, and a perspective equivalent to that created by a 24-127.5mm lens on a 35mm film camera.
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon authorized dealers beginning in March 2008 at an estimated selling price of $649.** For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens, along with Nikon's entire line of photographic, optical and digital imaging solutions, will be on display at the PMA 2008 International Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 at exhibitor booth # G220.
Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G ED Lens News Release
Nikon's New AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G ED Lens Brings Sophisticated Technology and Design To Close-up Photographers
Nikon, Inc., today introduced the new AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED lens engineered specifically for extreme close-up photography, and perfectly suited for general imaging as well. The new AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED lens can focus at a distance of approximately 0.185m (.6 ft.) at its closest, and allows photographers to capture breathtaking close-up photography with reproduction ratios up to 1:1 (life-size).
"Nikon is proud of its strong reputation for designing and producing some of the world's finest close-up lenses, delivering faithful and consistent color reproduction, stunning sharpness and beautifully balanced contrast," said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon, Inc. "Serious close-up photographers are naturally demanding and we are confident that these discerning customers will be excited about the performance of the new 60mm f/2.8G ED Micro NIKKOR."
Engineered for use with Nikon's digital and 35mm SLR systems, the new AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED lens incorporates a myriad of innovative features and technologies, including Nikon's Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM), Nano Crystal Coat, Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass and Internal Focusing (IF) design.
Combined with the Silent Wave Motor technology and Internal Focusing system, the AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED-IF provides handling characteristics that better enable superior close-up photography. The SWM provides fast, quiet and accurate autofocus performance and Nikon's Internal Focusing (IF) design further enhances AF performance, while also allowing photographers to manually focus quickly and smoothly. Internal Focusing (IF) also eliminates rotation of the front lens element, making it more convenient to use rotating polarizing filters as well as the Nikon Wireless Close-up Speedlight System. A rounded nine-blade diaphragm opening allows out-of-focus background or foreground scene information to appear more natural.
Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat and Super Integrated Coating produce superior color, while dramatically reducing ghosting and flare for superior image quality. An additional (Extra-low Dispersion) ED glass element minimizes chromatic aberration, allowing the lens to deliver stunning, high-contrast images while the use of two aspherical lenses help correct spherical aberration and coma, producing accurate image reproduction even at the widest aperture.
The AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED lens is scheduled to become available from Nikon authorized dealers beginning in March 2008 at an estimated selling price of $549.95.* For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.
The AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED lens, along with Nikon's entire line of photographic, optical and digital imaging solutions, will be on display at the PMA 2008 International Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 at exhibitor booth # G220.
Nikkor 24mm f/3.5D ED Lens News Release
Nikon's New Wide-Angle PC-E Nikkor 24mm f/3.5D ED Lens Allows Photographers To Control Perspective
Nikon, Inc., today introduced the new PC-E NIKKOR 24mm f/3.5D ED lens, the latest in a series of lenses that are equipped with a tilt/shift mechanism that enables photographers the flexibility to effectively manipulate perspective, distortion and focus. Whether photographing architecture, landscapes, interiors or panoramas, this Perspective Control (PC) lens easily corrects linear distortion and aberration to deliver images that more accurately reproduce the view as the human eye sees it.
"Nikon optical engineers successfully overcame a number of design challenges while developing a new 24mm Perspective Control wide-angle lens that delivers in a variety of applications and fulfills the needs of photographers whose work demands the type of image control that only a lens of this design can provide" said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. "This lens represents a significant addition to the field-proven NIKKOR lens lineup and allows photographers to create images that would, in many instances, not be possible otherwise. Additionally, many photographers will appreciate the ability to more effectively correct images while shooting, significantly reducing the time required to correct images afterwards with image editing software."
Typically, tilting the axis of a camera can result in a misrepresentation of perspective. A Perspective Control lens' ability to fine-tune perspective and focus elements virtually eliminates these issues, an essential function for architectural and interior photographers.
The same features that make this lens excellent for architectural photography also provide nature and landscape photographers with an essential means to better control perspective, allowing them to capture nature's beauty more accurately and naturally. Additionally, the 24mm PC lens enables professional product photographers to sight just the right shooting angles on reflective objects without capturing their own reflection in the process.
A special tilt/shift mechanism gives users up to +/- 11.5 mm shift and +/- 8.5-degree tilt for perspective control. When shooting with a conventional lens, some objects, such as tall trees and buildings, can be challenging to photograph due to rectilinear distortion and converging lines that warp perspective. The 24mm Perspective Control lens corrects this issue with convenient side-mounted controls at 1mm / 1-degree intervals that will adjust the focal plane with shift and tilt adjustments. The lens optics can also be rotated up to 90 degrees right or left for perspective control adjustment, while a click-stop is provided every 30 degrees. Importantly, photographers can see the effect of every adjustment accurately through their Nikon SLR viewfinder.
In addition to providing linear perspective correction, the new 24mm PC lens has unique characteristics that make it well suited for a variety of tasks and offers a wide angle-of-view combined with dramatic depth-of-field control potential, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes. To further control the image, users can quickly adjust aperture with a stop-down button, or with the aperture ring. These same characteristics also make the 24mm PC lens a great choice for close-up macro work, with a minimum focusing distance of 0.7 feet and the ability to fine tune focus with perspective control.
The PC-E NIKKOR 24mm f/3.5D ED lens continues NIKKOR's legacy of high-quality optics and durable design. It features the new "E" designation, which denotes an electromagnetic diaphragm that automatically controls aperture with the latest Nikon D-SLR cameras. Three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements provide superior sharpness and color correction by effectively minimizing chromatic aberration, while three aspherical lens elements minimize various types of lens aberration. In addition to the Nikon Super Integrated coating that delivers superior color reproduction, Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat helps to virtually eliminate any remaining instances of ghosting and flare.
The PC-E NIKKOR 24mm f/3.5D ED lens is the first in a new series of PC lenses being designed to meet the needs of photo professionals and enthusiasts. Two more PC lenses are currently in development and are scheduled to become available through Nikon authorized dealers during the summer of 2008.
The new PC-E NIKKOR 24mm f/3.5D ED lens as well as prototypes of the upcoming PC-E NIKKOR 45mm f/2.8D ED and PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D ED lenses will be exhibited along with Nikon's entire line of photographic, optical and digital imaging solutions at the PMA 2008 International Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 at exhibitor booth # G220.
The NIKKOR 24mm f/3.5D ED lens is scheduled to become available through Nikon authorized dealers in the U.S. in spring 2008 for an estimated selling price of $1929.*
The super thin, just 18mm, (less than 3/4-inch) COOLPIX S210 offers 8 effective megapixel resolution, a 3x Zoom-NIKKOR glass lens, Electronic Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization technology, and a quality-crafted aluminum body. The S210’s slim, elegant camera design comes in an array of color options such as plum, graphite black, cool blue, and brushed bronze, delivering high performance and ease-of-operation.
The Nikon Coolpix S210 will have a retail price of $179.95 USD when it becomes available in March.
A standout in the slim-compact camera category, the Nikon COOLPIX S600 features an astonishingly fast start-up time, advanced functions, outstanding photographic performance and a slim and stylish body. Boasting 10 effective megapixels, a 4x wide-angle 28-112mm Zoom-NIKKOR lens, Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization and the fastest start-up time for any camera in its class, the COOLPIX S600 is perfect for consumers who want stunning photos and an equally stunning camera. The COOLPIX S600’s all-metal body will be available in ultra-cool Slate Black. For capturing action shots or fast moving kids, the COOLPIX S600 adds an Active Child Mode to the 14 existing scene modes that are standard in COOLPIX cameras.
The Nikon Coolpix S600 will retail for $299.95 when it hits stores in March.
The Nikon Coolpix S550 elegantly packs high performance and advanced functions into an ultra-compact body. The S550 boasts 10 effective megapixels of sharp resolution, a 5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens, and Electronic Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization and two new modes that enhance portrait photography: Smile Mode, which automatically triggers the shutter when the subject smiles, as well as Blink Warning, which displays a warning message when the subject has blinked. The COOLPIX S550 will be available in an array of new colors - plum, cool blue and graphite black - allowing consumers to not only express themselves with their photos, but with their cameras as well.
The Nikon Coolpix S550 will have a retail price of $229.95 when it becomes available in March.
The slim, ergonomic COOLPIX S520 boasts a streamlined profile, 8 effective megapixels, a 3x Zoom-NIKKOR lens, Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization, and a quality-crafted aluminum body. Style-conscious consumers will love the S520's design, in addition to the latest Nikon technologies that make this camera compact, easy to use, and capable of capturing breath-taking images. Additionally, the S520 adds the "Food Mode" to its existing scene modes. Food Mode allows for users to capture beautiful close-up images of food at high ISO settings in restaurants or other locations where flash photography is not permitted.
The Nikon Coolpix S520 will have a retail price of $229.95 when it hits stores in March.
The Nikon Coolpix L18 is another 9 megapixel point and shoot camera. it features a 3x optical zoom lens, anti shake technology, a 3.0 inch LCD and Easy Auto Mode.
It comes in Red and Navy.
This basic digital camera will have a retail price of $139.95 USD when it hits stores in March.
Nikon Coolpix L18 News Release Extracts
THE NEW NIKON COOLPIX L18 IS SIMPLE AS POINT AND SHOOT
Compact and easy-to-use, the L18 is an ideal camera for consumers looking to capture life’s memories at an affordable price. The L18 has 8 effective megapixels for generating superior quality prints, a 3x Zoom-NIKKOR lens for creative compositional freedom, Anti-Shake AE for photos with outstanding clarity, and an incredibly bright 3.0-inch LCD screen for sharing images.
Adding to the L18’s ease-of-use, the camera is equipped with an Easy Auto Mode, allowing the user to enjoy carefree shooting without having to adjust any settings or controls. Just press the button and let the camera do the work. Available nationwide starting in March at an MSRP of $139.95, the COOLPIX L18 will be offered in Navy and Ruby Red.
The Nikon Coolpix P60 is an 8.1 megapixel point and shoot digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens.
It features vibration reduction image stabilization, electronic view finder and will have a retail price of $299.95 USD when released in March.
Nikon Coolpix P60 News Release Extract
NIKON'S NEW COOLPIX P60 DIGITAL CAMERA BLENDS FUNCTIONAL STYLING AND ADVANCED FEATURES FOR SOLID PERFORMAN