Digital Photography Blog

Digital Cameras Comparisons

PC Mag has just published an article online called Digital Photography For Everyone in which they compare and review 21 Digital Cameras. The Digital Camera Comparisons are pretty comprehensive and fall into three categories:

1. Shirt Pocket Shooters - The editors choice in this category was Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 with a 4 star rating. They describe it saying 'The DSC-T1 is for buyers who want the sexiest, highest-resolution subcompact camera. And it's refreshingly simple to use.' I list the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 here.

2. Mid Range Models - the Editors choice in this category is the Olympus C-5060 Wide Zoom. It also got a 4 star rating and was described with the words 'it just about has it all: good ergonomics, solid performance, excellent image quality, and all the professional features you could want.' I examine the Olympus C-5060 wide zoom here.

3. Professional Models - the Editors choice in this category is the Olympus E1. They give it a 5 star rating and compliment it by saying 'The Olympus E-1 is the most expensive camera in our roundup, but it's also the most capable, the best built, and the most ahead of its time.' They also hint that a consumer class variant of the E1 is likely to be released shortly. I examine the Olympus E-1 here.

Sendo S600 Camera Phone

Sendo have just announced the launch of the new S600 digital camera phone.
Phone Content reports:

'The small and stylish S600 boasts an advanced VGA camera with Sendo's Xoom™ technology, a 5X smooth digital zoom, and a high-speed viewfinder (a class leading 15 fps), which makes use of Sendo's graphics processing technology, GraphiX™. The camera is highly specified with features such as five selectable image sizes, two image quality settings, sharpness and white balance control, night mode, image effects and photo editing features.'

The S600 comes with 4MB of memory which will store up to 400 photos.

Professional Photographers Switch to Digital

79% of professional photographers use digital cameras. Nearly half of the remaining 21% plan to purchase one in 2004.

Read more of this revealing survey in the following press release:

Press Release

NORWELL, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 26, 2004--InfoTrends Research Group's latest study of pro photographers shows that 79% of professional photographers are already using a digital camera. Of those that do not yet use a digital camera, nearly half plan to purchase a digital camera in 2004.

Complete immersion in digital photography occurs over time for pro photographers, because going digital requires a substantial investment in digital imaging equipment. While many pro photographers are using digital cameras, many are still in an early stage of a transition to digital photography.

"Our survey results show that most pro photographers have started using digital cameras, and that the longer they use digital, the more they integrate digital photography into their businesses/studios," says Michelle Slaughter, Director of Digital Photography Trends at InfoTrends Research Group. "We see a significant amount of business opportunity in this segment of the market, not only for manufacturers of digital cameras, but also for those that offer printing solutions, storage solutions, and services for marketing photos via the Internet and managing photo assets. We expect 2004 to be a strong year for sales of professional digital photographic equipment."

InfoTrends' new survey report entitled 2004 Professional Photographer Survey is available immediately. It is based on a survey of 1,000 professional photographers in the United States. This 25-page study is accompanied by 73 pages of data tabulations. The report provides a detailed look at pro photographers' usage of digital cameras, their equipment purchasing decisions, and their use of digital printing, photo archiving, image software tools, and more. Non-user preferences are also examined.About InfoTrends Research Group

InfoTrends Research Group, Inc. (www.infotrends-rgi.com) is the leading market research and consulting firm for digital imaging technologies and markets. InfoTrends helps its worldwide clientele improve the effectiveness of their strategic planning by providing valuable tools for intelligent decision-making, including forecasts, end-user research, product analysis, and market trend tracking. InfoTrends is a member of the CAP Ventures family (www.capv.com), a worldwide strategic consulting firm for providers and users of business communication technologies and services.

Kodak Finalises Chinon Acquisition

Press Release
Feb 27, 2004 09:17

Kodak Completes Tender Offer for Chinon Industries, Inc.
TOKYO & ROCHESTER, N.Y. --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 27, 2004 Eastman Kodak Company today announced that, through its Japanese subsidiary, it has succeeded in acquiring 87.3% of the voting rights of Chinon Industries, Inc. Having acquired super-majority control of Chinon, and pursuant to the approval of the relevant Japanese governmental authorities, Kodak intends to implement a cash-for-stock swap between its subsidiary and Chinon as scheduled, and to de-list Chinon from the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Kodak initiated the tender offer on January 23, 2004, and the tender offer period closed yesterday. Kodak intends for Chinon to become a wholly owned subsidiary of Kodak Japan, Ltd. after the cash-for-stock swap. Chinon also will merge with Kodak's Digital Camera Research and Development center in Yokohama, Japan.

The move will help Kodak increase its worldwide design and manufacturing capability for consumer digital cameras and accessories, another advance in the digitally oriented growth strategy that Kodak announced in September.

"Our highly successful collaboration with Chinon began nearly 10 years ago and has evolved over time in response to the growing market for digital products," said Yusuke Kojima, General Manager, Worldwide Digital Camera and System Development, Digital & Film Imaging Systems, Eastman Kodak Company. "The successful completion of this tender offer and cash-for-stock swap process allows Chinon and Kodak to further enhance their position in the Japanese market, while simultaneously strengthening their position worldwide."

Susumu Cho, president of Chinon, and the Chinon board of directors unanimously voted to support this transaction. Chinon's board previously noted that, by becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of KJL, the company would enhance its well-developed capabilities in research and development, engineering, operations, and manufacturing.

"As a result of this acquisition, both Chinon and Kodak will be in stronger and more competitive positions, with an increased ability to bring innovative products to customers in Japan and around the world," Cho said.

Chinon Industries, established in 1948, is engaged in research, development, and manufacturing of digital cameras. Kodak is Chinon's largest customer, accounting for nearly 100 percent of Chinon's revenue for its fiscal year ended March 31, 2003, which was Y29,892M, or about $280 million at current exchange rates.

About Eastman Kodak Company and infoimaging

Kodak is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images - for memories, for information, for entertainment. The company is a major participant in infoimaging, a $385 billion industry composed of devices (digital cameras and flat-panel displays), infrastructure (online networks and delivery systems for images) and services & media (software, film and paper enabling people to access, analyze and print images). With sales of $13.3 billion in 2003, the company comprises several businesses: Health, supplying the healthcare industry with traditional and digital image capture and output products and services; Commercial Printing, offering on-demand color printing and networking publishing systems; Commercial Imaging, offering image capture, output and storage products and services to businesses and government; Display & Components, which designs and manufactures state-of-the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers optics and imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers; and Digital & Film Imaging Systems, providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services.

Editor's Note: For additional information about Kodak, visit our web site on the Internet at: www.kodak.com -0-

Camera Phones - Online Resources

Camera Phones are among the latest gadgets appearing in shops over the last few years. With MMS messaging being more and more popular cameras are becoming standard on more and more phones.

'More than a mere novelty, the camera phone is changing the way we communicate. Take a picture with one and within seconds your wish-you-were-here postcard will reach your recipient over the air. Messages can be sent directly via e-mail or to another compatible phone using the same cellular service.'

With the rise in popularity of Camera Phones and the release of such a variety of handsets its becoming more and more confusing to purchase one. Following is a variety of sites that may help in the search for a new Camera Phone.

Feel free to add your own online resources in comments.

- Reiter's Camera Phone Report
- Text America - Camera Phone Reviews
- Techworthy - Can You See Me Now - An examination of a variety of different Camera Phone Reviews
- Why will wireless camera phones revolutionize the photography industry?
- Camera Phones Incite Bad Behavior
- Time: 2003 Cool Inventions - Camera Phones
- Picture Phoning
- Roundup: Cool Camera/Phone Combos
- Camera phones changing the definition of picture-worthy
- Mobile Phones Enter 2 Megapixel Era
- Mobile Phones UK: Online Guide
- Introduction to Camera Phones
- Phone Scoop - Introduction to Camera Phones
- Digital Cameras vs Camera Phones

Canon Digital Rebel wins Award

Steve's Digicams have announced that the Canon Digital Rebel has won their "Most Important Camera of 2003 Award".

The write:

'There were many excellent cameras produced and sold during 2003 but in terms of the one that had the greatest impact on the market we feel the Digital Rebel was clearly the standout camera. Canon surprised everyone by delivering a 6-megapixel, interchangeable lens digital SLR with a zoom lens for less than $1000. We hadn't expected to see that low of a price until the latter part of 2004. All of the dealers that I have talked to have told me that the only problem with the Digital Rebel is keeping them in stock, they sell out as fast as they arrive. For the advanced amateur or enthusiast user you'd be hard pressed to find a better value in a digital SLR. '

Casio Exilim EX-Z30

The Casio Exilim EX-Z30 is a 3 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 2 inch LCD. It is being promoted as having extra long battery life (up to 2.5 times longer than previous models) - something that is missing on many digital cameras today.

Get more information on the Casio Exilim EX-Z30 from the following press release from Casio announcing the EX-Z30 and its big brother the EX-Z40.

Also check out:
- Casio EX-Z30 official release notes
- DP Now - Casio new Exilim cameras
- Lets Go Digital - Casio launches two new cameras: EX-Z30 and EX-Z40

Press Release
Thin, Stylish Models with 3x Optical Zoom and up to 2.5x Longer Battery Life

February 25th 2004, London, UK – CASIO ELECTRONICS Co. Ltd. today announced the 4.0 megapixel EX-Z40 and the 3.2 megapixel EX-Z30. The two new models, part of the EXILIM® ZOOM range of digital cameras, benefit from extra long battery life and 3x optical zoom.

The new EXILIM ZOOM models incorporate the ‘EXILIM Engine’, a newly developed compact image processing module with a 3 layer Stack MCM 1, that achieves high picture quality and quick response using a 1.8V low-power system. This makes the cameras’ compact dimensions possible and at the same time have a battery life 2.5 times that of previous models 2, it also enables users a to capture stunning 360 photos a single battery charge 3. Thanks to the EX-Z30 and EX-Z40’s unrivalled processing speed, streamed movie clips with sound can also be captured, compared with previous models limit of 30 or 60 second clips. Budding movie makers can now capture memorable events and the only limitation is the capacity of their memory card.

When photos need to be taken in a hurry, the new EXILIM ZOOM models uses Auto Pan Focus mode with one rapid push of the shutter button, removing the need to wait for auto focus, and capturing pin sharp fast moving targets. In combination with the approximate 1.6 second high-speed start up time and approximate 0.01-second release time lag, the features of these cameras allow for even faster, more satisfying photography.

Other impressive features common to both new EXILIM ZOOM models include the large 2.0-inch TFT LCD screen and the Direct On function for one-touch record and play modes. In addition to being USB DIRECT-PRINT compliant for direct connection to printers, the EX-Z40 and EX-Z30 are compatible with the PictBridge and PIM II standards.

A combination of outstanding design, portability and high performance has put the EXILIM ZOOM range at the forefront of the market trend for compact, stylish and thinner digital cameras and now CASIO have responded to the demand for a longer battery life.

1) Stack MCM (Multi-Chip Module): A technology that enables the mounting of high density chips on top of each other
2) Comparison between the EX-Z4 and EX-Z40
3) Based on CIPA standard battery life measurement

Specifications and Features

EX-Z30 & EX-Z40 FEATURES
High performance, easy to use thin card size High picture quality 4-megapixel and 3.2-megapixel models Thin card-size body incorporating 3x optical zoom lens
Large, easy to see 2.0” digital interface TFT LCD monitor (with acrylic scratch-resistant panel)
Direct On function for one-touch start up in either recording or play modes New, easy to hold grip with a high-quality light weight aluminium body  

Long battery life
2.5x the battery life of current cameras (comparison of EX-Z40 with EX-Z4) CIPA standard for battery life indicates 360 photos on a single charge  

Quick response
The camera automatically switches to Auto Pan Focus when the shutter is pressed in one action
Rapid start-up time allows you to start taking pictures approximately 1.6 seconds* after turning on the power
Release time lag after pressing the shutter is approximately 0.01 seconds* 0.1 second high-speed playback scrolling of photos
*with the flash off

  More convenient functions
Record movies with audio, limited only by the available memory
‘BESTSHOT’ mode provides sample images allowing you to take the photos you want
Noise reduction processing makes night scenes more clear
7-point Multi-Auto Focus for automatic selection of the optimum focus point  

Features for fun
Includes a voice record function with playback from the camera’s speaker A ‘Photostand’ feature that lets you view a slideshow of images with the camera on its cradle
A ‘Calendar’ feature that shows thumbnail images of photos on the day they were taken
World Time lets you select one of 162 cities in 32 time zones as your home or destination time
Store special photographs or photos you don’t want others to see in the Favourites folder
Create HTML albums in the camera that can be viewed directly by web browsers  

Casio Exilim EX-Z40

The Casio Exilim EX-Z40 is a 4 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 2 inch LCD. It is being promoted as having extra long battery life (up to 2.5 times longer than previous models) - something that is missing on many digital cameras today.

Get more information on the Casio Exilim EX-Z40 from the following press release from Casio announcing the EX-Z40 and its little brother the EX-Z30.

Also check out:
- Casio EX-Z40 official release notes
- DP Now - Casio new Exilim cameras
- Lets Go Digital - Casio launches two new cameras: EX-Z30 and EX-Z40

Press Release
Thin, Stylish Models with 3x Optical Zoom and up to 2.5x Longer Battery Life

February 25th 2004, London, UK – CASIO ELECTRONICS Co. Ltd. today announced the 4.0 megapixel EX-Z40 and the 3.2 megapixel EX-Z30. The two new models, part of the EXILIM® ZOOM range of digital cameras, benefit from extra long battery life and 3x optical zoom.

The new EXILIM ZOOM models incorporate the ‘EXILIM Engine’, a newly developed compact image processing module with a 3 layer Stack MCM 1, that achieves high picture quality and quick response using a 1.8V low-power system. This makes the cameras’ compact dimensions possible and at the same time have a battery life 2.5 times that of previous models 2, it also enables users a to capture stunning 360 photos a single battery charge 3. Thanks to the EX-Z30 and EX-Z40’s unrivalled processing speed, streamed movie clips with sound can also be captured, compared with previous models limit of 30 or 60 second clips. Budding movie makers can now capture memorable events and the only limitation is the capacity of their memory card.

When photos need to be taken in a hurry, the new EXILIM ZOOM models uses Auto Pan Focus mode with one rapid push of the shutter button, removing the need to wait for auto focus, and capturing pin sharp fast moving targets. In combination with the approximate 1.6 second high-speed start up time and approximate 0.01-second release time lag, the features of these cameras allow for even faster, more satisfying photography.

Other impressive features common to both new EXILIM ZOOM models include the large 2.0-inch TFT LCD screen and the Direct On function for one-touch record and play modes. In addition to being USB DIRECT-PRINT compliant for direct connection to printers, the EX-Z40 and EX-Z30 are compatible with the PictBridge and PIM II standards.

A combination of outstanding design, portability and high performance has put the EXILIM ZOOM range at the forefront of the market trend for compact, stylish and thinner digital cameras and now CASIO have responded to the demand for a longer battery life.

1) Stack MCM (Multi-Chip Module): A technology that enables the mounting of high density chips on top of each other
2) Comparison between the EX-Z4 and EX-Z40
3) Based on CIPA standard battery life measurement

Specifications and Features

EX-Z30 & EX-Z40 FEATURES
High performance, easy to use thin card size High picture quality 4-megapixel and 3.2-megapixel models Thin card-size body incorporating 3x optical zoom lens
Large, easy to see 2.0” digital interface TFT LCD monitor (with acrylic scratch-resistant panel)
Direct On function for one-touch start up in either recording or play modes New, easy to hold grip with a high-quality light weight aluminium body  

Long battery life
2.5x the battery life of current cameras (comparison of EX-Z40 with EX-Z4) CIPA standard for battery life indicates 360 photos on a single charge  

Quick response
The camera automatically switches to Auto Pan Focus when the shutter is pressed in one action
Rapid start-up time allows you to start taking pictures approximately 1.6 seconds* after turning on the power
Release time lag after pressing the shutter is approximately 0.01 seconds* 0.1 second high-speed playback scrolling of photos
*with the flash off

  More convenient functions
Record movies with audio, limited only by the available memory
‘BESTSHOT’ mode provides sample images allowing you to take the photos you want
Noise reduction processing makes night scenes more clear
7-point Multi-Auto Focus for automatic selection of the optimum focus point  

Features for fun
Includes a voice record function with playback from the camera’s speaker A ‘Photostand’ feature that lets you view a slideshow of images with the camera on its cradle
A ‘Calendar’ feature that shows thumbnail images of photos on the day they were taken
World Time lets you select one of 162 cities in 32 time zones as your home or destination time
Store special photographs or photos you don’t want others to see in the Favourites folder
Create HTML albums in the camera that can be viewed directly by web browsers  

Fujifilm FinePix A120

The Fujifilm FinePix A120 is an entry level camera with a 3 megapixel sensor a 1.5inch LCD and a fixed focal length lens. Its a camera unashamedly aimed at the beginner wanting to do a little bit of experimenting with some limited manual controls.

For more information on the Fujifilm FinePix A120 read the following press release from Fujifilm announcing the camera or take a look at:
- Lets Go Digital - Fujifilm A120
- DP Review - Fujifilm Finepix A120

Press Release
25 February 2004 - Fujifilm today launches the FinePix A120, a camera designed to automate the complex areas of digital photography, whilst still producing high Fujifilm picture quality. With a shape unlike any camera that has gone before, the neat and innovative design makes it stand out from the crowd.

With a 3.1 million pixel effective resolution and movie recording capabilities, the FinePix A120 offers great functionality yet remains easy to use. Pleasant to hold and operate, with its rounded, compact shape, the FinePix A120 offers straightforward controls and menu options, ensuring this camera makes life easy for the intrepid photographer looking to make the leap to digital photography.

The FinePix A120 is small enough to slip into a jacket pocket or handbag, so it’s never far away from the action. With both an optical viewfinder and high quality 1.5” TFT screen, users can easily take and review shots before adding them to their collection. Furthermore, a sliding cover protects the lens from being scratched by those stray objects that lurk in pockets and bags.

A camera designed to grow with the user, the FinePix A120 has the flexibility of three routes to viewing images. Equipped with a Video Out Socket for showing shots on a TV screen and PictBridge™ for printing directly without a computer, users can choose between having a hard copy photo album, a slide show on the big screen or simply saving favourite shots onto a PC/Mac.

Created with ease of use and convenience in mind, the FinePix A120 is powered by two AA Alkaline batteries.

FinePix A120 features at a glance:
- 3.1 million effective pixels
- Video Out socket – for non-computer users to review shots on their TV
- PictBridge™ – for printing without a PC
- Fast operation and simple to use, just point and shoot for lifelike images
- Movie recording capabilities up to 10 frames per second (fps). Record up to 60 seconds (320x240 pixels) and up to 4 minutes (160x120 pixels) with a 16MB xD-Picture Card™ (included)
- xD-Picture Card™ providing large storage capacity and low power consumption

Adrian Clarke, Fujifilm’s Director of Consumer Products, commented, “All too often people worry about getting to grips with new technology. Our aim was to create a camera that catered for the entry-level customer, making the experience of digital photography an enjoyable one.

“The FinePix A120 has been designed to provide users with a camera equipped to take great pictures on ‘auto’ but with the option of experimenting with its full range of features, as they grow in confidence.”

Straight from the box
The FinePix A120 is supplied with everything needed to start shooting straight from the box: two AA alkaline batteries, 16MB xD-Picture Card™, wrist strap, CD, USB and video cable. The supplied software CD includes USB drivers, Fujifilm’s FinePix Viewer for image browsing, and ImageMixer VCD2 for creating multimedia albums.

Pricing and availability
The FinePix A120 will be available from UK photographic retailers from April 2004. Pricing will be announced nearer to the date of retail launch.* Availability of this product will vary by country.

Digital Photography Developments

5 Digital Photo Firsts looks at 5 emerging features in the latest batch of digital cameras announced at the recent PMA show. Here are the trends they comment (at greater length than here) on:

1. Movies (better quality and longer movies are now possible)
2. Red eye removers (in camera)
3. Memory made easy (cards are coming down in price)
4. Personal photo labs (mini printers are becoming more and more popular)
5. Better Color (the latest digital camera sensors are improving colors)

Digital Photography Tips - Glen Allison

L.A. photographer Allison shares digital secrets is an interesting article about Photographer Glen Allison's transition to Digital Photography and how he approaches the medium.

'"Now that I have switched to digital," says Los Angeles-based Glen Allison, "there is no way I'm going back to film, no way in the world. My feeling is that if I can't shoot using digital, I don't want to shoot."....

"I work on every image from four to eight hours," Allison says. Fitting shooting and image processing into his travel schedule can be challenging. "I've started doing a lot of my digital work on the road, taking my 23-inch Apple high definition LCD monitor with me, along with my 17-inch PowerBook."'Read More

Digital Photography Tips - Ken Milburn

Ken Milburn has just released Part 3 (the final part) in his series The Ideal Digital Photographer's Workflow. Its been one of the better series of articles/tutorials written on the topic of digital photography. Hopefully Ken will release some more digital photography tips shortly. Here are short introductory excerpts to each part in this latest series of tips.

Part 1 - 'Keeping images organized with the help of a systematic workflow is the key to your sanity. I've written this article in the hopes that it will help you to avoid wasting a lot of time recreating your digital masterpieces, or sifting through piles of digital file clutter in search of original files. What follows is a multi-level list of workflow steps that you can copy and paste on the wall of your digital lab and/or tuck into your camera bag. These steps can be gradually adapted to fit your own personal style and personality. Along the way, you may make discoveries of your own. If you don't mind sharing them, please do so via the Talkbacks section at the end of this article, so we can share them with the rest of our community.'

Part 2 - 'This article follows up on suggestions I made in Part 1 about creating a minimally destructive workflow for the work you do inside image-editing software, whether you're using Adobe Photoshop, PaintShop Pro, ULead PhotoImpact, Microsoft PictureIt!, or another editing program. Today we'll first look at five nondestructive editing steps you should take once you've downloaded your images. Then we'll examine some second-stage editing techniques designed to enhance the impact your images will have on your clients, or your friends and family.'

Part 3 - Steps for Working Optimally with the RAW Format - 'f you're the proud owner of one of the many new digital cameras just introduced at PMA 2004 that carry a "pro" designation, you'll quickly discover that you have vastly greater control over the quality of the images produced by your new camera if you shoot them in RAW format. It's a double blessing if you also happen to have Photoshop CS, with its updated and much-enhanced new RAW file converter.

The downside is that, marvelous as the new RAW image converter in Photoshop CS is, it can still take an inordinate amount of time to convert RAW images into something that your image-editing program can use. The process gets especially tedious when you need to RAW-process dozens or perhaps hundreds of images from the shoot you just completed in order to decide which images you want to keep, print, or deliver. In this article I will show you several steps you can take to save hours of work after every shoot.'

Olympus 5060

This morning I had some time playing with an Olympus 5060. Once again I was impressed by this camera. Its clearly one of the better ones in its price range.

I was impressed by its array of manual controls - (although a little overwhelmed by options) and its quality feel.

Its a little bigger than other cameras of similar functions, yet is no where near as bulky as a DSLR. The swivel LCD will be handy, as will the 3cm Macro mode.

The only down side was the length of time it took me to find my away around the controls and menu system. It could be a little overwhelming for the beginner but once you've played with it for a few days you're sure to be up to speed.

All in all I'd be tempted to snap one up.

Nikon D2H - Wireless Review

Here's an excerpt:

'The WT-1 attaches to the bottom of the D2H via the tripod mount and connects to the camera in two places. Firstly it takes power from the camera's battery via a four prong connector on the top of the WT-1, secondly it connects to the camera's USB port via a fly lead, the connector has a rubber seal to maintain the D2H's weatherproof status but also leaves the existing USB door hanging loose. Included with the WT-1 is a special battery door which has a wire holder molded into its side. While workable I found the fly lead setup to be a little strange, it would have been neater to add USB to the connector on the top of the WT-1.'

Olympus D-565

Steve's Digicams - Olympus D-565 writes: 'The D-565 will please beginners with its point-n-shoot simplicity and high-quality images, but intermediate users will find only a limited number of exposure controls.'

Get more information from:
- Digital Photo 1 - Readers Reviews - Olympus D565

Gateway DC-T50

It is a very compact camera measuring in at only 3.7 x 2.5 x 1.8inches and weighing just 6.3 ounces.

Read more about the Gateway DC-T50 at:
- Steve's Digicams - Gateway DC-T50
- Digital Camera HQ - Gateway DC-T50
- PC Mag - Gateway DC-T50 Review

Digital Photography tested in the Wilderness

Digital Photography in the Wilderness is an excellent article that tests whether digital photography is a legitimate medium in harsh outdoor settings.

The author decided to put his Canon EOS 10D to the test on a expedition to the Himalayas. He examines the problems that needed to be overcome of not having a power source - having a limited capacity to carry large weights - operating in an environment not known to be friendly to electronics.

'The purpose of this article is to share my planning process and conclusions, focusing on the specific questions and issues that outdoor photographers face on longer trips '

The article is a fascinating one and the pictures of the trip are stunning. Its nice to see someone writing out of practice rather than just in theory!

Dentists use Digital Cameras

The uses for digital cameras are many and varied. This week Kodak announced a Digital Camera Package for Dentists to use in their procedures. It features the AK EASYSHARE DX6490 Zoom Digital Camera.

'Eastman Kodak Company announced today its newest digital photography solution for dentists: a new, easy-to-use, quality digital camera solution--with a "direct from the camera" printing solution for even more value and convenience.

The new KODAK DX6490 Dental Digital Camera System includes everything needed to capture, as well as print, high-quality digital dental images and download them to computers:'

Fujifilm FinePix F710 Zoom

The Fujifilm Finepix F710 is a 4x optical zoom camera with a super CCD SR sensor shooting at 6.03 illion recorded pixels.

The F710 is the big brother of the award winning F700. The new model has a larger optical zoom, 2.1inch widescreen LCD display and pop-up flash.

For more information on the The Fujifilm Finepix F710 read the following press release announcing the camera or check out:
- DP Review - Fujifilm Finepix F710 Zoom

Press Release
17 February 2004: Fujifilm has today unveiled a new addition to its digital camera range based on the company's highly-acclaimed Super CCD SR technology: the FinePix F710 Zoom.

The FinePix F710 Zoom enters Fujifilm's range as a partner to the FinePix F700 Zoom, which has won more awards than any other camera in the company's compact digital line-up. The new model ups the ante further with a 4x zoom lens, widescreen LCD display and a pop-up flash. The F700 model will continue to be available alongside the F710.

One of the first features visible on the FinePix F710 Zoom is a brand new Fujinon 4x optical zoom lens. Fujifilm's optical know-how has succeeded in accommodating this extra lens power in a body of unchanged dimensions. With a zoom equivalent to 32.5mm to 130mm on a 35mm camera, the F710 Zoom goes a little wider and a little longer than the average compact digital camera.

In recognition of the growing popularity of the widescreen format used in a range of consumer electronics products, the FinePix F710 Zoom incorporates a new 2.1" widescreen LCD for image capture and playback of 16:9 format images - a picture size adjusted for optimised playback on the now-ubiquitous widescreen television. In addition, printing images is made easier thanks to the inclusion of PictBridge, the industry standard for printing images from a digital camera without using a PC.

Technical reviews confirmed that the FinePix F700 Zoom was a class apart from conventional digital compacts, and the FinePix F710 Zoom shares the revolutionary light capture principle that has made Fujifilm stand out in a crowded market. Super CCD SR has proven itself among experts as a technology that delivers superior dynamic range compared to a conventional CCD. As well as this increased tonal ability, the sensor also achieves significantly reduced noise.

In addition, the design of the F710 has been adjusted to include a pop-up flash, to further distance the flash from the axis of the lens. This refinement will help users to reduce the unsightly effects of red-eye when taking photos indoors or in poor light conditions.

Much like the F700, the FinePix F710 Zoom marries high-end photographic capability and an affordable price. It will make an excellent ‘off-duty’ camera for the professional, or a compact companion for the enthusiast who will make full use of the camera’s many functions.

Adrian Clarke, Director of Consumer Products, Fujifilm, said, "The FinePix F700 Zoom has been bought by many people who were looking to move on from a film SLR, but wanted to lose the bulk without waving goodbye to the creativity. This leads us to believe that the F710 Zoom will also be a hit with that group.

"Recently, the market has witnessed the launch of some very high-pixel cameras that have disappointed with their picture quality. We expect the F710 Zoom to prove once and for all that picture quality is all about what you do with pixels, rather than simply how many there are."

Super CCD SR sensor – High Fidelity PhotographyTM
Fujifilm’s Super CCD SR provides a truer representation of the subject, retaining highlight detail and offering a four-fold increase in dynamic range. By using the innovative layout of paired photodiodes, the technology enables confident shooting in both bright and cloudy conditions, combats the bleached-out effect created by flash photography and increases exposure latitude – a great advantage in difficult lighting conditions.

The technology behind Super CCD SR
Where once a single photodiode* was responsible for capturing the full range of light strengths at a single location on the sensor, with Super CCD SR two photodiodes capture information on the same area of the image. These are arranged in a special structure comprising a larger, primary photodiode adjusted for high sensitivity, with a secondary photodiode for lower sensitivity. When combined, they offer four times the dynamic range of conventional photodiodes. This advance in technology might be compared to the evolution of the audio speaker: in an attempt to improve performance, the addition of a secondary high sensitivity cone, or ‘tweeter’, radically improved range and sound quality.

Schematic of Super CCD SR sensor layout:
The FinePix F710 Zoom uses 3.1 million S-pixels and 3.1 million R-pixels to produce an ultra-smooth output image of 6.2 million recorded pixels.

Technical information relating to interpolation and Fujifilm Super CCD
Fujifilm’s Super CCD technology always produces a still image by processing intermediary tone and colour values between the effective pixels, no matter what the size of the output image. For instance, when using the FinePix F710 Zoom (a 6mp output camera) on its 3mp setting, the camera reduces the 6 million pixel file to half size, rather than reading exclusively from the effective photodiodes on the CCD. The reason for this is that the ‘chessboard’ arrangement of photosites on the CCD necessitates intermediary values in order to fill the gaps. For further information on how the Super CCD processor generates intermediary pixel values, please visit: www.superccd.co.uk

Availability and Pricing
The FinePix F710 Zoom will be available in the UK from leading photographic retailers from April 2004.

www.fujifilm.co.uk.

About Fujifilm
Fujifilm is committed to developing the very best imaging and information products, both conventional and digital. The company employs more than 72,000 people worldwide, with 173 subsidiaries stretching across four continents. Outside of Japan, Fujifilm has key manufacturing facilities in Europe and the USA for core products such as colour film, colour paper, single use cameras and PS plates, and two further factories in Brazil and China. It has a global turnover in excess of £13 billion.

Fuji Photo Film (UK) Ltd has been supplying the imaging, printing and graphics industries, as well as professional and enthusiast photographers, with high quality, innovative products and services for over 25 years in the UK. It currently employs more than 450 people and has become one of the country's most popular photographic brands.

© 2004, Fuji Photo Film (UK) Ltd. Specifications are subject to change.

The Photographers Photographer

After a heavy week of posting about new digital cameras i thought it might be time for a lighter story to help us recapture some of that passion we have for our photography.

I just found an article about a guy who's passion is to take pictures of other photographers.

'Jay, a former Mesa resident and Arizona State University professor, has become fascinated with photographing other photographers, shooting both portraits of professionals like Ansel Adams and Aaron Siskind and snapping pictures of amateur tourists taking photos in public places.'

Digital Camera Saves Fish

Just spotted this unusual article about another use for digital cameras that is helping the environment. This new digital camera is actually being used to help fishermen to identify the species of fish they are catching so that they can throw back anything that is endangered species. Here are some excerpts from the article from Planet Ark

'A new camera could help save dwindling fish stocks by letting fishermen identify and free unwanted catch immediately after nets are hauled in, its Danish inventor said yesterday.

By linking the camera to a sorting device aboard trawlers, fishermen can swiftly sort out unwanted fish, limiting the amount of discarded fish to around 25 percent, Andersen said.'

Source

Olympus Stylus 400/mju(µ) 400

It is known as the Olympus Stylus 400 in North America and as mju (µ) 400 Digital in Europe and SE Asia.

The Stylus 400/mju(µ) 400 is another of Olympus’s sliding cover cameras (the cover doubles as an on/off button). As the cover opens a 3x Optical zoom lens is revealed. It takes XD memory cards and has a 1.5 inch LCD screen.

The camera takes beautifully exposed pictures in well lit and outdoor situations but has been known to be a little less competent in low lit and indoor situations (although still takes decent shots) due to a built in flash that is not too powerful. Also macro mode isn’t quite as good as other cameras of a similar price.

Overall this camera is impressive if you are wanting a good quality, stylish and robust camera.

Read more reviews of the Stylus 400/mju(µ) 400 at:
- Olympus µ[mju:] 400 Digital
- Olympus Stylus 400
- Digital Camera HQ - Olympus Stylus 400
- Steve's Digicams - Olympus Stylus 400
- DC Resource - Olympus mju 400
- Megapixel - Olympus Stylus 400

Kyocera Finecam SL400R

The Kyocera Finecam SL400R is a 4MP version of the previously released SL300R.

To read a little more about the Kyocera Finecam SL400R read the following press release from Kyocera (although the focus of the press release is mainly on their RUNE image processing Technology - there is some mention of the SL400R)

Press Release
Kyocera's RTUNE Provides Unparalled High Speed Capture, Faster Start-Up/Shutter Response/Shot-to-Shot Times and Improved Picture Quality

Somerset, NJ – Kyocera Optics Inc., a leader in advanced digital imaging products,unveiled its breakthrough RTUNE Image Processing Technology with the release of its 5-Megapixel Finecam S5R and 3.2-Megapixel Finecam SL300R digital cameras. Now they have expanded their family with the introduction of the Contax SL300R T*, Finecam SL400R and M410R models. Each offers the world's fastest Continuous Capture Mode in their respective Megapixel configurations, up to an amazing 3.5 frames per second with the Finecam SL300R and Contax SL300R T* models. They are only limited by the capacity of the High Speed SD memory card being used and all models boast a virtually non-existent lag time of 0.07 seconds.

This new technology addresses the top consumer irritants that users have experienced with their digital cameras.

RTUNE Technology provides the following benefits:

Faster Start-Up: Powers up in less than a second

Faster Shutter Response: Virtually non-existent shutter lag time of 0.07 second

Faster Shot to Shot Times: Ready to shoot the next image in under a second

Continuous Capture Mode:Up to 3.5 frames per second until your high speed SD memory card is full - fastest image processing on the planet

Beautiful Pictures: Balanced, accurate colors. Better contrast and detail. Virtually no picture noise

With Kyocera’s RTUNE Technology, users are able to:

Take images that were missed before due to digital shutter lag

Experience faster shot-to-shot performance, similar to what they are used to with a traditional point and zoom film camera

Instantly power on their camera, take a picture or a continuous stream of photos

“With Kyocera’s exclusive RTUNE Technology, digital photography has finally realized its potential and is closer than ever to the traditional film shooting experience,” explained Ben La Marca, President of Kyocera Optics, Inc. “Digital Photographers no longer have to worry about missing important moments of spontaneity. Armed with RTUNE Technology, users can instantly switch on their camera, instantly take a picture or a continuous stream of photos, and expect the camera to instantly write the image and be ready again.”

With RTUNE, the image is captured from the CCD and is already being processed through the parallel processing operations that eliminate typical buffer constraints. As you are taking the pictures, you can simultaneously view the captured images in real time with no capture performance degradation.

The paralleled processor, with dedicated hardware blocks, simultaneously captures, processes and writes the resulting images to the High Speed SD card. This enables non-stop capture, eliminating bottlenecks and functioning at an amazing 10 - 12 times faster than the competition.

High performance, high resolution Movie Mode is twice as good as its 4MP/5MP competitors with 640 x 480 at 30 fps and 720 x 1280 HD at 15 fps.

Samsung Digimax 401

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax 401 read the following press release from Samsung announcing it and two other Digimax cameras.

Press Release - SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF INEXPENSIVE ENTRY LEVEL DIGITAL CAMERAS

Ideal for First Time Buyers and Promotional Purposes

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Samsung Digimax 401, 301 and 202 digital still cameras. At 4.0, 3.14 and 2.0 effective megapixels respectively, the Digimax 401, 301 and 202 combine to form a new range of entry level compact digital still cameras designed specifically for first time users and promotional purposes. Like all Samsung digital still cameras, each of these new models was designed to be the price/performance leader in its respective class. With approximate street prices of $179.99 for the 401, $129.99 for the 301 and $99.99 for the 202, there is little doubt that these new models will easily achieve that objective.

"Every Samsung Digimax model is designed to be the price/performance leader within its class," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President of Sales for Samsung Camera. "From the V Series cameras at the highest end of the spectrum to these three models at the entry level position, consumers can count on Samsung cameras to offer all of the same features and functionalities as the other major manufacturers' cameras -- at lower price points. Our strategy is to deliver a unique combination of quality AND value, and this new entry-level line typifies that approach".

Samsung's ever-increasing array of creative, functional and stylish products has taken the technology markets by storm, with innovations and product enhancements that have garnered rave reviews. From the company's cellular phone products to the array of flat panel displays used by corporate and personal computer users across the world, Samsung has remained committed to providing the customer with the best technology possible. Samsung Camera's Digimax camera line is no exception to the company's goal of global product excellence. As the world's largest chip manufacturer, and one of the few manufacturers to make the vast majority of its own camera components, Samsung is able to offer cutting edge technology at cutting edge prices across the board.

These three new entry level cameras underscore that strategy, as they all offer a host of features not commonly found in products within their respective price ranges. All three cameras are highly compact, measuring just 98 x 38 x 51 mm, and all offer a unique double self timer feature. This feature allows users to set the camera’s automatic timer to take a photo after ten seconds, followed by another photo just two seconds later.

The Digimax 401 offers a 4x digital zoom, while the 301 features a 3x digital zoom. At 4.0 and 3.14 megapixels, respectively, both cameras deliver crystal clear images that are suitable for printing and framing or sharing with family and friends electronically. Both are compatible with eight different power sources (2 x AA alkaline, 2 x Ni-MH, CR-V3 (Lithium), Ni-Cd, 2 x Ni-Zn, 2 x Ni-Mn, I-Pack and optional AC adapter). Both also allow users to attach voice memos to still images and capture high quality video clips with sound at a maximum rate of 20fps for as long as the capacity of the memory card in use will allow. Both offer multiple flash modes, including Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Slow sync, Fill-in flash and Flash off. Finally, both the 401 and 301 models allow the user to choose between Normal, B&W and Sepia tone for images with maximum artistic effect.

The Samsung Digimax 202 is the most aggressively priced model within the rapidly expanding Digimax range, and was designed to virtually eliminate all remaining barriers of entry to the digital-imaging world. With a street price of under $100, the Digimax 202 is poised to usher even the most tentative and budget conscious snap shooters into the digital age. A 2.0 megapixel digital camera with 2x digital zoom, the 202 features multiple flash modes including Auto, Fill-in flash, Flash off and Auto & Red-eye reduction, Slow sync.

The 202 allows users to choose from a host of white balance settings, such as Auto, Daylight, Sunset, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Tungsten and Custom. Unlike many 2 megapixel cameras, the 202 is also capable of capturing both still images and video, further adding to the immense value it offers for the money. Like the other models in the entry level Digimax range, the 202 is compatible with eight different power sources, ensuring that users will always be able to get the shots they want, no matter where their travels may take them.

All Samsung Digimax cameras come equipped with Mass Storage Driver, MGI PhotoSuite and Digimax Viewer software applications. All are designed to set new standards from price/performance within their respective classes and all are created with, quality, ease-of-use and value in mind.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax 301

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax 301 read the following press release from Samsung announcing it and two other Digimax cameras.

Press Release - SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF INEXPENSIVE ENTRY LEVEL DIGITAL CAMERAS

Ideal for First Time Buyers and Promotional Purposes

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Samsung Digimax 401, 301 and 202 digital still cameras. At 4.0, 3.14 and 2.0 effective megapixels respectively, the Digimax 401, 301 and 202 combine to form a new range of entry level compact digital still cameras designed specifically for first time users and promotional purposes. Like all Samsung digital still cameras, each of these new models was designed to be the price/performance leader in its respective class. With approximate street prices of $179.99 for the 401, $129.99 for the 301 and $99.99 for the 202, there is little doubt that these new models will easily achieve that objective.

"Every Samsung Digimax model is designed to be the price/performance leader within its class," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President of Sales for Samsung Camera. "From the V Series cameras at the highest end of the spectrum to these three models at the entry level position, consumers can count on Samsung cameras to offer all of the same features and functionalities as the other major manufacturers' cameras -- at lower price points. Our strategy is to deliver a unique combination of quality AND value, and this new entry-level line typifies that approach".

Samsung's ever-increasing array of creative, functional and stylish products has taken the technology markets by storm, with innovations and product enhancements that have garnered rave reviews. From the company's cellular phone products to the array of flat panel displays used by corporate and personal computer users across the world, Samsung has remained committed to providing the customer with the best technology possible. Samsung Camera's Digimax camera line is no exception to the company's goal of global product excellence. As the world's largest chip manufacturer, and one of the few manufacturers to make the vast majority of its own camera components, Samsung is able to offer cutting edge technology at cutting edge prices across the board.

These three new entry level cameras underscore that strategy, as they all offer a host of features not commonly found in products within their respective price ranges. All three cameras are highly compact, measuring just 98 x 38 x 51 mm, and all offer a unique double self timer feature. This feature allows users to set the camera’s automatic timer to take a photo after ten seconds, followed by another photo just two seconds later.

The Digimax 401 offers a 4x digital zoom, while the 301 features a 3x digital zoom. At 4.0 and 3.14 megapixels, respectively, both cameras deliver crystal clear images that are suitable for printing and framing or sharing with family and friends electronically. Both are compatible with eight different power sources (2 x AA alkaline, 2 x Ni-MH, CR-V3 (Lithium), Ni-Cd, 2 x Ni-Zn, 2 x Ni-Mn, I-Pack and optional AC adapter). Both also allow users to attach voice memos to still images and capture high quality video clips with sound at a maximum rate of 20fps for as long as the capacity of the memory card in use will allow. Both offer multiple flash modes, including Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Slow sync, Fill-in flash and Flash off. Finally, both the 401 and 301 models allow the user to choose between Normal, B&W and Sepia tone for images with maximum artistic effect.

The Samsung Digimax 202 is the most aggressively priced model within the rapidly expanding Digimax range, and was designed to virtually eliminate all remaining barriers of entry to the digital-imaging world. With a street price of under $100, the Digimax 202 is poised to usher even the most tentative and budget conscious snap shooters into the digital age. A 2.0 megapixel digital camera with 2x digital zoom, the 202 features multiple flash modes including Auto, Fill-in flash, Flash off and Auto & Red-eye reduction, Slow sync.

The 202 allows users to choose from a host of white balance settings, such as Auto, Daylight, Sunset, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Tungsten and Custom. Unlike many 2 megapixel cameras, the 202 is also capable of capturing both still images and video, further adding to the immense value it offers for the money. Like the other models in the entry level Digimax range, the 202 is compatible with eight different power sources, ensuring that users will always be able to get the shots they want, no matter where their travels may take them.

All Samsung Digimax cameras come equipped with Mass Storage Driver, MGI PhotoSuite and Digimax Viewer software applications. All are designed to set new standards from price/performance within their respective classes and all are created with, quality, ease-of-use and value in mind.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax 202

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax 202 read the following press release from Samsung which announces its (and two others) release.

SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF INEXPENSIVE ENTRY LEVEL DIGITAL CAMERAS

Ideal for First Time Buyers and Promotional Purposes

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of its new Samsung Digimax 401, 301 and 202 digital still cameras. At 4.0, 3.14 and 2.0 effective megapixels respectively, the Digimax 401, 301 and 202 combine to form a new range of entry level compact digital still cameras designed specifically for first time users and promotional purposes. Like all Samsung digital still cameras, each of these new models was designed to be the price/performance leader in its respective class. With approximate street prices of $179.99 for the 401, $129.99 for the 301 and $99.99 for the 202, there is little doubt that these new models will easily achieve that objective.

"Every Samsung Digimax model is designed to be the price/performance leader within its class," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President of Sales for Samsung Camera. "From the V Series cameras at the highest end of the spectrum to these three models at the entry level position, consumers can count on Samsung cameras to offer all of the same features and functionalities as the other major manufacturers' cameras -- at lower price points. Our strategy is to deliver a unique combination of quality AND value, and this new entry-level line typifies that approach".

Samsung's ever-increasing array of creative, functional and stylish products has taken the technology markets by storm, with innovations and product enhancements that have garnered rave reviews. From the company's cellular phone products to the array of flat panel displays used by corporate and personal computer users across the world, Samsung has remained committed to providing the customer with the best technology possible. Samsung Camera's Digimax camera line is no exception to the company's goal of global product excellence. As the world's largest chip manufacturer, and one of the few manufacturers to make the vast majority of its own camera components, Samsung is able to offer cutting edge technology at cutting edge prices across the board.

These three new entry level cameras underscore that strategy, as they all offer a host of features not commonly found in products within their respective price ranges. All three cameras are highly compact, measuring just 98 x 38 x 51 mm, and all offer a unique double self timer feature. This feature allows users to set the camera’s automatic timer to take a photo after ten seconds, followed by another photo just two seconds later.

The Digimax 401 offers a 4x digital zoom, while the 301 features a 3x digital zoom. At 4.0 and 3.14 megapixels, respectively, both cameras deliver crystal clear images that are suitable for printing and framing or sharing with family and friends electronically. Both are compatible with eight different power sources (2 x AA alkaline, 2 x Ni-MH, CR-V3 (Lithium), Ni-Cd, 2 x Ni-Zn, 2 x Ni-Mn, I-Pack and optional AC adapter). Both also allow users to attach voice memos to still images and capture high quality video clips with sound at a maximum rate of 20fps for as long as the capacity of the memory card in use will allow. Both offer multiple flash modes, including Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Slow sync, Fill-in flash and Flash off. Finally, both the 401 and 301 models allow the user to choose between Normal, B&W and Sepia tone for images with maximum artistic effect.

The Samsung Digimax 202 is the most aggressively priced model within the rapidly expanding Digimax range, and was designed to virtually eliminate all remaining barriers of entry to the digital-imaging world. With a street price of under $100, the Digimax 202 is poised to usher even the most tentative and budget conscious snap shooters into the digital age. A 2.0 megapixel digital camera with 2x digital zoom, the 202 features multiple flash modes including Auto, Fill-in flash, Flash off and Auto & Red-eye reduction, Slow sync.

The 202 allows users to choose from a host of white balance settings, such as Auto, Daylight, Sunset, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Tungsten and Custom. Unlike many 2 megapixel cameras, the 202 is also capable of capturing both still images and video, further adding to the immense value it offers for the money. Like the other models in the entry level Digimax range, the 202 is compatible with eight different power sources, ensuring that users will always be able to get the shots they want, no matter where their travels may take them.

All Samsung Digimax cameras come equipped with Mass Storage Driver, MGI PhotoSuite and Digimax Viewer software applications. All are designed to set new standards from price/performance within their respective classes and all are created with, quality, ease-of-use and value in mind.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax U-CA3

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax U-CA 3 read the following press release from Samsung.

Press ReleaseSAMSUNG CAMERA UNVEILS STYLISH, TINY, AFFORDABLE CAMERA FOR BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTHUSIASTS

SAMSUNG Digimax U-CA 3 Provides Professional Features at Affordable Price, Perfect For Youth Market

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA has always been the place to see what's new in digital photography and get up close and personal with any new products before they hit the retail shelves. This year is no exception, and Samsung Camera is doing its part to keep tradition alive with introducing its new Digimax U-CA 3 compact digital camera at the show. Aimed at the young photographer or the budding photo enthusiast, the U-CA 3 packs a range of professional features into one compact, affordable body, scarcely bigger than a cell phone.

"The U-CA 3 is the ideal product for today's young, hip digital photo enthusiasts," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Cameras. "This camera is stylish, easy to use and packed with a host of cool new features that bring digital creativity and personalization to a whole new level. Like all of the Digimax cameras, the U-CA 3 is aggressively priced, and packed with all of the latest features and capabilities".

At the heart of the U-CA 3 is a 3.2 megapixel sensor, designed to take quality images in its fully automatic mode, while still providing the photographer with a host of manual controls for more creative photographic applications. Speaking of creativity, the U-CA 3 offers users a host of creative options that can't be found anywhere else in the world. For example, only the U-CA 3 comes equipped with special software applications that allow users to create customized, animated avatar characters that can be displayed and shared on the camera and the Internet.

Not only can these animated figures be stored on the camera and used as personalized "welcome" screens, but users can incorporate facial features from their actual photos to create animated avatar versions of their family and friends.

Once an avatar has been generated, users are presented with a myriad of hairstyles, outfits, background scenes and even dance moves to incorporate into the character's repertoire.

Another of the U-CA 3's innovative features is its Creative RGB Color Effect mode. This unique feature allows users to adjust and customize the levels of red, green and blue in all of the images taken with the U-CA3. In essence, the RGB function allows users to create multiple versions of a single image, all with different levels of depth, tonality and richness.

The U-CA 3 is more than just fun -- it's functional, versatile and easy-to-use as well. Its MPEG-4 video compression, for example, offers superior quality images (320 x 240 maximum resolution at 15fps) and four times the recording capacity of MJPEG. In fact, video recording time is limited only by the capacity of the external memory card in use at the time.

With its combination mechanical and electrical shutter, the camera has a top shutter speed of 1/2000 of a second, and can capture long exposures up to two seconds. A night mode extends the picture taking duration up to 15 seconds. A sharp, precise, 5.8mm - 17.4mm f/2.8-4.8 lens (equivalent to 38mm-114mm in 35mm film format) gives the photo enthusiast a high quality picture in any situation. A built in 3x digital zoom further extends the lens' capabilities. The U-CA 3 also includes a macro mode that focuses as close as 5cm, something few cameras in the class can boast.

The U-CA 3's ease of use continues with the colorful GUI (Graphical User Interface) that walks the photographer through all of the cameras many features and functions. The 1.5-inch TFT LCD screen acts as the nerve center of the U-CA 3 providing easy access to the camera's powerful features.

And powerful features abound, with the U-CA 3 able to meet the needs of the most critical of photographers. Thanks to preset shooting modes and custom effects, it's possible to adjust the camera to meet any photographic challenge. Three sharpness modes, five effect modes (including B&W, sepia and sunset), six white balance settings, and a variety of shooting modes further extend the capabilities of the camera.

The U-CA 3 not only captures perfect still images, but also records MPEG-4 video at up to 20 frames-per-second with audio at 320x240 size. Movies (as well as photographs) can be played back on the built-in LCD screen. The high-quality screen is also perfect for displaying a slide show of one's photographs from the 32 MB Memory Stick Duo card.

The compact storage media is the perfect choice for the U-CA 3, enabling the camera to assume such svelte proportions. Images can be transferred from the camera with either a Memory Stick card reader (sold separately) or via the built in USB 1.1 connection to both Macs and PCs.

The U-CA 3 comes bundled with MGI PhotoSuite or Adobe Photoshop Elements, and Digimax Viewer.

With a retail price of $229, and a compact "take-anywhere" form factor, the Digimax U?CA 3 is designed to be the perfect companion for the young or novice photographer. With an easy to use GUI, a colorful GUI, ultra-close macro mode, 3D Avatar, and MPEG-4 video, it's also a fully featured camera designed to capture any photographic possibility.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Camera Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung U-CA 401

It has 32MB internal memory but also takes a Sony Memory Stick Duo card. It has a wide variety of exposure modes and gives the photographer plenty of scope to be creative with it.

Learn more about the Samsung U-CA 401 by reading the following press release from Samsung announcing the release of the camera.

Press Release
SAMSUNG CAMERA INTRODUCES INCREDIBLY COMPACT, INCREDIBLY STYLISH CAMERA

SAMSUNG U-CA 401 -- Small in Stature but Big on Features

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - PMA might be the scene for some of the most impressive sights around, but Samsung Camera is truly turning heads with the launch of its new U-CA 401 ultra compact digital camera. Sleek, compact and ultra thin (96.7mm x 60mm x 15mm), the U-CA 401 packs a ton of impressive features into a stylish body that's small enough to take anywhere. A 4 megapixel camera with 4x digital zoom, the U-CA 401 is destined to become the camera of choice for those who like to travel light, but record all of their experiences along the way.

Although small in size, the U-CA 401 is very big on features. Beginning with its 4.1 megapixel image sensor the U-CA 401 is designed to deliver high quality images, storing them either in its internal 32MB of flash memory or onto a Sony Memory Stick Duo card. The camera can capture as many as 406 images (at the 1/3 of a megapixel setting) and up to seven images in the super fine mode at the highest resolution using the internal memory alone. As an added feature, images can be transferred from the internal memory to the Memory Stick Duo card, essentially freeing up the camera. This allows photographers to shoot without an additional card and transfer images at their leisure. The U-CA 401 also transfers images quickly and easily to a computer via the built USB interface.

The camera's macro mode allows the U-CA 401 to focus on subjects as close as 6 cm, while normal mode facilitates smooth, swift auto focus from 60 cm to infinity. A combination mechanical and electronic shutter provides high-speed image capture up to 1/2000 of a second. A handy Night Scene mode turns the camera into a secret-agent "must have", allowing photographs to be captured in almost complete darkness.

Another impressive feature is the U-CA 401's wide variety of exposure controls, which provide the photographer with complete creative control over the image being shot. Photographers can chose from Program AE, Multi Metering, or Spot modes, all with adjustable exposure compensation up to ±2 stops, in .5 EV increments.

The U-CA 401 isn't just talented, it's sensitive too. The camera can capture images at selectable ISO ranges from 100 to 400. The built-in self-timer allows photographers to get into the action too, and the double exposure setting provides for some interesting creative effects.

Even in a camera with such diminutive dimensions, Samsung kept ergonomics in mind during the design process. The U-CA 401 fits nicely into the palm of the photographer's hand, and offers quick and easy access to a host of controls through a few simple buttons and an easy to navigate graphical user interface (GUI). Many of the camera’s controls are accessed through the large 1.5-inch color TFT LCD screen. The built-in flash, for example, can be set to fire in Auto mode, Auto and Red-eye mode, Slow-sync mode and Fill-in mode. Sharpness and special effects can also be set on-camera via the LCD screen and GUI. The U-CA 401 allows sharpness to be adjusted from the standard Normal mode to either Soft of Vivid, while the camera can also be set to capture images with either a sepia or black and white effect.

In addition to automatic white balance, the U-CA 401 also provides adjustable white balance settings for the perfect photograph. Chose from Daylight, Cloudy, Sunset, Fluorescent, Tungsten or Custom modes to capture photographs with perfect color rendition.

The U-CA 401 not only captures perfect still images, but also records video at up to 30 frames-per-second with audio at 320x240 dpi. Movies (as well as photographs) can be played back on the built-in LCD screen, providing an on-location way to check one's directorial skills.

Proving that it's possible to create a camera that's both compact and full featured, the U?CA 401 provides enormous creative controls for the photographer in a small package. With a retail price of $299.99 the Samsung U-CA 401 is the perfect choice for every photographer.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax 250

It will be most attractive to the budget conscious photographer costing only $139 (US).

Read more about the Samsung Digimax 250 in the following press release from Samsung announcing the camera.

Press Release
SAMSUNG DIGIMAX 250 OFFERS STATE-OF-THE-ART FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY IN AN AFFORDABLE, EASY-TO-USE PACKAGE

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Consumers who want all of the latest features and technologies in an easy-to-use, affordable digital still camera are about to find what they're looking for in the new Samsung Digimax 250 model. Introduced at PMA 2004, the Samsung Digimax 250 is a compact, 2.1 megapixel digital camera with a sleek ergonomic design, 2x optical and 2x digital zoom, still and video image capture capabilities and a host of additional features and functions. Best of all, it comes at an approximate street price of just $139.99, making it as easy to own as it is to use!

The Samsung Digimax 250 was designed to meet the needs of even the most budget-conscious consumers who want to experience everything the digital world has to offer. With 2x optical and 2x digital zoom, multiple power sources, MPEG-4 video compression and a host of creative capabilities, there isn't much that can't be done with the Digimax 250.

At the heart of the Digimax 250 is the 2.1 megapixel CCD image sensor, which captures razor sharp images of the highest quality. These images can be stored on the camera's 6.0 MB of internal flash memory, or on an external SD/MMC card. In addition, the 250's MPEG-4 video compression offers superior quality images (320 x 240 maximum resolution at 15fps) and five times the recording capacity of MJPEG. In fact, video recording time is limited only by the capacity of the external memory card in use at the time. The Digimax 250 also features the world's first pause feature in movie clip mode, providing users with unprecedented directorial control over the video clips they capture.

Its combination mechanical and electrical shutter gives the 250 a top shutter speed of 1/2000 of a second. It can also capture long exposures up to two seconds, while its night scene mode extends the picture taking duration all the way up to eight seconds. In addition to allowing users to shoot at night, the 250 offers several additional scene modes including Auto "Myset" and Photoframe. The customizable "My Set" option allows the user to customize the camera's multitude of settings to meet their individual preferences or needs.
A sharp, precise, 5.0mm - 10.0mm f/2.8-4.8 lens (equivalent to 38mm-76mm in 35mm film format) gives the photo enthusiast a high quality picture in any situation. Its built in 2x digital zoom further extends the lens' capabilities, allowing photographers to zoom in tight on a subject from considerable distance.

A 1.5-inch TFT LCD screen acts as the nerve center of the 250, providing easy access to all of the camera's myriad features. The camera's compatibility with eight different power sources (AA Alkaline, Digimax I-Pack, NI-MH, CR-V3, Ni-Cd, 2 x Ni-Zn, 2 x Ni-Mn and AC adapter) ensures that power is something that will never be in short supply.

Thanks to preset shooting modes and custom effects, it's possible to adjust the camera to meet any photographic challenge. Three effect modes (normal, B&W & sepia,), seven white balance settings (auto, daylight, cloudy, sunset, fluorescent, tungsten & custom), and a variety of previously mentioned shooting modes make the Digimax 250 the perfect photographic companion for any situation.

Samsung knows that image capture is only the beginning of the digital process, and so provides everything the photographer needs to capture, store, output and share the products of their creative endeavors. For example, the Digimax 250 comes equipped with an external memory card slot that is compatible with SD/MMC cards and also comes bundled with MGI PhotoSuite and Digimax Viewer 2.1.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Camera Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax 370

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax 370 read an extract from the press release announcing the camera.

Press Release
Digimax 370
With a host of advanced features such as RGB Color Effect, 3x optical and 4x digital zoom, the Samsung Digimax 370 is the only compact digital in its class to offer such an impressive combination of quality and creative control. With an estimated street price of just $199.99, the Digimax 370 was designed to give creative power to the people.

A sharp, precise, 5.8mm - 17.4mm f/2.8-4.8 lens (equivalent to 38mm-114mm in 35mm film format) gives the photo enthusiast a high quality picture in any situation. Its built in 4x digital zoom further extends the lens' capabilities, allowing photographers to zoom in tight on a subject from considerable distance. The 370 also includes a macro mode that focuses as close as 5cm, something few cameras in the class can boast.

Another of the 370's innovative creative features is Samsung's Creative RGB Color Effect mode. This unique feature allows users to adjust and customize the levels of red, green and blue in all of the images stored on the camera. In essence, the RGB function allows users to create multiple versions of a single image, all with different levels of depth, tonality and richness.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras,

zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax 430

The Digimax 430 has a 1.5 inch LCD screen and a 5cm Macro mode. It will sell for $229.99 (US).

Learn more about the Samsung Digimax 430 from the following extract from the press release announcing the 430 and another Samsung camera, the Digimax 370.

Press Release
SAMSUNG LAUNCHES FULL-FEATURED, AFFORDABLE 3 AND 4 MEGAPIXEL DIGITAL CAMERAS IN DIGIMAX 370 AND 430

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera has always been known for bringing high-end technology to consumers at very competitive prices. The company has established a leadership position in the 35mm point and shoot category by delivering products that are the undisputed price/performance leaders in their respective classes. The launch of its new Digimax 370 and 430 digital cameras at PMA 2004 underscores Samsung's commitment to utilizing the same proven strategy in the digital still camera space.

"The new Digimax 370 and 430 cameras epitomize our strategy of providing the consumer with a full complement of high-end features at affordable price points," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, Sales for Samsung Camera. "Both come equipped with a host of features and technologies that are commonly found in much more expensive digital cameras. The 370 and 430 are perfect for the consumer who wants the quality of a 3 or4 megapixel camera without the hefty price tag that normally comes along with it."

Digimax 430
An economical 4.0 megapixel auto focus camera with 2.8x optical and 4x digital zoom, the Samsung Digimax 430 has an approximate street price of $229.99. The 430 has a 1/2.5” CCD that captures crisp images, and a 1.5” color TFT LCD that enables users to quickly and easily review and preview. The superb 5cm macro mode allows users to capture crisp, clear images of subject matter as close as 5cm from the camera’s lens.

Supporting eight different power sources (AA Alkaline, Digimax I-Pack, NI-MH, CR-V3, Ni-Cd, 2 x Ni-Zn, 2 x Ni-Mn and AC adapter) the Digimax 430 offers numerous customizable scene modes Children, Landscape, Close-up, Sunset, Dawn, Backlight, Fireworks, Beach & Snow. Its multiple shooting modes include Auto, Manual, My Set, Scene and Night Scene. The camera’s RGB Color Effect mode allows the user to control the levels of red, green and blue in images, greatly enhancing the creative capabilities of the camera. The Digimax 430 also supports both SD/MMC and Memory Stick Duo formats for external memory via its unique Multi Memory Card Slot. Digimax 430 users can capture movie clips with sound at a rate of up to 30fps.

With multiple flash modes, adjustable white balance and automatic ISO sensitivity, the Digimax 430 truly has everything consumers have come to expect from a high-end 4 megapixel digital camera – except the price tag. USB and user selectable NSTC/PAL connectors allow for high-speed transfer to a PC. The Digimax 430 has 32MB of internal memory, and also features a built in Multi Memory Card Slot that is memory Stick Duo and SD/MMC compatible. The camera ships with a 32MB SD memory card, providing users with 64MB of memory that’s ready to use right out of the box.

Samsung Digimax 530

It comes with 32MB internal memory and a slot for SD cards.

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax 530 read the following press release from Samsung.

Press Release
SAMSUNG DIGIMAX 530 DELIVERS QUALITY AND VERSATILITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera is proud to introduce the Digimax 530 -- a 5.0 megapixel digital camera that is big on quality and small on price. A quality 5-megapixel auto focus digital camera with 3x optical and 4x digital zoom, the new Digimax 530 allows even the casual snap shooter to experience everything the 5-megapixel world has to offer without breaking the bank. With an approximate street price of $279.99, the Digimax 530 is an incredible value. Its 1/1.8" CCD captures razor sharp images, and the 1.5" TFT LCD with multiple language support is ideal for image preview and review.

The Digimax 530 offers many of the same state-of-the-art technologies found in higher priced 5-megapixel cameras, including multiple flash modes, adjustable white balance and selectable ISO sensitivity (100, 200, 400 and Auto). The camera’s super macro mode allows users to capture crystal clear images of subjects as close as 6cm from the lens. Digimax 530 users can capture both still images and movie clips with audio, and the bundled USB and user selectable NSTC/PAL connectors allow for high-speed transfer to a PC.

The Digimax 530 has 32MB of internal memory and also has a built in slot for up to 256MB of external SD/MMC memory. The Digimax 530 supports 8 different power sources in AA Alkaline, Ni-MH, CR-V3 Lithium, Digimax I-Pack, Ni-Cd, 2 x Ni-Zn, 2 x Ni-Mn and optional AC adapter. With TTL Auto Focus, Programmed AE and Metering exposure controls, Normal and Night scene modes, and Single and Continuous shooting, the Digimax 530 screams value as it’s packaged with features that would normally draw a higher price-tag in other 5 megapixel digital cameras.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax V40

To learn more about the V40 read the the following extract from the Samsung Press Release announcing it and the Digimax V50.

From the Press Release

Digimax V40
The new Digimax V40 is ideal for the amateur to advanced amateur photographer looking for a solid camera with a full range of high-end features. With its 4.1 megapixel sensor, the V40 captures stunning images thanks to its 5.8mm to 17.4mm f/2.8-4.9 lens (comparable to 38mm-114mm in 35mm film format). Built in 4x digital zoom extends the range of the V40 even further.

Like the V50, the Digimax V40 offers a full range of creative shooting choices and customizable modes. From the flash modes to the special effects, to the choice of white balance settings, the V40 allows the advanced photographer to produce the best image possible either through manual controls or via the camera's automatic settings.

Like its big sibling, the Digimax V40 also offers AEB scene modes for mastery of difficult but common shooting situations, and can capture still images or movies (at 640x480) to the SD/MMC or Memory Stick Duo slot. Both cameras support up to 1GB of data storage with the Memory Stick Duo Cards. Like the V50, the V40 also uses a High-Speed USB 2.0 connector for fast image transfer from camera to PC or Mac.

The V50 and V40 also serve as document scanners, automatically compensating for image distortion that typically occurs when photos of business cards and/or documents are captured. These cameras automatically correct the "bow" effect that normally occurs, creating a perfect electronic replica of business cards, documents and other flat objects which can then be uploaded to a computer, PDA, cell phone or other device. Both also offer Pictbridge technology, allowing users to connect the camera directly to a printer via USB cable and output images right from the camera's internal memory or the Memory Stick Duo card. A related feature that comes in handy is the ability to edit, crop and rotate images right on the camera before sending them to a computer or printer for distribution or output.

Ideal for either the casual snap shooter or the advanced photographer, the V50 and V40 both offer fully automatic and manual controls. From point and shoot to shutter priority to aperture priority all the way to full manual, these products have it all. With nine different power sources to choose from (AA Alkaline, Ni-Mg, Ni-Zn, AALithium, CR?V3, Ni-MH, Ni-Cd, Li-Ion and Li-Ion dedicated) V50 and V40 owners can rest assured that they'll never run out of juice.

Priced at just $329.99 the Digimax V40 provides solid performance, excellent image quality and technological advances all in one easy to use and affordable package, making it one of the best choices for photographers today.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Camera Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Samsung Digimax V50

To learn more about the Samsung Digimax V50 read the following extracts from the press release from Samsung announcing the V50 and V40.

Press Release
SAMSUNG CAMERA ADDS STYLE AND SUBSTANCE TO COMPACT DIGITAL RANGE WITH NEW DIGIMAX V-SERIES MODELS

V50 and V40 Packed with Power and Features in Stylish Chassis

SECAUCUS, N.J., (February 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera will be packing quite a punch at this year’s PMA as it is set to introduce its newest Digimax cameras, the successors to the company's popular flagship digital camera lineup. Following the success of the Samsung Digimax V4 and V3 models (unveiled at PMA in March, 2003) the new V50 and V40 propel the Digimax lineup to new heights, with new capabilities and features.

"The V50 and V40 represent the next generation of the highly successful V series line introduced at last year's PMA show," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice PresidentNational Sales for Samsung Camera. "With features like MPEG-4 video compression, a 4cm (wide) macro feature, a 2-inch swivel LCD and compatibility with multiple external memory formats, these cameras are ideal for virtually every application. Of course, they also offer all of the signature features of our existing V series line, such as Schneider optics, compatibility with 9 different power sources and a host of manual controls".

Samsung's ever-increasing array of creative, functional and stylish products has taken the technology markets by storm, with innovations and product enhancements that have garnered rave reviews. From the company's cellular phone products to the array of flat panel displays used by corporate and personal computer users across the world, Samsung has remained committed to providing the customer with the best technology possible. Samsung Camera's Digimax camera line is no exception to the company's goal of global product excellence.

The V50 and V40 models combine a number of "world's first" features into a stylish, user-friendly and affordable package. Following in the footsteps of the popular V4 and V3 the V50 and V40 both offer quality construction, world-class Schneider optics, a plethora of customization modes and other features to create one of the foremost digital cameras in its class.

Samsung has also designed a series of top quality conversion lenses for the V50 and V40 models, further expanding the cameras' already impressive range of features. Consumers will be able to choose from among three wide angle and telephoto lenses. All three will be sold separately as optional accessories for the V50 and V40 cameras.

Digimax V50
The new Digimax V50 packs a new 5.3 megapixel (total pixels) sensor in a stylish aluminum enclosure that's easy to use and to hold. With its high-quality f/2.8-4.9 Schneider 7.7mm-23.1mm lens (equivalent to a 38-113mm lens in 35mm film) the camera provides an enormous array of features in one sleek package. A " Macro" mode captures images as close as 4 cm, while the 5x digital zoom extends the range of the Schneider lens into the super-telephoto range.

A 2.0-inch TFT LCD screen provides a large focusing area and is also home to the camera's wider range of creative controls. The intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) allows users to easily navigate the camera's menu of features and capabilities. Photographers have a full range of custom choices including a variety of exposure modes, three ISO settings, five flash settings, and more. The V50 utilizes a combination mechanical and electronic shutter to capture images at up to 1/2000 of a second.

The Digimax V50 can capture still in single, continuous or AEB mode, at sizes up to 2592 x 1944 dpi and store them as TIFF, JPEG (DCF) or DPOF format. The camera can also capture movies in MPEG-4 format at a resolution of up to 640x480 at 30 frames per second.

AEB shooting provides a choice of presets custom designed for some typical—and also some difficult to master—shooting environments. The Digimax V50 includes preprogrammed settings in an Easy mode, Program mode, Movie mode and Scene modes including: Children, Landscape, Close-up, Sunset, Dawn, Backlight, Firework, Beach & Snow, and Portrait.

Taking advantage of the small form-factor of SD/MMC storage cards and Memory Stick DUO, the Digimax V50 is able to save images onto either of the card slots, without sacrificing size for the storage media. SD is quickly becoming the preferred storage media for compact digital cameras thanks to formats ability to pack a large amount of data into a small space.

The V50 transfers images via its built-in USB 2.0 connection, and comes with software for both the Windows and the Macintosh platforms. The Digimax V50 can also be connected to NTSC or PAL external monitors for image and movie playback via the included connectors.

With a retail price of $379.99, the Digimax V50 is competitively priced, and is the perfect choice for photographers of all skill and experience levels.

Samsung Digimax V5

To get the full picture about theSamsung Digimax V5 read the following press release from Samsung.

SAMSUNG INTRODUCES 5-MEGAPIXEL MODEL TO ITS HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL V SERIES LINE OF DIGITAL CAMERAS

SECAUCUS, N.J., (January FebruaryXX, 12, 2004) - Samsung Camera today announced the launch of the Digimax V5 five-megapixel digital camera, the latest introduction to the highly successful Digimax V Series range of compact digital cameras. The V5 is one of three new models added to the Samsung Digimax V Series at the start of 2004, and is prices at just $349.

"The launch of the V5 further demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to the digital still camera space," said Ken Gerb, Senior Vice President, National Sales for Samsung Cameras. "As the market for high-end, prosumer type compact digitals shifts to higher resolution models, Samsung continues to anticipate consumer demand and deliver top quality products at affordable price points. The V5 is based largely on the design and feature sets of our familiar and highly-successful V3 and V4 models, so we expect it to be well received by consumers."

The V5 joins the V4 and V3 in offering a number of signature V Series features and technologies, including Schneider optics, support for nine different power sources, three customizable user profile settings and a super macro feature that lets the user shoot subjects as close as 6cm away in manual mode. With a host of additional features including 12x zoom (3x optical, 4x digital), auto and manual shooting modes and the ability to record up to 2 hours of audio, the Samsung Digimax V5 is the only camera in its class to offer brilliant five?megapixel photos, setting new standards for price and performance.

Created for sale through specialty photo dealers, the Samsung Digimax V Series digital cameras were designed to substantially expand the boundaries of creativity for digital imaging enthusiasts of all shapes and sizes. At 5.0, 4.0 and 3.2 megapixels, respectively, the Digimax V5, V4 and V3 cameras offer a number of innovative features in a stylish, intuitive and affordable package.

V Series for Versatility
One of the many features that sets the Samsung Digimax V Series cameras apart from their peers is the ability to support nine different power sources including CR-V3 Lithium, AA alkaline, Ni-Mn, Ni-Zn, Ni-MH, Ni-Cd, SRB-1437 or SBP-1103 rechargeable Li-Ion batteries, and an AC adapter. In combining such an incredible array of power options with innovative new low power circuitry, the Digimax V Series cameras come with an unprecedented level of flexibility and reliability. While certainly impressive, multiple power sources are not the only firsts offered by the V Series cameras. They are also the only cameras in the world that combine world-renowned Schneider optics with advanced manual shooting capabilities to create a Super Macro function that allows users to capture brilliant images from as close as 5 cm away. Once you’ve captured the image you want, Samsung’s trimming and resizing functions allow you to edit the image right on the LCD – without even connecting to a PC.

And even though every picture is worth 1,000 words, sometimes you want to add a few of your own. The V Series cameras offer the perfect solution, allowing users to add 10?second audio captions to still images, record audio to accompany their movie clips and record up to 2 hours of audio alone, depending on the capacity of the memory card in use. Both of the Digimax V Series cameras come bundled with a 32 MB SD memory card, as opposed to the 16 MB capacity typically included with competitive products.

Form and Function
While you might expect a camera with this many unique features to look like something from out of this world, the exact opposite is true of the V Series cameras. In combining its expertise as the world’s leading chip manufacturer with its commitment to ergonomic design principles, Samsung has succeeded in putting all of these remarkable features into a sleek, user-friendly and familiar looking camera body. The V Series cameras feature incredibly intuitive ergonomic designs, allowing even the casual amateur photographer to start taking great digital photos right out of the box.

The convenient shooting mode dial allows users to easily choose from multiple shooting modes including easy, program, portrait, night scene, movie clip, voice recording and A/S/M (aperture, shutter, and manual). An easy to use 4-way key and OK button allows users to navigate the options menu and provides quick and easy access to a variety of features including flash, self-timer, MIC and metering. The brightness level of a vibrant, 1.5” color TFT LCD monitor on both models is adjustable to ensure easy viewing and reviewing of images in any lighting conditions.

The “My Set” function allows users to personalize their cameras like never before by choosing up to 9 different camera settings such as image size, quality and ISO and saving them in a customized profile. By allowing users to create up to three different “My Set” profiles, only the Samsung Digimax V Series cameras provide the ability to be ready to shoot superior quality images in any conditions at the touch of a button.

Built for Speed
The Digimax V Series cameras combine style with substance, and both were designed for speed. All three cameras power up in less than 3 seconds, announcing their readiness with a sound effect and graphics on the LCD display. The start up image on the LCD can even be customized on the V Series cameras, allowing the user to choose their favorite photo as a personal start page. The cameras’ “Quick Play” feature allows users to immediately review single images, thumbnails, slide shows and movie clips at the touch of a button – even when the power is off.

The V5, V4 and V3 feature single, continuous and auto bracketing shooting modes. With the high-speed auto bracketing feature, 4 ~ 1/2,000 frames per second can be captured with different exposures.

Everything You Expect From a Samsung Camera
The V Series line supports multiple file formats, including TIFF, JPEG and DPOF for still images, as well as AVI (MJPEG) for movie clips and WAV for audio files. All three cameras come bundled with a variety of valuable software to make viewing, editing and sharing images easy, including Digimax Viewer 2.1, and Arcsoft PhotoImpression 4.0.
They offer multiple language support including English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Korean, Russian, Portugese, Swedish, Danish, Dutch and more. All V Series cameras come equipped with a full compliment of accessories, including a stylish carrying case, USB cable, user selectable NTSC/PAL video cable, and applications and software driver CD-ROM and a wrist strap.

Samsung Opto-Electronics America, Inc., Secaucus, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd., Sungnam Kyungki-Do, Korea. Samsung is the world's 11th largest company. Samsung Opto-Electronics markets a full line of auto focus cameras, zoom and digital cameras for the amateur as well as the professional under the Samsung band name. CCTV monitors and lenses, motorized zoom lenses, binoculars, observation and security systems, and video presenters are other products in the family of photographic and optical equipment.

Visit the Samsung Cameras Web site at:
www.samsungcamerausa.com

Digital Camera, MP3, Video, PDA Devices!

Digital Camera/Music Player Combos is an interesting article examining some of the latest digital cameras that also double as MP3 players.

'Digital cameras and portable MP3 players may appear to be completely different products, but the success of combination player/cameras has proven that good marriages don't have to involve two identical partners.

Actually, digital cameras and digital audio players share more than you might suspect. The flash memory cards that most audio players use for storing music were originally developed for use in cameras. Both units are essentially small computers, and computers can be programmed to perform any task.'

One of the latest MP3 Digital Camers is the BenQ DC-S30.

I think we'll see more and more of these sorts of combination devices. The other things that the latest batch of cameras seems to be combining is still and higher quality video cameras. Quite a number of the lastest cameras from PMA seem to be promoting VGA quality video - this is one thing I think we'll see improve in the year/s ahead.

The ultimate gadget of the future might include, digital still, video, mp3, pda....and more!

Digital Camera Awards

Below are the winners of the 8th Annual DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out (see below for criteria for judging from the official Press Release):

Point-and-Shoot categories and winners
Below $100
Mustek MDC4000, Mustek Inc., Irvine, Calif. (Entry #40)

$100 to $199
HP Photosmart 735, Hewlett-Packard Company, San Diego, CA (Entry #3)

$200 to $299
Konica Minolta DiMage X20, Mahwah, NJ 07430 (Entry #24)

$300 to $399
Casio QV-R51, Casio Inc., Dover, NJ (Entry #16)

$400 to $499
HP Photosmart 945, Hewlett-Packard Company, San Diego, CA (Entry #5)

$599 to $799
Olympus C-5060, Olympus America, Inc., Melville, N.Y. (Entry #54)

Digital Video Camcorder
Sony DCR-PC330, Sony Electronics, San Diego, CA (Entry #50)

Prosumer/Professional categories and winners
$999 to $1299
Olympus C-8080, Olympus America, Inc., Melville, N.Y. (Entry #51)

$1300 to $1799
Leica Digilux 2, Leica Camera AG, Solms, Germany (Entry #1)

Press Release:
2004 DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out winners announced

Nine digital cameras were named winners in the 2004 DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out today at the PMA 2004 Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, Nev., USA.

Over 50 digital camera entries and 13 manufacturers participated in the 8th Annual DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out, which took place on Friday, Feb. 13, at the DIMA Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nev. Participating camera manufacturers captured images in four live-model studios.

Images from the point-and-shoot cameras were printed on three different digital minilab systems including the Agfa D-Lab 2 Plus supplied by Agfa Corp., the Fuji Frontier 370 supplied by Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. Inc., and the Noritsu 3101 supplied by Noritsu America.

Images from the Prosumer/Professional category were output through a G4 Power Mac running Adobe PhotoShop CS and printed on an Epson Photo Stylus 9600 inkjet printer, supplied by Epson America Inc. Color management support for the DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out was provided by GretagMacbeth, using Sony Artisan displays donated by Sony Electronics.

Professional photo equipment used at the DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out was supplied by Adobe Systems, Agfa Corp., Epson America Inc., Fuji Photo Film USA, Inc., GretagMacbeth, GTI Graphic Technology, Quality Mounting & Laminating, and Sony Artisan. Professional photographer Lee Varis lit the sets and ran the professional/prosumer studio. Other pro shooters including Randy Hufford, David Spellman, and Mark Williford shot all photos used in the three point-and-shoot studios.

A panel of expert judges voted on the entries, based on the overall quality of the digital print and the accuracy of color as compared to samples of fabric worn by studio models. The panel of judges included some of the most well-respected names in the industry including Brian Lawler, Eddie Tapp and Daniel Grotta.

Microtek MV-330

The Microtek MV-330 has a 3.2 megapixel CMOS sensor. It is a still camera but also doubles as a basic video camera as it has a frame rate approaching the quality of video recordings. It shoots video in MPEG4.

The Microtek MV-330 has a 1.8inch LCD.

To learn more about the Microtek MV-330 read the following press release from Microtek announcing it and two other cameras.

Press Release

Microtek Introduces Three New Digital Cameras at PMA

Take-it D3, M-300, & MV-330 are all sleek, stylish, and versatile cameras for easy on-the-go use Las Vegas, NV (February 13, 2004) - Microtek introduced here at PMA today three new digital cameras aimed at the budding or amateur photographer, each featuring 3.1-or-higher-megapixel CMOS sensors, LCD screens with intuitive on-screen displays, digital and playback zoom, a variety of flash modes, USB connectivity, and built-in internal flash with expandable memory. The three new cameras are the Take-it D3, the M-300, and MV-330.

Take-it D3. Fun and functionality is what the Take-It D3 is all about. With a 3.21-megapixel CMOS sensor, the camera can capture 2048 x 1536-pixel images (up to 2560 x 1536 interpolated). An efficient and simple button layout allows you to accomplish any task quickly, and the large 1.5” LCD allows easy review of pictures or framing of subjects. For close-up shots, the Take-It D3 has a 4X digital zoom function, plus userselectable flash settings to provide great flexibility and accommodate a variety of lighting conditions. Five modes – Auto, Auto with Red-Eye Reduction, Forced Flash, Forced Flash with Red-Eye Reduction, and Flash Off – are offered for any type of photographic condition. To store images, the D3 comes with 8MB of internal memory and a Secure Digital (SD) expandable memory slot. The Microtek Take-It D3 digital camera is now shipping to the retail channel and is also available through Microtek's global distribution channels including Ingram Micro, Tech Data, distributors of photographic equipment and supplies, value-added resellers, as well as the direct mail channels. Estimated street price is $129.99.

M-300. The M-300 is a 3.1-megapixel camera with a 4x digital zoom. What distinguishes the M-300 is also its 2x manual zoom feature that allows users to increase magnification levels to precise levels such as 1.3x, 1.7x, 2.4x,etc. instead of traditional fixed points (1x / 2x / 3x, etc.). The manual zoom feature also gives the M-300 camera a classic feel similar to that of more expensive SLR cameras. Other features of the M-300 include a large 1.8” LCD screen, Macro up to 40 cm., and an AV output to watch on TV similar to that allowed by a regular Digital Video camera. The M-300 will be available at the beginning of Q2 in 2004, with an estimated street price of $149.99.

MV-330. The MV-330 is styled after a Digital Video camera, with a 3.21-megapixel CMOS
sensor and a high frame-per-second (fps) rate approaching the quality of standard video recordings. It has a Direct Print feature that is PictBridge-compliant, allowing the MV-330 to print directly via USB cables to printers using the PictBridge protocol without passing through a PC. And the camera’s MPEG4 technology allows movie recording in the .ASF format, recording images in motion with audio at 320 x 40 pixels (25 to 30 frames per second), or at 64 x 480 pixels (10 to 12 frames per second). The MV-330 also comes with 16MB of internal memory with Secure Digital card support, 1.8” LCD screen, plus USB host and device functions that allow the camera to read and write on the USB flash drive. The MV-330 will be available at the beginning of Q2 in 2004, with an estimated street price of $199.99.

About Microtek
Microtek is a global leader in designing and manufacturing desktop digital imaging products that help improve communications and digital workflow efficiency. Microtek is known for its first-tomarket scanning technology with over 100 patents worldwide. The company continues to provide a wide range of desktop imaging solutions with its ScanMaker™ and ArtixScan™ lines for home and small office users to high-end professional desktop publishers, printers and pre-press service providers. Founded in 1980, Microtek International, Inc. is headquartered in Science-based Industry Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan. The company has a strong global presence with major operations and distribution channels in 53 countries around the world. Microtek Lab, Inc, the North American subsidiary of Microtek International, Inc. is located at 16941 Keegan Avenue, Carson, CA 90746. Information about Microtek can be found on the Web at www.microtek.com.

Microtek M-300

The Microtek M-300 is a 3.1 megapixel camera with a 4x digital zoom. It also has a 2x manual zoom feature which allows for greater magnification and gives the camera a 'classic' feel. It comes with a 1.8inch LCD and macro mode.

To learn more about the>b> Microtek M-300 read the following press release from Microtek announcing this camera and two others.

Press Release

Microtek Introduces Three New Digital Cameras at PMA

Take-it D3, M-300, & MV-330 are all sleek, stylish, and versatile cameras for easy on-the-go use Las Vegas, NV (February 13, 2004) - Microtek introduced here at PMA today three new digital cameras aimed at the budding or amateur photographer, each featuring 3.1-or-higher-megapixel CMOS sensors, LCD screens with intuitive on-screen displays, digital and playback zoom, a variety of flash modes, USB connectivity, and built-in internal flash with expandable memory. The three new cameras are the Take-it D3, the M-300, and MV-330.

Take-it D3. Fun and functionality is what the Take-It D3 is all about. With a 3.21-megapixel CMOS sensor, the camera can capture 2048 x 1536-pixel images (up to 2560 x 1536 interpolated). An efficient and simple button layout allows you to accomplish any task quickly, and the large 1.5” LCD allows easy review of pictures or framing of subjects. For close-up shots, the Take-It D3 has a 4X digital zoom function, plus userselectable flash settings to provide great flexibility and accommodate a variety of lighting conditions. Five modes – Auto, Auto with Red-Eye Reduction, Forced Flash, Forced Flash with Red-Eye Reduction, and Flash Off – are offered for any type of photographic condition. To store images, the D3 comes with 8MB of internal memory and a Secure Digital (SD) expandable memory slot. The Microtek Take-It D3 digital camera is now shipping to the retail channel and is also available through Microtek's global distribution channels including Ingram Micro, Tech Data, distributors of photographic equipment and supplies, value-added resellers, as well as the direct mail channels. Estimated street price is $129.99.

M-300. The M-300 is a 3.1-megapixel camera with a 4x digital zoom. What distinguishes the M-300 is also its 2x manual zoom feature that allows users to increase magnification levels to precise levels such as 1.3x, 1.7x, 2.4x,etc. instead of traditional fixed points (1x / 2x / 3x, etc.). The manual zoom feature also gives the M-300 camera a classic feel similar to that of more expensive SLR cameras. Other features of the M-300 include a large 1.8” LCD screen, Macro up to 40 cm., and an AV output to watch on TV similar to that allowed by a regular Digital Video camera. The M-300 will be available at the beginning of Q2 in 2004, with an estimated street price of $149.99.

MV-330. The MV-330 is styled after a Digital Video camera, with a 3.21-megapixel CMOS
sensor and a high frame-per-second (fps) rate approaching the quality of standard video recordings. It has a Direct Print feature that is PictBridge-compliant, allowing the MV-330 to print directly via USB cables to printers using the PictBridge protocol without passing through a PC. And the camera’s MPEG4 technology allows movie recording in the .ASF format, recording images in motion with audio at 320 x 40 pixels (25 to 30 frames per second), or at 64 x 480 pixels (10 to 12 frames per second). The MV-330 also comes with 16MB of internal memory with Secure Digital card support, 1.8” LCD screen, plus USB host and device functions that allow the camera to read and write on the USB flash drive. The MV-330 will be available at the beginning of Q2 in 2004, with an estimated street price of $199.99.

About Microtek
Microtek is a global leader in designing and manufacturing desktop digital imaging products that help improve communications and digital workflow efficiency. Microtek is known for its first-tomarket scanning technology with over 100 patents worldwide. The company continues to provide a wide range of desktop imaging solutions with its ScanMaker™ and ArtixScan™ lines for home and small office users to high-end professional desktop publishers, printers and pre-press service providers. Founded in 1980, Microtek International, Inc. is headquartered in Science-based Industry Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan. The company has a strong global presence with major operations and distribution channels in 53 countries around the world. Microtek Lab, Inc, the North American subsidiary of Microtek International, Inc. is located at 16941 Keegan Avenue, Carson, CA 90746. Information about Microtek can be found on the Web at www.microtek.com.

Microtek Take-it D3

The Microtek Take-it D3 is billed by Microtek as a' fun and functional' digital camera. It has a 3.21 megapixel CMOS sensor, a 1.5 inch LCD and 4x digital zoom. 5 basic modes are included and it has 8MB of internal memory plus an SD card slot.

To learn more about the Microtek Take-it D3 read the following press release which announces the D3 and two other Microtek Digital Cameras.

Microtek Introduces Three New Digital Cameras at PMA

Take-it D3, M-300, & MV-330 are all sleek, stylish, and versatile cameras for easy on-the-go use Las Vegas, NV (February 13, 2004) - Microtek introduced here at PMA today three new digital cameras aimed at the budding or amateur photographer, each featuring 3.1-or-higher-megapixel CMOS sensors, LCD screens with intuitive on-screen displays, digital and playback zoom, a variety of flash modes, USB connectivity, and built-in internal flash with expandable memory. The three new cameras are the Take-it D3, the M-300, and MV-330.

Take-it D3. Fun and functionality is what the Take-It D3 is all about. With a 3.21-megapixel CMOS sensor, the camera can capture 2048 x 1536-pixel images (up to 2560 x 1536 interpolated). An efficient and simple button layout allows you to accomplish any task quickly, and the large 1.5” LCD allows easy review of pictures or framing of subjects. For close-up shots, the Take-It D3 has a 4X digital zoom function, plus userselectable flash settings to provide great flexibility and accommodate a variety of lighting conditions. Five modes – Auto, Auto with Red-Eye Reduction, Forced Flash, Forced Flash with Red-Eye Reduction, and Flash Off – are offered for any type of photographic condition. To store images, the D3 comes with 8MB of internal memory and a Secure Digital (SD) expandable memory slot. The Microtek Take-It D3 digital camera is now shipping to the retail channel and is also available through Microtek's global distribution channels including Ingram Micro, Tech Data, distributors of photographic equipment and supplies, value-added resellers, as well as the direct mail channels. Estimated street price is $129.99.

M-300. The M-300 is a 3.1-megapixel camera with a 4x digital zoom. What distinguishes the M-300 is also its 2x manual zoom feature that allows users to increase magnification levels to precise levels such as 1.3x, 1.7x, 2.4x,etc. instead of traditional fixed points (1x / 2x / 3x, etc.). The manual zoom feature also gives the M-300 camera a classic feel similar to that of more expensive SLR cameras. Other features of the M-300 include a large 1.8” LCD screen, Macro up to 40 cm., and an AV output to watch on TV similar to that allowed by a regular Digital Video camera. The M-300 will be available at the beginning of Q2 in 2004, with an estimated street price of $149.99.

MV-330. The MV-330 is styled after a Digital Video camera, with a 3.21-megapixel CMOS
sensor and a high frame-per-second (fps) rate approaching the quality of standard video recordings. It has a Direct Print feature that is PictBridge-compliant, allowing the MV-330 to print directly via USB cables to printers using the PictBridge protocol without passing through a PC. And the camera’s MPEG4 technology allows movie recording in the .ASF format, recording images in motion with audio at 320 x 40 pixels (25 to 30 frames per second), or at 64 x 480 pixels (10 to 12 frames per second). The MV-330 also comes with 16MB of internal memory with Secure Digital card support, 1.8” LCD screen, plus USB host and device functions that allow the camera to read and write on the USB flash drive. The MV-330 will be available at the beginning of Q2 in 2004, with an estimated street price of $199.99.

About Microtek
Microtek is a global leader in designing and manufacturing desktop digital imaging products that help improve communications and digital workflow efficiency. Microtek is known for its first-tomarket scanning technology with over 100 patents worldwide. The company continues to provide a wide range of desktop imaging solutions with its ScanMaker™ and ArtixScan™ lines for home and small office users to high-end professional desktop publishers, printers and pre-press service providers. Founded in 1980, Microtek International, Inc. is headquartered in Science-based Industry Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan. The company has a strong global presence with major operations and distribution channels in 53 countries around the world. Microtek Lab, Inc, the North American subsidiary of Microtek International, Inc. is located at 16941 Keegan Avenue, Carson, CA 90746. Information about Microtek can be found on the Web at www.microtek.com.

Panasonic DMC-LC1

The Panasonic DMC-LC1 is a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3.2x optical zoom Leica lens. It is designed to have the feel of a 35mm camera. It has a 2.5inch LCD, real time histogram, red eye compensation, 3 metering modes and full manual control.

Pixource Panasonic DMC-LC1 User Review writes - 'The camera feels soooo good in the hands. It is not as heavy as it looks, feels much lighter than my M7, but it is very very well built. EVF and LCD can be switched between with a push of a single button. Common functions such as EV, ISO, WB etc can all be adjusted with ease. The buttons feel solid, and the little dial around the directional pad also feels very solid (better than the dials on my 1Ds).'

Get more information on the Panasonic DMC-LC1 in the following press release from Panasonic announcing the camera or from:

- Photographic Magazine - Panasonic DMC-LC1
- Pixource Panasonic DMC-LC1 User Review

Press Release

PANASONIC INTRODUCES NEW 5-MEGAPIXEL LUMIX DIGITAL STILL CAMERA WITH LEICA LENS AND FULL MANUAL CONTROLS

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 13, 2004) - Once again Panasonic revolutionizes the world of digital photography with the new DMC-LC1 Lumix camera. The DMC-LC1 has a digital brain but the heart and soul of a finely crafted 35mm camera, right down to its controls. A true breakthrough in digital camera craftsmanship, the 5-megapixel DMC-LC1 brings a traditional photographic experience to the digital world, evoking the look, feel, precision, and responsiveness of a 35mm camera. Zoom, focus and aperture are manually controlled by ring settings on the lens; shutter speed is controlled by a dial located on the top of the unit. And, like all of Panasonic's Lumix models, the DMC-LC1 features a high-performance Leica lens for extraordinary image rendering.

The DMC-LC1 combines unrivalled Leica optics with Panasonic's most advanced digital electronic technology to create a camera that allows photographers to experience a new level of creative expression. The camera's full manual operation serves as a natural extension of the photographer's hands and eyes.

Leica lenses retain a legendary reputation for creating images that capture the most delicate nuances of light and shade, the elusive ambience of "air", and subtle gradations of color. The new DMC-LC1 incorporates a finely crafted, F2.0 - 2.4 Leica DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens (13 elements in 10 groups) with zoom capability equivalent to 28 - 90mm on a 35mm camera.

Beyond the lens, Panasonic converts the optical data into digital information with unmatched processing speed. Panasonic's innovative Venus Engine LSI handles all image processing functions simultaneously -- from displaying the image on the LCD to writing data to the memory card -- as soon as the CCD captures the image signal. The result is superb image rendering and outstanding responsiveness.

The DMC-LC1 can capture image in the RAW format as well as Super Fine/Fine/Standard JPEG and QuickTime® motion JPEG images. Often referred to as a "digital negative," the raw file format stores uncompressed data directly off the camera's CCD with no in-camera processing. This raw image can then be manually manipulated in a photo editing program. Adobe announced at PMA today a free, updated version of the Camera Raw plug-in, which will provide integrated support of the Panasonic raw format within Adobe Photoshop® CS, the latest version of Adobe's professional image editing product.

The DMC-LC1 features a built-in USB port and SD Memory Card/Multimedia Card slot, offering consumers networking versatility with PCs and a wide variety of compatible SD-enabled devices.

Other features include:
-- Built-in pop-up flash which can tilt 45 degrees to create a bounce flash. The camera can also accept and synchronize with optional external flash units. Auto-flash and manual flash settings.
-- Red-eye compensation.
-- Large 2.5-inch LCD.
-- 3.2x optical and 3x digital* zoom.
-- Burst shooting mode.
-- Real-time histogram.
-- Auto bracketing mode automatically takes three or five shots at different exposures.
-- Remote shutter helps prevent even slight shaking or vibration caused by contact with the camera.
-- Three light metering modes: Intelligent Multiple/Center Weighted/Spot
-- Microphone and speakers for audio recording.
-- Included accessories: Battery charger/AC adaptor, battery pack, SD Memory Card, AC cable, DC cable, lens cap, A/V cable, USB driver, USB connection cable, lens hood, hood cap, MC protector, remote shutter, strap, SD viewer software, ArcSoft editing software: ArcSoft PhotoBase™, ArcSoft PhotoImpression™, ArcSoft PhotoPrinter™ and ArcSoft Panorama Maker™.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LC1 is scheduled for March, 2004 delivery. It will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1,599.00.

About Panasonic
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, Division of Matsushita Electric Corporation of America, markets a broad line of digital and other consumer electronics products. Based in Secaucus, N.J., Matsushita Electric Corporation of America is the principal North American subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. (NYSE: MC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Additional information on Matsushita Electric Corporation of America and Panasonic is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom or through the company's toll-free fax-back system at 888-734-7490.

* As digital zoom increases, resolution significantly decreases.
** Manufacturer's suggested retail price. All prices are in U.S. dollars.

Professional Digital Photography

Digital Times - Professional Digital Cameras is the first of a 6 part series on Professional Digital Photography. Here are the titles of each week and a very short quote from each to give you a taste.

Part 1 - Interesting Times - 'We are indeed living in interesting times, although some may feel blessed rather than cursed. Things are moving fast in digital cameras, and the best pro models are now widely accepted as being able to outperform 35mm film in terms of sharpness, resolution and colour quality. Film perhaps still retains some advantages.'

Part 2 - Digital Changes how Photographers Work - 'Film costs were never a very big factor in work for the press. Coming to the end of a cassette at a critical moment was more of a problem than its cost. Photographers got into the habit of shooting off the last few frames of a roll and reloading in quiet moments, so as to be ready to shoot when something important happened. We used two bodies and made sure there was always one with film ready to use. Telling the editor you were changing your film when an assassination occurred would be very much a second-best!'

Part 3 - Why Use Professional Digital Cameras? - 'Here is one field where size really does matter. Consumer cameras use small CCDs, with the pixel sensors closely packed. This means the individual light receptors are small compared to those in the larger sensors used in professional models. The smaller size results in each receiving less photons for the same exposure.'

Part 4 - Available Professional Digital Cameras - 'I've included in this feature cameras that have been announced and should be available in the next few months. Some models that are available are in pretty short supply and you may have to wait for one. Recently some of those listed - such as the Canon D60 - appear to have been withdrawn as new models are expected shortly, but some suppliers may have stock or they may be found secondhand'

Part 5 - Camera Listings - Alphabetical by Manufacturer - Cameras briefly reviewed include:
- Contax N Digital $7000.00
- Canon EOS-1D $3800
- Canon EOS-1Ds ($7,999.99)
- Canon EOS-D60 $2,200
- Nikon D1X $4,650.00
- Nikon D1H $3,650.00
- Kodak DCS 14n (available end of Feb 2003, $4,995 estimated street price)
- FujiFilm FinePix S2 Pro $2,399.95
- Nikon D100 $1,999.95
- Sigma SD9 ($1500)
- Sinar M (available April 2003 - modular system)

Part 6 - Digital Designs - 'Impressive though the current crop of digital cameras are, the conviction still remains with me that they are a kind of hybrid beast. What we are seeing are basically 35mm film cameras converted to digital rather than cameras designed from the ground up for digital. I suspect it will not be too long before we see the first of this new generation.'

New Digital Cameras Showcase

So many new digital cameras have been announced in the past 7 days (due to the PMA conference being held in Los Angeles) that it is difficult to keep track of them all. Here is a central list with the latest digital cameras announced during or in the lead up to PMA (organized by manufacturer) to help keep track of development.

BENQ
- BenQ DC S30 - 3.34MP - 3x Optical Zoom

CANON
- Canon Powershot S1 - 3.2MP - 10x Optical Zoom
- Powershot Pro 1 - 8MP - 7x Optical Zoom
- Canon Powershot A310 - 3MP - Fixed Focal Length lens
- Canon Powershot A75 - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Canon PowerShot S500 Digital ELPH (IXUS 500) - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Canon PowerShot S410 Digital ELPH (IXUS 430) - 4PM - 3x Optical Zoom
- Canon PowerShot SD110 Digital ELPH (Digital IXUS IIs) - 3.2MP - 2x Optical Zoom
- Canon EOS 1D Mark II - 8.2MP - DSLR

CASIO
- Casio QV-R41 - 4MP 3x Optical Zoom
- Casio Exilim Pro ExP600 - 6MP 4x Optical Zoom

CONCORD
- Concord Eye-Q 4363z - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Concord Eye-Q 3343z - 3MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Concord 5345z - 5MP 3x - Optical Zoom

FUJI
- Fujifilm FinePix A340 Zoom - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm FinePix A330 Zoom - 3MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm S20 Pro - 6MP - 6x Optical Zoom
- Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro - 12MP - DSLR
- Fujifilm FinePix F710 - 6MP - 4x Optical Zoom

HP
- HP Photosmart R707 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- HP Photosmart 733 - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom

KODAK
- Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR/n Digital Camera - 14MP - DSLR
- Kodak EasyShare CX7430 - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Kodak EasyShare CX7300 - 3.2 - 3x Optical Zoom
- Kodak EasyShare CX7220 - 2MP - 2x Optical Zoom
- Kodak EasyShare DX7630 - 6MP - 3x Optical Zoom

KONICA MINOLTA
- Konica Minolta Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital - 6MP DSLR
- Konica Minolta DiMAGE XG - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z2 - 4MP - 10x Optical Zoom
- Minolta DiMAGE A2 - 8MP - 7x Optical Zoom
- Minolta DiMAGE X21 - 2MP - 3x Optical Zoom

KYOCERA
- Kyocera Finecam M410R - 4MP - 10x Optical Zoom
- Kyocera Finecam SL400R 4MP

MICROTEK
- Microtec MV-330 - 3.2MP - 4x Digital Zoom
- Microtek M-300 - 3.1MP - 4x Digital Zoom
- Microtec Take-it D3 - 3.1MP - 4x Digital Zoom

NIKON
- Nikon Coolpix 5200 - 5.1MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Nikon Coolpix 4200 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Nikon Coolpix 8700 - 8MP - 8x Optical Zoom
- Nikon D70 - 6.1MP - DSLR

OLYMPUS
- Olympus C8080 Wide Zoom - 8MP - 5x Optical Zoom
- Olympus C- 310 Zoom - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus D-580/C-460 Zoom - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus D-540/C-360 Zoom - 3MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus Stylus 410/mju(µ) 410 - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Olympus C-725 Ultra Zoom - 3MP - 8x Optical Zoom
- Olympus C-765 Ultra Zoom - 4MP - 10x Optical Zoom
- Olympus C-770 Movie - 4MP - 10x Optical Zoom

PANASONIC
- Panasonic DMC-LC1 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom

PENTAX
- Pentax Optio MX - 3.2MP - 10x Optical Zoom
- Pentax Optio S40 - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Pentax Optio S30 - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Pentax Optio S4i - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom

SAMSUNG
- Samsung Digimax V5 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Samsung Digimax V40 4.1MP - 4x Digital Zoom
- Samsung Digimax V50 - 5.3MP - 5x Digital Zoom
- Samsung Digimax 530 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Samsung Digimax 370 - 3MP - 3x Optical zoom
- Samsung Digimax 430 - 4MP - 2.8 Optical Zoom
- Samsung U-CA 401 - 4MP - 4x Digital Zoom
- Samsung Digimax 250 - 2.1MP - 2x Optical Zoom
- Samsung Digimax 401 - 3.1MP - 3x Digital Zoom
- Samsung Digimax 301 - 3.1MP - 3x Digital Zoom
- Samsung Digimax 202 - 2MP - 2x Digital Zoom
- Samsung U-CA 401 - 4MP - 4x Digital Zoom

SONY
- Sony DSC-P100 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony DSC-P93 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony DSC-P73 - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
- Sony DSC- P41 - 4MP - Fixed Focal Length
- Sony Cybershot DSC-W1 - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom

POLAROID
- Foveon X530 - 4.5MP

RICHO
- Richo Caplio RR330 - 3.1 MP - 3x Optical Zoom

Of course PMA is more than just digital cameras - there have also been a whole heap of other announcements including many new accessories - especially a plethora of memory cards.

Check out DP Review - PMA 2004 for a list that includes non digicam announcements. Also Photography Blog has a similarly great list.

Kyocera Finecam M410R

The Kyocera Finecam M410R is a 4.0 Megapixel camera with a 10x Optical Zoom which allows users to shoot continuously at 3.3 frames per second with virtually no shutter lag.

To learn more about the Kyocera Finecam M410R read the following press release announcing the camera.

Press Release
NEW KYOCERA FINECAM M410R DIGITAL CAMERA

Designed To Capture All The Action, 4.0 Megapixel Camera Offers High-Powered 10X Optical Zoom and High-Speed Lens

RTUNETM Technology Ensures Unlimited Continuous Shooting at Even In New Auto Focusing Mode

Somerset, NJ - Kyocera Optics, Inc., the imaging industry arm of Kyocera Corporation, announces it’s most advanced RTUNE digital camera yet, the sleek and powerful Kyocera Finecam M410R. Targeted to prosumers who demand the very best, especially when trying to capture sports or action images, this 4.0 Megapixel camera utilizes Kyocera’s revolutionary RTUNE image processing for incredibly fast, continuous shooting at 3.3 frames per second and a brand new Auto Focus (AF) Mode that allows for continuous AF shooting as well. Photo buffs will also love the high-powered 10X optical zoom, the high-speed f/2.8-3.1 lens, integrated USB 2.0 for faster image transfers and a brand new high-precision Electronic Viewfinder (EVF).

Utilizing Kyocera’s RTUNE Image Processing Technology, the M410R offers the world's fastest consecutive shooting of any 4.0 Megapixel digital camera. In combination with virtually non-existent shutter lag time of 0.07 second (*1), it can capture images at an incredible, unlimited 3.3 frames per second! (*2)

The Finecam M410R also offers the option of Continuous Auto Focus shooting at 2 frames per second. Even as the subject moves near or far from the camera, focus is adjusted on every image. Kyocera engineers have achieved a full 2 frames per second with perfect focus in the Finecam M410R. For instance, you can fill a high speed 256MB SD memory card with continuous images and then review the images and select the ones you want to keep. And this all happens at 4 Megapixel resolution of 2272 x 1704, which allows users to create tack sharp 11” x 14” print enlargements. This dynamic feature removes the restrictions imposed by other manufacturer’s camera models. The Finecam M410R sets a new standard for defining focus in action sequences.

The high resolution Kyocera 10X Zoom Lens offers picture details not found in other lens designs. Perfect for capturing fast action images, the long reach of the 10X lens brings distant objects close, isolating the subject from its background. Now, you can capture your subject on the playing field in any sport without the distractions usually found. The focal length range of the lens on the M410 is 5.7~57mm, equivalent to 37~370mm on a 35mm SLR camera. The high-speed f/2.8~3.1 lens ensures fast shutter speeds to freeze action along with the shallow depth that helps isolate the subject. Low light images are easy to capture thanks to the large initial f/stop.

As an important factor for framing pictures, the Finecam M410R is equipped with an Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) with 300,000 high precision pixels for a true representation of your captured image. Now the photographer has the ability to see an accurate color representation with incredible detail of their framed image in “real time”.

Integrated USB 2.0 allows faster-than-ever image and movie transfers between the camera and your PC or printer. This new specification is up to 10 times faster than USB 1.0. The incorporation of "PictBridge" Photo Printing allows direct photo printing right from the camera without using your PC. PictBridge is the new communication standard for sending images direct to your PictBridge capable printer via the USB port. Quantities and sizes are selectable on the camera for transmission to the printer.

The Finecam M410R’s compact size (4.2” W x 2.9” H x 3.4” D) and sophisticated black body are sure to make a fashion statement. A 52mm filter adapter is supplied with the M410 to accommodate tele and wide angle lenses as well as filters attached to the lens. The Finecam M410R also offers a vast array of very flexible functions such as preset scene modes to suit any type of shooting conditions, voice memo feature that makes it possible to record a voice message with an image, and movie mode with sound that can be recorded in VGA at 30 frames/sec. until the memory card is full.

Scene modes provide the perfect solution for any shooting situation. The Finecam M410R’s four scene modes provide automatic settings for shooting four types of scenes: “Portrait”, “Sport”, “Nightscape” and “Night Portrait”. For example, Sport mode automatically combines continuous shooting with Auto Focus to ensure that you never miss any important action moments. It also offers “Single Shooting Auto” and “Continuous Shooting Auto” modes that enables beginners with little knowledge to easily make settings for error-free photos. Each of the settings can be easily selected by using the scene button located on the back of the camera body.

The Finecam M410R enables the user to easily shoot movies with audio at 30 frames/second up to the maximum capacity of the memory card. The recorded file is in AVI format and can be played back easily on the DayFineTM LCD Monitor or a personal computer. (To play back movies on a personal computer, it is necessary to install QuickTimeTM 4.1 or later).

The customized start-up screen allows the Finecam M410R user to select a favorite image as their introduction image. The image appears whenever the Finecam M410R is turned on for a personalized experience.

It is easy to resize captured images with the Finecam M410R down to 320 x 240 or 160 x 120 pixels after being captured. This is the ideal solution for emailing images to family and friends. From the Finecam M410R’s menu selection, you can select from three image resize options: full, one quarter and one sixteenth. The area to be resized can be selected via the selection button. This unique function in combination with a PDA incorporating an SD memory card slot, allows the user to easily create an image size suitable for the PDA’s display.

The Finecam M410R incorporates a 1.5” DayFine LCD Monitor that is easy to see in the brightest of sunlight conditions. In addition to the conventional back light system, DayFine TFT (Thin Film Transistor) technology includes a special optical film and exclusive light transmission circuitry that harnesses the power of the sun by absorbing incoming light and then reflecting the light back through the LCD, adding to the brilliance and contrast of the display.

When it comes to navigating the menus, the Kyocera Finecam M410R makes it easy from setup to capture to playback. To make it intuitive, the camera offers an easy to use Control button that works on the principal of a joystick. Along with the logical screen selections and functions, the Finecam M410R is easy for anyone to use.

To fit every situation five flash modes are available (Auto flash, Red-eye reduction auto flash, Red-eye reduction fill-in flash, Fill-in flash, Flash off), three color modes (Color, sepia, B/W), six white balance modes (Auto, Daylight, Tungsten, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Preset), five sharpness settings (+3, +2, +1, standard, -1), two chroma settings (standard, +, -) and exposure compensation (+2.0EV ~ -2.0EV) is also available.

Additionally, the Finecam M410R is shipped with the highly rated Adobe Photoshop AlbumTM software.

The street price of the Finecam M410R is $499.99.

Richo Caplio RR330

The Richo Caplio RR330 is a 3.1 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 1.5 inch LCD that is aimed at tempting the digital camera beginner.

Learn more about the Richo Caplio RR330 by reading Richo's press release below.

Press Release
Ricoh launches user friendly Caplio RR330, 3.1 Megapixel camera at a competitive price

February 2003, Ricoh is pleased to announce the release of the Caplio RR330 - a 3.1 megapixel, easy to use, digital camera that offers consumers a tempting introduction to the world of digital photography.

The Caplio RR330 is the latest addition to the Ricoh Caplio series - a series that encompasses the concept of delivering high quality performance, excellent value and style to its users. With a 3x optical zoom, and 2x digital zoom giving a combined performance of 6x zoom, the RR330 produces sharp, good quality images that are hard to beat by other cameras in this class, at this price.

The Caplio RR330 is an affordably priced digital camera with a Recommended Retail Price of £179.99 including VAT. Featuring a lens at the centre of the camera body, this simple, user-friendly point-and-shoot interface offers users a familiar, trusted feel and a balance similar to that of conventional compact cameras. Transferring images via USB cable to the computer is fast and simple. The RR330 comes with a useful 16MB of internal memory but is compatible with SD card and Multi-Media cards.

Just point and shoot – taking good quality pictures is easy with the RR330. No excuse for anybody not to enter the digital photography market. For those more competent users, there is the Mode dial button enabling the user to choose one of four settings: Auto Flash, Flash On/Off, Night View Portrait or Red Eye Reduction. There is also the option of being able to adjust the brightness of the 1.5-inch LCD monitor so that your images can be viewed in the very best light.

“The RR330 is a welcome addition to the award winning Caplio range”, commented Dominic Wingent, Ricoh Sales Manager for the UK.” It meets the requirement for a simple-to-use, entry level, 3 megapixel digital camera at an unbeatable price with no compromise on image quality”.

Caplio RR330 Standard Package Contents:
USB Cable, Video Cable, Software CD (Win/Mac), AA Alkaline batteries (2), Hand strap and Instruction manual.

Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Eye-Q 3343z

Concord have just announced two new digital cameras - the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Eye-Q 3343z . They are both 3x optical zoom cameras and have 4 and 3 megapixel sensors.

To learn more about the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Eye-Q 3343z cameras read the following press release from Concord.

Concord Camera Corp. Announces New Low-Priced 4 & 3 Megapixel Digital Cameras with Zoom

LAS VEGAS --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 12, 2004 Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z Digital Cameras Offer Optical Zoom & Automatic Features at an Affordable Price
Concord Camera Corp. ("Concord") (Nasdaq:LENS), an award-winning leader in high-quality low-priced digital cameras, today announced at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) two new stylish additions to their line of digital cameras, the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z digital cameras with 3x optical zoom. With suggested retail prices of $249.99 and $199.99 respectively, the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z are high-quality 4 and 3 Megapixel, CCD cameras at exceptional prices.

Targeted at cost-conscious consumers who want high quality, high resolution digital cameras, the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z offer an assist light feature which beams a red light to lock in the focus if the ambient light is too dim -- a problem often experienced by digital camera users. The cameras' advanced optics are composed of an all glass 7.23 - 21.7mm, f 2.8 -f 4.7, 6 element lens, with auto focus from .6m to infinity and macro focusing from 10 cm. With a 3x optical zoom, 7 preset scenes for optimal exposure control, 16MB of internal storage, SD card slot, and AVI video with sound at 30 fps, these cameras are the ultimate choice for consumers.

First time digital photographers will find taking great shots simple with the built-in automatic features, while more advanced users will find that the user-friendly interface allows easy and intuitive access to more sophisticated photographic features, such as user selectable ISO settings, exposure and white balance controls.

Capturing AVI video at 30 frames per second in QVGA mode, the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z beat out the competition that offer just 15-16 frames per second. At 30 frames per second, mini-movies look more real and exciting with video length limited only by the capacity of the user's SD card. After shooting video, movies can be played on the TV for the whole family to see with the included video out cable.

"Last year, 3 and 4 Megapixel digital cameras were the sweet spots for digital camera sales," said Mr. Urs W. Stampfli, Senior Vice President and Director of Global Sales & Marketing, Concord Camera Corp. "The Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z cameras offer consumers an exceptional alternative to other digital cameras in the market. The cameras' comprehensive feature set gives users flexibility, greater ease of use, and quality results at an affordable price. Consumers will look more and more to Concord Camera for their digital camera needs."

The Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z are expected to be available in the second quarter of 2004 at suggested retail prices of $249.99 and $199.99 respectively through Concord retailers and are compatible with Windows 98, 98SE, 2000, ME, XP and Mac OS 9.0 and higher. The cameras come with a multilingual user's guide and quick start guide, AA batteries, USB cable, video out cable, wrist strap, pouch, CD with drivers and Arcsoft PhotoImpression 2000, Arcsoft Photo Transfer, Microsoft Direct X 9.0 and Adobe Acrobat 5.1 Reader. For more information, see the Concord Camera Corp. web site: http://www.concord-camera.com.

Olympus C-310 Zoom

The Olympus C-310 Zoom is a 3.2 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens. It weighs just 150g (without batteries).

The Olympus C-310 has a super macro mode, 5 preset scene modes and a 1.8 inch LCD.

To learn more about the Olympus C-310 zoom read the following press release from Olympus announcing the camera.

Press Release
The C-310 ZOOM from Olympus Great Looks, Great Value and Outstanding Performance

The new C-310 ZOOM from Olympus is easy to use and makes discovering digital photography a real joy. The compact model weighs only 150g without batteries. It boasts 3.2 megapixel resolution and 3x optical zoom lens (equivalent 38 – 114mm on 35mm camera). What’s more, even experienced photographers can enjoy features such as the movie recording function and Super Macro Mode for close-up shots. The C-310 ZOOM is available from March 2004, RRP £149.99 (inc VAT). For stockist information call freephone 0800 072 0070 or visit www.olympus.co.uk.

The C-310 ZOOM incorporates a host of features that make picture taking easy and fast. Users can choose from five special scene programmes for shooting in a wide variety of locations and conditions. The programmes are Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Landscape and Landscape with Portrait.

When users want to record the tiniest of details, they can switch to Super Macro Mode. This allows them to shoot from as close as 2cm which is ideal for recording small wildlife. The model supports the PictBridge standard so users do not even need a PC to print their images. By connecting directly to a PictBridge-compatible printer such as the CAMEDIA P-10, users will enjoy impressively true-to-life prints.

The model comes with the CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software for easy editing and managing of files.

The C-310 ZOOM – main features:
• 3.2 million pixels
• 3x optical zoom (equiv. 38 – 114mm on 35mm camera), f2.9-5.0
• Super Macro mode: shooting from as close as 2cm
• 5 scene programmes (Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Landscape, Landscape with Portrait)
• Movie recording function
• PictBridge support
• 1.8” LCD with multi-language menu
• TruePic support
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software provided
• Camera body sports a metallic lacquer finish

Olympus C-725 Ultra Zoom

The Olympus C-725 Ultra Zoom is a 3 megapixel camera with an 8x optical zoom. It has the normal array of manual controls and preset modes that we've come to expect on a camera of this class as well as a 1.5inch LCD, XD memory card slot and electronic viewfinder.

To learn more about the Olympus C-725 Ultra Zoom read the following press release from Olympus.

Press Release

Focus in on the Olympus C-725 Ultra Zoom

The new Olympus C-725 Ultra Zoom has a wealth of photo features and a price to tempt even the most cost-conscious of people. This 3 million pixel camera boasts an 8x zoom, plus QuickTime movie capability, allowing you to do much more than take regular party and holiday snaps. Available from May 2004, RRP will be £249.99 [inc VAT]. For stockist information call 0800 072 0070 or go to www.olympus.co.uk.

The C-725 Ultra Zoom is compact, lightweight and very easy to use. With Portrait, Sport and Night Scene programs you can quickly switch between the settings to suit the subject or situation. These features, plus a host of precision metering systems and the 3 million pixel resolution, ensure the results stand out with their sharpness and bright, lifelike colours – even when printed in A4 format. And whatever the zoom power or distance, the electronic viewfinder always shows the exact scene to be captured for totally accurate framing.

In addition, a QuickTime movie recording function allows you to capture short video sequences of your most memorable moments. The photos and movies can then be saved on the 16MB xD-Picture Card, and later effortlessly transferred to a computer using a USB (AutoConnect) cable.

The C-725 Ultra Zoom – main features:
• 3.0 million pixels
• 8x optical zoom with ED lens (equiv. 40 – 320mm on 35mm camera), f2.8/3.4
• Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Full Manual modes
• Portrait, Sport and Night Scene modes
• Movie recording function
• Supplied with 16MB xD-Picture Card
• Electronic viewfinder with 110,000 pixels
• 1.5” LCD with multi-language menu
• USB AutoConnect
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software provided

Casio Exilim Pro EX-P600

The Exilim Pro EX-P600 is a 6 megapixel camera with a 4x optical zoom lens. It has a 0.01 second shutter lag and high speed continuous shooting allowing users to shoot at 3 frames per second (maximum of 6 per burst). The LCD is 2 inches and the casing is stainless steel. It has an array of manual controls as well as a 'Bestshot' preset function.

Order your Exilim Pro EX-P600 now

For more information on the Casio Exilim Pro EX-P600 read the following press release from Casio - also see:
- Casio Exilim Pro EX-P600 - Lets Go Digital

Press ReleaseCASIO’s award winning EXILIM range gets a boost with the launch of the all new 6-Megapixel EXILIM PRO

Stylish and fast new flagship EXILIM model

February 13th 2004, LONDON, UK - CASIO Electronics Co.Ltd. today announces an exciting new development in the fast-growing digital camera market with the launch of EXILIM PRO. This marks the beginning of a whole new category of camera, offering something for the increasing number of intelligent digital camera users who want the superior features and functionality of a high-end semi-professional camera without losing the elegance and stunning good looks of an EXILIM.

The EXILIM PRO EX-P600 is an exceptional new addition to the growing family of EXILIM digital cameras. Combining an ease of operation typically expected in compact cameras with a high-performance 6-megapixel CCD and a large diameter Canon 4x optical zoom, the EX-P600 allows users to reach new heights of photographic creativity through its multitude of functions.

The new EXILIM PRO EX-P600 retains CASIO’s class leading start-up time along with a 0.01 second shutter release lag time - perfect for reportage photography or simply capturing special moments as they happen. In addition, CASIO’s revolutionary new four layer Stack MCM technology1, or ‘EXILIM Engine’, greatly improves the speed of the camera as well as reducing power consumption. When coupled with CASIO’s new SuperLife battery, the EX-P600’s battery life is extended radically. High-speed continuous shooting made possible by the ‘EXILIM Engine’ allows users to shoot at an enviable 3 frames per second, capturing moving targets perfectly.

A hybrid auto focus system incorporates the ability of normal contrast auto focus with a phase detect sensor that also sets the depth of field. The EX-P600 offers multi-bracketing, letting users can take a number of shots whilst varying the parameters of AE, WB and AF ensuring that they always capture the perfect picture. High-speed manual setting, available by pressing the proprietary “EX button”, lets the user display and adjust the levels for white balance, ISO sensitivity, metering, and auto focus area settings all on a single screen. When shooting manually, changes to these settings can be done quickly and easily.

The EX-P600 offers not only the style and features of a compact camera, but represents a new series of digital cameras with quick response offering functions usually found only on fully-fledged high-end models; and all in a portable size. The EX-P600 creates a whole new definition of excitement in photography, with a flexibility that hasn’t been possible with today’s fully automatic cameras.

The EX-P600 features high-speed play back that allows users to scroll through a large number of images quickly – up to 100 in under 10 seconds – and encompasses a high-definition 2.0“ TFT LCD screen. A new ‘EX-Finder’ display system, showing the camera’s aperture, zoom, shutter speed and battery consumption visually, allows advanced users to intuitively understand the performance of the camera and make the correct manual settings.

In addition, the EX-P600 enables users to expand the possibilities of their photography by connecting to an outside strobe and conversion lenses. Movies with audio, limited only by the available memory, are possible and can be viewed on a TV screen via the AV out capability. Finally, if that wasn’t enough, the EX-P600 is the world’s first high-end digital camera to incorporate EXILIM’s trademark stylish ‘stainless steel’ body.

By combining all the best features of CASIO’s popular EXILIM range with the latest in high specification digital photography functions, it is expected that when the EX-P600 becomes available in March 2004 it will be a massive hit with consumers looking for an advanced and easy to use camera, yet who are not prepared to compromise on style

EX-P600 FEATURES
6 Megapixel CCD
Images can be captures in resolutions up to 2816 X 2112 pixels. Clearer and sharper images have been made possible by maintaining the edge of objects while reducing noise. Images can also be recorded directly from the CCD to TIFF format to avoid any degradation of picture quality.

Canon 4x optical zoom lens
The lens features a high-performance 4x optical zoom with 10-stage aperture settings. Coupled with the high-resolution offered by the 6 megapixel CCD, the potential of the 16x (including 4x digital zoom) zoom lens can be fully realized. The lens has an automatic barrier for protection, and the camera’s flexibility can be increased by being used in conjunction with the three commercially available Canon conversion lenses (x0.7 / x1.5 / close-up).

Easy to use compact body
With a high-quality and rigid stainless steel body (97.5 (W) X 67.5 (H) X 45.1 (D) – 26.1mm at thinnest point), the EX-P600 is a robust yet ideal compact size. The camera’s case features the popular “Ex Fine Blast Treatment” used on other models in the EXILIM range for stylish looks and a quality feel.

3 photos / second rapid shooting
The EX-P600 offers rapid shooting at 3 photos per second, the high-speed continuous shutter captures up to a maximum of 6 photos. With this function you’re sure to catch the best shot, whether it be children playing, sports, or any other fast-moving activity. These images can all be previewed together on one screen.

Quick response
Never miss a photo opportunity with a rapid start-up time of approximately 2 seconds, and a fast shutter release lag time of approximately 0.01 seconds. Image playback is also quick at intervals of approximately 0.1 seconds from image to image - very convenient feature when scrolling through a large number of images.

Auto bracketing photography
By pressing the shutter button once, it is possible to use the auto bracketing function to take either 3 or 5 photos, applying different effects to each one. In addition to exposure variation (AEB), white balance (WBB), and focus positioning (AFB), the Multi Bracketing feature also allows users to choose variations of colour, portrait, sharpness, saturation, and contrast levels. This allows users to pick the very best shot from among their photos.

High-definition 2.0-inch TFT LCD monitor
The EX-P600 has a large, easy to see 2.0-inch monitor with a high-definition TFT LCD (115,200 pixels). The monitor makes it possible to scroll through photos, and to view the camera’s various functions as well as other important image information.

“EX Finder” for quick and easy visual display of photographic information
The camera’s photographic information, such as shutter speed, aperture, and focusing can be displayed visually on the monitor. These graphic displays make it easy to quickly adjust settings manually. There is also an RGB histogram for advanced users.

“Manual Assist” display of picture effects for manual settings
When shooting manually with priority on either shutter speed or aperture, users can see what kind of photo will result from the chosen shutter speed and aperture settings by the visual display.

BESTSHOT function
By choosing from BESTSHOT’s sample scenarios, automatic adjustments of settings for such things as exposure and white balance levels are made. There are 25 sample scenarios to choose from, including ‘soft focus’ and ‘sports.’ It is also possible to register up to 999 of your favorite settings in your own ‘My BESTSHOT’ folder, allowing you to use the same settings at any time.

Adjusting manual settings quickly and easily on one screen
By pressing the proprietary “EX button”, the levels for white balance, ISO sensitivity, metering, and AF area settings can be accessed, displayed and adjusted on a single screen. When shooting manually, this allows changes to these settings to be made quickly and easily.

Multiple Auto focus area
In addition to the fixed auto focus and the 7-point multi auto focus, the EX-P600 has an auto focus area that can be moved freely to the left or right, up or down using the arrow keys. This area can be enlarged during playback to ensure correct focus.

Other features
Movies with audio are only limited by the amount of memory available
Images and movies can be viewed on a TV screen via the AV Out connection
Photos taken with the camera in a sideways position are automatically displayed upright thanks to a built-in horizontal / vertical position sensor
Built-in flash memory (approx. 9MB) / SD memory card / Multi Media card compliant
Commercially available external flash equipment can be used with the Sync Terminal
A convenient wireless remote control is included for slow shutter and self-timer photos
“Photo Loader” software is included to allow automatic transfer of images to a PC
Connects directly to PictBridge (planned) and USB DIRECT-PRINT compliant printers using a USB cable

Olympus D-580/C-460 Zoom

To learn more about the Olympus D-580/C-460 Zoom read the following press release from Olympus or check out:
- Olympus Europe - C-460
- Olympus America - D-580
- Imaging Resource - Olympus D-580

The Olympus C-460 ZOOM - Sharper images at an amazing price

Olympus announces the launch of the C-460 ZOOM digital camera as an exclusive at Dixons. The 4 megapixel model offers a 3x optical zoom and an optimised image processing system for stunning results. Not only does this process images more quickly but prints will also boast sharper contrast and colour. The easy-to-use, compact model incorporates a host of impressive features such as Super Macro mode for shooting from as close as 7cm away. Available exclusively from Dixons from March 2004, RRP £249.99 (inc VAT).

The C-460 ZOOM boasts five different scene programmes enabling you to master any photographic situation. These include Landscape for sweeping mountain ranges and Night Scene for those late, romantic strolls. Even the tiniest of details can be recorded thanks to the Super Macro mode which allows you to shoot from as close as 7cm away.

The model also features a moving image mode with sound, ideal for capturing sporting moments with commentary or your child’s first steps and words. Your still images can be downloaded without the use of a PC as the C-460 ZOOM supports the PictBridge standard. Just connect the camera to a PictBridge compatible printer, such as the P-10, to produce prints of the highest quality.

The C-460 ZOOM is also compatible with the Olympus Software Development Kit (SDK). This lets you control all the camera’s functions from a computer, such as zoom, exposure and shutter release.

The C-460 ZOOM – main features:
• 4.0 million pixels
• 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35-105mm on a 35mm camera), f3.1-5.2
• Super Macro mode: shooting from as close as 7cm
• 5 scene programmes (Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Landscape, Landscape with Portrait)
• Movie recording function with sound and editing function
• PictBridge support
• 1.8” LCD with multi-language menu
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software provided

Olympus D-540/C-360 Zoom

It will be known as the Olympus D-540 in North America and as the Olympus C-360 in Europe and SE Asia.

To learn more about theOlympus D-540/C-360 Zoom read the following press release from Olympus check out:
- Olympus America - D-540
- Olympus Europe - C360
- DP Review - Olympus D-540/C-360 Zoom
- Imaging Resource - D-540
- Digital Camera Websites - Olympus D540

Press Release
The Olympus C-360 ZOOM - Sharper images at an amazing price

Olympus is proud to announce the C-360 ZOOM digital camera. The 3 megapixel model has a 3x optical zoom and an optimised image processing system for stunning results. Not only does this process images more quickly but prints will also boast sharper contrast and colour. This easy-to-use, compact model incorporates a host of features such as Super Macro mode for shooting from as close as 7cm. Available from March 2004, RRP £179.99 (inc VAT). For stockist information call freephone 0800 072 0070 or visit www.olympus.co.uk.

The C-360 ZOOM offers five different scene programmes enabling the user to master any photographic situation. These include Landscape for sweeping mountain ranges and Night Scene to capture the atmosphere of the beach after sundown. Even the tiniest of details can be recorded thanks to the Super Macro mode which enables shooting from as close as 7cm away.

The model also features a moving image mode with sound ideal for capturing sporting moments with commentary, or a child’s first steps and words. Still images can be downloaded without the use of a PC as the C-360 ZOOM supports the PictBridge standard. The camera connects to a PictBridge compatible printer, such as the Olympus P-10, to produce prints of the highest quality.

The C-360 ZOOM is also compatible with the Olympus Software Development Kit (SDK). This controls all the camera’s functions from a computer, such as zoom, exposure and camera release.

The C-360 ZOOM – main features:
• 3.2 million pixels, effective
• 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35-105mm on a 35mm camera), f3.1-5.2
• Super Macro mode: shooting from as close as 7cm
• 5 scene programmes (Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Landscape, Landscape with Portrait)
• Movie recording function with sound and editing function
• PictBridge support
• 1.8” LCD with multi-language menu
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software provided
• SDK compatible

Olympus Stylus 410/mju(µ) 410

It will be known as the Olympus Stylus 410 in North America and as mju (µ) 410 Digital in Europe and SE Asia.

Learn more about the Olympus Stylus 410/mju (µ) 410 by reading the following press release from Olympus or at:
- Imaging Resource - Olympus Stylus 410
- DP Review - Olympus Stylus 410/mju 410

Press Release
Announcing the Mju 410 Digital from Olympus - Enhancing an award winning range

Olympus is introducing the Mju 410 Digital, the latest addition to the world’s most popular camera series. The Mju 410 is encased in a full metal body with a silver finish, offers 4 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom. The Mju 410 is the first Mju Digital model to feature TruePic Turbo, a new image processor which sharpens image clarity, contrast and colour for life-like results. This feature also makes the camera 30% faster in processing images and is combined with a super fast shutter release time. Available from March, RRP £299.99 (inc VAT). For stockist information freephone 0800 072 0070 or visit www.olympus.co.uk.

The Mju 410 Digital’s 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35-105mm on a 35 mm camera) has been specially designed to suit the CCD. This ensures prints of the highest quality, even when printed on A4 format. Thanks to the PictBridge standard, printing is easy. The need for a PC is eliminated when the camera is used with compatible printers, such as the Olympus dye-sublimation P-10.

A range of automatic functions such as TTL autofocus and Digital ESP (Electro Selective Pattern) light metering help ensure best results with the minimum of fuss. The Mju 410 Digital boasts a scene programme for every occasion: users can choose from eight variations – Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Landscape, Landscape with Portrait, Beach and Snow, Cuisine and Indoor.

The model also features a movie recording function plus sound, enabling you to bring all your images to life. The length of the recording is only limited by the capacity of the xD-Picture Card. The Mju 410 Digital features a 1.5” 134, 000 pixel LCD monitor, perfect for framing shots and viewing them straight away.

The Mju 410 Digital comes with a high voltage, environment-friendly rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger.

Features
Mju 410 Digital - £299.99 (inc VAT)
• Weather-proof casing (weather-proof equivalent to the IEC standard publication 529 IPX4)
• 4 million pixel
• 3x Optical Zoom
• TruePic Turbo image processor
• 8 scene programmes
• 16 MB xD-Picture Card
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (Li-10B)
• 1.5 inch colour TFT LCD monitor with 134,000 pixels with multi-language menu
• Movie recording function with sound
• 5 to 99 images over 6 resolution settings
• PictBridge support

Konica Minolta DiMAGE X21

The Konica Minolta DiMAGE X21 is promoted as a great beginners camera. It is a tiny 2 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom lens. It is only 24.5mm thin and has a start up time of 1 second.

Read more about the Konica Minolta DiMAGE X21 in the following press release from Konica Minolta and at the following sites:
- Digital Camera Websites - Minolta DiMage X21
- D Photo - Minolta DiMAGE X21

Press Release
DiMAGE X21 - The deal camera for beginners: cool, easy, and fun.

Langenhagen, February, 2004

The common concepts of the X-series-"Thin, Fast and Cool"-are faithfully reproduced with the DiMAGE X21, one of the smallest cameras in the world and boasting a fast startup time of just 1 second. The ultra slim digital camera with 2-megapixel and 3x optical zoom, the DiMAGE X21 is affordable and comes complete with all the basic functions expected by young people that enjoy picture messaging every day. Intuitive button location makes for easy operation and a wide range of features like a mirror to check the look before taking a self-portrait. Picture Composition, and Frame and Border give the user more ways to shoot and view pictures.

The DiMAGE X21 is for people that are starting to think about entering the fun world of digital photography. Regardless of age or gender, these are people that insist on quality. It's a camera with a design that's comfortable to use and functionality that makes taking pictures simple and fun.

· Thin with a stylish body-the camera is a mere 24.5mm thick even with non-extended 3x optical zoom-makes for the ultimate in portable digital photography.
· Amazingly fast start up time-the DiMAGE X21 is ready to use in 1 second.
· Users get superb images thanks to the 2.0-megapixel Konica Minolta proprietary 3x optical zoom and CxProcess™ II high-quality image processing technology.
· Incorporating the PictBridge feature that enables printing without a PC.
· Internal memory for recording your favorite images.

Features
· 3x Optical Zoom in a Super-Slim Body - One of the Smallest in its Class
Featuring Konica Minolta's non-extending zoom lens, which maintains the cool outward appearance of the DiMAGE X21 even when the zoom is activated, this revolutionary design uses internal folded optics, which means that the cool, slim profile of the camera doesn't have to change at all, even while recording. Even with 3x optical zoom, the camera is still just 24.5mm thick, whether carrying or shooting (21.5mm thick excluding the LCD monitor).

· Fast Start Up
From the moment you switch the camera on, all you have to do is wait about 1 second and then you are ready to take great pictures.

· Superbly Clear Images
The CxProcess™ II image processing technology incorporates characteristics like smooth gradations, natural skin tones, and brilliantly clear colors for images that are more natural and lifelike. The DiMAGE X21's 2 megapixels capture fine lines and intricate details for stunning digital images. The slow shutter speed and Dark-Noise Reduction combine to prevent graininess and give exceptional night photos with clearly contrasted dark tones.

· XR Function
The XR (Extended Recording) Movie mode lets you record longer movie clips onto the SD memory card at resolutions of 160 X 120 or 320 X 240 pixels. Just keep on filming until the memory card is full.

· Easy and Convenient Operation
The DiMAGE X21 also incorporates a launcher type Graphic User Interface (GUI) menu system. The intuitive controls of the GUI mean that you get a comfortable compact digital camera that does all the work for you. Simply press the menu button for the user-friendly GUI icons that let you command all of the DiMAGE X21's settings. There are no complicated settings to be made or a thousand buttons to press. The controls are simple and few, allowing you to have fun with the DiMAGE X21.

· Direct Camera-to-Printer Printouts
Fast printouts from the camera by directly connecting the DiMAGE X21 to a PictBridge*-compliant printer. Which image should be printed can be checked on the LCD monitor of the camera.

*PictBridge is an industry standard established by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA).

· More Functions for More Ways to Enjoy
The DiMAGE X21 allows to see how pictures will turn out even before you take them, thanks to features such as Frame or Border, which adds a frame or border around the image, or Side by Side, which splices two pictures on each the left and right halves of the frame in the middle of the image. You can manipulate and play with your pictures to create unique images that will have people asking, "How did you do that?"

· Slide Show
Use the Slide Show function to play back images complete with dissolves, wipes, and fades so that there is no jerky jumping from one picture to another. Use the LCD display on the camera. Of course, these digital images can be rotated to orient them correctly, so there's no need to twist your head and get a stiff neck trying to view those vertically framed shots.

· Choose from Five Color Modes, Including Two Brand New Options
After taking your snapshot, customize and personalize your images by choosing one of our five color modes. Choose from these three traditional effects: color, black & white, and sepia tones, or give your picture an original twist the new Soft Focus option, which digitally simulates the soft filter effect of film cameras. Or why not select the new Posterization option, which produces artistic effects on landscape or portrait pictures using digital image processing unattainable with regular film cameras.

· Internal Memory for Recording Favorite Images
The DiMAGE X21 includes a Favorite Image function that allows to carry your favorite images with you wherever you go. These precious pictures (about 10 VGA images) are saved onto an internal memory, which you can view time and again without the need to change or even use memory cards.

· Fun to Shoot
With the touch of a single button, you can look at all the pictures you have taken.

· Be a Self-Portrait Artist
The days of frustration are over, thanks to the DiMAGE X21's Portrait Mode, which allows you to add depth to your pictures by adjusting the tone curve and to emphasize the subject's complexion by selecting the optimal image processing settings. The conveniently-placed Self-Portrait Mirror means you can see yourself while taking a self-portrait.

· Data Storage
The DiMAGE X21 uses a SD memory card or MultiMediaCards, to easily record and store all data.

About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging
Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe GmbH is a leading provider of consumer and commercial photographic materials, photographic equipment such as analog and digital cameras, and measuring instruments including 3D-scanning. With operative bases within Europe the company covers the three business areas of photo imaging, cameras and industrial instruments. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe is a subsidiary of Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Building on its strong core of optical technologies developed over 130 years, Konica Minolta Photo Imaging aims to be a corporation offering products and services that are essential to all areas of digital imaging.

Website: http://www.konicaminoltaeurope.com/

Terms and product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders and are hereby acknowledged.

Olympus C-765 Ultra Zoom

Read more about the Olympus C-765 Ultra Zoom on the following press release from Olympus or at:
- DP Review - Olympus C-765

The World’s Smallest 10x Zoom Camera – The Olympus C-765 Ultra Zoom

Designed for sporting events, travel, nature hikes or any occasion where a more detailed view is necessary, the new C-765 Ultra Zoom model, is the smallest digital camera in the world featuring an optical 10x zoom. Weighing a mere 280g, the new Olympus Ultra Zoom is more than just a digital camera it has a Movie Mode, enabling you to capture video with sound as well. Available from May 2004, the RRP is £399.99 [inc VAT]. For stockist information call 0800 072 0070 or go to www.olympus.co.uk.

The camera is light-weight, easy-to-handle and perfect for capturing shots from a distance. However this 4.0 million pixel model is equally practical for shooting subjects in extreme close-up, as the Super Macro mode lets you shoot from just 3cm away.

Outstanding results are guaranteed through the first class optical system and optimised image processor, TruePic Turbo, which boosts both image quality and image processing capabilities even further.

The very bright (f2.8 – 3.7) optical system of the C-765 Ultra Zoom comprises eleven elements arranged in seven groups and includes two aspherical lenses to reduce distortion as well as an ED element. This is normally only found in pro-level SLR cameras and significantly helps reduce chromatic aberration.

The new C-765 Ultra Zoom model is versatile enough to match every photographer’s demands. In auto mode, it offers point-and-shoot simplicity for flawless picture taking. For those times when creativity is desired, the aperture priority, shutter priority or full manual settings allow greater control.

The optimised electronic viewfinder – unlike many optical viewfinders – enables precise framing of the shot. Also you don’t have to take your eye from the subject when shooting as all activated settings are displayed in the electronic viewfinder. The USB 2.0 AutoConnect interface also ensures that file transfer to the computer is now even quicker.

The C-765 Ultra Zoom – main features:
• 4.0 million pixels
• 10x optical zoom, f2.8 – 3.7 (equiv. 38 – 380mm on 35mm camera)
• TruePic Turbo image processor
• Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Full Manual modes
• 4 scene programs (Portrait, Sports, Night Scene, Landscape)
• Super macro mode: shooting from as close as 3cm
• Movie recording function with sound
• 240,000 pixel electronic viewfinder
• 1.8 inch LCD monitor with 110,00 pixels
• PictBridge compatible
• USB 2.0 (AutoConnect)
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software provided

Olympus C-770 Movie

Order your Olympus C-770 Movie now for up to $100 off at Amazon

Get pictures, reviews (as they are written) and specs of the Olympus C-770 Movie at:
- DP Review - Olympus C-770 Pro

Read more in the following press release from Olympus announcing the C-770 Movie.

Press Release
Forget Your Camcorder: Use the Olympus C-770 Movie instead

If you don’t have room to take both your camera and your camcorder on holiday this year, then the Olympus C-770 Movie is the answer to your problem. The 4 million pixel digital camera not only allows extremely versatile shooting with a powerful 10x optical zoom, it also records full-screen quality MPEG4 movies with sound. Available from April 2004, RRP will be £499.99 [inc VAT]. For stockist information call 0800 072 0070 or go to www.olympus.co.uk.

This camera is the perfect holiday companion for the seasoned traveller; the compact C-770 Movie doesn’t simply take superb digital shots, it also boasts a full-screen movie recording capability of 30 frames per second in MPEG4 quality - one of the most advanced of any existing digital cameras to date. The extraordinary picture quality also allows full television screen presentations.

The new flagship in the Olympus Ultra Zoom range features a bright (f2.8 – 3.7) 10x optical zoom lens which comprises eleven elements arranged in seven groups. In addition, it includes two aspherical lenses to reduce distortion, plus an ED element which helps to minimise chromatic aberration, an effect that often occurs when shooting in the tele-setting. In combination with a 4 million pixel CCD, this high precision optical system ensures pictures of superb quality, even when printed in larger sizes.

This model also offers a broad range of shooting modes including Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Full Manual settings, allowing you to create your own individual images. The camera’s range of scene programs (Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Sports, Landscape and Landscape with Portrait) proves extremely convenient when there is less time for manual adjustments.

Because the C-770 Movie complies with the PictBridge standard, direct printing can be carried out with compatible printers, eliminating the need for a PC. However, the USB 2.0 AutoConnect interface, means that pictures and movies can be downloaded quickly and easily to the computer.

Two software packages are included for handling the files;
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2SE software allows easy optimising, editing and managing of the image files
• Ulead VideoStudio7 SE Basic to edit and watch the MPEG4 movies on your computer.

The C-770 Movie – main features:
• 4.0 million pixels
• 10x optical zoom with ED lens (equiv. 38 – 380mm on 35mm camera), f2.8/3.7
• Full-screen (640 x 480 pixels) MPEG4 movie recording at 30 fps with sound
• Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Full Manual modes
• Hot shoe for flash gun
• 6 scene programs (Portrait, Self Portrait, Night Scene, Sports, Landscape and Landscape with Portrait)
• Optimised electronic viewfinder for precise framing
• All activated settings are displayed in the electronic viewfinder, allowing you to keep your eye on the subject at all times
• Supplied with 128MB xD-Picture Card
• PictBridge compatible
• USB 2.0
• 1.8” LCD with multi-language menu
• CAMEDIA Master 4.2SE plus Ulead VideoStudio7 SE Basic are provided with the camera

Konica Minolta Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital

The Konica Minolta Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital is a new DSLR camera from Konica Minolta. (The North American version is the Maxxum 7 Digital - and the European/Asian/Pacific version is the Dynax 7 Digital).

The Dyna7/Maxxum 7 will accept all Minolta A mount lenses, making it instantly compatible with a large variety of quality lenses.

It has the same Anti Shake function as the DiMAGE A1 and has a 6 megapixel CCD sensor.

Learn more about the Konica Minolta Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital at DP Review - Maxxum 7 Digital and from the following press release announcing the camera.

Konica Minolta Interchangeable-Lens Digital SLR Camera

Langenhagen, February, 2004

Konica Minolta is very proud to announce the development of the interchangeable-lens digital single lens reflex cameras Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital*. Both models are slated to go on sale in autumn of 2004.

The Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital will accept the Minolta A mount, compatible with the full range of Minolta AF lenses, as well as Dynax/Maxxum system accessories. Combining the best of established 35mm system photography with digital photography affords photographers the ability to more fully express themselves than ever before.

The Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital is also equipped with the same technically sophisticated and highly effective CCD Shift-type Anti-Shake function, which has earned an excellent reputation in the DiMAGE A1 (SLR- type digital camera with built-in lens). As the Anti-Shake function is built into the camera body and not the lens, it is effective for the entire range of Minolta AF lenses. Thanks to the intuitive control layout being carried over from the three-time international award winning** and popular 35mm film AF SLR camera Dynax 7/Maxxum 7, the Dynax 7 Digital/Maxxum 7 Digital is both a user-friendly and compatible design for 35mm film SLR camera users, enabling a smooth shift over to digital. Utilizing an APS-C sized 6 mega pixel CCD and advanced image processing technology, the resulting exquisite detail from highlights to shadows will satisfy even the most demanding photographers.

Konica Minolta is committed to develop additional digital SLR camera bodies, more interchangeable lenses, and other accessories to grow with both users' needs and the progress of technology.

*The Maxxum 7 Digital is for the North American market, and the Dynax 7 Digital is for Europe and other all regions outside North America and Japan.
**The Japan Camera Club sponsored "Camera Grand Prix 2001"; European Camera & Video publication sponsored TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) "TIPA Europe-Best SLR Camera-2001-2002"; EISA (European Imaging and Sound Association) sponsored "European Camera of the Year-2001-2002".

About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging
Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe GmbH is a leading provider of consumer and commercial photographic materials, photographic equipment such as analog and digital cameras, and measuring instruments including 3D-scanning. With operative bases within Europe the company covers the three business areas of photo imaging, cameras and industrial instruments. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe is a subsidiary of Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Building on its strong core of optical technologies developed over 130 years, Konica Minolta Photo Imaging aims to be a corporation offering products and services that are essential to all areas of digital imaging.

Website: http://www.konicaminoltaeurope.com/

Concord 5345z

The Concord 5345z is a 5 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom. It is ultra compact measuring just 88 x 60.5 x 32.7mm. It is packed with 19 preset scene modes and has just under 10 megabytes of internal member (as well as taking SD cards).

To learn more about the Concord 5345z read the following press release from Concord announcing the camera.

Concord Camera Corp. Press Release 12/02/04

Concord Camera Corp. Announces Sleek, Stylish 5 Megapixel Camera at $379.99 SRP; Concord 5345z Digital Camera Offers Features for Beginners & Pros

LAS VEGAS --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 12, 2004 Concord Camera Corp. ("Concord") (Nasdaq:LENS), a leader in high-quality low-priced digital cameras, today announced at Photo Marketing Association (PMA) the new, ultra stylish Concord 5345z digital camera. Concord's first metal body digital camera offers 5 Megapixels, 3x optical/4x digital zoom (12x total zoom) and rapid response controls. The Concord 5345z beats the competition with a unique combination of options for both advanced and beginner photographers alike, such as 19 scene mode selections, center weighted, spot & multi-pattern metering, auto and preset white balance selections, AVI video, DPOF support along with Concord's popular easy-to-use camera interface. Everyone, from first-time digital camera users to pros, will love the Concord 5345z.

The Concord 5345z is housed in a compact, stylish metal body for the ultimate in design sophistication. Compact at 88 x 60.5 x 32.7mm, the Concord 5345z fits easily into a jeans or shirt pocket. The camera's sensitive controls are designed to react quickly to user commands resulting in effortless picture taking. 19 scene selections make snapping photos easy for first-time users. Just choose from the selections to fit your shooting environment, such as party, night scene, sundown, candlelight, fireworks, etc., and the camera will automatically program the best shutter speed, aperture, and flash setting for your surroundings. The camera also features a continuous shooting mode and is able to snap three shots, one right after the other. AVI video clips can be shot at 15 frames per second in the QVGA mode and the length is only limited by the capacity of the SD card inserted in the camera.

The camera comes with everything needed to take photos right away. It's pre-loaded with 9.7MB of internal memory, so there's never a problem if you forget to bring an SD memory card or run out of space in your cards. The camera will automatically save images to internal memory if no card is inserted. The Concord 5345z also includes two rechargeable NiMH AA batteries, a battery charger and a battery indicator which continuously monitors battery-life on the 1.6" TFT LCD screen, reminding the user when to change batteries.

Advanced photographers will appreciate the power that they get with center weighted, spot and multi-pattern metering for fine-tuning the focus and exposure of shots, as well as user selectable ISO, user selectable White Balance, Exposure Compensation +/- 2 EV in 1/3 EV steps, DPOF support for printing, and a Macro Mode to 10-70cm - all providing the maximum flexibility for shutterbugs wishing more control.

"The Concord 5345z is specially designed to accommodate a fast paced, on-the-go lifestyle," said Mr. Urs W. Stampfli, Senior Vice President and Director of Global Sales & Marketing, Concord Camera Corp. "The Concord 5345z has everything anyone would need in a 5 Megapixel point & shoot digital camera, and more -- at a price that'll excite new users to finally get into digital."

The Concord 5345z is expected to be available in April 2004 at a suggested retail price of $379.99 through Concord retailers and is compatible with Windows 98, 98SE, 2000, ME, XP and Mac OS 9.0 and higher. The camera comes with a multilingual user's guide and quick start guide, USB cable, a wrist strap, a pouch, 2 AA rechargeable batteries and charger, and MGI software.

HP Photosmart R707

The HP Photosmart R707 is a 5 megapixel camera with a 3x Optical zoom. It has a brushed stainless steel casing that looks like a good sturdy little camera.

The Photosmark R707 has an inbuilt red eye removal feature, two new shooting modes, 'sand' and 'sun', 32 MB internal memory and a 1.5 inch LCD.

Read part of the Press Release announcing the R707 below.

Press Release

The stylish HP Photosmart R707 digital camera with HP Instant Share™ features HP’s exclusive Real Life Technologies?, which includes technologies such as Adaptive Lighting Technology and HP Image Advice – essentially making it hard to take a bad picture. The HP Photosmart R707 also features the world’s first in-camera, red-eye removal to instantly touch-up photos and memories. With two additional shooting modes - sand and sun, and document capture - users have more options to assist in taking outstanding photos.

Its durable, stainless-steel construction, coupled with a unique, ergonomic grip that is exclusive to HP cameras, feels great and keeps the camera steady for quick, one-handed shots.

HP Adaptive Lighting Technology
HP’s Adaptive Lighting Technology (ALT) automatically adjusts high-contrast photos to bring faces out of shadows and details out of backgrounds. The technology balances brightness relationships between bright and dark areas in a photo, preserving gentle contrasts while compressing harsh contrasts. The result is automatic-contrast adjustment that lightens poorly illuminated objects and produces a true-to-life image that mirrors the natural beauty that the user intended to capture.

HP Instant Share
HP Instant Share™ makes sharing, printing and saving digital photos easy. Users simply take a photo and select its destination right on the back of the camera - up to 34 destinations, including e-mail addresses, online albums, printers and more - by simply pushing a button. When the digital camera is later connected to a computer or the optional camera dock, the selected photos are automatically printed and/or e-mailed without burdening friends with large file attachments. E-mail recipients see thumbnails of the images right in the body of their e-mail message, as well as a link to the web page where they can very easily view, print and save the photos, upload them to online albums and more.

Highlights
HP’s exclusive Real Life Technologies?, including in-camera, red-eye removal, panorama mode and HP Image Advice, for capturing creative photos

Stylish and durable, brushed stainless steel construction, featuring one-of-a-kind ergonomic grip for steady, one-handed shots

Manual controls for adjusting and enhancing your photos

Complete, easy-to-use software solution for your photo needs

MPEG movie clip feature with sound for capturing life’s moving memories

Optional HP Photosmart R-series dock for recharging in-camera battery, in addition to a spare battery via the second charging bay, viewing a slide-show on a TV and transferring photos to PC

Specifications
- 5.1-megapixel resolution for photo-quality enlargements up to poster size
- 24x total zoom – 3x optical, 8x digital
- 32 MB internal storage memory
- 1.5-inch color, outdoor viewable LCD
- USB connectivity (USB 2.0 compatible)
- SD/MMC card slot
- Direct-printing capability to HP USB-enabled Photosmart or Deskjet printers
- PictBridge support
- Exif 2.2 support

Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR/n Digital Camera

The Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR/n Digital Camera is a DSLR camera from Kodak they think will revolutionize professional digital photography.

The Kodak DCS Pro site writes:

'At 14 megapixels, the KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Pro SLR/n Digital Camera is not only the industry's highest resolution digital SLR, it provides the industry's widest ISO range in a digital SLR. The camera has a total selectable ISO range from 6 to 1600 with a calibrated ISO from 6 to 800 (using RAW, JPEG, ERI JPEG files) and a non-calibrated ISO from 1000 to 1600 (using DCS RAW files). In normal exposure modes, ISO settings between 160 and 1600 are available in 1/3-stop increments, while in the "longer" exposure mode, ISO settings can be selected between 6 and 50 in full-stop increments.

The DCS Pro SLR/n offers a full-frame 35 mm-size CMOS sensor for extremely high-resolution images (4,536 x 3,024 pixels) with no focal length magnification effect. Equal in size to 35 mm film, the DCS Pro SLR/n Camera's focal length magnification is 1:1 so lenses work like they did with film.'

Learn more about the Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR/n from the following press release from Kodak or at:
- DP Review - Kodak DCS Pro - Introduction and Samples
- Imaging Resource - Kodak Professional DCS Pro - Review
- MSN Photos - Kodak DCS Pro DSLR First Look
- A Brief look at a new Kodak Professional Camera

Next-Generation Camera Offers Medium-Format Image Quality, 35 mm Flexibility

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 12 — Strengthening its commitment to push the boundaries of high-end digital camera technology while delivering outstanding image quality and ease of use, Eastman Kodak Company unveiled the new KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Pro SLR/n digital camera.

The latest addition to Kodak's venerable professional camera portfolio, the DCS Pro SLR/n digital camera contains a new high performance imaging system with an entirely new 35 mm size CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, which delivers 14 million pixels with a total available ISO range of 6 to 1600.

Built on an F-mount compatible body, the DCS Pro SLR/n is ideally suited for wedding photographers and uniquely addresses the needs of event, portrait, commercial and advanced amateur photographers as well.

"The DCS Pro SLR/n combines the best of medium format image quality with the convenience and flexibility of 35 mm photography. Its high ISO provides excellent performance in low-light settings and captures images with stunning detail that wedding and event photographers expect. It also creates amazing images at low ISOs using long exposures," said Madhav Mehra, General Manager, Professional Digital Capture. "We've accelerated the evolution of the digital SLR with this camera. The DCS Pro SLR/n is able to merge high-resolution and the best image detail with a broad ISO range."

Image Quality and Key Features
The camera contains a new 4536 x 3024 pixel (effective), 12-bit CMOS imager that covers the full 24 mm-by-36 mm image area of 35mm film. With a full-size sensor, photographers regain the benefits of true wide-angle lenses and can use their F-mount SLR lenses the same way they used them with 35 mm film. This new sensor incorporates advanced High Performance-Low Noise (HPLN) technology, incorporating a unique new pixel design and an optimized device manufacturing process that enables increased sensitivity and reduced noise levels that result in broader ISO performance.

When combined with the new "Expert-Level" noise reduction tools in the latest release of KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Photo Desk software, the camera delivers the highest resolution of any digital SLR with an ISO range that meets the needs of a wide variety of professional photographers. The new sensor also incorporates an enhanced optical transmission system that further increases image quality – particularly with tungsten light sources – and is supported by new digital and analogue electronics. Consistent with the recent generation of DCS Professional cameras from Kodak, photographers can select the appropriate image size – full 14MP, 6MP, and 3MP – that suits the shooting environment.

Photographers will have the benefit of a fully calibrated ISO range of 6 to 800, while those that utilize DCS raw files can also access a non-calibrated ISO range that extends from 1000 to 1600. Aside from a broad ISO range, the camera's feature set includes long-exposure capabilities, enabling exposures up to 60 seconds at lower ISO settings, a full resolution raw image burst depth of ~19 frames from the cameras integrated 512 MB RAM buffer and a hardware "sleep mode" that conserves battery life when the camera is not in use.

The camera captures images at about 1.7 frames per second. Images can be saved as DCR raw files, normal JPEG files or ERI JPEG files. The ERI-JPEG files serve as another form of picture protection for photographers, especially in situations where re-shooting is inconvenient. They provide two stops of exposure latitude and extended color space within a JPEG workflow – a benefit no competitor offers.

Images are stored via COMPACTFLASH memory card and/or MMC/SD memory card interfaces. The camera can write to both types of storage media, and the image can be sent to each card simultaneously in any combination of the three available formats. In addition, FIREWIRE connectivity - at a transfer rate of up to 12MB per second – adds speed to the photographers' workflow.

Designed with a durable magnesium body, the DCS Pro SLR/n includes a vertical trigger that works in conjunction with the camera's auto orientation sensor. The sensor detects the camera's orientation +/- 90 degrees from the horizontal position. This enables automatic rotation of the image as it moves to a computer for manipulation, saving photographers time and improving workflow – hallmarks of Kodak's efforts to make digital easier for customers.

Simplifying Digital, Free Firmware Upgrades
The DCS Pro SLR/n camera includes features for new and more advanced digital shooters. The camera operates in two user modes: Basic and advanced. It defaults to the basic setting and offers a very intuitive, simple interface. In the advanced mode, the user can access and adjust a host of capture, resolution, storage and other settings.

Many key features of the DCS Pro SLR/n camera are based on KODAK PROFESSIONAL firmware and are not hard-wired within the camera, so they can be enhanced and easily upgraded with free firmware downloads from Kodak. Free firmware upgrades essentially give photographers a "new" camera, whereas most other manufacturers require the purchase of an entirely new camera system to receive the latest enhancements.

Kodak leverages Nikon's Digital Through The Lens (DTTL™) flash metering in the DCS Pro SLR/n digital camera. Photographers can expect near-perfect flash exposures with the camera, an improvement over many existing professional digital cameras.

The DCS Pro SLR/n has a camera interface localized in nine languages. It works with the latest versions of the following software:

KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Photo Desk – including new Expert level noise processing tools

KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Camera Manager

KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS File Format Module

KODAK PROFESSIONAL Extended Range Imaging Technology File Format Module
Availability of the KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Pro SLR/n digital camera begins in early March through authorized dealers of KODAK PROFESSIONAL digital imaging solutions.

About Eastman Kodak Company and infoimaging
Kodak is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images – for memories, for information, for entertainment. The company is a major participant in infoimaging, a $385 billion industry composed of devices (digital cameras and flat-panel displays), infrastructure (online networks and delivery systems for images) and services & media (software, film and paper enabling people to access, analyze and print images). With sales of $13.3 billion in 2003, the company comprises several businesses: Health, supplying the healthcare industry with traditional and digital image capture and output products and services; Commercial Printing, offering on-demand color printing and networking publishing systems; Commercial Imaging, offering image capture, output and storage products and services to businesses and government; Display & Components, which designs and manufactures state-of-the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers optics and imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers; and Digital & Film Imaging Systems, providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services.

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(Kodak and Kodak Professional are trademarks of Eastman Kodak Company. Eastman Kodak Company is an authorized licensee of the CompactFlash trademark.)

Sony Memory Stick 2

Sony has announced today that they have added the ability to read data at high speeds (up to 4 times faster) on all updated Memory Sticks. Also the MagicGate Copyright protection system will be added to the new bright cobalt blue colored sticks.

Learn more about the Sony Memory Stick 2 in the following press release.

Press Release
LAS VEGAS (PMA, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 - Sony Electronics is equipping Memory Stick media users for the digital future by adding the ability to read data at high speeds and copyright protection as standard features on all Memory Stick media available at retailers nationwide.

Updated Memory Stick media will start shipping this spring in 32MB, 64MB, 128MB and 256MB (total 128MBx2) capacities. A striking cobalt-blue color will distinguish the new line from its purple predecessor.

When used with compatible (4-pin parallel), high-speed Memory Stick media-enabled hardware, users can enjoy read speeds that are up to four times faster than current standard Memory Stick media. The new media will allow users to speed up viewing their digital images on a compatible camera and streaming video storage. Sony expects device compatibility to remain constant or even increase, given that the media will be interoperable with both serial and parallel interfaces.

MagicGate™ copyright protection technology is also being incorporated across the new media family to allow for secure distribution of commercial content, such as digital music.

Pricing for Sony's new Memory Stick media will be about $30 for 32MB, $40 for 64MB, $60 for 128MB, and $100 for 256MB and available in the spring.

Genius G-Shot P510

Genius Computer Technology Ltd (Middle East and Africa) is about to release its 'G-Shot P510'.

AME Info writes 'It (the G-Shot P510) uses a 3.1 mega pixel CMOS image sensor and maximum interpolation resolution can be up to 5.0 mega pixels. You can still take nice photos even if the object is in the distance with the 4X digital zoom. Plus, you can check the result immediately with the 1.5" TFT preview display.'

Nikon Coolpix 5200

The Nikon Coolpix 5200 is a classy looking little 5.1 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom Zoom-Nikkor lens. It has 12 MB internal memory and also takes SD cards.

Like the Coolpix 4200 this camera comes with 15 preset scene modes, 4 of which offer a 'Scene Assist' function to make shooting even easier.

Nikon reports that the Coolpix 5200 has a rapid power up, quick autofocus and high speed continuous shooting mode. It also gives the user plenty of control over exposure settings and produces high quality TV size movies (30 frames per second).

To learn more about the Nikon Coolpix 5200 read the press release from Nikon below.

Press Release
Amsterdam, February 12, 2004 - Nikon, a world leader in film and digital cameras, today announced the introduction of the COOLPIX 5200. An easy-to-operate compact digital camera that boasts high-level comprehensive quality, 5.1 effective megapixel performance, and a selection of useful functions.

Superior image quality begins with a newly developed 3x Zoom-Nikkor lens with a focal range of 7.8 to 23.4mm (equivalent to a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format). Featuring aspherical elements and an ED glass element, it achieves a significant reduction in aberration. It also retracts to contribute greatly to the overall slim dimensions of the body. The COOLPIX 5200 has the additional advantage of 5.1 effective megapixels, which ensures images are recorded with satisfying clarity.

The elegant aluminum exterior of the COOLPIX 5200 exudes a sense of sophistication. The camera also features the same stylish grip design as the other cameras in the popular COOLPIX range, has satisfyingly compact dimensions, and a light weight — factors that combine to make the camera feel naturally comfortable in the hand. Furthermore, all controls are conveniently located within easy reach on the back of the camera body.

This enables highly intuitive operation in general and provides easy access to the camera’s 15 Scene modes. Each of these modes adds simplicity for the shooting of a different kind of subject, while four of them offer a Scene Assist function to make shooting even easier still.

New to the Nikon COOLPIX range, the camera incorporates automated reduction of the “red-eye” effect, a highly-demanded feature which Nikon is pleased to be able to offer purchasers of this camera. Advanced Red-eye Reduction is fully integrated into the Nikon image processing system within the camera and once enabled operates without the need for any user intervention.

The COOLPIX 5200 achieves rapid power-up and swift, precise autofocus, which allows photo opportunities to be seized at any time. It also offers high-speed continuous shooting too, allowing the user to capture fast action as it happens. Additionally, the COOLPIX 5200 has an easy-to-see GUI, which allows the user to select desired settings and functions in minimal time, with minimal effort.

White balance offers a choice of Automatic, Preset and 7 Manual modes. What’s more, it divides the shooting area into segments to determine the most appropriate setting for the capture of faithful colors. There’s even a white balance bracketing function too, which

takes a series of three shots at different white balance settings with just a single press of the shutter release button.

High-quality TV-size movies with sound can be recorded at the smooth rate of 30fps, allowing the user to show results to friends or family in a much more practical manner.

For storage convenience at any time, the COOLPIX 5200 is additionally equipped with approximately 12MB of internal memory, allowing the storage of a substantial number of shots without the need for an SD memory card.

As a result of its high-level specifications, the COOLPIX 5200 achieves prints that can be enlarged all the way up to A4 size while still retaining an admirable level of quality. Printing can also be done without the need for a PC by simply connecting the COOLPIX 5200 to a PictBridge-compatible printer via the included USB cable.

The COOLPIX 5200 even offers versatility in terms of power source — with compatibility with both Li-ion rechargeable batteries and lithium disposable batteries also.

All recorded movies and images can be automatically imported into the included Nikon PictureProject software, which opens up a whole new range of possibilities for the digital photographer. Enabling organization, editing, and design capabilities for images in a unified, user-friendly interface, this exciting new software from Nikon will also allow the addition of new features as the market evolves.

The COOLPIX 4200, a 4.0 megapixel sister model to the COOLPIX 5200, will also be released to provide the consumer with an alternative.

Sales release schedule: Nikon Corporation will launch the COOLPIX 5200 worldwide from May 2004.

Nikon Coolpix 4200

The Nikon Coolpix 4200 is a 3x optical zoom, 4 megapixel camera that continue in the tradition of the Coolpix 2200 and 3200. The attractive looking Coolpix 4200 (encased in aluminium) is a very slim camera that weighs a tiny 180g.

The 3x optical lens has a focal range of 7.8 to 23.4mm. The camera comes with 15 preset scene modes and a variety of manual settings. It takes an SD memory card and has 12 MB internal memory also.

For more details read the following press release from nikon announcing the coolpix 4200.

Amsterdam, February 12, 2004 - Nikon, a world leader in film and digital cameras, today announced the introduction of the COOLPIX 4200. The COOLPIX 4200 is an easy-to-operate compact digital camera that boasts high-level comprehensive quality, 4.0 effective megapixel performance, and a selection of useful functions.

Superior image quality begins with a newly developed 3x Zoom-Nikkor lens with a focal range of 7.8 to 23.4mm (equivalent to a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format). Featuring aspherical elements and an ED glass element, it achieves a significant reduction in aberration. It also retracts to contribute greatly to the overall slim dimensions of the body. The COOLPIX 4200 has the additional advantage of 4.0 effective megapixels, which ensures images are recorded with satisfying clarity.

The elegant aluminium exterior of the COOLPIX 4200 exudes a sense of sophistication. The camera also features the same stylish grip design as the other cameras in the popular COOLPIX range, has satisfyingly compact dimensions, and a light weight — factors that combine to make the camera feel naturally comfortable in the hand. Furthermore, all controls are conveniently located within easy reach on the back of the camera body.

This enables highly intuitive operation in general and provides easy access to the camera’s 15 Scene modes. Each of these modes adds simplicity for the shooting of a different kind of subject, while four of them offer a Scene Assist function to make shooting even easier still.

New to the Nikon COOLPIX range, the camera incorporates automated reduction of the “red-eye” effect, a highly-demanded feature which Nikon is pleased to be able to offer purchasers of this camera. Advanced Red-eye Reduction is fully integrated into the Nikon image processing system within the camera and once enabled operates without the need for any user intervention.

The COOLPIX 4200 achieves rapid power-up and swift, precise autofocus, which allows photo opportunities to be seized at any time. It also offers high-speed continuous shooting too, allowing the user to capture fast action as it happens. Additionally, the COOLPIX 4200 has an easy-to-see GUI, which allows the user to select desired settings and functions in minimal time, with minimal effort.

White balance offers a choice of Automatic, Preset and 7 Manual modes. What’s more, it divides the shooting area into segments to determine the most appropriate setting for the capture of faithful colors. There’s even a white balance bracketing function too, which takes a series of three shots at different white balance settings with just a single press of the shutter release button.

High-quality TV-size movies can be recorded at a rate of 15fps, allowing users to show results to friends or family in a much more practical manner.

For storage convenience at any time, the COOLPIX 4200 is additionally equipped with approximately 12MB of internal memory, allowing the storage of a substantial number of shots without the need for an SD memory card.

As a result of its high-level specifications, the COOLPIX 4200 achieves prints that can be enlarged all the way up to A4 size while still retaining an admirable level of quality. Printing can also be done without the need for a PC by simply connecting the COOLPIX 4200 to a PictBridge-compatible printer via the included USB cable.

The COOLPIX 4200 even offers versatility in terms of power source — with compatibility with both Li-ion rechargeable batteries and lithium disposable batteries also.

All recorded movies and images can be automatically imported into the included Nikon PictureProject software, which opens up a whole new range of possibilities for the digital photographer. Enabling organization, editing, and design capabilities for images in a unified, user-friendly interface, this exciting new software from Nikon will also allow the addition of new features as the market evolves.

The COOLPIX 5200, a 5.1 megapixel sister model to the COOLPIX 4200, will also be released to provide the consumer with an alternative.

Sales release schedule: Nikon Corporation will launch the COOLPIX 4200 worldwide from June 2004.

PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED lens

Pentax announced a wide angle interchagneable lens for the *ist D digital SLR today at PMA. It is the PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED. This compact lens (2.7inches long) offers a focal length of 14mm and a minimum focusing distance of 0.7 inches.

Read an excerpt from the Press release announcing the PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED below.

A second PENTAX digital product under development - a wide-angle interchangeable lens for the *ist D digital SLR - also has been announced. The smc PENTAX-DA 14mm F2.8 ED (IF) is extremely compact, measuring 2.7 inches long and 3.3 inches in diameter. Featuring the reliable PENTAX KAF lens mount and high-performance 12-element, 11-group optics, it offers a focal length of 14mm (equivalent to 21.5mm in the 35mm format), and a minimum focusing distance of 0.7 inches. An innovative Quick-Shift Focus system enables the lens user to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring. The PENTAX-DA 14mm also offers a 77mm-size filter thread for quick, effortless mounting and removal of a filter.

Pentax Optio MX

It has an LCD that swivels horizontally and vertically for ease of use.

The Pentax Optio MX will be priced at under $400 (US) and should be in stores in June 2004.

Read an excerpt from the Press Release announcing the Pentax Optio MX below.

PENTAX Unveils First Optio Digital Still/Movie Camera With $400 Price Tag and Adds a Second Lens for Digital SLR
GOLDEN, Colo. --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 12, 2004 PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. has announced the introduction of the first PENTAX Optio(R) digital still/movie camera - the OptioMX.

The innovative, palm-sized OptioMX features 3.2 effective megapixels and 10X optical zoom to capture still images and high resolution (VGA) full-motion movies on MPEG-4 format with zoom capability. With advanced design and the compact signature dimensions of the Optio line of digital cameras, the OptioMX features an ergonomic grip handle and an articulating LCD monitor that swivels horizontally and vertically to frame subjects exactly as you prefer.

OptioMX marks the legendary manufacturer's first step into the production of full-capacity digital video and PENTAX has priced the camera under $400. For optimal results in panoramic settings, a wide conversion lens will be available as an accessory to the OptioMX, and the digital video camera will ship to dealers in June 2004

These latest PENTAX digital developments will be showcased under glass at the 2004 Photo Marketing Association's (PMA) Show in Booth C140 from February 12-15 in Las Vegas.

PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, Pentax technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With corporate headquarters located in GOLDEN, Colorado, PENTAX U.S.A., INC. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.

1 inch Hard drives

CNet reports that the size of hard drives is coming down to being only 1 inch.

'Apple Computer is using a small hard drive from Hitachi in its new iPod, as the market for mini drives heats up.

The 4GB drive, which measures 1 inch across, marks Hitachi's second major contract in the music player field. Last October, Dell came out with a music player that contained a 1.8-inch Hitachi drive.'

DP Review reports that Toshiba are 0.85 inch hard drives.

We're not going to need Flash memory cards much longer if these trends continue with Digicams being made with their own hard drives inside.

Pentax - THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL CAMERA OF THE INTERNET

Pentax have just announced themselves as 'The Official Digital Camera of the Internet (TM)'.

Its an interesting marketing move although I'm not sure about how someone could trademark such a tagline! Here is Pentax's press release announcing the move.

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 11, 2004--PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. announced a new tagline and the launch of an innovative marketing strategy for the legendary camera manufacturer's extensive line of digital cameras.

PENTAX tagged the line "THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL CAMERA OF THE INTERNET(TM)" to illuminate Optio digital cameras' significance in the Internet age.

"For more than half a century, PENTAX has delivered better and easier ways to capture and share images. By being THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL CAMERA OF THE INTERNET, PENTAX underscores the recognition that digital photography in the Internet age has forever changed this process," said Jim Kast, vice president of marketing, PENTAX U.S.A.

The tagline will first appear publicly in the February 12th national edition of USA TODAY to coincide with opening day of the 2004 Photo Marketing Association International (PMA) Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas. More than 30,000 attendees representing more than 750 manufacturers, retailers, photo finishers, portrait studios, imaging centers, manufacturers and suppliers from nearly 100 countries gather annually at PMA to feature new products and services.

The New York-based advertising firm Della Femina Rothschild Jeary and Partners was engaged by PENTAX U.S.A. to develop the new positioning, which will be integrated into future print, broadcast and online advertising.

"Combined with our heritage, this new distinction accentuates our role as a digital photography industry leader," added Kast.

PENTAX will preview several new and existing digital cameras during PMA. A leader in the production of digital cameras, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses for more than 80 years. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation.

Sony DSC-P100

The Sony PSC-P100 is a 3x Optical zoom camera with a 5 megapixel sensor. It is only 1 inch thick yet is fully equipped for great quality digital photography. It has a Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar lens.

The PSC-P100 has a good array of manual exposure settings and also a manua flash setting. It accomadates a variety of of lens adaptors (telephoto and wide angle).

It comes in red, blue and silver and will sell for around $400 (US).

Fore more information on the Sony DSC-P100 read the following press release from Sony announcing it and 3 other DSC-P cameras today.

Press Release
LAS VEGAS (PMA 2004, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 — Amid the flurry of high-tech/high-end digital cameras introduced at the annual digital imaging trade show, Sony demonstrates its keen sense of consumer needs with the introduction of its new Cyber-shot® compact P- and basic P-series cameras, designed for taking great pictures simply.

So that the cameras’ settings can be quickly determined behind-the-scenes, Sony incorporated its new Real Imaging Processor™ circuit on the new Cyber-shot DSC-P100, -P93, -P73 and -P41 cameras. Measured in fast start-up and shot-to-shot times rather than megahertz, key benefits of the processor translate into making the Cyber-shot cameras always ready to great pictures. All cameras will be available this May.

“Throughout the coming years, we’ll see a greater number of people trying out a digital camera for the first time, and we’re making sure that Cyber-shot cameras improve upon their film camera experience,” said Greg Young, Sony Electronics’ director of digital camera marketing.

Cyber-shot P100 Camera: Compact and Full Featured
Don’t let its size fool you. The Cyber-shot compact P100 digital camera is a stylish, pocket-size camera with specifications typically found only on more full-sized, high-end five-megapixel cameras. At about one-inch thin, it is easy to hold and use.

For the first time in a Cyber-shot P-series camera, Sony is offering a Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens to complement the high resolution for great picture clarity. However, the advancements of this camera lie beyond these basic specifications.

So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting exposure, the camera enlists the aid of a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the camera can automatically make the necessary adjustments. Additionally, six preset scene modes are available so that the user can quickly select the best setting for the shooting conditions.

For those wanting greater flexibility, the Cyber-shot P100 camera also features manual flash and exposure settings, and it accepts the VAD-PHB lens adaptor bracket allowing use of telephoto and wide angle conversion lenses.

Available in three striking colors (red, blue and silver), the stylish P100 camera will sell for an estimated $400. A 32MB Memory Stick® memory card, InfoLithium™ battery and AC adapter are included.

Cyber-shot Station: The Perfect Companion
Finally there’s a better place to put the digital camera other than a desk or table drawer. Designed to reside next to a TV or PC, the new Cyber-shot Station™ CSS-PHA camera accessory, available in May for about $80, accommodates the Cyber-shot DSC-P100 camera for playing back slideshows on a TV, while charging the camera’s batteries.

The bundled infrared remote controller intelligently commands the docked camera via the Cyber-shot station to toggle between captured videos and still pictures. And when connected to a PictBridge™ interface compatible printer such as the new Sony PictureStation® DPP-EX50 digital photo printer, printing a specific image is easy as a press of the remote controller’s button.

Cyber-shot Basic P-series: The Only Basic Feature is the Price

Intelligent enough to capture great pictures, but simple enough for the first-time digital camera user, Sony’s line of P-series point-and-shoot cameras help to take the guess work out of digital photography. Like their fully-featured sibling, the P100, the P41, P73 and P93 cameras offer intelligent auto-focus and auto-exposure systems.

Unlike other cameras in this category, the new P-series cameras seem to sip battery power. Thanks in large part to the Real Imaging Processor circuit, the cameras are able to take up to 400 shots between charging.

Additionally, the new processor enables features such as burst mode. The DSC-P41 and -P73 models capture 4 shots at 1.3 fps, while the DSC-P93 camera captures 9 shots at 1.2 fps. And with an optional high speed Memory Stick PRO™ media card, all three cameras can capture video clips in TV quality resolution (VGA) and motion (30fps).

While both the DSC-P41 and -P73 models come with four megapixels of resolution, the latter features a 3X optical zoom lens. Users looking for more will find the P93 model’s five-megapixel 3X optical zoom lens accommodates their needs nicely.

Both the P73 and P93 cameras offer manual exposure control and histogram display for greater user control in image quality. The lens’ outer ring on both cameras can be removed so that the camera can accommodate various conversion lenses.

All of these cameras come bundled with a 16MB Memory Stick card. The Cyber-shot DSC-P41 will sell for about $200. Bundled with rechargeable batteries and a power charger, the DSC-P73 and DSC-P93 cameras will retail for about $300 and $350, respectively.

Sony DSC-P93

The Sony PSC-P93 is a 3x Optical zoom camera with a 5 megapixel sensor. It shoots at 1.2 frames per second (9 frame bursts).

Using a high speed memory stick it captures video at TV quality resolution (VGA) - 30 frames per second.

The DSC-P93 also offers numerous manual exposure controls and is compatible with a variety of conversion lenses. It is expected to retail for around $300 (US).

Fore more information on the Sony DSC-P93 read the following press release from Sony announcing it and 3 other DSC-P cameras today.

Press Release
LAS VEGAS (PMA 2004, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 — Amid the flurry of high-tech/high-end digital cameras introduced at the annual digital imaging trade show, Sony demonstrates its keen sense of consumer needs with the introduction of its new Cyber-shot® compact P- and basic P-series cameras, designed for taking great pictures simply.

So that the cameras’ settings can be quickly determined behind-the-scenes, Sony incorporated its new Real Imaging Processor™ circuit on the new Cyber-shot DSC-P100, -P93, -P73 and -P41 cameras. Measured in fast start-up and shot-to-shot times rather than megahertz, key benefits of the processor translate into making the Cyber-shot cameras always ready to great pictures. All cameras will be available this May.

“Throughout the coming years, we’ll see a greater number of people trying out a digital camera for the first time, and we’re making sure that Cyber-shot cameras improve upon their film camera experience,” said Greg Young, Sony Electronics’ director of digital camera marketing.

Cyber-shot P100 Camera: Compact and Full Featured
Don’t let its size fool you. The Cyber-shot compact P100 digital camera is a stylish, pocket-size camera with specifications typically found only on more full-sized, high-end five-megapixel cameras. At about one-inch thin, it is easy to hold and use.

For the first time in a Cyber-shot P-series camera, Sony is offering a Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens to complement the high resolution for great picture clarity. However, the advancements of this camera lie beyond these basic specifications.

So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting exposure, the camera enlists the aid of a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the camera can automatically make the necessary adjustments. Additionally, six preset scene modes are available so that the user can quickly select the best setting for the shooting conditions.

For those wanting greater flexibility, the Cyber-shot P100 camera also features manual flash and exposure settings, and it accepts the VAD-PHB lens adaptor bracket allowing use of telephoto and wide angle conversion lenses.

Available in three striking colors (red, blue and silver), the stylish P100 camera will sell for an estimated $400. A 32MB Memory Stick® memory card, InfoLithium™ battery and AC adapter are included.

Cyber-shot Station: The Perfect Companion
Finally there’s a better place to put the digital camera other than a desk or table drawer. Designed to reside next to a TV or PC, the new Cyber-shot Station™ CSS-PHA camera accessory, available in May for about $80, accommodates the Cyber-shot DSC-P100 camera for playing back slideshows on a TV, while charging the camera’s batteries.

The bundled infrared remote controller intelligently commands the docked camera via the Cyber-shot station to toggle between captured videos and still pictures. And when connected to a PictBridge™ interface compatible printer such as the new Sony PictureStation® DPP-EX50 digital photo printer, printing a specific image is easy as a press of the remote controller’s button.

Cyber-shot Basic P-series: The Only Basic Feature is the Price

Intelligent enough to capture great pictures, but simple enough for the first-time digital camera user, Sony’s line of P-series point-and-shoot cameras help to take the guess work out of digital photography. Like their fully-featured sibling, the P100, the P41, P73 and P93 cameras offer intelligent auto-focus and auto-exposure systems.

Unlike other cameras in this category, the new P-series cameras seem to sip battery power. Thanks in large part to the Real Imaging Processor circuit, the cameras are able to take up to 400 shots between charging.

Additionally, the new processor enables features such as burst mode. The DSC-P41 and -P73 models capture 4 shots at 1.3 fps, while the DSC-P93 camera captures 9 shots at 1.2 fps. And with an optional high speed Memory Stick PRO™ media card, all three cameras can capture video clips in TV quality resolution (VGA) and motion (30fps).

While both the DSC-P41 and -P73 models come with four megapixels of resolution, the latter features a 3X optical zoom lens. Users looking for more will find the P93 model’s five-megapixel 3X optical zoom lens accommodates their needs nicely.

Both the P73 and P93 cameras offer manual exposure control and histogram display for greater user control in image quality. The lens’ outer ring on both cameras can be removed so that the camera can accommodate various conversion lenses.

All of these cameras come bundled with a 16MB Memory Stick card. The Cyber-shot DSC-P41 will sell for about $200. Bundled with rechargeable batteries and a power charger, the DSC-P73 and DSC-P93 cameras will retail for about $300 and $350, respectively.

Sony DSC-P73

The Sony PSC-P73 is a 3x Optical zoom camera with a 4 megapixel sensor. It shoots at 1.3 frames per second.

Using a high speed memory stick it captures video at TV quality resolution (VGA) - 30 frames per second.

Fore more information on the Sony DSC-P73 read the following press release from Sony announcing it and 3 other DSC-P cameras today.

Press Release
LAS VEGAS (PMA 2004, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 — Amid the flurry of high-tech/high-end digital cameras introduced at the annual digital imaging trade show, Sony demonstrates its keen sense of consumer needs with the introduction of its new Cyber-shot® compact P- and basic P-series cameras, designed for taking great pictures simply.

So that the cameras’ settings can be quickly determined behind-the-scenes, Sony incorporated its new Real Imaging Processor™ circuit on the new Cyber-shot DSC-P100, -P93, -P73 and -P41 cameras. Measured in fast start-up and shot-to-shot times rather than megahertz, key benefits of the processor translate into making the Cyber-shot cameras always ready to great pictures. All cameras will be available this May.

“Throughout the coming years, we’ll see a greater number of people trying out a digital camera for the first time, and we’re making sure that Cyber-shot cameras improve upon their film camera experience,” said Greg Young, Sony Electronics’ director of digital camera marketing.

Cyber-shot P100 Camera: Compact and Full Featured
Don’t let its size fool you. The Cyber-shot compact P100 digital camera is a stylish, pocket-size camera with specifications typically found only on more full-sized, high-end five-megapixel cameras. At about one-inch thin, it is easy to hold and use.

For the first time in a Cyber-shot P-series camera, Sony is offering a Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens to complement the high resolution for great picture clarity. However, the advancements of this camera lie beyond these basic specifications.

So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting exposure, the camera enlists the aid of a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the camera can automatically make the necessary adjustments. Additionally, six preset scene modes are available so that the user can quickly select the best setting for the shooting conditions.

For those wanting greater flexibility, the Cyber-shot P100 camera also features manual flash and exposure settings, and it accepts the VAD-PHB lens adaptor bracket allowing use of telephoto and wide angle conversion lenses.

Available in three striking colors (red, blue and silver), the stylish P100 camera will sell for an estimated $400. A 32MB Memory Stick® memory card, InfoLithium™ battery and AC adapter are included.

Cyber-shot Station: The Perfect Companion
Finally there’s a better place to put the digital camera other than a desk or table drawer. Designed to reside next to a TV or PC, the new Cyber-shot Station™ CSS-PHA camera accessory, available in May for about $80, accommodates the Cyber-shot DSC-P100 camera for playing back slideshows on a TV, while charging the camera’s batteries.

The bundled infrared remote controller intelligently commands the docked camera via the Cyber-shot station to toggle between captured videos and still pictures. And when connected to a PictBridge™ interface compatible printer such as the new Sony PictureStation® DPP-EX50 digital photo printer, printing a specific image is easy as a press of the remote controller’s button.

Cyber-shot Basic P-series: The Only Basic Feature is the Price

Intelligent enough to capture great pictures, but simple enough for the first-time digital camera user, Sony’s line of P-series point-and-shoot cameras help to take the guess work out of digital photography. Like their fully-featured sibling, the P100, the P41, P73 and P93 cameras offer intelligent auto-focus and auto-exposure systems.

Unlike other cameras in this category, the new P-series cameras seem to sip battery power. Thanks in large part to the Real Imaging Processor circuit, the cameras are able to take up to 400 shots between charging.

Additionally, the new processor enables features such as burst mode. The DSC-P41 and -P73 models capture 4 shots at 1.3 fps, while the DSC-P93 camera captures 9 shots at 1.2 fps. And with an optional high speed Memory Stick PRO™ media card, all three cameras can capture video clips in TV quality resolution (VGA) and motion (30fps).

While both the DSC-P41 and -P73 models come with four megapixels of resolution, the latter features a 3X optical zoom lens. Users looking for more will find the P93 model’s five-megapixel 3X optical zoom lens accommodates their needs nicely.

Both the P73 and P93 cameras offer manual exposure control and histogram display for greater user control in image quality. The lens’ outer ring on both cameras can be removed so that the camera can accommodate various conversion lenses.

All of these cameras come bundled with a 16MB Memory Stick card. The Cyber-shot DSC-P41 will sell for about $200. Bundled with rechargeable batteries and a power charger, the DSC-P73 and DSC-P93 cameras will retail for about $300 and $350, respectively.

Sony DSC-P41

The Sony DSC-P41 is a fixed focal length camera with a 4 megapixel sensor. It captures shots at 1.3 frames per second and the battery is reported to last up to 400 shots per charge. It will sell for around $200(US).

Read more about the Sony DSC-P41 and 3 other digital cameras Sony announced today in the following press release:

Press Release
LAS VEGAS (PMA 2004, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 — Amid the flurry of high-tech/high-end digital cameras introduced at the annual digital imaging trade show, Sony demonstrates its keen sense of consumer needs with the introduction of its new Cyber-shot® compact P- and basic P-series cameras, designed for taking great pictures simply.

So that the cameras’ settings can be quickly determined behind-the-scenes, Sony incorporated its new Real Imaging Processor™ circuit on the new Cyber-shot DSC-P100, -P93, -P73 and -P41 cameras. Measured in fast start-up and shot-to-shot times rather than megahertz, key benefits of the processor translate into making the Cyber-shot cameras always ready to great pictures. All cameras will be available this May.

“Throughout the coming years, we’ll see a greater number of people trying out a digital camera for the first time, and we’re making sure that Cyber-shot cameras improve upon their film camera experience,” said Greg Young, Sony Electronics’ director of digital camera marketing.

Cyber-shot P100 Camera: Compact and Full Featured
Don’t let its size fool you. The Cyber-shot compact P100 digital camera is a stylish, pocket-size camera with specifications typically found only on more full-sized, high-end five-megapixel cameras. At about one-inch thin, it is easy to hold and use.

For the first time in a Cyber-shot P-series camera, Sony is offering a Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens to complement the high resolution for great picture clarity. However, the advancements of this camera lie beyond these basic specifications.

So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting exposure, the camera enlists the aid of a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the camera can automatically make the necessary adjustments. Additionally, six preset scene modes are available so that the user can quickly select the best setting for the shooting conditions.

For those wanting greater flexibility, the Cyber-shot P100 camera also features manual flash and exposure settings, and it accepts the VAD-PHB lens adaptor bracket allowing use of telephoto and wide angle conversion lenses.

Available in three striking colors (red, blue and silver), the stylish P100 camera will sell for an estimated $400. A 32MB Memory Stick® memory card, InfoLithium™ battery and AC adapter are included.

Cyber-shot Station: The Perfect Companion
Finally there’s a better place to put the digital camera other than a desk or table drawer. Designed to reside next to a TV or PC, the new Cyber-shot Station™ CSS-PHA camera accessory, available in May for about $80, accommodates the Cyber-shot DSC-P100 camera for playing back slideshows on a TV, while charging the camera’s batteries.

The bundled infrared remote controller intelligently commands the docked camera via the Cyber-shot station to toggle between captured videos and still pictures. And when connected to a PictBridge™ interface compatible printer such as the new Sony PictureStation® DPP-EX50 digital photo printer, printing a specific image is easy as a press of the remote controller’s button.

Cyber-shot Basic P-series: The Only Basic Feature is the Price

Intelligent enough to capture great pictures, but simple enough for the first-time digital camera user, Sony’s line of P-series point-and-shoot cameras help to take the guess work out of digital photography. Like their fully-featured sibling, the P100, the P41, P73 and P93 cameras offer intelligent auto-focus and auto-exposure systems.

Unlike other cameras in this category, the new P-series cameras seem to sip battery power. Thanks in large part to the Real Imaging Processor circuit, the cameras are able to take up to 400 shots between charging.

Additionally, the new processor enables features such as burst mode. The DSC-P41 and -P73 models capture 4 shots at 1.3 fps, while the DSC-P93 camera captures 9 shots at 1.2 fps. And with an optional high speed Memory Stick PRO™ media card, all three cameras can capture video clips in TV quality resolution (VGA) and motion (30fps).

While both the DSC-P41 and -P73 models come with four megapixels of resolution, the latter features a 3X optical zoom lens. Users looking for more will find the P93 model’s five-megapixel 3X optical zoom lens accommodates their needs nicely.

Both the P73 and P93 cameras offer manual exposure control and histogram display for greater user control in image quality. The lens’ outer ring on both cameras can be removed so that the camera can accommodate various conversion lenses.

All of these cameras come bundled with a 16MB Memory Stick card. The Cyber-shot DSC-P41 will sell for about $200. Bundled with rechargeable batteries and a power charger, the DSC-P73 and DSC-P93 cameras will retail for about $300 and $350, respectively.

Sony Cybershot DSC-W1

The Sony Cybershot DSC-W1 has a 3x Optical zoom, 5 megapixel sensor and large 2.5inch LCD. It will be offered in both silver and black and is a 'rangefinder' style camera.

Read more about the Sony Cybershot DSC-W1 in the following press release from Sony or at:
- C-Net - Sony Cybershot DSC-W1

LAS VEGAS (PMA 2004, Booth M30), Feb. 11, 2004 — Once you play with Sony’s new five-megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W1 camera, you will realize the adage of not judging a book by its cover also applies to digital cameras.

Available in May for about $400, its small size (a little larger than a deck of cards) belies the performance within, which is largely attributed to the inclusion of Sony’s new Real Imaging Processor circuit. Designed specifically for the special tasks of digital cameras, the new processor aids in fast camera response times and extended battery life with up to 340 shots between power charges.

Either as a step-up model for those who have tried digital photography or those who are looking to cross-over from film cameras, the Cyber-shot W1 camera allows users to explore the possibilities of photography digitally.

“As digital music improved music, the new Cyber-shot W1 is an example of Sony’s way of improving photography digitally,” said Greg Young, Sony Electronics’ director of digital camera marketing.

`Turn the camera on and the telescoping Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens fully extends in about a second, and the large 2.5-inch color LCD screen comes to life—signaling that the camera is ready-to-go. For those wanting to frame a shot at eye-level, the optical viewfinder is also available.

Once on, the Cyber-shot W1 camera focuses and shoots full-resolution images in a little over one second intervals, and can capture TV-quality resolution video clips up to the capacity of an optional Memory Stick PRO™ flash media card.

Sophisticated Yet Simple
The W1 is built for photographers who want to capture great images through a host of automatic features to help balance light and exposure, but who also want the option to manually control the picture-taking process. Among the appealing features are:

Five-area Multi-Point Auto Focus: The camera evaluates five separate areas of the frame and intelligently focuses on the subject, displaying the selected focus point.
 
Multi-Pattern Measuring: Independently meters the light in 49 points of the frame to establish the optimum exposure, even when highlight and shadow aren’t centered in the frame.

Manual Exposure Controls: Flexible exposure control in which shutter speeds from 30-1 1/1000 seconds and apertures of f2.8 – 5.2 can be selected.
 
Live Histogram: The live histogram displays number of pixels at each luminosity, making it easy to evaluate correct exposure for each shot.
 
Auto Fill Flash: When the subject is backlit or in shadow, the fill flash automatically fires to provide optimum exposure.
 
Preset Scene Modes: With 6 scene modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions, including: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Snow, Beach and Candle.
 
Conversion Lens Adapter: The outer ring of the camera’s lens can be removed so that the camera can accommodate various conversion lenses.

Olympus C8080

Its magnesium alloy body gives it a solid feel and its fast start up and shutter release times make it one of the faster cameras going around. This is a camera to watch.

Read reviews and more news on the Olympus C8080 at:
- DP Review - Olympus C8080 Wide Zoom - Hands on Preview
- Imaging Resource - Olympus C8080
- Steve's Digicams - Review of Olympus C8080
- DP Now - Olympus C8080wz
- Luminous Landscape - Olympus C8080

See picture samples of this camera in comparison to other 8 megapixel cameras at DCRP.

Learn more about the Olympus C8080 wide zoom from the following press release from Olympus announcing the camera.

Press Release
The 8th wonder: the 8 Megapixel Olympus C-8080 WIDE ZOOM

Olympus is delighted to introduce the 8 megapixel C-8080 WIDE ZOOM digital camera. The C-8080 WZ delivers an outstanding performance and confidently measures up to a digital SLR in its class. Packed with features and offering a wide angle, 5x zoom lens, sunshine LCD technology and a short shutter release lag time, the C-8080 WZ is capable of even the most demanding of creative photography. Housed in a black, robust magnesium alloy body, the C-8080 WIDE ZOOM is due for release in April 2004, RRP £899.99 [inc VAT]. For stockist information call free phone 0800 072 0070 or visit www.olympus.co.uk.

The C-8080 WZ is equipped with a 5x, f2.4-3.5 zoom lens to draw the maximum performance from the camera’s 8 megapixel CCD. The high quality optics include 14 high quality lenses arranged in five groups and two aspherical lenses to reduce distortion. In addition, three ED elements help minimise chromatic aberration, an effect that often occurs when shooting in telephoto setting. The focal length extends from 7.1 to 35.6mm, equivalent 28mm to 140mm on a 35mm camera.

The C-8080 WZ features an electronic viewfinder to guarantee precise framing of a shot. It boasts a resolution of 240,000 pixels, an image refresh rates of 60fps and a delay of a mere 50ms. Furthermore, it displays all activated settings so that the photographer doesn’t need to take their eye from a subject when shooting.

In addition to a release time lag of just 0.3 sec, rapid data processing also dictates very fast exposure rates. For example, 1.6 frames (each with 8 million pixels) can be shot per second in the sequence shooting and auto bracketing settings in any JPEG mode.

Olympus UK Press Release 12/02/04Despite the rapid development and optimisation of digital cameras in recent years, when it comes to LCD monitors, there remains one frustrating problem - in bright light, it’s often impossible to see the picture on the monitor. The C-8080 WZ boasts a new sunshine LCD to put an end to this. Even under dazzling spotlights or in the summer sun, it displays bright, clear images, to allow the photographer to frame and check their shots accurately. The monitor can also be tilted down 20 degrees or up to 90 degrees to provide a clear view of a subject when shooting from a difficult perspective.

The C-8080 WZ holds its own against many digital SLR models when it comes to precision metering technology too. Alongside highly accurate light and white balance metering systems, the C-8080 WZ features a dual AF system. A TTL contrast detection system is combined with an additional passive metering system, which uses a second sensor to calculate the phase difference and thus the subject’s distance. The camera then fine-tunes the readings for optimum sharpness. The user can select a range of focusing options: iESP, spot autofocus (the metering spot can be placed in 13 different positions in the frame), full time AF and, of course, manual focus.

Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Full Manual modes provide full creative scope to achieve the image required. To capture moving pictures, the C-8080 WIDE ZOOM offers a movie recording option with sound. The sequence’s duration is limited only by the memory card’s capacity. Both xD-Picture cards or CompactFlash cards may be used with the C-8080 WZ and thanks to an USB 2.0 AutoConnect interface, all results can be downloaded quickly and easily to a PC.

The C-8080 WZ is also compatible with a wide range of CAMEDIA system accessories and has a bayonet mount system to allow the quick and effortless addition of tele and wide angle lens converters. A hot shoe connection allows the use of high performance external flash units for professional lighting effects.

This C-8080 WZ is packaged with the CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software. Perfect for optimising, editing and managing digital files, this updated version of the software allows RAW format images to be converted according to the user’s requirements. This offers ambitious photographers the opportunity to “develop” shots using the optimal PC settings.

The C-8080 WIDE ZOOM – main features
- 8.0 mega pixels
- Magnesium alloy body
- 5x optical zoom (equiv. 28 – 140mm on 35mm camera), f2.4-3.5
- Very short shutter release time lag of 0.3 sec. and extremely fast startup time
- Sunshine LCD monitor (may be tilted down 20 and up 90 degrees)
- High speed sequence shooting: 1.6 frames per second (except TIFF)
- Auto bracketing: up to 5 images (except TIFF)
- Electronic viewfinder with 240,000 pixels
- Programme, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Full Manual modes
- Numerous focusing control options: iESP, spot (manual positioning of metering spot in frame), full time AF, manual focus
- Dual AF system
- Hot shoe
- Movie recording function with sound
- USB 2.0
- A variety of newly-developed accessories are available, including a direct filter mount and bayonet mount conversion lens system
- CAMEDIA Master 4.2 software

2004 Digital Photography Awards

Best Magazine today announced their Digital Photography Award Winners for the year. Companies that received awards include Nikon, Canon, Sony, Epson, HP, Adobe, Lexar, Fuji, Panasonic and Gateway, for their outstanding products during the past year.

Consumer Digital Camera
Winner (tie): Nikon Coolpix 4300; Gateway DCT50 400

Prosumer Digital Camera
Winner: Canon Digital Rebel

Professional Digital Camera
Winner: Canon EOS-1Ds

Imaging Software
Winner: Adobe Photoshop CS

Storage Solutions
Winner (tie): Lexar Media JumpDrive 2.0 Pro; Fujitsu DynaMo1300

For a full listing of award winners and finalists see the following press release.

Best Magazine Award Winners Announced Tonight at DigitalFocus Media Event Prior to PMA Show; Awards Honor the Best in Digital Imaging and Video Technology

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 11, 2004 The winners and finalists for the seventh annual "Best Magazine Awards" -- formerly called the DigitalFocus Awards -- will be honored this evening at the DigitalFocus(TM) 2004 media event. Top honors this year went to companies that include Nikon, Canon, Sony, Epson, HP, Adobe, Lexar, Fuji, Panasonic and Gateway, for their outstanding products during the past year. (See complete list below)

The Best Magazine Awards are among the most prestigious awards in the field of digital imaging. The awards annually honor the top digital imaging products in a dozen different categories. This year's awards are sponsored by Best Magazine, and held at Pepcom's DigitalFocus event the evening before the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) trade show opens at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This year's DigitalFocus will take place from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11th, at the Venetian hotel.

"These products and services represent the best in digital imaging innovation," said John Kelley, editor of Best Magazine. "This was an incredible year for digital imaging technical and design achievement, and these award winners are certainly at the cutting edge of the industry."

The winners and finalists for the 7th Annual Best Magazine Awards are: -0-

Consumer Digital Camera
Winner (tie): Nikon Coolpix 4300; Gateway DCT50 400
Finalists: Sony Cyber-shot DSC 210; Olympus Stylus 400; Kodak
EasyShare DX 6340; Minolta XT; Fujifilm FinePix 410; HP Photosmart
935; Pentax Optio S; Samsung V4

Prosumer Digital Camera
Winner: Canon Digital Rebel
Finalists: Nikon Coolpix 5700; Fujifilm FinePix S602Z; Olympus C50;
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F828; Casio QV5700

Professional Digital Camera
Winner: Canon EOS-1Ds
Finalists: Nikon D2H; Fujifilm FinePix S2 Pro; Canon D10

Digital Video Camera
Winner: Sony DCR-PC330; Panasonic VDR-M30
Finalists: JVC GF-HD1; Canon Optura 300; Sharp Viewcam VL-Z7U

Consumer Color Printer
Winner: Epson Stylus Photo 2200
Finalists: Canon i960; HP Deskjet 5550; Lexmark P3150

Business Color Printer
Winner: HP Photosmart 7960
Finalists: Samsung CLP500; Olympus P-400D

Image Scanner
Winner: HP ScanJet 467
Finalists: Epson Perfection 3170; HP ScanJet 8200; CanoScan 9900

Imaging Software
Winner: Adobe Photoshop CS
Finalists: Microsoft Digital Image Suite, Pinnacle Studio 8, Roxio
PhotoSuite 5, Adobe Photoshop Album and Elements 2.0

Storage Solutions
Winner (tie): Lexar Media JumpDrive 2.0 Pro; Fujitsu DynaMo1300
Finalists: Panasonic DMR-E50S, Lexar Media 4GB CF card; Maxtor 5000XT;
SanDisk 1GB SD Card

Digital Imaging Site or Service
Winner: Ofoto
Finalists: Shutterfly, Kodak Mobile

Innovation Award:
Panasonic SV-AV100; Energizer e2 AAA lithium, Duracell LP1; Kodak ASF
Kiosk; FoveonX3 Sensor; Logitech Quick Cam Orbit; Olympus E1 DSLR;
PictureMate

Following DigitalFocus, Pepcom's next events are MobileFocus on March 21st in Atlanta and Rave! on April 18th in Las Vegas. Companies interested in participating in these events should contact either Jon Pepper at 413-585-1103 (jon@pepcom.com) or Chris O'Malley at 561-731-5270 (chris@pepcom.com).

About Pepcom
Pepcom is the leader in technology showcase events. Its events include DigitalFocus, MobileFocus(TM), eFocus(TM), and Digital Experience!(TM). More information can be found on the company's website at www.pepcom.com. DigitalFocus is an independent media event owned and produced by Pepcom Inc., and is not affiliated with the Photo Marketing Association or the PMA trade show.

About Best Magazine
Best Magazine is the premier magazine "guide to buying life's best stuff." It is a unique consumer buying resource that targets readers interested in acquiring the finest products and experiences in life. Staffed by contributors to BestStuff.com and various national broadcast outlets, Best Magazine was launched in 2003 and is published by PRIMEDIA, Inc., the country's leading targeted media company.

Film vs Digital

Peter Ensenberger weighs into the Film vs Digital debate with an interesting article.

'As technology advancements in digital photography race to the shelves of camera stores, one of the hottest discussion topics among photographers is the image-quality comparison of photographs shot on film vs. that of digital-capture. Indeed, there are some advantages in shooting with a digital camera: seeing your photographs immediately; editing as you shoot, saving only the best for printing; and the ability to make your own high-quality color enlargements on an inexpensive digital printer. But is the image quality of digital-capture high enough for large reproductions in a magazine like Arizona Highways that is known for the quality of its photography?' Read More

Minolta ZEUS A-8

The Minolta ZEUS A-8 (pictured - this is unconfirmed) is being talked about as yet another rumored DSLR release from Minolta. Whether it is the same camera (under a different name) as the DiMAGE 7 we do not yet know.

It is rumored to have an 8.24 Megapixel sensor

- Source - Minolta Yahoo Group
- Picture Source

Other Rumored Digital Camera Releases from Minolta include:
- Minolta DiMAGE XG
- Minolta DiMAGE Z2
- Minolta DiMAGE A2
- Minolta DiMAGE DiMAGE 7

Minolta DiMAGE 7

It looks as though rumors of a Minota DSLR camera might be about to come true with the release of the Minolta DiMAGE 7. Over in DP Review forums a number of people have shared emails they have received from Minolta speaking of this new digital camera. Here is an excerpt:

'In a few days the PMA (Photo Marketing Association) annual show will open.
The location this year will be Las Vegas. This is an important event within
the photographic industry and is often used to launch new products. In
recent years Minolta has used it to unveil numerous models including the
DiMAGE 7. '

What the Minolta DiMAGE 7 digital camera will look like, its features and pricing are yet to be announced - but stay tuned to this page.

Other Rumored Digital Camera Releases from Minolta include:
- Minolta DiMAGE XG
- Minolta DiMAGE Z2
- Minolta DiMAGE A2
- Minolta ZEUS A-8

New Digital Cameras from Canon

Yesterday Canon announced 7 new digital Cameras - to help those arriving at this blog looking for information I've compiled this list of links to these new cameras here on this blog. Enjoy.

• Powershot Pro 1 - 8 Megapixels - 7x Optical Zoom
• Powershot S1 IS - 3.2 Megapixels - 10x Optical Zoom
• Powershot SD110 Digital ELPH (IXUS IIS) - 3.2MP - 2x Optical Zoom
• Powershot S410 (IXUS 430) - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom
• Powershot S500 (IXUS 500) - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom
• Powershot A75 - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom
• Powershot A310 - - 3.2MP - Fixed Lens

Canon Powershot S1

Pre order your Powershot S1 today - $100 off!

It weighs only 13.1 ounces and is 4.4 x 3.1 x 2.6 inches in dimension.

The Powershot S1 IS comes complete with 1.5 inch LCD, built in flash, shutter speeds from 15 - 1/2000 second, CF Storage and 8 white balance modes.

Inside Film Magazine writes - 'The PowerShot S1 IS is the ideal hybrid compact still camera supporting razor sharp, shake-free long distance still and video shooting. Equipped to handle a wide variety of scenes from sports events to landscapes or portraits, the PowerShot S1 IS offers creative functionality - 3.2 megapixel resolution for still images, and full motion movie shooting mode capable of capturing 30 frames per second for video.'

It will be in stores in April and should sell for $499 (US).

Get more information and reviews (as they are written) about the Canon Powershot S1 IS at:
- Imaging Resource - Canon Powershot S1 IS
- DP Review - Canon Powershot S1 IS
- DC Resource - Canon PowerShot S1 IS
- Canon - Powershot S1 IS
- Newstream - Canon Powershot S1 IS
- Convergence of still and video with 10x optical zoom and Image Stabilizer technology, Canon's PowerShot S1 IS
- Digital Camera HQ - Powershot S1 IS
- Steve's Digicams - Canon Powershot S1 IS

Pre order your Powershot S1 today - $100 off!

CANON'S NEW 10X ZOOM "POWERSHOT S1 IS" CAMERA BRINGS DIGITAL PHOTOS AND DIGITAL VIDEO TOGETHER IN ONE SMOOTH MOVE

LAS VEGAS (PMA, BOOTH # E11), Feb. 9, 2004 - The era of the two-in-one camera for capturing vacations, birthday parties, anniversaries, graduations, baby's first steps or any other family function or momentous milestone has arrived thanks to Canon and the all new PowerShot S1 IS digital camera. Indeed, capturing moving video memories of special occasions is no longer a reason for compromise when it comes to image resolution, sound reproduction and movie "clip" duration from a digital camera.

"With this new PowerShot S1 IS digital camera, Canon pushes the optical imaging envelope as consumers enjoy the quality of a digital still camera with video capabilities substantially enhanced over other digital cameras," stated Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). "At the same time, the camera's 10x zoom combined with Canon's advanced Image Stabilization system gives still photographers greater flexibility and stability for long-range, hand-held telephoto shooting."

Unlike other digital cameras with short duration movie mode features that capture a clip ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes depending on the resolution, the PowerShot S1 IS digital camera captures full 640 x 480 high-res movies at up to 30 frames per second, ensuring smooth video motion. What's more, individual movie clips can now last as long as one hour depending on the capacity of the memory card or the charge in the battery.

Hashimoto emphasized that the PowerShot S1 IS digital camera equipped with a fast, one-gigabyte compact flash card -- now readily available and easily affordable in the digital marketplace -- will record a solid-hour of continuous movies. Additionally, the PowerShot S1 IS digital camera is compatible with Type 1 and Type II CF cards up to and over 2GB in size, making its movie capture capability "virtually unlimited for all practical purposes."

The movie mode enhancements also include the ability to zoom and change auto exposure and auto white balance settings during a movie clip. They feature enhanced 16 bit sound quality with 22 KHz sampling frequency (double that of any other PowerShot camera model in movie mode) and an easily accessed movie start/stop button on the back of the camera are impressive advances, the PowerShot S1 IS is first and foremost, a Canon digital camera.

Sharp Shooting
With its 3.2 megapixel CCD imaging sensor and exclusive DIGIC image processor, the PowerShot S1 IS digital camera provides the high quality resolution, color and low noise consumers have come to expect from Canon digital technology starting with the fast f/2.8-3.1 image stabilized 10x zoom lens (38-380mm equivalent) that makes tack-sharp long telephoto shooting positively practical. When the optical zoom is augmented with the camera's 3.2x digital zoom, the range effectively becomes the equivalent to a 1,216mm lens. Despite its extensive optical range, the lens is ultra-compact and retracts securely into the camera when it is powered down.

Renowned for the virtuosity and quality of its "glass," Canon designed the PowerShot S1 IS digital camera's lens with 11 elements including one aspherical element to reduce size and weight and ensure image sharpness, particularly at wide-angle settings. Thanks to Canon's optical Image Stabilization technology, users have the flexibility of actually shooting at shutter speeds two stops lower than would otherwise be possible.
Similar to SLR models, PowerShot S1 IS digital camera users also enjoy the flexibility of a full array of exposure control settings including ProgramAE, Shutter-priority, Aperture-priority, Manual Mode and full-auto P.I.C. modes.

Fast Focus And Zoom
The PowerShot S1 IS is equipped with a single-point TTL AF system that achieves sharp focus quickly and silently. Although the AF frame is normally positioned at the center of the viewfinder, the user can move it freely to almost any section of the picture area using Canon's innovative FlexiZone AF/AE system. The new camera also features manual focus override as well as a Focus Bracketing function. Close focus is possible down to 3.9 inches at the wide-angle setting and 3.1 feet at the maximum telephoto setting, which fills the frame with subjects as small as 3 x 4 inches.

The PowerShot S1 IS also offers high-speed and variable speed virtually silent zooming thanks to its Canon Ultrasonic Motor (USM), a feature it shares with the new, top-of-the-line PowerShot Pro1digital camera. The silence of the USM is particularly beneficial in the S1's movie mode to preserve and enhance the quality of the audio recording.

With the use of Canon's new optional Conversion Lens Adapter, the PowerShot S1 IS accepts an optional Tele-Converter that increases the optical range of the lens to a maximum equivalent of 608mm and an optional Wide Converter that yields a 24.5mm equivalent at the widest zoom setting. There is also an optional underwater housing rated for use at depths as low as 130 feet.

The camera's compact ergonomic design includes strategically placed controls for convenient telephoto and movie shooting; a large rubberized grip, which makes holding the camera easy, well balanced and secure. The grip even includes a soft back and bottom to maximize comfort during long periods of shooting. The PowerShot S1 IS also features a variable-angle 1.5 inch, 114,000 pixel LCD Monitor that can be folded in or out and has the same range of movement found on the popular Canon PowerShot G5 and A80 digital cameras. While there is no optical viewfinder, the PowerShot S1 IS features an electronic, eye-level viewfinder with approximately 114,000-pixel resolution and built-in diopter correction, giving users the choice of viewing their subject on the monitor or through the viewfinder.

For all of its features, versatility and capabilities, the camera is powered by four easily accessible AA batteries and accepts either Alkaline (disposable) batteries or rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. Alkaline batteries are rated for approximately 120 shots before they need to be replaced, while Canon Alkaline NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride NB4-200 AA-size batteries) provide peak performance and approximately 550 shots on a single charge.

The DIGIC Difference
Canon developed the proprietary DIGIC (Digital Imaging Integrated Circuit) image processor specifically for use with its line of digital cameras. The technology combines the jobs of image processing and camera function control into one chip. Because it was specifically designed for use in digital cameras, it is also capable of handling JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control and processing; gain control (control of CCD signal amplification); Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most other functions of the camera or camcorder. The result is a product that offers faster auto focus than ever before, faster image processing, better image quality and longer battery life.

Direct Printing Plus
Direct Printing significantly expands the appeal of the PowerShot S1 IS digital camera by making it simple, quick and convenient to produce high-quality photos without the need for a personal computer. Beyond its Direct Print capability with Canon's Card Photo Printers and acclaimed Canon Direct Photo Printers, the camera is also compatible with PictBridge, an industry protocol that offers the flexibility of direct printing to other brands of PictBridge compatible printers.

The PowerShot S1 IS digital camera supports Exif Print, a worldwide standard that transfers important camera settings and data from the camera to the printer ensuring the photos you print will look true to life. Moreover, DPOF 1.1 (Digital Print Order Format) lets users specify the images to be printed or execute batch printing of selected images.

In stores April, the Canon PowerShot S1 IS digital camera kit includes two dedicated software CDs, four AA Alkaline batteries, a neckstrap, a lens cap, USB and AV cables and a 32MB CompactFlash card as well as printed manuals and a Canon USA limited warranty card. The estimated street price will be *$499.00.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #39 on the Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2003, with global revenues of $24.5 billion. Canon U.S.A. employs more than 10,000 people at over 30 locations. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
###

DIGIC is a trademark of Canon Inc.
PictBridge is a trademark.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
* Estimated Selling Price: Actual prices set by dealer are subject to change.

Pre order your Powershot S1 today - $100 off!

Canon Powershot Pro 1

Pre Order your Powershot Pro 1 Today - $100 off!

The PowerShot Pro 1 has an 8.0 megapixel sensor and produces images 3264 x 2448 pixels. It has a 7x optical zoom L-series (professional) lens (equivalent to a 28-200mm).

It has shutter speeds from 15 - 1/4000 second, a built in flash and hotshoe for an external plash. It shoots in movie mode up to 640 x 480 pixels.

The Canon PowerShot Pro 1 is expected to be on sale in April and will cost of $999 (US).

More News and Reviews (as they come in) on the Canon Powershot Pro 1:
- DP Review - Powershot Pro 1
- Imaging Resource - Canon Powershot Pro 1
- Canon Powershot Pro 1
- DP Review - Canon Powershot Pro 1
- Index Digicam - Powershot Pro 1 Review
- DP Now - Hands on Review - Powershot Pro 1
- Powershot Pro 1
- Steve's Digicams - Powershot Pro 1
- Canon Powershot Pro 1 - Picture Samples
- Canon Powershot Pro1 - More Picture Samples
- DCRP - Canon Powershot Pro 1 Review
- Powershot Pro 1 Image Samples

See picture samples of this camera in comparison to other 8 megapixel cameras at DCRP.

Pre Order your Powershot Pro 1 Today - $100 off!

Following is the Press Release from Canon releasing the Powershot Pro 1.

Press Release

CANON'S LINE-LEADING EIGHT MEGAPIXEL POWERSHOT Pro1 DIGITAL CAMERA PREMIERES WITH A FAST 28 - 200mm L-SERIES LENS

LAS VEGAS (PMA, BOOTH # E11), Feb. 9, 2004 - Canon today unfurled the new top-of-the-line PowerShot digital camera, the new PowerShot Pro1 digital camera. Designed for discerning digital shooters, advanced amateurs and other photo enthusiasts seeking a versatile, high-resolution digital camera in a streamlined easy-to- use package, the PowerShot Pro1 digital camera offers the top-tier shooting options previously found only with digital SLRs and the optical excellence found only before with interchangeable SLR lenses.

"With the PowerShot Pro1 digital camera, we have successfully merged many of the most sought-after, high-quality SLR features into an all-in-one digital camera," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). "With the optical brilliance of its L-series 28-200mm lens, the eight megapixel CCD imaging sensor, and its compact size, the Canon PowerShot Pro1 model is feature-packed and provides the ultimate combination of professional features and simplicity in a digital camera."

Imaging Excellence
The eight megapixel, 2/3" size CCD imaging sensor provides the highest resolution - 3264 x 2448 pixels - of any PowerShot camera to date and is capable of generating file sizes of approximately 23MB when images are opened in image management programs such as Canon's ZoomBrowser EX. The camera's L-series 28-200mm equivalent f/2.4-3.5 7x zoom lens is among the fastest in its class and utilizes an Ultrasonic Motor for high-speed zooming operation (which can be activated at the twist of a ring on the lens).

Lens Leadership
As the world's leading lens manufacturer, Canon earns its legendary reputation day in and day out among professional photographers who depend on their EOS cameras and EF lenses to produce powerful images with outstanding sharpness, contrast and color fidelity. Within the EF lens line-up, Canon reserves the "L-series" designation for the very best quality in terms of optical as well as mechanical design.

The PowerShot Pro1 features the first L-series lens ever incorporated into a compact digital camera: a 28-200mm (35mm format equivalent) f/2.4-3.5, 7x optical zoom that produces unsurpassed image quality to match the Pro1's high-resolution eight megapixel CCD sensor. The 14-element lens features two aspherical elements, two UD-glass elements and significantly, one Fluorite crystal element (the first use of Fluorite in any compact digital camera lens). Canon's addition of Fluorite crystal and UD glass to the lens construction reduces the level of anomalous dispersion - chromatic aberration in photo parlance -- compared to conventional optical glass, while the aspherical elements correct spherical aberration and allow the overall size and weight of the lens to be reduced. In short, the Fluorite and UD elements improve sharpness and color fidelity while the aspherical elements improve image quality and allow the lens construction to be more compact than comparable conventional zoom lenses.

The macro capabilities of the L-series 28-200mm lens allow for close focusing to 3.9 inches at full resolution while the "super macro mode" permits close-focus to 1.2 inches (at a moderately reduced five megapixel resolution). In addition to its 7x optical zoom, the PowerShot Pro1 digital camera also features a 3.2x digital zoom. For those seeking added lens flexibility and range, the camera accepts optional accessory converter lenses (attached with an optional conversion lens adapter) including a Tele Converter Lens that extends the range of the zoom to a maximum of 300mm, and the 58mm 500D Close-up lens. The camera's intuitive design features a menu-operated converter function that drives these converter lenses to their appropriate settings.

Photo-To-Go…Anywhere
The PowerShot Pro1 digital camera's rugged metal body with its professional black finish, large comfortable rubberized grip and strategically placed controls clustered on the right hand side contribute to its go-anywhere, shoot anything versatility. What's more the camera features a sharp, clear, easy-to-read, high-resolution 235,000 pixel 2.0-inch LCD monitor with full tilt and 2700 swivel capability. Similarly, the camera's eye level electronic viewfinder is also 235,000 pixels (the highest resolution ever in any PowerShot viewfinder) and features a new power-saving "Display Off" mode that turns off the viewfinder or the monitor after a user-set time.

Fast Focus & Pro Features
Canon's new "hybrid" high-speed autofocus system for the PowerShot Pro1 digital camera uses both TTL contrast-detection AF (like other PowerShot cameras) and external "triangulation" AF (like high-end 35mm SureShot cameras) for fast, accurate focus assessments. The system also provides the option of Center-point AF or a moveable "FlexiZone" AF/AE system.

The camera offers an array of other features similar to those found on EOS digital SLRs including a mode dial with settings of P, Tv, Av, M, as well as a pair of user-adjustable Custom modes and fully automatic modes for Portraits, Landscapes, Night Scenes, Stitch Assist (panoramas) and Movies. The shutter speeds range from 15 seconds to 1/4000, the fastest ever in a PowerShot camera. Users can opt for RAW or JPEG recording formats as well as standard sRGB or Adobe RGB color space depending on personal preference, and have the added flexibility of Image Quality Adjustment settings for contrast, sharpness and saturation. In addition to the on-board flash, the PowerShot Pro1 is compatible with all EX-series Canon Speedlites and Macro Lites and permits flash exposure compensation of up to +/- 2 stops. In addition to all of these options, the new camera contains a wealth of other useful features that are similar in concept and variety to those found on the current PowerShot G5 model.

High-Resolution Movie Mode and Sound Memos
Adding to the PowerShot Pro1 digital camera's versatility is a high-resolution movie mode that captures 640 x 480 movies with sound at 15 frames per second for up to 30 seconds per clip. Users can also opt for lower res movie capture with sound - at either 320 x 240 or 160 x 120 - for movie clips of up to three minutes. Still photos can be annotated with sound clips up to 60 seconds in duration. The PowerShot Pro1 has a single slot for removable CompactFlash memory cards, Type I or II including Microdrives, and features USB connectivity, as well as, an A/V port for playback through a connected VCR or TV monitor.

The DIGIC Difference
Canon developed the proprietary DIGIC (Digital Imaging Integrated Circuit) image processor specifically for use with its line of digital cameras. The technology combines the jobs of image processing and camera function control into one chip. Because it was specifically designed for use in digital cameras, it is also capable of handling JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control and processing; gain control (control of CCD signal amplification); Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most other functions of the camera. The result is a product that offers faster and more powerful auto focus than ever before, faster image processing, better image quality and longer battery life.

Direct Printing Plus
Direct Printing significantly expands the appeal of the PowerShot Pro1 digital camera by making it simple, quick and convenient to produce high-quality photos without the need for a personal computer. Beyond its Direct Print capability with Canon's Card Photo Printers and acclaimed Canon Direct Photo Printers, the camera is also compatible with PictBridge, an industry-standard protocol that offers the flexibility of direct printing to other brands of compatible printers.

The PowerShot Pro1 digital camera supports Exif Print, a worldwide standard that transfers important camera settings and data from the camera to the printer ensuring the photos you print will look true to life. Moreover, DPOF 1.1 (Digital Print Order Format) lets users specify the images to be printed or execute batch printing of selected images.

In stores April, the Canon PowerShot Pro1 kit includes two dedicated software CDs, a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack and charger, a wireless remote controller, a lens hood and 58mm filter adapter, a neckstrap, USB and AV cables and a 64MB CompactFlash card, as well as, printed manuals and a Canon USA limited warranty card. The estimated street price will be $999.00.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #39 on the Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2003, with global revenues of $24.5 billion. Canon U.S.A. employs more than 10,000 people at over 30 locations. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.

Pre Order your Powershot Pro 1 Today - $100 off!

Advertise at Digital Photography Blog

Updated 26 February 2004

Digital Photography Blog is one of the fastest growing Digital Photography websites on the internet. Since launching in September 2003, the site has built a substantial readership from around the Globe. Current site statistics show that the site is read by over 1800 unique visitors per day - each viewing more than two pages. In the last week we have had over 23,000 impressions.

These numbers are on the increase as can be seen on this diagram (click to enlarge) showing current statistics for the page as of 29 February 2004.

95% of visitors are referred to the Digital Photography Blog from Search Engines such as Google. Most visitors are referred by Search Engines having searched for information and prices on specific Digital Cameras or accessories.

Current advertising* proves that a growing number of visitors are looking to (and do) purchase photography equipment through following advertisements from this site.

If you have a service or product that is related to the Digital Photographic industry the Digital Photography Blog is ideally placed to serve you by promoting your business.

Contact Darren to arrange for a personalized quote on an advertising package tailored to suit your individual needs. Our rates are reasonable and our service is personal. Sign up now to take advantage of some competitively priced introductory packages.

Digital Photography Blog has over 300 articles, reviews and posts on a wide variety of topics and digital cameras. New articles are posted daily as cameras are released.

Digital Photography Blog rates highly on Google for many search terms. including some of the following top 10 ratings (note - these are random selctions from the last hours hits and just a sample of the types of referrals that we have hourly - note that google rankings do change over time).

from google.com
- powershot S1 IS - Ranked 1st and 2nd
- coolpix 8700 +review - Ranked 3rd
- Canon SD10 - 1st
- FinePix S3 - Ranked 4th
- Canon Powershot A75 - 1st
- olympus C-760 camera - 1st
- Canon Powershot Pro 1 - 1st and 2nd
- hp 733 digital camera - 1st
- minolta dimage a2 - 1st
- Digital Camera Trends - 1st and 2nd
- digital photo booths - 3rd
- olympus e1 reviews - 6th

From google.com.au (Australian Google)
- buy Minolta Dimage A1 - 1st
- Digital Camera Review - Ranked 3rd and 4th
- Sony digital Cameras - 2nd
- Digital Camera - Ranked 6th
- digital cameras buyers guide - 5th and 6th
- minolta camera - 3rd and 4th
- fujifilm finepix f700 - 2nd and 3rd
- digital cameras buying - 1st and 2nd
- fujifilm a310 - 2nd and 3rd
- Kodak EasyShare DX6490 - 1st

Contact Darren for more details.

* Please enquire for Amazon Affiliate sales information.

Making Money with your Digital Camera

Making Money with your Digital Camera is an interesting that talks about how to pay off your digital camera purchase by earning money with it.

'I know that many digital camera users are interested in ways they can turn their interest in digital imaging into cash. There are many kinds of event photography that only require the delivery of small color prints. It may be a company golf tournament, awards presentation at an annual meeting, or couples photographed at the company party.'

Read More of how to do it

SimpleTech 8 GB Type II CompactFlash

Today SimpleTech announced the highest capacity CompactFlash Card. It is an 8 GB Type II card - yes that is 8 GB! Simple Tech also announced 2, 4 and 5 Type I cards. Production of the cards is anticipated during the second quarter of 2004.

Following is a press release from Simple Tech.

Press Release:
SimpleTech Announces Industry's Highest Capacity 8 GB CompactFlash Card With 10MB/sec Write Speed

New 8 GB Card Utilizes Company's Patented IC Tower Stacking Technology
SANTA ANA, Calif., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SimpleTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: STEC), a designer, manufacturer and marketer of custom and open-standard memory solutions based on Flash memory and DRAM technologies, today announced the industry's highest capacity CompactFlash with an 8 GB Type II card using the Company's patented stacking technology. The Company also announced 2, 4 and 5 GB Type I cards and a significant increase to the write speed of its entire ProX line of CompactFlash cards. The products will be unveiled at the PMA (Photo Marketing Association) trade show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from February 12-15, 2004. SimpleTech will exhibit in booth N-64.

"We combined the latest silicon with our patented IC Tower stacking technology and produced the highest density CompactFlash card available in the world," said Ken Roberts, director of product marketing at SimpleTech. "This card also uses a high speed controller with 10 MB/sec write speed -- the fastest on the market today."

SimpleTech's IC Tower(TM) stacking technology allows multiple NAND Flash components to be stacked together to provide increased memory and storage densities that provide enhanced capacity in its 5 mm Type II cards.

Delivering a breakthrough write speed of up to 10MB/second, SimpleTech's ProX CompactFlash cards enable images to be saved faster to the CompactFlash card and significantly reduces the wait time between digital photography shots.

ProX CompactFlash cards incorporate Xcell(TM) technology, with a new advanced controller that provides an exponential increase in throughput for writing the picture file, delivering fast, accurate recording of high-resolution images and outstanding reliability.

SimpleTech customers are offered a free trial of PhotoRescue software. Customers can download the photo recovery software onto their computer, and either insert the Flash card into a reader, or dock their camera, and view thumbnail images of their pictures. If one of the images on the card is corrupted, the rescue software allows the image to be recovered.

All SimpleTech CompactFlash cards come with a lifetime warranty backed by SimpleTech's reputation for quality and support.

Pricing and Availability
Manufacturers suggested retail pricing for ProX CompactFlash cards ranges from $89.99 to $5,999 to meet budget and performance requirements. Samples of the new ProX CompactFlash Type I cards in 2, 4 and 5 GB capacities and the 8 GB type II cards are expected to ship during the first quarter of 2004, with production anticipated during the second quarter of 2004.

Canon Powershot A310

The Powershot A310 will be priced at $199 (US).

For more information and reviews on the Canon Powershot A310 check out:
- DP Review - Canon Powershot A310
- Imaging Resource - Powershot A310

Following is the press release from Canon announcing the A310.

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases its new entry-level digital camera, the 3.2 Megapixel PowerShot A310. With a new Print/Share button and extended print functionality, the camera replaces the PowerShot A300. Although targeted at consumers looking for an easy-to-use camera, many features found in Canon's high-end cameras have been included to ensure image quality and flexibility is maintained. These include Canon's highly responsive and award winning dedicated DIGIC processor for superb colour rendering and high image quality, a 5.1x digital zoom, movie clips and 5-point AiAF auto-focus with 5cm macro close-up.

Simplified Printing and Uploading
The PowerShot A310 is one of a number of digital cameras announced today by Canon to feature Canon's new Print/Share button for single step printing and file sharing. When the camera is connected via USB cable to any PictBridge or Direct Print compatible photo printer or Windows PC, a blue light on the Print/Share button switches on to indicate successful connection. Pushing the button when lit instigates a print of the currently displayed image (based on the connected printer's default settings) or an automatic transfer of images to the PC . The camera transfers all images, all images not yet transferred, or all images marked for transfer, depending on the user setting selected in the Camera's set up options.

Latest features
The movie recording function has been extended to allow recording of VGA movie clips of up to 30 seconds. Up to 3 minute movie clips can be recorded in QVGA and QQVGA modes. All movie clips can be cut and edited in-camera. The PowerShot A310 also brings a new look to the PowerShot range, with a gold 'Chardonnay' finish sliding lens cover, plus an embossed and ground name logo. Free membership is included to Canon's online CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, with 100 Megabytes of free storage space for online album storing and sharing.

Purpose built processor
Built into the PowerShot A310 is Canon's DIGIC processor, the dedicated image processor now found in all Canon digital cameras up to the EOS 10D Digital SLR. By integrating all image processing algorithms onto a single chip, the purpose-built DIGIC processor has underpinned much of Canon's success in the digital camera market by delivering fast write times, minimal shutter lag, optimal image definition and consistently precise and natural colour reproduction.

Expanded direct printing functions
The PowerShot A310 has been given extended PC-less direct printing functionality. When connected to a Canon Compact Photo printer, a Movie Print mode divides the selected clip into equal parts and prints thumbnails of a maximum 63 equally spaced frames onto a single sheet of Postcard Size Paper (100 x 148 mm); ideal for freezing action sequences such as a golf swing. An ID Photo Print function prints a number of durable passport photograph size images (of selected height and width) to a single sheet.

Software
Software supplied includes browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) and ImageBrowser (Mac). Other software includes PhotoStitch, plus photo and movie manipulation software ArcSoft PhotoStudio and VideoImpression. Drivers include TWAIN (Windows 98/2000) and WIA (Windows Me). Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) support allows the camera to connect to any Windows XP and Mac OS X (v10.1/v10.2) system without the requirement for a driver installation.

Canon Powershot A75

Pre Order your Powershot A75 now - $100 off!

The Powershot A75 has a 3x Optical Zoom, and 3.2 megapixel CCD sensor (as does the A70) but it also comes with a new features including 'direct print' button and 'special scene' mode (which has 6 new modes within it including 'fireworks', 'underwater', 'foliage', 'beach', 'snow' and 'indoor').

The A75 will be priced at $299 in the US and €329 in Europe.

Get more information and reviews on the A75 at:
- DP Review - Powershot A75

Pre Order your Powershot A75 now - $100 off!

Following is the Press Release from Canon announcing the A75.

Press Release
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the release of its new range-opening zoom lens digital camera, the 3.2 Megapixel PowerShot A75. The camera has a number of new features including a 'Special Scene Mode' to deliver optimal results in tricky lighting conditions and a Print/Share button to simplify direct printing and uploading to Windows PCs.

Shooting modes
The PowerShot A75 has 13 shooting modes, which include a new 'Special Scene' mode. Within the 'Special Scene' mode are six selectable pre-sets that optimise the camera's white balance, exposure and other settings for specific shooting situations. These scene modes are 'fireworks', 'foliage', 'beach', 'snow', 'underwater' and 'indoor'. Movie clips of up to 3 minutes (QVGA/QQVGA) or 30 second (VGA) can be recorded, complete with sound and with the option to cut and edit in-camera.

Fast auto-focus
The 9-point AiAF is capable of focusing the 3x optical zoom quickly even when the subject is off-centre and can be switched to single point (centre) AF. An auto-assist beam helps to focus in low light conditions and the camera has a 5cm closest focusing distance. The flash can be synchronised to a slow shutter speed and includes red-eye reduction. With the monitor turned off, 2.2 shots per second shooting speed can be maintained for a 12 shot burst at Large/Fine resolution.

Latest to include DIGIC processor
The PowerShot A75 features the same dedicated DIGIC processor now featured in all Canon cameras up the EOS 10D Digital SLR and professional series PowerShot Pro1, taking advantage of the same processing speed and award winning image processing algorithms. An Intelligent Orientation sensor detects the orientation of the camera as shots are taken, automatically rotating the image before playback.

Direct Printing made easy
The camera features Canon's new Print/Share button, which lights up when a successful connection is made between the camera's USB port and a compatible printer or Windows PC. Pushing the button when lit will initiate a print of the currently displayed image (based on the default PictBridge or Direct Printer settings of the printer) or an automatic transfer of images to the PC . The camera will transfer all images, all images not yet transferred, or all images marked for transfer, depending on what user settings have been selected in the Camera's set up options.

Extended direct printing functions
The PowerShot A75 has also been given extended PC-less direct printing functionality. When connected to a Canon Compact Photo printer, a ’Movie Print’ mode divides the selected movie clip into equal parts and prints up to 63 equally spaced thumbnail frames onto a single sheet of Postcard Size Paper (100 x 148 mm). This feature is ideal for analysing a golf swing or tennis serve, or 'freezing' an action sequence. An ‘ID Photo Print’ function prints a number of durable passport photo size images (of selected height and width) to a single sheet. The camera can be used for direct printing to any PictBridge compatible printer, regardless of brand.

Accessories
A range of accessories is available, including wide and tele-converter lenses, a close up lens and a waterproof case offering underwater protection up to a depth of 40m and defence against dust, sand and snow. The camera comes supplied with a 32MB high-speed type CompactFlash (CF) card.

Software and access to CANON iMAGE GATEWAY
Software supplied includes browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) and ImageBrowser (Mac). Other software includes PhotoStitch, plus photo and movie manipulation software ArcSoft PhotoStudio and VideoImpression. Drivers include TWAIN (Windows 98/2000) and WIA (Windows Me). Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) support allows the camera to connect to any Windows XP and Mac OS X (v10.1/v10.2) system without the requirement for a driver installation.

Camera ownership entitles the purchaser to 100MB free storage space on the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, a form of private online gallery where albums can be stored and shared and where the camera's settings (such as shutter sounds and start up image) can be personalised.

Canon PowerShot S500 Digital ELPH (IXUS 500)

Pre Order your Powershot S500 now - $100 off!

It also has a 3x optical zoom lens (f/2.8-4.0) which features a seven-element design and macro capable of shooting as close as 2 inches. The 1.5 inch LCD is capable of zooming 10x in playback mode.

The S500's continuous burst mode captures images at up to 2.2 frames per second at full resolution. It shoots at shutter speeds as fast as 1/2000 of a second.

The Powershot S500's dimensions are 3.4 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches and it weights 6.5 ounces.

Steve's Digicams Review of the S500 rates the camera highly saying:

'The S500 is a perfect choice for anyone who needs or wants a very compact and highly durable camera. Canon was the first to make these small but fully functional digicams and continues to improve them with each new generation.  The S500 makes an excellent camera for tourist, buisness users, and extreme sports enthusiasts. If your vacation is at the beach or in the tropics you might want to consider purchasing the underwater case, it's rated for 130 feet depths. The u/w case also allows the camera to be used safely in any weather condition. Because the S500 fits in almost any size pocket, it will always be ready to capture those all-important shots.'

More details and specs on the Canon Powershot S500 Digital ELPH (IXUS 500) can be found at:
- Steve's Digicams - Canon PowerShot S500 Digital ELPH REVIEW
- Imaging Resource - Canon Powershot SD500 (IXUS 500)
- DP Review - Powershot S500 Digital ELPH (IXUS 500)
- Newstream - New ELPH/IXUS Models
- DC Resource - Canon Powershot S500
- Danish Review of S500

Pre Order your Powershot S500 now - $100 off!

Following is a press release announcing the arrival of the Canon Powershot S500 Digital ELPH and two other Digital ELPHs.

Press Release
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the release of three new Digital IXUS cameras. This takes to a total of 30 the number of IXUS models released since 1996.

The range release includes a new flagship of the Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500. The 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 replaces the previous top of the line Digital IXUS 400, while the 3.2 Megapixel Digital IXUS IIs takes over from the popular Digital IXUS II.

Launched to popular and critical acclaim in May 1996, the original stainless steel IXUS APS camera triggered an avalanche success. Canon has stuck with IXUS ever since, never straying from the IXUS philosophy of simplicity and beauty that feels great in the hands. Released in May 2000, the first Digital IXUS marked the beginning of a string of successes for Canon in the style-conscious digital compact segment.

"This new range celebrates eight stylish IXUS years," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "Unmistakably IXUS, these new cameras bring together uncompromising build quality and an abundance of relevant technologies in a triumph of miniaturisation and design".

All metal bodies
Still referenced in the new digital models is original IXUS creator Yasushi Shiotani's distinctive 'box and circle' design, now copied unashamedly by many other camera manufacturers. All three new cameras are protected with superbly finished stainless steel bodies with the traditional silky IXUS feel. The new 'Silver White' finish of the Digital IXUS IIs is so called since it contains traces of silver, while a distinguishing gold ring circling the lens barrel of the Digital IXUS 500 sets it apart from other models.

Image capture
Images taken with the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500 and 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 can be printed up to A3 size without image quality degradation. Both the Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS 430 include a 3.0x optical zoom, with the Digital IXUS IIs featuring 2.0 optical zoom. Optical zoom ensures the full sensor size is employed when closing in on a subject, so pictures taken with the zoom do not suffer from image degradation. All cameras feature 9-point Artificial Intelligence Auto Focus (AiAF) for fast and sharp images, even with off-centre subjects.

Superb images, no waiting
Each of the three models feature the same dedicated DIGIC processor now installed across all Canon cameras up to the EOS 10D Digital SLR and professional series PowerShot Pro1. DIGIC delivers superb colour rendering and image quality, handling all the complex algorithms required to make colours brighter, images sharper and focusing crisper. It does this with unrivalled speed and efficiency, making for highly responsive cameras and eliminating the phenomena of staring at the back of the camera waiting for an image to display. iSAPS technology uses camera settings and environmental data to predict the most likely scene and makes adjustments accordingly.

Moving pictures
Each camera features 3-minute QVGA or QQVGA movie clips with sound recording, full playback and in-camera cutting and editing. Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS IIs can also capture high-resolution VGA movie clip up to 30 seconds at single recording. When connected to any Canon compact photo printer, all models include 'Movie Print' mode. This extracts a succession of up to 63 individual and evenly spaced movie clip frames from any given movie clip and automatically prints them as thumbnails on a single sheet of postcard size paper (100 x 148 mm). This is ideal for freezing and analysing or admiring action sequences such as a golf swing. An “ID Photo Print” function prints a number of durable passport photograph size images (of selectable height and width) to a single sheet.

Simple photo printing and PC connection
The cameras all include Canon's new Print/Share button. When connected via USB cable to any PictBridge or Direct Print compatible photo printer or Windows PC, a blue light on the Print/Share button switches on to indicate successful connection. Pushing the button when lit instigates a print of the currently displayed image (based on the connected printer's default settings) or an automatic transfer of images to the PC . The camera transfers all images, all images not yet transferred, or all images marked for transfer, depending on the user setting selected in the camera's set up options.

No fuss online sharing
All new IXUS cameras come with a full membership to CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, a personal online photo gallery with 100MB of free online space for storing and sharing favourite albums. CANON iMAGE GATEWAY can also be used to personalise your camera with start-up image and sound-effect downloads.

Options to shoot anywhere
For diving, surfing and skiing, optional waterproof cases are available, giving the cameras full protection to a depth of 40 metres. Optional car battery adaptors are available for the Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS 430, while extra power adaptors and optional soft cases are available for all models.

Software
Software supplied includes browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) and ImageBrowser (Mac). Other software includes PhotoStitch, plus photo and movie manipulation software ArcSoft PhotoStudio and VideoImpression. Drivers include TWAIN (Windows 98/2000) and WIA (Windows Me). Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) support allows the camera to connect to any Windows XP and Mac OS X (v10.1/v10.2) system without the requirement for a driver installation.

The Canon PowerShot S410 Digital ELPH (IXUS 430)

Order your Canon Powershot S410 today at Amazon for up to $100 off!

It has been highly rated by a number of reviewers including Steve's Digicams who writes:

'The Powershot S410 is perfect for anyone who wants or needs a very portable and extremely durable camera. Canon started the whole mini-camera revolution many years ago and they just keep getting better and better.  It's a great choice for vacationers as you can just toss it in your luggage without worrying about it getting damaged. If you're going to the tropics you might want to consider purchasing the underwater case, it's rated for 130 feet depths. The S410 is a great addition to Canon's Digital ELPH line.'

More details and reviews on the Canon Powershot S410 can be found at:
- Steve's Digicams - Powershot S410
- Imaging Resource - Canon Powershot S410 (IXUS 430)
- DP Review - Powershot S410 Digital ELPH (IXUS 430)
- Newstream - New ELPH/IXUS Models

Order your Canon Powershot S410 today at Amazon for up to $100 off!

Following is a press release announcing the arrival of the Canon Powershot S410 Digital ELPH and two other Digital ELPHs.

Press Release
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the release of three new Digital IXUS cameras. This takes to a total of 30 the number of IXUS models released since 1996.

The range release includes a new flagship of the Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500. The 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 replaces the previous top of the line Digital IXUS 400, while the 3.2 Megapixel Digital IXUS IIs takes over from the popular Digital IXUS II.

Launched to popular and critical acclaim in May 1996, the original stainless steel IXUS APS camera triggered an avalanche success. Canon has stuck with IXUS ever since, never straying from the IXUS philosophy of simplicity and beauty that feels great in the hands. Released in May 2000, the first Digital IXUS marked the beginning of a string of successes for Canon in the style-conscious digital compact segment.

"This new range celebrates eight stylish IXUS years," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "Unmistakably IXUS, these new cameras bring together uncompromising build quality and an abundance of relevant technologies in a triumph of miniaturisation and design".

All metal bodies
Still referenced in the new digital models is original IXUS creator Yasushi Shiotani's distinctive 'box and circle' design, now copied unashamedly by many other camera manufacturers. All three new cameras are protected with superbly finished stainless steel bodies with the traditional silky IXUS feel. The new 'Silver White' finish of the Digital IXUS IIs is so called since it contains traces of silver, while a distinguishing gold ring circling the lens barrel of the Digital IXUS 500 sets it apart from other models.

Image capture
Images taken with the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500 and 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 can be printed up to A3 size without image quality degradation. Both the Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS 430 include a 3.0x optical zoom, with the Digital IXUS IIs featuring 2.0 optical zoom. Optical zoom ensures the full sensor size is employed when closing in on a subject, so pictures taken with the zoom do not suffer from image degradation. All cameras feature 9-point Artificial Intelligence Auto Focus (AiAF) for fast and sharp images, even with off-centre subjects.

Superb images, no waiting
Each of the three models feature the same dedicated DIGIC processor now installed across all Canon cameras up to the EOS 10D Digital SLR and professional series PowerShot Pro1. DIGIC delivers superb colour rendering and image quality, handling all the complex algorithms required to make colours brighter, images sharper and focusing crisper. It does this with unrivalled speed and efficiency, making for highly responsive cameras and eliminating the phenomena of staring at the back of the camera waiting for an image to display. iSAPS technology uses camera settings and environmental data to predict the most likely scene and makes adjustments accordingly.

Moving pictures
Each camera features 3-minute QVGA or QQVGA movie clips with sound recording, full playback and in-camera cutting and editing. Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS IIs can also capture high-resolution VGA movie clip up to 30 seconds at single recording. When connected to any Canon compact photo printer, all models include 'Movie Print' mode. This extracts a succession of up to 63 individual and evenly spaced movie clip frames from any given movie clip and automatically prints them as thumbnails on a single sheet of postcard size paper (100 x 148 mm). This is ideal for freezing and analysing or admiring action sequences such as a golf swing. An “ID Photo Print” function prints a number of durable passport photograph size images (of selectable height and width) to a single sheet.

Simple photo printing and PC connection
The cameras all include Canon's new Print/Share button. When connected via USB cable to any PictBridge or Direct Print compatible photo printer or Windows PC, a blue light on the Print/Share button switches on to indicate successful connection. Pushing the button when lit instigates a print of the currently displayed image (based on the connected printer's default settings) or an automatic transfer of images to the PC . The camera transfers all images, all images not yet transferred, or all images marked for transfer, depending on the user setting selected in the camera's set up options.

No fuss online sharing
All new IXUS cameras come with a full membership to CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, a personal online photo gallery with 100MB of free online space for storing and sharing favourite albums. CANON iMAGE GATEWAY can also be used to personalise your camera with start-up image and sound-effect downloads.

Options to shoot anywhere
For diving, surfing and skiing, optional waterproof cases are available, giving the cameras full protection to a depth of 40 metres. Optional car battery adaptors are available for the Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS 430, while extra power adaptors and optional soft cases are available for all models.

Software
Software supplied includes browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) and ImageBrowser (Mac). Other software includes PhotoStitch, plus photo and movie manipulation software ArcSoft PhotoStudio and VideoImpression. Drivers include TWAIN (Windows 98/2000) and WIA (Windows Me). Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) support allows the camera to connect to any Windows XP and Mac OS X (v10.1/v10.2) system without the requirement for a driver installation.

Canon PowerShot SD110 Digital ELPH (Digital IXUS IIs)

More details and specs on the Canon Powershot SD110 can be found at:
- Imaging Resource - Canon Powershot SD110
- DP Review
- Newstream - New ELPH/IXUS Models

Following is a press release announcing the arrival of the Canon Powershot SD110 Digital ELPH and two there Digital ELPHs.

Press Release
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 9 February, 2004. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the release of three new Digital IXUS cameras. This takes to a total of 30 the number of IXUS models released since 1996.

The range release includes a new flagship of the Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500. The 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 replaces the previous top of the line Digital IXUS 400, while the 3.2 Megapixel Digital IXUS IIs takes over from the popular Digital IXUS II.

Launched to popular and critical acclaim in May 1996, the original stainless steel IXUS APS camera triggered an avalanche success. Canon has stuck with IXUS ever since, never straying from the IXUS philosophy of simplicity and beauty that feels great in the hands. Released in May 2000, the first Digital IXUS marked the beginning of a string of successes for Canon in the style-conscious digital compact segment.

"This new range celebrates eight stylish IXUS years," said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. "Unmistakably IXUS, these new cameras bring together uncompromising build quality and an abundance of relevant technologies in a triumph of miniaturisation and design".

All metal bodies
Still referenced in the new digital models is original IXUS creator Yasushi Shiotani's distinctive 'box and circle' design, now copied unashamedly by many other camera manufacturers. All three new cameras are protected with superbly finished stainless steel bodies with the traditional silky IXUS feel. The new 'Silver White' finish of the Digital IXUS IIs is so called since it contains traces of silver, while a distinguishing gold ring circling the lens barrel of the Digital IXUS 500 sets it apart from other models.

Image capture
Images taken with the 5.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 500 and 4.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 430 can be printed up to A3 size without image quality degradation. Both the Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS 430 include a 3.0x optical zoom, with the Digital IXUS IIs featuring 2.0 optical zoom. Optical zoom ensures the full sensor size is employed when closing in on a subject, so pictures taken with the zoom do not suffer from image degradation. All cameras feature 9-point Artificial Intelligence Auto Focus (AiAF) for fast and sharp images, even with off-centre subjects.

Superb images, no waiting
Each of the three models feature the same dedicated DIGIC processor now installed across all Canon cameras up to the EOS 10D Digital SLR and professional series PowerShot Pro1. DIGIC delivers superb colour rendering and image quality, handling all the complex algorithms required to make colours brighter, images sharper and focusing crisper. It does this with unrivalled speed and efficiency, making for highly responsive cameras and eliminating the phenomena of staring at the back of the camera waiting for an image to display. iSAPS technology uses camera settings and environmental data to predict the most likely scene and makes adjustments accordingly.

Moving pictures
Each camera features 3-minute QVGA or QQVGA movie clips with sound recording, full playback and in-camera cutting and editing. Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS IIs can also capture high-resolution VGA movie clip up to 30 seconds at single recording. When connected to any Canon compact photo printer, all models include 'Movie Print' mode. This extracts a succession of up to 63 individual and evenly spaced movie clip frames from any given movie clip and automatically prints them as thumbnails on a single sheet of postcard size paper (100 x 148 mm). This is ideal for freezing and analysing or admiring action sequences such as a golf swing. An “ID Photo Print” function prints a number of durable passport photograph size images (of selectable height and width) to a single sheet.

Simple photo printing and PC connection
The cameras all include Canon's new Print/Share button. When connected via USB cable to any PictBridge or Direct Print compatible photo printer or Windows PC, a blue light on the Print/Share button switches on to indicate successful connection. Pushing the button when lit instigates a print of the currently displayed image (based on the connected printer's default settings) or an automatic transfer of images to the PC . The camera transfers all images, all images not yet transferred, or all images marked for transfer, depending on the user setting selected in the camera's set up options.

No fuss online sharing
All new IXUS cameras come with a full membership to CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, a personal online photo gallery with 100MB of free online space for storing and sharing favourite albums. CANON iMAGE GATEWAY can also be used to personalise your camera with start-up image and sound-effect downloads.

Options to shoot anywhere
For diving, surfing and skiing, optional waterproof cases are available, giving the cameras full protection to a depth of 40 metres. Optional car battery adaptors are available for the Digital IXUS 500 and Digital IXUS 430, while extra power adaptors and optional soft cases are available for all models.

Software
Software supplied includes browsing and printing software ZoomBrowser EX (Windows) and ImageBrowser (Mac). Other software includes PhotoStitch, plus photo and movie manipulation software ArcSoft PhotoStudio and VideoImpression. Drivers include TWAIN (Windows 98/2000) and WIA (Windows Me). Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) support allows the camera to connect to any Windows XP and Mac OS X (v10.1/v10.2) system without the requirement for a driver installation.

New Canon Digital ELPHs

3 New Digital ELPH (IXUS) cameras were launched today by Canon

Powershot SD110 Digital ELPH (IXUS IIS) - 3.2MP - 2x Optical Zoom

Powershot S410 (IXUS 430) - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom

Powershot S500 (IXUS 500) - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom

ImageWare PDI Studio v2.0

ImageWare Systems will reveal their PDI Studio v2.0 at PMA 2004 next week. Following is the press release announcing it.

Complete with advanced digital imaging, sales and client management functionality, ImageWare's PDI Studio v2.0 is the most efficient digital workflow solution on the market. Additional features include:

-- Complete Studio Management: create multiple studio databases; organize portfolio samples for marketing purposes; calendar new customer sitting and sessions

-- Enhanced Image Capture: ability to capture multiple images per sitting and session; work between folders of images simultaneously

-- Customizable Layout Creator: create customized image layouts, senior and family composites and other customized packages

-- Studio Tracking and Reporting: monitor sales and inventory with tracking and reporting functions such as client, sales, and employee tracking

"PDI Studio provides professional photographers with a simple, continuous customer and image management workflow solution from scheduling to production and billing," said Paul Devermann, SVP and general manager of ImageWare's PDI Group. "The latest release of PDI Studio will greatly simplify a studio's procedures."

PDI Studio is available immediately through ImageWare's authorized channel partners listed at www.iwsinc.com.

PAXcam Digital Microscope Camera

The PAXcam Digital Microscope Camera isn't necessarily the normal type of camera we feature at Digital Camera blog - but it is digital and it is a camera - so here goes.

'MIS, Inc. is proud to announce the introduction of PAXcam2, the second generation of the PAXcam Digital Microscope Camera that has been on the market since 2002. The PAXcam2 camera will be the first of a new family of cameras that will address different resolution requirements and applications in the years to come, all in a fully integrated package with PAX-it Image Database and Analysis software.

PAXcam uses a USB 2.0 interface which produces faster transfer rates than IEEE1394 Firewire or SCSI cameras. That means PAXcam provides a smooth real time display for image previewing on desktop monitors or laptops, while providing excellent high-quality and high-resolution images.'

Sharpen your Photos

Do you want to learn how to sharpen your digital images?

'Most of us upload our pictures or print them the way they were captured by our digital cameras. We read and hear of a post-processing technique called "Sharpening" using "USM" (or "UnSharp Mask") and decide it is just too difficult for us. If you are comfortable using a computer and can load an image into an image editing software, such as Photoshop Elements, then be prepared for a pleasant surprise!'

Read the rest of the Tutorial on sharpening your digital photos.

Foveon x530

The Foveon x530 from Polaroid has a 4.5 megapixel Foveon sensor chip (called the X3).

'This week Foveon will enter the mainstream market with a new camera priced at $399 that will be manufactured in China and marketed as the Polaroid x530 with Foveon technology.

The Foveon sensor chip, called the X3, is made using an industry standard semiconductor manufacturing process and has received good reviews for color fidelity and resolution. The chip is composed of millions of photo-detectors, each capable of capturing red, blue and green light. In contrast, most of today's digital cameras use a chip with individual color filters that correspond to each photoreceptor. Although the Foveon technology is generally thought to have advantages over the three-chip approach in image quality, cost, lower power consumption and adaptability to new photo and video applications, it has not been widely adopted. The challenge has been to compete with an older, more entrenched technology that is falling in cost.' (from the NY Times - see link below)

There is more info on the Foveon x530 at:
- ">NY Times - Foveon x530
- Photography Blog - New Foveon Compact from Polaroid
- Foveon Site
- DP Review - Foveon x530

Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nevada, February 11, 2004 – Foveon Inc., a technology leader in high-quality digital image capture products, announced today that a new Polaroid brand digital camera will incorporate the 4.5 megapixel Foveon X3 direct image sensor. The camera is the world’s first point-and-shoot digital camera to incorporate X3 technology. Foveon X3 direct image sensors are the only image sensors that directly capture color in three layers, just like color film. This results in richer colors, warmer tones, and sharper images than are available through traditional image sensors.

First introduced in 2002, the X3 image sensor has only been available in a professional class digital camera. Now with the introduction of the Polaroid x530, consumers are able to enjoy the many benefits of X3 technology in an affordable full-featured point-and-shoot digital camera. The Polaroid x530 is scheduled to ship to retailers in June 2004 with a suggested retail price of $399.

The Foveon technology enables the Polaroid x530 digital camera to produce superb 8” x 10” images – the largest print size that most consumers will print. The camera takes advantage of several key features of the X3 direct image sensor including X3F raw file format image capture, video clip capture at VGA resolution, and Foveon’s recently introduced X3 Fill Light software. The X3 Fill Light software tool digitally simulates the photographic method of "dodging and burning" adding extra light to shadow regions, while preserving highlight detail. It is a powerful method for simultaneously adjusting overexposed and underexposed areas of a digital image with a single simple control.

Foveon has received numerous technical awards and recognition including: Popular Science’s Best of What’s New Award, Time Magazine’s Best Inventions of the year, the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) award and the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) Award. The Polaroid brand x530 digital camera is made by World Wide License Ltd under exclusive license by Polaroid and distributed in the United States through Uniden America Corporation. Information about the Polaroid x530 digital camera can be found at www.polaroid-digital.com.

About Foveon and X3 Direct Image Sensors
Since its establishment in 1997, Foveon has focused on the development of image capture technologies and products for digital cameras. The company's X3 direct image sensors are the only image sensors that directly capture red, green, and blue light at every point in an image. The design of the X3 direct image sensor leverages the natural color separation property of silicon. When silicon is exposed to light, blue light is absorbed near the surface, green light is absorbed deeper, and red light is absorbed deepest within the silicon. In Foveon X3 direct image sensors, pixels are placed at these corresponding depths in the silicon to detect the red, green, and blue light that has been absorbed. This stacked-pixel design ensures that all of the color is captured at every point in an image.

In contrast, the traditional CCD and CMOS image sensors used in today’s digital cameras capture only one color per pixel location and must mathematically interpolate the two colors not detected. This interpolation process results in false colors, reduced color resolution and color artifacts.

Foveon X3 technology is highly scalable for a wide range of cameras including digital still/video cameras, PDAs, cell phones, security cameras and scientific cameras.

Buying Digital Cameras - More Advice

Here is yet another article with Advice about Buying Digital Cameras. I've take the headings and given you a summary of what they write (with a couple of my own digital camera buying tips). At the end check out some other great articles on the topic.

• Fun and sharing - Make sure you buy a digital camera that is easy to hook up to a computer and get photos out of. Consider the storage media on each and even buying a memory card reader.

• Megapixels - 4 to 6 Megapixels is getting to professional level. Unless you're going to be blowing up pictures very big 3 or 4 megapixels will do you nicely. If I had the choice between a 5 megapixel camera with average lens and other features or a well features 3 megapixel camera with a top quality zoom, I'd probably go for less megapixels.

• Shutter lag - The better digital cameras coming out these days have less and less shutter lag (time between when you depress the shutter and when the camera takes the picture.) Shutter lag is continually coming down in time and is becoming an important selling feature on mid range cameras as well as professional ones.

• Zoom range - The higher the range the closer you'll get to your subject. But make sure you look at the OPTICAL zoom specs and not take so much notice of the DIGITAL zoom specs. Digital zooming is something you can do after you take the picture and using it decreases the quality of your image.

• Exposure compensation - many cameras these days give you the option of tweaking exposure controls either by changing the ISO or using exposure compensation.

• White balance - Most digital cameras let you change the white balance control which basically lets you control how the camera deals with colors. It makes the white looks white and all the rest of the colors more accurately reproduced.

• Shooting modes - All digital cameras let you shoot on fully automatic mode, but most also give you some different models to let you take control. The standard modes include 'landscape', 'portrait', 'sports', 'macro' but newer cameras are coming out with modes like 'pet', 'party' and 'food'.

• Color modes - These modes let you change the color of your picture on the camera itself. Standard modes include 'sepia', 'black and white', 'saturated' etc. I would recommend that you shoot in full color and do such editing afterwards on your computer. To shoot in sepia or black and white cuts down your options later.

• Your budget - Budget for accessories also. Include enough for memory cards, batteries, printer peripheries etc.

Other Articles for Beginners about buying Digital Cameras
• A Beginner's Guide to Digital Cameras
• Its Time to Upgrade your Digital Camera
• How to Choose a Digicam
• Best Digital Cameras: Review on What to Look For in a Digital Camera
• Choosing a Camera
• Top 10 Digital Photography Mistakes
• Buying a Digital Camera for under $200
• Buying the Right Digital Camera
• Buying Digital Cameras

Will Today's Images Survive?

ABC News asks Amid Switch to Digital, Will Today’s Images Survive for Future Generations?

'But archivists have yet to find a way to save today's digital images for history, a way that will transcend the changes in technology and preserve the visual legacy of the 21st century for generations to come....

Remembering the digital age may not be so easy. Photos are becoming a series of electronic impulses captured for a moment on cards or discs. And there is no certainty that digital images will survive for future generations.'

iPhoto explained

A blog called 'Give you Joy' has this useful post about how to use iPhoto. As an iPhoto user I found it a helpful resource.

Canon Powershot S3

The Canon Powershot S3 is rumored to be among the new cameras from Canon - to be announced at the upcoming PMA conference. Details are sketchy on this camera's specifications. Stayed tuned to this page for further developments as they come in.

Source - Photography Blog

Update - to this point Canon are yet to release a Powershot S3 - instead they have released a number of other great cameras including the following:

Powershot Pro 1 - 8 Megapixels - 7x Optical Zoom

Powershot S1 IS - 3.2 Megapixels - 10x Optical Zoom

Powershot SD110 Digital ELPH (IXUS IIS) - 3.2MP - 2x Optical Zoom

Powershot S410 (IXUS 430) - 4MP - 3x Optical Zoom

Powershot S500 (IXUS 500) - 5MP - 3x Optical Zoom

Powershot A75 - 3.2MP - 3x Optical Zoom

Powershot A310 - - 3.2MP - Fixed Lens

Choosing a Digital Camera - Short Course

This Short Course in Choosing a Digital Camera is a great online course which covers a range of topics including:

1. What is a Digital Photograph?
2. Why Go Digital?
3. How a Digital Camera Works
4. Types of Digital Cameras
5. Image Sensors
6. Image Storage
7. Downloading Images
8. Image Compression & File Formats
9. Preview Screens & Viewfinders
10. Lenses
11. Creative Controls
12. Automatic Flash
13. Batteries
14. Other Features
15. Is it Time to Buy?
16. The Rules of the Shopping Game
17. Digital Camera Feature Checklist
18. Digital Photography Web Sites
19. Glossary

U.S. Air Force bans camera phones in restricted areas

Reiter's links to an interesting column that talks about how the US Air-force has banned camera phones in restricted areas of their bases.

Fujifilm FinePix A340 Zoom

Following is the Press Release from Fujifilm announcing the Fujifilm Finepix A340.

Stylish compact camera offers great value and impressive features with four megapixel resolution

5 February 2004 - Fujifilm today launches the FinePix A340 Zoom, a camera that marries Fujifilm's entry-level compact expertise with four megapixel resolution. The FinePix A340 Zoom represents extremely good news for those new to digital photography: high performance, sleek styling and complexity kept to a minimum.

The FinePix A340 Zoom has been developed with no-nonsense, enjoyable digital photography in mind. Offering 4 million effective pixel resolution, 3x optical zoom and a sturdy but stylish body, this camera forms a reliable base for shots that will satisfy every time.

Hugely efficient and simple to use, the FinePix A340 Zoom offers the user fully-automated settings to ensure sharp detail, faithful colour reproduction and accurate exposure. This, combined with low power consumption (operating on standard AA batteries) and compatibility with xD-Picture Card™ format (available up to 512 MB), makes the FinePix A340 Zoom an ideal option for newcomers who want a smooth transition into the world of digital photography.

In its quest for usability, the FinePix A340 Zoom offers every function to make image capture and viewing as simple as possible. Each of the camera's functions can be accessed via one-touch buttons positioned neatly alongside its 1.5" LCD monitor, and its Video Out socket enables users to view their images directly on a TV screen.

To ensure that successful images are always achieved, even in difficult photographic conditions, the FinePix A340 Zoom offers quick access to scene position modes including Portrait, Night, Sports and Landscape.

The camera is also compatible with PictBridge, the new industry standard for printing images directly from a digital camera without using a PC, making the print process simpler and more efficient than ever. Alternatively, users can take their xD-Picture Card™ into any photographic retailer offering digital photo printing and receive high quality, durable prints for framing or sharing.

FinePix A340 Zoom: features at a glance
- 4.0 million effective pixels

- Fujinon 3x optical zoom lens equivalent to 38 - 114mm on a 35mm camera

- One-touch, fully automatic operation, with easy navigation for beginners

- Fast start-up time of 3.3 seconds

- Highly efficient energy consumption: uses 2 x AA-type alkaline batteries (or rechargeable batteries)

- Movie recording capability up to 60 seconds (320 x 240 pixels) at 10 frames per second

- Video out for connection to a TV (NTSC/PAL)

- Self-timer

- USB digital interface

- PictBridge compatible, for direct PC-free printing

- Clear 1.5" LCD display

- xD-Picture Card ™ compatible (currently available up to 512MB)

- Optional PictureCradle for easy link to any PC/Mac if required

Adrian Clarke, Fujifilm's Director of Consumer Products, commented, "Fujifilm was making first-rate compact film cameras many years before digital imaging took off. Having proven our expertise with sensor and image processing, it would be fair to say that the FinePix A340 Zoom is a great example of how both areas have come together to create a highly desirable, affordable camera that will produce great photos for everyone."

Long lasting battery life
The FinePix A340 Zoom has been specifically developed to reduce power consumption. The two AA alkaline batteries supplied with the camera deliver an impressive 220 shots under normal conditions.* Ni-MH rechargeable batteries are also available as part of the Fujifilm accessories range for even better battery economy, providing approximately 110 additional images before charging is necessary.

* Pictures taken with LCD screen off, and flash on for half of the pictures taken

Availability & pricing
The FinePix A340 Zoom will be available in the UK from leading photographic retailers in April 2004. Pricing is yet to be decided.

Fujifilm FinePix A330 Zoom

Fujifilm S20 Pro

The above is a short extract from a great introduction to the Fujifilm S20 Pro by
Lets Go Digital.

Find following a press release from Fuji introducing the S20.

Press Release
5 February 2004 - Fujifilm today launches the FinePix S20 Pro, a powerful enthusiasts’ camera that raises digital image control to new heights.

Built to cater for the creatively-minded photographer, the FinePix S20 Pro is the second camera in the FinePix range to offer Fujifilm’s pioneering Super CCD SR technology, an award-winning development which underlines the importance of image quality as a whole, rather than pixel count alone.

With 6.2 million effective pixels (3.1 million S-pixels + 3.1 million R-pixels*), delivering 6.03 million recorded pixels, the camera’s excellence is built on more than just pixel power. The FinePix S20 Pro’s SR technology revolves around the use of paired photodiodes in place of a solitary pixel. These paired photodiodes combine to capture tonal detail missed by conventional single-pixel CCDs, particularly in low-light and high contrast scenes. The result is a camera that produces outstanding dynamic range, greater sensitivity and class-leading signal to noise ratio.

Furthermore, the FinePix S20 Pro’s CCD RAW mode offers photographers the chance to save full image data uncompressed, guaranteeing every element of the captured file is ready for careful out-of-camera manipulation. The camera is also supplied with Hyper Utility HS-V2, a new software tool that enables the user to fine-tune aspects of an image such as sharpness, colour balance, and crucially, the full extent of the camera’s impressive dynamic range.

Fitted with the acclaimed Super EBC Fujinon 6x optical zoom lens, Firewire and USB 2.0 connectivity, full-resolution sensitivity settings up to ISO 800 (ISO 1600 in 1,280 x 960 pixel mode) and a threaded cable release, the FinePix S20 Pro puts professional functionality into an enthusiast form. In addition, the options for external flash, via hot-shoe or PC sync socket, are a proven benefit for the studio or macro photographer.

While this camera may be uncompromising in its approach to image quality, the range of features and response speed ensure it remains natural to use. The FinePix S20 Pro’s manual modes enable you to exert creative control over aperture, focusing, shutter speed and flash whilst offering a VGA digital movie mode that records at 30 frames per second (fps), with sound.

FinePix S20 Pro Zoom: features at a glance

- Compact, SLR-style body shape to give you features and performance without bulk

- Fourth Generation Super CCD SR sensor with 6.2 million effective pixels (3.1 million S-pixels + 3.1 million R-pixels*), delivering 6.03 million recorded pixels

- RAW file format – data stored without processing, enabling complete fine-tuning of the image

- Super EBC Fujinon 6x optical zoom lens equivalent to 35 - 210mm on a 35mm camera

- Dual card format: xD-Picture Card™ and Microdrive™, for added storage flexibility

- Full manual control

- External flash option via PC sync socket or hot-shoe, where a more powerful flash is needed

- USB 2.0 and Firewire (IEEE 1394) connections, allowing rapid transfer of images from camera to PC

- VGA movie recording (30 fps) with sound, providing ultra-smooth results

- High sensitivity settings (up to ISO 1600) to allow photography in a wide range of situations, including low light without flash

- Live Video – enables the photographer to view the subject on a monitor without having to rely on the LCD display or Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

FinePix Viewer for Professionals – Fujifilm has tailored its FinePix Viewer image management software for professionals, enabling the photographer to change camera settings, and release the shutter, from a computer

In the UK, the FinePix S20 Pro is supplied with Hyper Utility HS-V2 software, allowing image data to be fine-tuned (including sharpness, colour balance, dynamic range)

Adrian Clarke, Fujifilm's Director of Consumer Products, commented, "The S20 Pro is for people who really know their photography. Super CCD SR technology is changing attitudes to digital photography – it’s no longer a case of just asking how many pixels there are.

“Think about how people look at a photograph. They don’t concentrate on tiny portions of the photographic image – they look at its colour, its contrast and overall impact. In this respect, the FinePix S20 Pro stands out – its increased dynamic range and lack of noise are certain to make it a winner among enthusiast photographers.”

Availability
The FinePix S20 Pro will be available in the UK from leading photographic retailers from April 2004. Box contents may vary by international territory. Pricing will be determined nearer to the date of retail launch.

* In accordance with CIPA regulations on pixel count.

FinePix S20 Pro versus FinePix S7000 Zoom
The FinePix S20 Pro has been introduced to sit alongside the FinePix S7000 in Fujifilm's high-end digital camera line-up. Which one suits which photographer? The output pixel count produced by the FinePix S7000 Zoom (4,048 x 3,040) lends itself to particularly big print enlargements. However, at print sizes up to A3, the improved dynamic range achieved by the FinePix S20 Pro will offer an edge over the FinePix S7000 Zoom, particularly with images taken in high contrast light conditions. Furthermore, the FinePix S20 Pro's PC sync socket will make this camera more attractive to the studio and macro flash user.

Super CCD SR sensor - High Fidelity Photography
Fujifilm's Super CCD SR provides a truer representation of the subject, retaining highlight detail and offering a four-fold increase in dynamic range. By using the innovative layout of paired photodiodes, the technology enables confident shooting in both bright and cloudy conditions, combats the bleached-out effect created by flash photography and increases exposure latitude - a great advantage in difficult lighting conditions.

The technology behind Super CCD SR
On a standard CCD, a single photodiode** is responsible for capturing the full range of light strengths at a single location on the sensor, whereas with Super CCD SR, two photodiodes capture information on the same area of the image. These are arranged in a double-honeycomb structure comprising a larger, primary photodiode adjusted for high sensitivity, with a secondary photodiode for lower sensitivity. When combined, they offer four times the dynamic range of conventional photodiodes. This advance in technology might be compared to the evolution of the audio speaker: in an attempt to improve performance, the addition of a secondary high sensitivity cone, or 'tweeter', radically improved range and sound quality.

** Photodiode: a single, light-sensing element on a sensor.

Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro

It has a 2 inch LCD screen and is powered by four AA batteries. More details will be published as they come in.

More specifications and reviews (as they come in) for the S3 can be found at:
- DP Review

Following is a press release for the Fujifilm FinePix S3

Press Release:

February 2004 - PMA, Las Vegas, USA*: This year will see the eagerly-anticipated launch of the FinePix S3 Pro –successor to Fujifilm’s critically-acclaimed FinePix S2 Pro digital SLR. Set to confirm Fujifilm’s status as one of the top three digital camera makers, this model has been conceived as the camera of choice for photographers who wish to achieve image quality worthy of Fujifilm’s professional film heritage.

This camera will be a breed apart from all other DSLRs because of its sensor and processor technology, without doubt the most important components within any digital camera. The FinePix S3 Pro's 4th Generation Super CCD SR sensor will use 6.17 million S-pixels and 6.17 million

R-pixels (12.3 million effective photodiodes) to deliver 12 million recorded pixels. The picture quality from this 23 x 15.5mm sensor will show noticeable image improvements to that of single-pixel cameras. The SR sensor's unique double photodiode design will produce images with a dynamic range four times greater than that of a sensor working on single-pixel technology. This dramatically broadens tonal capability, and guarantees exceptional rendition from bright highlights to deep shadows. It gives greater sensitivity, improved signal-to-noise ratio and consistently natural colour reproduction.

The camera is designed around the long-established Nikon F-mount, and will have two shutter release buttons to ensure comfortable shooting in both landscape and portrait orientations. A further improvement on the S2 Pro is that power is provided by four AA batteries.

The FinePix S3 Pro's Intelligent Flash with D-TTL full-aperture exposure metering will enable photographers to achieve outstanding results with compatible Nikon DX-series Speedlights. Appearing for the first time in a Fujifilm digital camera, this will allow a new level of creative lighting options for FinePix S3 Pro users. What's more, the PC sync connection will allow strobes or other external flash systems to be connected for ultimate studio connectivity.

The camera will accept both xD-Picture Card™ and Microdrive™ media, for more flexible storage. It incorporates a newly-developed, bright two-inch 235,000 pixel LCD monitor (with approximately 100% frame coverage) alongside a second LCD data display for information on settings. And for improved data transfer speeds, the camera is set to offer both high-speed IEEE1394 and USB 2.0 interfaces.

Feedback from customers on the design and functionality of the FinePix S2 Pro was an integral part of Fujifilm's design process for its successor. As a result of this input, and the success of the FinePix S2 Pro, Fujifilm has retained the camera's solid, one-piece body made from durable polycarbonate, as a basis for the FinePix S3 Pro.

Adrian Clarke, Director of Consumer Products, Fujifilm UK, said, "For many years, the world’s top photographers have chosen to load their cameras with Fuji film, to produce the very best images from their cameras. Once they see the images produced by the S3 Pro’s Super CCD SR, we are confident that Fujifilm will be their choice for years to come.

“Rather than follow the trend of removing features from the digital SLR, our mission has been to improve on a top-class product. Almost all the development effort is being focused on where it matters most – the imaging sensor and processing. This announcement reconfirms Fujifilm as one of the three leading developers of digital SLR cameras."

Pricing and availability
Pricing and availability of the FinePix S3 Pro will be announced soon.

Canon EOS 300D firmware hack

Photography Blog reports that someone has hacked the Canon 300Ds firmware to make it have some of the functions of the EOS 10D.

There is more on this issue over at DP Review here and here.

Update - also check out Digital Rebel Hack #2 - Full time AI Servo

Best Digital Cameras - PC Authority

Australian PC Authority (February 2004) have just announced their digital camera winners for the year. They rated 10 cameras in three areas - features, quality and value - with an overall score of 100 points being the average. Here are their winners:

1. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-F717 – 110 points – They rated it highest due to excellent image quality and exceptional list of features. It didn’t rate as highly as other cameras when it came to value. The DSC-F717 is a 5 megapixel camera with a 5x optical zoom.
2. Olympus C-750 – 108 points – The C-750 was runner up by scoring above average in all areas. It is exceptional value for money especially considering it has a 10x optical zoom. It falls behind the Sony mainly on design issues and having a 4 megapixel sensor.
3. Canon Powershot G5 – 104 points – Like the Sony the Canon G5 scored very well in the areas of Features and Quality but fell behind when it came to value for money. It has a 5 megapixel sensor and 4x optical zoom. Canon are renowned for making quality cameras with beautiful colours. This is no exception – although as the magazine says it is not the most stylish of their cameras and has a ‘boxy’ feel.
4. HP Photosmart 945 – 103 points – This and the next camera tied for fourth position. It has one of the bigger optical zooms at 8x. It has a 5 megapixel sensor and is apparently very easy to use. It falls down when it comes to slow speeds, lack of image sizes, noisy zoom and some image sharpening issues. It comes in above average, but no comparison to the above cameras.
5. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-V1 – 103 points – This camera is compact and easy to use. It has a 5 megapixel sensor and 4x optical zoom. It has a night shooting mode, excellent movie mode and a good 1.5inch LCD. Image quality is good but not the the level of some of the other cameras – it also has some minor design issues including a pop up flash where fingers naturally fall.
6. Nikon Coolpix 5400 – 102 points – The Coolpix 5400 has a 4x optical zoom and 5 megapixel sensor. It has a 1.5 inch swivelling LCD which has some issue in bright daylight. Its wide angle lens makes it unique as does its very fast shutter speeds. The Nikon is rated as the best featured digital camera in this test but it doesn’t quite match up on quality and falls below average on value.
7. Fujifilm F700 Zoom – 98 points – The F700 has a 3x optical zoom and 3.1 megapixel sensor able to shoot with an effective 6.2 megapixel output. It is a very useable camera yet falls down on issues of resolution.
8. Pentax Optio 550 – 94 points – The Optio 550 is the cheapest 5 megapixel (5x optical zoom) camera in the study yet it falls down in the areas of features and quality. It has a small LCD (1.4inches), slow start up time and has some image quality issues. On the up side it is an easy to hold camera and comes with Li-Ion battery and charger.
9. Fujifilm S5000 – 90 points – The S5000 is an SLR style digital camera and certainly has a great and professional look to it. It has a 3 megabyte sensor which generates 6 megabyte pictures through interpolation and a 10x optical zoom. It has issues with noise in low light conditions but is a lot better in outdoor settings.
10. Casio QV-5700 – 88 points – The QV-5700 rounds out the bottom of this study, rating below average on all areas but coming close to average on ‘quality’. It has a 5 megapixel sensor, a 3x optical lens and a 1.8inch LCD. In controlled testing this camera did very well but fell well behind in real life use with slow menus, slow start up time and real focusing issues.
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Pentax Optio S40

It is a compact camera coming in at 3.5 x 2.3 x 1inches. The Pentax Optio S40 will be available in April 2004.

For more details on specifications and links to reviews as they are written check out:

- Imaging Resource - Pentax Optio S40

Following is the Press Release announcing the Pentax Optio S40:

Pentax Press Release 02/02/04

NEW PENTAX OPTIO S40 CAMERA PAVES THE WAY FOR DIGITAL NEWCOMERS

GOLDEN, Colorado (February 2, 2004) Will 2004 be the year you go digital? The new PENTAX Optio S40 is a 4 megapixel, 3X zoom digital camera that is loaded with the features to help you on your way! Sporting a sleek aluminum design and the signature, compact dimensions of the PENTAX Optio digital brand, the Optio S40 features an exciting, new "help" function. Offering simple-to-understand explanations in a regular or enlarged font for easier viewing, the "help" function guides new, and old hands, through the camera’s array of digital features with a simple touch.

The PENTAX Optio S40 makes digital easy and fun! The buttons and controls of the Optio S40 are placed in easy reach for ready-to-shoot positioning. The shutter release button and all the manual buttons are enlarged for easy manipulation. Featuring the legendary smc PENTAX lens and the unique PENTAX Sliding Lens system that allows the lens to retract fully when the camera is off lens, the Optio S40 is sleek and compact enough to carry everywhere. Plus, with the optional, acrylic waterproof housing that is newly-designed for the Optio S40, everywhere may include the exciting world of underwater digital photography!

The PENTAX digital advantage doesn’t stop there. Equipped with PictBridge, a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association), the Optio S40 connects directly to your printer so you may print images without the need for a personal computer. For more convenience, the PENTAX Optio S40 includes an ACDSee™ software package that is designed exclusively for PENTAX digital cameras. ACDSee™ digital camera software makes it easy to retrieve, view, manage, print, enhance and share your digital photos. Valued at $150, the package includes ACDSee™ 5.1, FotoSlate™, FotoCanvas™ and Photostitcher.

PENTAX OPTIO S40 FACT SHEET

Major features of the Optio S40 include:

Ultra-compact, sophisticated design
Featuring the unique PENTAX Sliding Lens system, that allows the 3X zoom lens to retract fully when the camera is off, the Optio S40 dimensions are just 3.5 inches (W) x 2.3 inches (H) x 1 inch (D) and weighs 4.4 ounces (excluding batteries and SD memory card). The Optio S40 is compatible with two AA batteries and has an attractive aluminum design and is small enough to be comfortably worn about the neck or easily slipped in the pocket.

4.0 effective megapixel clarity with primary color filter
For exceptional clarity, the Optio S40 has the imaging power of 4.0 effective megapixels with a primary color filter and advanced imaging technologies for brighter, more natural color and higher overall quality.

Ultra-compact, 3X optical zoom lens
The Optio S40 features the legendary smc PENTAX lens with 3X zoom capability with a focal range equivalent to 35-105mm lens in 35mm format. Combined with a 4X digital zoom, the Optio S40 offers 12X zoom. Zoom out for expansive scenes or in for tight framing. With five groups of six lens elements crafted entirely from glass, the Optio S40 features two lenses crafted to be aspherical on each side.

User-friendly operation
All Optio S40 buttons and controls are located within easy reach and in ready-to-shoot position. The shutter release button along with all buttons on the back of the camera are enlarged for easier manipulation, and a handy mode dial is employed to allow virtually effortless selection from the impressive array of shooting modes.

Function customization
For customized, easy operation, the Optio S40 allows four frequently used functions to be selected from a choice of seven (recording size, image quality, exposure compensation, metering, white balance, ISO and AF area). These can then be assigned to the left and right elements of the four-way controller for access when the dial position is set in modes other than Auto Select, Movie, and Voice recording.

Help function in Auto Select mode
A useful Help function can be easily accessed when in both recording and playback modes, displaying simple explanations of all button functions on the screen.

PictBridge compatibility
The Optio S40 supports PictBridge, a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association). With this advantage, the Optio S40 can be connected directly to a printer that supports PictBridge via USB cable and offer control over printing, resizing, trimming, digital filter, and other functions — all without the need for a PC.

9-position mode dial
The Optio S40 makes it easy to select shooting modes with a handy dial positioned in the middle of the top surface. Set the dial to one of the nine modes described below and let the Optio S40 take care of all relevant settings automatically.

Auto Select automatically sets the camera and features a help function that displays simple-to-understand explanations of different button functions.

Portrait mode capture skin tones in a more natural, flattering manner.
Landscape mode makes it easy to capture the expansive beauty of wide-open natural scenes.
Night scene captures a significant amount of detail while retaining the true mood of shots taken in low light.
Movie records video with sound
Voice records voice messages.
Digital effect in the Optio S40 offers a range of digital effects for the creation of interesting images, with 8 digital filters, 2 in 1, multiple exposure, and Panorama Assist functions.

Program leaves all settings to the camera for spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities.

Picture mode allows the user to choose from one of 10 different settings to swiftly make the most of the situation at hand.

Simple shooting with 8 Picture modes
In addition to placing Portrait, Landscape, and Night scene modes directly on the mode dial, the Optio S40 also offers 8 picture modes with exceptionally easy access — in fact all you have to do is just select the icon most appropriate for the scene, compose, then capture.

- Flower mode has been specially designed to bring out the vivid color and intricate detail of flowers.
- Self-portrait mode delivers sharp results and flattering tones whenever you need to take a shot of yourself.
- Surf mode counteracts the problems associated with reflections of light off water — enabling pleasing, appropriate exposure throughout the frame.
- Snow mode helps maintain true color and avoid the detrimental effects of excessive reflection.
- Sunset mode has been specially decided to capture the warmth and romance of sunrise and sunset scenes.
- Art museum mode designed especially for use in museums and galleries allows optimal exposure to be achieved while ensuring the flash doesn’t fire.
- Text mode has been developed to capture written material in a manner that maximizes legibility.
- Marine mode makes it easy to achieve truly attractive shots involving water*, making the most of an array of different tones of blue.
* When the Optio S40 is housed within an optionally available waterproof case.

Digital effect mode offers digital filters as well as multiple exposure, Panorama Assist, and 2 in 1 digital functions, the Optio S40 opens up a range of exciting creative avenues. What’s more, all of these special capabilities and effects can be made use of without the need for a PC.

8 digital filters
With a choice of eight filters comprising red, green, blue, B&W with red, B&W with green, B&W with blue, B&W, and sepia, the Optio S40 lets the user emphasize key colors of the original scene or add an entirely different mood altogether.

2 in 1
Functioning exactly as it sounds, the handy 2 in 1 function cuts a single frame in two, allowing two different images to be recorded side by side.

Panorama Assist
Users can follow the camera’s simple guidance to take a series of horizontal or vertical shots. These can then easily be aligned and combined on a PC using the software provided to create one large image that captures expansive scenes in their entirety.

USB mass storage class compatibility*
Supporting USB cable connectivity, the Optio S40 allows multiple recorded shots to be swiftly and simply imported into common PC applications.

*System requirements: PCs running Windows 2000, Windows Me, Windows XP Home Edition/Professional or Mac OS 9.0, 9.1, 9.2 or Mac OS X, Xv10.1, Xv10.2. Compliance with the aforementioned system requirements does not guarantee USB compatibility.

Useful software included
The Optio S40 even comes with its own CD-ROM of handy software, comprising the exclusive USB driver and the popular ACDSee for PENTAX — which is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh computers.

Built-in auto flash
The built-in flash of the Optio S40 can be set to fire automatically when shooting in light that is less than sufficient. It also offers the user greater control when desired too, through the incorporation of Flash-on, Flash-off, and red-eye reduction* modes. Finally, for a further advantage, it also features a Slow shutter sync mode too, which is of particular use when shooting in Night scene mode.

*This feature does not eliminate “red eyes” in all instances.

High-precision LCD monitor
Offering a 100% field of view, the 1.6-inch LCD monitor makes composition a cinch. It also serves as a handy way to view recorded shots, prior to printing out.

Optical viewfinder
The optical viewfinder makes it possible for the user to switch off the handy LCD monitor, saving vital power whenever required.

Nine-image and Zoom display
The search for recorded shots is significantly speeded up through the ability to display nine recorded shots on screen at once. Then, when the user has located the shot they were after, they can simply enlarge it to fit the dimensions of the screen, or even zoom in more closely with up to 16X magnification.

Convenient self-timer
A handy self-timer makes it easy for the photographer to get in on the shot, allowing easy self-portraits or all-inclusive group compositions.

Optional remote control
Two remote control units are optionally available for the Optio S40. Named remote control E and remote control F, they offer remote immediate shutter release, a useful three-second timer function, and the former can even control zooming.

Continuous shooting
Continuous shooting is activated by simply keeping the shutter button held down. This allows accelerated action to be captured in a highly expressive manner.

Macro mode and Landscape mode
Through simple use of Macro mode, the user can compose shots from as close as 7 inches from the subject at all zoom settings. The Optio S40 also offers super macro shooting too, which lets the user move in further to just 2.36 inches from the subject! The Optio S40 offers excellent performance right at the other end of the scale too; capturing wide-open scenes of natural beauty with satisfying focus that extends all the way to the horizon via easy selection of Infinity-landscape mode.

Manual focus
The Optio S40 makes it easier to achieve accuracy when undertaking manual focus. This is achieved through use of the LCD monitor and its ability to enlarge the central part of a potential shot.

Options for autofocus
Choices for the user even extend to autofocus. Spot AF allows the user to place the center of focus in the middle of the frame, while 7-point autofocus allows simultaneous focusing on multiple subjects in different parts of the frame.

White balance settings
With a range of white balance settings, the Optio S40 is highly competent at accommodating different types of light. It features settings for Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, and Fluorescent light, and there is also a manual setting that lets the user take total control.

Histogram display
A histogram display makes it easy to view light levels during both shooting and playback with accuracy. As a direct result, the user is empowered to make a much more educated evaluation of each and every shot.

3 choices for metering
One of the keys to the versatility of the Optio S40 is its choice of metering systems. Indeed, with a selection of multi-segment metering, center-weighted metering, and spot metering, the Optio S40 achieves impressive results in a very wide range of situations.

ISO settings
The power to ISO settings is absolutely vital when shooting in a range of light intensities, and the Optio S40 makes it easy to select from a selection of ISO100, 200, and 400, and it also offers the benefit of an auto setting.

Exposure compensation
Because exposure can be a matter of personal taste, the Optio 40S can be set to capture images with exposure compensation ranging across +2EV in steps of 1/3EV.

Settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast
With three grades of settings for sharpness, saturation, and contrast, the Optio S40 provides the user with a markedly greater degree of control over the nature of each and every shot.

Image protection
The Optio S40 provides extra protection for images the user is sure they want to keep. Indeed with a special function that prevents all specified shots from being erased, the user is even free to lend the camera to others to use, without having to worry about them accidentally disposing of wanted shots.

Mode memory function
Memory mode enables a combination of settings to be saved at once. These are then returned to automatically as soon as the power is next turned on.

World time function
The Optio S40 can display the time for 62 different cities around the world. It can also record the time and date for each shot taken to enable simpler sorting when the user returns home.

DPOF compatibility
DPOF compatibility gives the user even greater control over printouts — letting them manipulate the date function as desired and decide the number of copies*.

* Some printers may not support the above functions. Please consult the supplier of your printer for more information.

Approximately 11MB of built-in memory
Even without additional media inserted, the Optio S40 still has the power to record quality shots with ease. Indeed it has approximately 11MB of built-in memory that allows the recording of a substantial amount of images.

SD memory card and Multimediacard compatibility
The Optio S40 is compatible with both SD memory cards and Multimedia cards. Whichever the user chooses to use, they can benefit from widespread availability and simple data transfer to PCs.

Resize function
A handy resize function makes it easy to free up useful memory space, without forcing the user to delete shots already recorded. It’s a highly useful function that works by simply reducing the size of selected files, then giving the user the chance to save the image as an additional new, lighter file, or easily overwrite its heavier version. The function can also be used to free up a massive amount of memory in minimal time, by allowing all images to be selected and subjected to resizing at once.

Trimming
With a handy trimming function, the Optio S40 lets the user crop out unwanted parts of recorded images to achieve more reined compositions, or select a main subject in a larger shot for saving as an image in its own right.

Voice memo function
Up to 30 seconds of sound can be attached to recorded images, allowing a greater degree of expression all round, not to mention a tremendous amount of fun.

Customization
Users can also customize the Optio S40 by selecting an image to appear as wallpaper on the camera’s start-up screen. The user can also customize the camera further by selecting sounds to accompany shutter release and a range of other actions.

AV (video/audio) output terminal
Through use of an AV output terminal and the provided AV cable, the Optio S40 makes it easy to display images on the larger dimensions of a TV screen.

Power sources
Even power is an area of choice with the Optio S40. Indeed not only is it compatible with commonly available CR-V3 and AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, nickel hydride), there’s also an AC adapter available as an option.

Operation in 9 languages
All menus and messages of the Optio S40 can be set for display in the user’s choice of English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese (traditional/simplified), Korean, or Japanese.

Optional accessories

AC adapter
For continuous use over a long period of time, an AC adapter can allow the Optio S40 to be plugged into a nearby power outlet.

Waterproof case
When housed in a convenient waterproof case, the Optio S40 offers the exciting ability to take shots underwater.

PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. will preview the Optio S40 on February 11 at the PMA Sneak Peek Event and the PEPCOM DigitalFocus in advance of the 2004 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Trade Show from February 12-15 in Las Vegas. The camera will ship to retailers in April 2004.

PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX U.S.A., INC. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.

Pentax Optio S30

The Pentax Optio S30 is designed to be one of the simplest digital cameras ever released. It is a compact 3.2 megapixel, 3x optical zoom digital camera with a simple menu system offering easy to follow functions.

It comes with all the normal shooting modes of landscape, portrait etc - but also comes with some new and fresh options which allow the user to shoot in 'party', 'food' and 'pet' mode. Also available are nine filters that can be applied after the photograph is taken on the camera itself.

For more specifications and to read reviews (as they come to hand) of the Pentax Optio S30 check out the following links:
- Imaging Resource
- Lets go Digital
- DP Review
- Photography Blog - Pentax Optio S30

The following is from the Pentax Press Release

The Optio30 — The simple, friendly and compact digital camera perfect for anyone, any time

The Optio30 is the ideal camera for the newcomer to the digital photography. Compact, ergonomic, and lightweight, it’s as comfortable in the hand as it is attractive to the eye. With the ample imaging ability of 3.2 effective megapixels and the versatility of 3X optical zoom, it has the power to offer a satisfying blend of clarity and compositional freedom. It also offers exceptionally easy operation, conveying a confident sense of satisfaction, even before you view its impressive results.

Specially enhanced for even simpler use
Despite its minimal dimensions, every effort has been made to make each of the controls as large as possible. It’s also exceptionally easy to understand how it works, enabling you to enjoy the ability to take quality shot virtually as soon as you take it out of the box. One of the key factors behind such easy operation is the Simple Menu, which offers straightforward explanations for frequently used functions. The Full Menu has also been enhanced too, allowing a whole range of camera settings to be fine-tuned to suit your tastes so you can configure the camera in different ways as you gain more and more confidence in your photography.

An appealing exterior that puts you at ease
From above, the Optio30 has a rounded outline that makes it seem somehow more approachable. It’s a form that also serves to make the camera easy to hold with a steady grip. A sense of comfort is even further enhanced by the ability to save a recorded shot as the start-up screen and the power to select a wallpaper for use with the menu screen.

No experience required; only your imagination
Just turn the power on and press the shutter release – that’s really all it takes! Indeed the Optio30 is the ideal response to the growing demand for a quality digital camera with the ability to perform with ease across a wide range of day-to-day situations. The secret of such versatility lies in the innovative virtual mode dial. This simple, yet ingenious feature lets the user select a suitable icon on the screen in response to which the Optio30 automatically sets the optimal settings for a wide range of different subjects and circumstances. Indeed in addition to the conventional Portrait, Self-portrait, Flower, Sunset, Landscape, Surf and Snow, the Optio30 also features Party, Food, and Pet modes too!

Major features

An attractive, appealing exterior with compact dimensions
The rounded overall appearance of the Optio30 gives it instant visual appeal. It also makes it feel exceptionally comfortable when gripped in the hands. Whenever a shooting opportunity arises, you can easily slip the camera out of a pocket or bag thanks to the body design and over all compactness.

Optical and digital zoom capability with the advantage of Macro too
The Optio30 offers the compositional advantage of 3X optical zoom with a focal range covering angles of view equivalent to those of a 38-114mm lens in 35mm format. It can also be used in combination with the 4X digital zoom to realize a total zooming capacity of 12X. Macro mode allows shots to be composed from as close as just 2cm from the subject.

Diverse shooting modes for wide range of circumstances
The virtual mode dial with easy-to-understand icons makes selection of the 12 shooting modes extremely easy. Simply select the most appropriate, compose and shoot!

Program mode
Lets you leave virtually everything up to the camera, allowing the Optio30 to automatically set the optimal shutter speed, aperture, and focus for the subject at hand.
 
Landscape mode
Makes the most of natural greens and blues for appealing nature shots and satisfying skies. It also ensures ideal clarity that extends sharpness as far as the horizon.
 
Night scene mode
Allows the camera to assume a slower shutter speed and capture greater detail with available light.
 
Night scene portrait mode
Enables pleasing shots of people to be taken at night without sacrificing exposure of the background.
 
Portrait mode
Captures natural looking skin tones, achieving results that are significantly more flattering.
 
Surf & Snow
Ideal when light reflects off water or snow. It helps ensure detail is preserved throughout the entire frame while still conveying a beautiful sense of brightness.
 
Flower
Puts the Optio30 automatically into Macro mode, leaving you ready and equipped to capture close-up detail in glorious colors.
 
Party
Ensures pleasing exposure for the main subjects with faithful reproduction of surrounding elements.
 
Food
Capture color and texture in a way that piques the appetite.
 
Pet
Capture the whites and black tones common to family pets in a pleasing manner along with their natural glow.
 
Movie
The Optio30 can record soundless movie files up to the available capacity of the selected recording media. It also offers a whole range of related choices – allowing you to select clarity of either 320x240 or 160x120 pixels, and even offering options for full-color, black and white, and sepia shooting. Movie files are also recoded in MOV format to enable easy playback on PC. *Recorded movies can be viewed using ACDSee for PENTAX (on systems with QuickTimeTM installed)
 
Panorama Assist mode
Allows you to take multiple shots of your subject in vertical or horizontal format, and then align and combine them using the user-friendly software provided.

Digital filters for fun and creative results
A key digital benefit of the Optio30 is the ability to apply filters to shots after they’ve already been taken. There’s a choice of 9 different filters, comprising black and white, sepia, red, pink, purple, blue, green, yellow, and brightness.

PictBridge compatibility
The Optio30 supports PictBridge,a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association). Just connect the Optio30 via USB to a printer supporting PictBridge to make printouts of recorded images without the need for a PC and utilize other handy direct functions such as resizing, trimming, and digital filters.

Simple Menu
A crucial element in the success of such a multi-functional camera is the ability to offer simple operation. The Optio30 excels in this area thanks to the incorporation of a Simple Menu. Existing alongside the conventional Full Menu, this convenient additional menu is comprised of only frequently used functions – each accompanied by a simple explanation.

Pentax Optio S4i

It comes with a built in 4 mode flash, inbuilt memory of 10MB and a SD card slot. It has a wide array of settings and functions. The S4i is one of the smallest and lightest compact digital cameras on the market and is sure to be popular with photographers on the go.

Buy your Pentax Optio S4i today

For more specifications and links to reviews reviews (as they are written) also see:
- DP Review - Pentax Optio S4i
- Imaging Resource - Pentax Optio S4i

Following is the press release from Pentax announcing the Optio S4i.

Press Release

PENTAX PACKS BIG MONITOR ON A LITTLE DIGITAL: NEW OPTIO S4i CAMERA BOASTS FIRST PENTAX CRADLE CHARGE

GOLDEN, Colorado (February 2, 2004) PENTAX USA packs a hefty 1.8 inch LCD monitor for larger viewing and focusing on the tiny, new Optio S4i digital camera. With 4.0 megapixels and a 3X optical zoom, this latest Optio digital camera also features the first PENTAX digital cradle-style lithium ion recharge base unit. The rechargeable unit design makes it so easy to recharge the Optio S4i. Simply set the camera in the recharge base until it ready to use again.

Featuring the legendary smc PENTAX lens and the unique PENTAX Sliding Lens system that allows the lens to retract fully when the camera is off lens, the Optio S4i is sleek and compact enough to carry everywhere. With the optional, acrylic waterproof housing that is newly-designed for the Optio S4i, everywhere may well include the exciting world of underwater digital photography! For optimal results, the Optio S4i now features both Marine Picture and Marine Movie modes to capture drama of blue underwater hues.

The PENTAX digital advantage doesn’t stop there. Equipped with PictBridge, a new direct-print standard released by the CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association), the Optio S4i connects directly to your printer so you may print images without the need for a personal computer. For more convenience, the PENTAX Optio S4i includes an ACDSee™ software package that is designed exclusively for PENTAX digital cameras. Valued at $150, the package includes ACDSee™ 5.1, FotoSlate™, FotoCanvas™ and Photostitcher. ACDSee™ digital camera software makes it easy to retrieve, view, manage, print, enhance and share your digital photos.

PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. will preview the Optio S4i on February 11 at the PMA Sneak Peek and the PEPCOM DigitalFocus media events in advance of the 2004 Photo Marketing Association (PMA) Trade Show from February 12-15 in Las Vegas. The camera will ship to retailers in April 2004.

PENTAX U.S.A., Inc. is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX U.S.A., INC. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX CORPORATION.

The Future of Camera Phones

Reiter's Camera Phone Report links to an interesting article in the Korea Times about the future of Camera Phones. It seems that 2 and 3 megapixel camera phones are not far away and will be released in 2004.

Here are some excerpts from the article:

'This year, more than 150 new mobile handset models will be rolled out in the local market (Korea) ahead of global marketing....

They are forecast to market mega-pixel camcorder phones with resolutions of up to 2 million-3 million pixels in the second half of the year.'

Kodak EasyShare CX7430

The CX7430 model also integrates Kodak’s new camera favorites feature for storing multiple pictures in an on-camera digital photo album. Each picture can then be shared anytime on the camera’s 1.6-inch indoor/outdoor LCD screen, or printed.

The Kodak CX7430 will be available in March 2004.

Get the camera's detailed specifications and reviews (as they come in) at:
- DP Review - Kodak EasyShare CX7430
- Imaging Resource - Kodak EasyShare CX7430

Following is an excerpt from Kodaks press release on the CX7430

KODAK EASYSHARE CX7430 zoom digital camera
The EASYSHARE CX7430 camera (US$279.95 MSRP) combines fully automatic point-and-shoot convenience — including nine scene and color modes — with 4-megapixel resolution and the new KODAK Color Science image processing chip, resulting in vibrant prints up to 20 x 30 inches. Taking advantage of the KODAK RETINAR aspheric, all-glass 3X optical zoom lens, plus selectable exposure metering, ISO equivalents, and focus zones, camera owners can capture breathtaking pictures under multiple lighting conditions.

For capturing more than just still pictures, the CX7430 camera also features TV-quality (VGA) video capture and playback capability, an on-camera speaker, and an 80-minute capacity (dependent on available memory; additional memory can be added via the SD card/ MultiMediaCard expansion slot). Automatic picture rotation makes pictures taken vertically appear right side up on the camera, computer screen or television. In addition, the camera is always ready to snap a picture by simply depressing the shutter button, regardless of which capture mode or menu is active — a feature unique to EASYSHARE cameras.

The KODAK EASYSHARE CX7430 zoom digital camera will be available worldwide beginning in March 2004.

Kodak EasyShare CX7300

Get the Kodak EasyShare CX7300's detailed specifications and reviews (as they come in) at:
- DP Review - Kodak EasyShare CX7300
- Imaging Resource - Kodak EasyShare CX7300

Following is an excerpt from Kodaks Press Release on the CX7300:

KODAK EASYSHARE CX7300 digital camera
The EASYSHARE CX7300 camera (US$129.95 MSRP) is designed for the entry-level digital photographer. This fun, reliable point-and-shoot digital camera makes sharing and printing high-quality pictures a snap.

Its 3.2-megapixel resolution and 3X digital zoom provide remarkably crisp, vibrant prints up to 11 x 14 inches. Additional features make it simple for people to take pictures and video clips in a variety of settings; preview and review their pictures; and share pictures right on the camera, by e-mail, or as prints made at home, online, or at a retail location.

The Kodak EASYSHARE CX7300 digital camera will be available worldwide beginning in March 2004.

Kodak EasyShare CX7220

The Kodak EasyShare CX7220 is a 2 megapixel, 2x optical zoom digital camera with a 1.5inch LCD. It has one-touch picture sharing and is compatible with the 6000 series Camera and Printer Docks.

Looks like this would be a great little camera for those starting out with digital photography.

Get the Kodak EasyShare CX7220's detailed specifications and reviews (as they come in) at:
- DP Review - Kodak EasyShare CX7220
- Imaging Resource- Kodak EasyShare CX7220

Following is an excerpt from Kodak announcing the CX7220:

KODAK EASYSHARE CX7220 zoom digital camera
The KODAK EASYSHARE CX7220 (US$149.95 MSRP) camera offers great value at an attractive price. The fully automatic, quality point-and-shoot digital camera delivers great prints — up to 8 x 10 inches — with 2 MP resolution and 2X optical zoom. Its red-jeweled “Share” button encourages printing, e-mailing, and other tagging (e.g., mark as a favorite), while scenes can be previewed and reviewed on the 1.5-inch LCD screen. The EASYSHARE CX7220 zoom digital camera will be available beginning in May 2004.

Casio QV-R41 Digital Camera Announced

The Casio QV-R41 is a 4 megapixel 3x optical zoom lens digital camera. It comes with a 2 inch LCD screen, has a fast start up time, just under 10MB internal storage (and SD card slot) and takes AA Batteries. It is the little brother of the 5 megapixel Casio QV-R51. The QV-R41 will be available from February 2004.

Get more details and reviews (as they come) of the Casio QV-R41 at:
- DP Review

Kodak EasyShare DX7630

Kodak have cut shutter lag right down to 0.3 seconds has kept the DX7630 compatible with the EasyShare Camera and Printer Docks (6000). They have also retained the 'Share' button which bookmarks the picture for emailing or printing. THe DX7630 has 32MB inbuilt storage but is also compatible with SD cards. It will retail at $499US.

Reviews of the Kodak EasyShare DX7630 will be linked to on this page below as they become available.

Get the DX7630's specifications at Image Resource and DP Review - Kodak EasyShare DX7630.

Following is the Press Release from Kodak.

Press Release

New KODAK EASYSHARE DX7630 Zoom Digital Camera Delivers Unsurpassed Consumer Image Quality

6-Megapixel Model Features the KODAK Color Science image processing chip, SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON optics

ROCHESTER, N.Y., February 2 — Eastman Kodak Company today unveiled the Kodak EASYSHARE DX7630 zoom digital camera, which features unsurpassed image quality among 5- and 6-megapixel consumer digital cameras. With 6-megapixel resolution, a professional-quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 3x optical zoom lens, precision low-light autofocus system, and a host of creative controls, the camera is well suited for the avid photographer. It will be available in April 2004 for a suggested retail price of US$499.

“We’ve designed the DX7630 camera for people who need sophisticated control and performance features without sacrificing compact design and ease of use,” said Rowan Lawson, worldwide director of product marketing for Kodak’s Digital & Applied Imaging operation. “The picture quality produced by this camera is nothing short of stunning. The images can even be printed as large as 30 x 40 inches, or even cropped up to 80 percent while retaining a printable 4 x 6-inch or 5 x 7-inch picture.”

Working with renowned German professional optics designer Schneider-Kreuznach, Kodak equipped the camera with a f/2.8 – 8.0 aspheric lens to provide striking edge-to-edge brightness and sharpness across the frame. Image quality is heightened even further with the KODAK Color Science image processing chip. This high-performance digital signal processor with professionally-derived image process engineering — including Kodak’s legendary white balance algorithms — quickly and precisely analyzes lighting conditions and color balance to deliver exacting sharpness, exceptional color accuracy, and proper exposure.

The DX7630 camera’s precision low-light auto-focus system combines rapid phase detection with highly accurate through the lens (TTL) contrast detection to sharply define a subject, even in almost complete darkness. Continuous auto-focus also delivers rapid click-to-capture (0.3 seconds). Selectable focus zones and exposure metering allow exacting control over each scene, while standard and fine JPEG compression settings give users more power over their file sizes and quality.

The DX7630 camera offers automatic as well as fully manual controls, permitting independent aperture settings, shutter speed (1/1400 to 64 seconds), exposure compensation and automatic bracketing, and ISO equivalents. The camera also features aperture priority, shutter priority, program and custom modes, as well as 16 scene modes including sport, portrait, night, landscape, macro and automatic. The more demanding photographer will appreciate details such as first and last burst modes, flash compensation, selectable sharpness, up to 8X magnification in review mode, and highly responsive operation.

The latest EASYSHARE DX model includes Kodak’s new ‘camera favorites’ feature. With a touch of the red-jeweled Share button, people can store multiple pictures in an on-camera digital album. These pictures can then be shared anytime on the camera’s large, 2.2-inch, high-resolution (153,000 pixels) indoor/outdoor LCD screen. The Share button also allows someone to immediately select photos for printing and even e-mailing, with up to 32 e-mail addresses stored in the camera’s memory

For settings requiring more than a still image, the DX7630 camera can capture full-motion video (24 frames per second), with capacity only limited by available memory (32MB internal memory; additional memory can be added via the SD card/MultiMediaCard expansion slot). Automatic picture rotation makes pictures taken vertically appear right side up on the camera, computer screen or television. In addition, the camera is always ready to snap a picture by simply depressing the shutter button, regardless of which capture mode or menu is active — a feature unique to EASYSHARE cameras.

KODAK EASYSHARE software and docks
Photographers can also quickly transfer their pictures to a connected computer with just one touch using the optional KODAK EASYSHARE camera dock 6000 (US$79.95 MSRP). The dock also provides a full lithium-ion battery charge for the camera in less than three hours. DX7630 digital camera owners can also receive the benefits of a dock, plus real, waterproof KODAK 4 x 6-inch prints in as little as 90 seconds, by using the KODAK EASYSHARE printer dock 6000 (US$199.95 MSRP). Both docks are currently available worldwide.

Like all EASYSHARE cameras, the DX7630 includes KODAK EASYSHARE software for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture transfer, organization, basic editing, sharing and printing. The software’s exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature — which takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak — helps WINDOWS OS users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from home inkjet printers, while reducing the trial, error and waste usually associated with home photo printing.

The award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE consumer digital photography system — consisting of cameras, software, printer and camera docks, inkjet and thermal papers, and accessories — makes it simple for anyone to take, organize, share, and print high quality digital pictures. More information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.

Eastman Kodak Company and infoimaging
Kodak is the leader in helping people take, share, print and view images — for memories, for information, for entertainment. The company is a major participant in infoimaging, a $385 billion industry composed of devices (digital cameras and flat-panel displays), infrastructure (online networks and delivery systems for images) and services & media (software, film and paper enabling people to access, analyze and print images). With sales of $12.8 billion in 2002, the company comprises several businesses: Health, supplying the healthcare industry with traditional and digital image capture and output products and services; Commercial Printing, offering on-demand color printing and networking publishing systems; Commercial Imaging, offering image capture, output and storage products and services to businesses and government; Display & Components, which designs and manufactures state-of-the-art organic light-emitting diode displays as well as other specialty materials, and delivers optics and imaging sensors to original equipment manufacturers; and Digital & Film Imaging Systems, providing consumers, professionals and cinematographers with digital and traditional products and services.

(Kodak and EasyShare are trademarks of Eastman Kodak Company. Schneider-Kreuznach and Variogon are trademarks of Jos. Schneider Optische Werke GmbH used under license by Eastman Kodak Company.)

Best Photoblogs

The Best of 2003 Photoblogs is a great collection of some of the best photoblog pictures from the year 2003. Its well worth spending a while looking through some stunning and interesting photography.

Photojunkie describes the gallery by saying:

'This gallery isn't about who has the best pictures or the best cameras in the photoblogging community this past year, but rather it is about personal bests and successes.'

Are Photography Courses Helpful?

Coincidences (which is a great blog) writes a fantastic post asking the question - Are Photography Courses Helpful?

The post gives some great tips on how to make sure the answer is yes!

FLASH... ahaaa... Saviour of the Universe???

The New York Times - Memory Evolution: Survival of the Smallest is a great article on the future of flash memory cards. Which formats will survive?

'"In the long term, two memory formats will survive, Memory Stick and SD," said Nelson Chan, senior vice president forSanDisk, the only company licensed to make and sell every flash memory format, which includes MultiMediaCard, SmartMedia and xD-Picture Card.

In the United States, 10.9 million flash memory units were sold in the first 11 months of 2003, according to NPD, a 54 percent increase from the same period in 2002.'

Streak Photography

Serendipity posts an interesting post on 'Streak Photography'.

'treak photography gets its name from the way the pictures are produced. They are composite images built up from a single streak (or strip) out of many different images.'

The images are remarkably beautiful.

Times are a changing

The Union Leader has an interesting article about the changing times at Kodak.

'Forty years ago, when Kodak was king, the wall behind a shop’s counter invariably had a large herringbone shelf, its slots crammed with colorful boxes that offered an array of film both daunting and challenging to the amateur photographer.

Walk through the door now and there are people sitting in booths, pushing buttons, picking photographic memories from digitized images....'

Digital Photography Tips Series

Working Digital is a great series of digital photography tips for anyone exploring the digital photography medium.

• Part 1: Buying Digital
• Part 2: Dust and Emergencies
• Part 3: Digital Negatives - In the Raw
• Part 4: TIFFs and JPEGs
• Part 5: Storage in Camera

There are more in this series of Digital Photography Tips to come.

Nikon School

Check out Nikon School!

They offer four main schools of study:

1. The Nikon School of Photography
2. Digital 101
3. Digital 201
4. The Nikon School of Underwater Photography

Source - The Scobleizer

C-Clamp Mini Tripod

The C-Clamp Mini Tripod looks like a very useful digital camera accessory. It promises to turn impossible shots into reality. Looks handy.

Source - WIFLblog

Minolta DiMAGE XG

Steve's Digicams notes that in many aspects this camera is a downgrade of the older Xt model. Despite this they rate it highly saying:

'The DiMAGE Xg is a good choice for business users, tourists, sports enthusiasts or anyone that needs an ultra-compact and durable, high resolution digicam.... This is a point-n-shoot camera that can be just as easily operated by novices as experienced digi-photographers. The 2048x1536 size images can make photo-quality prints up to 8.5 x 11-inch size. The overall image quality is very good and the equal of much larger cameras.'

Get more information and reviews on the Konica Minolta XG at:
- Steve's Digicams - Minolota XG REVIEW
- DP Review - Konica Minolta DiMAGE XG
- The Mossberg Solution rates the Minolta DiMAGE XG as the highest slim line cameras.

Read the following Press release for more details on the Konica Minolta DiMAGE XG

Press Release
DiMAGE Xg with the world's fastest start-up time* and non-extended 3x folded optical zoom

Langenhagen, February, 2004

The new DiMAGE Xg digital camera, which offers the mobile user the chance to take high-quality pictures in any place and at anytime. With the proud heritage of the DiMAGE X Series built into a stylishly thin profile, the camera has user-friendly functions that enable you to capture images simply and easily for high-quality results.

The DiMAGE Xg's compact (just 20mm thick), unobtrusive body stems from its proprietary, non-extended 3x folded optical zoom, which is a feature that will make this camera attractive among a wide range of users.

With the world's fastest start-up time* of approx. 0.8 seconds, the DiMAGE Xg can realize a rapid shot with a highly reliable shutter, ensuring that you'll be ready to take great pictures right away with no waiting.

The DiMAGE Xg can shoot both still images and movies beautifully. The Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection determines the conditions, and then selects suitable photo mode. The camera's range of movie functions enhances the fun of making movies easily.

* As of January 1, 2004, for 3.2-megapixel, 3x optical zoom models.

Product Highlights
A stylish, thin profile-the camera is a mere 20mm thick even when zooming thanks to the non-extended 3x optical zoom-makes for the ultimate in portable digital photography.
The start-up time of the DiMAGE Xg is an incredible 0.8 seconds, the fastest in the world.
* As of January 1, 2004, for 3.2-megapixel, 3x optical zoom models.

The Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection is so simple to use, anyone can take beautiful pictures.
Users get superb images thanks to the 3.2-megapixel Konica Minolta proprietary 3X optical zoom and CxProcess™ II high-quality image processing technology.
A variety of video shooting functions like Night Movie offer enhanced movie-making enjoyment.
Easy to operate.
Low power consumption.

Features
· Slim Design with Folded Optical Zoom
The DiMAGE Xg is a camera that you'll simply want to take with you everywhere you go. It weighs only about 120g and, at just 20mm thick, boasts a compact body, even during zooming. That's because the folded optical zoom keeps the lens from jutting out of the main camera body. You never have to worry about disturbing the subject of your photo with a moving lens-just coolly snap away. Sophisticated folded optics eliminate the standard protruding zoom lens and keep the DiMAGE Xg's design ultra-slim. The 3X optical zoom is adjusted internally and quickly gets you extremely up close to your subject, while the 4X digital zoom lets you seamlessly extend your shooting range to 12X zoom.

· Fast Start-Up
With the world's fastest start-up time* of approximately 0.8 seconds, you'll never miss a moment of action. Just turn on the DiMAGE Xg and be ready to take great pictures right away.
* As of January 1, 2004, for 3.2-megapixel, 3x optical zoom models.

· Simple, Beautiful Photography
With the Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection function, the DiMAGE Xg automatically judges the situation and selects the most suitable photo mode, allowing you to shoot a variety of subjects in various conditions with optimal results. For example, the camera automatically controls color reproduction, contrast, and sharpness according to the scene. Use the Program Selection to choose from four scenes: portrait, sports action, landscape, and sunset. In addition, users can select night portrait/night view settings.

Portrait: For beautiful portrait shots with softer skin color reproduction; even hair and eyelashes come out sharp.
Sports Action: Faster shutter speed ensures that a moving subject stays in focus.
Landscape: The entire frame, from foreground to distant background, stays in sharp focus.
Sunset: Faithfully reproduces the subtle hues of red at sunrise and sunset.
Night Portrait/Night View: Night View is great for nighttime illuminated scenes such as city lights. Night Portrait effectively photographs people against a nighttime backdrop.

· Superbly Clear Images
The CxProcess™ II image processing technology incorporates characteristics like smooth gradations, natural skin tones, and brilliantly clear colors for images that are more natural and lifelike. The DiMAGE Xg's 3.2 megapixels capture fine lines and intricate details for stunning digital images, and unique folded optics maximize the capability of the CCD. The slow shutter speed and Dark-Noise Reduction combine to prevent graininess and give exceptional night photos with clearly contrasted dark tones.

· Wide 5-Point AF (Autofocus)
A Wide 5-Point AF area allows for flexible, accurate focusing. The wide AF area is composed of 5 local focus areas, and you can switch between wide focus area and spot focus point, which allows you to focus on a central area. Macro lets you get up close and personal with your subjects. In fact, you can get as close as 15cm (5.9 inches) at all focal lengths, without changing shooting mode, for crisp, detailed shots.

· Versatile Movie Shooting and Editing
In Movie mode, the DiMAGE Xg can record longer movie clips, at resolutions of 160 X 120 or 320 X 240 pixels, onto the SD memory card for as long as its capacity will allow. Added to the standard frame-rate of 15 fps is a 30 fps mode for smoother moving images. The Night Movie function allows you to video even in dimly-lit locations. The DiMAGE Xg boasts a Movie Editing function, meaning you can both shoot and edit your digital movie on the camera. You can also cut out unwanted parts of a video clip, as well as extract stills.

· Easy to Operate
The DiMAGE Xg has a number of convenient, easy-to-use functions. The Mode Dial allows easy, stress-free still, movie, and audio recording operation. The Quick View/Delete button allows you to play back or delete images you've just taken. Key Customization lets you register your most frequently used settings by setting from 4 features on the recording mode menu for right and left key operation during shooting.

· Low Power Consumption
The DiMAGE Xg is designed to be power efficient, so you can take up to 220 frames* or up to approximately 2300 frames** in continuous advance speed on a single battery charge.

* Based on CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) measurements, when using standard batteries (lithium-ion) and a memory card (SD, 16 MB).
** Based on Konica Minolta's standard test method:
Drive mode: Continuous
NP-200 lithium-ion battery, LCD monitor off, 640 X 480 image size, Standard image quality, no instant playback, no voice memo, no flash.

· Direct Camera-to-Printer Printouts
The DiMAGE Xg can printout photos directly to a PictBridge*-compliant printer without having to go through a personal computer.
* PictBridge is an industry standard established by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA).

· More Functions for More Ways to Enjoy
To give your photos that nostalgic touch, simply select either vivid black & white images or delightfully eye-catching sepia pictures. On top of that, enjoy the enhanced functionality of Image Pasting for overlaying selected parts of a recorded image in your choice of 9 picture frames, and Multi-Frame Shot for transforming 9 consecutive multi-frame images into one.
Voice Memo and Audio Caption can record up to 15 seconds of sound: Voice Memo immediately after a shot has been taken and Audio Caption simultaneously during playback. You can also record 180 minutes of audio. With Remote Camera Function, you can use standard Windows® programs like Microsoft NetMeeting to teleconference with users anywhere in the world by simply connecting the DiMAGE Xg to your PC with a USB cable. Use the DiMAGE Xg to convert high-resolution images to a lower resolution, either 640 X 480 or, for e-mail attachments, 160 X 120. You can also reposition and enlarge part of a captured image and save it as a separate file using Crop Frame.
The Date Imprinting feature eliminates the need to turn on the date code by automatically imprinting the date that pictures were taken. You can use the DPOF* settings to choose whether to have these dates on the photo prints.
* DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) is a standard developed by Canon, Kodak, Fuji Film, and Matsushita Electric, intended to record information such as images to print in memory media.

· Upgraded Optional Accessories
The water- and dust-proof case-the smallest and slimmest* of its kind-makes the DiMAGE Xg perfect for taking climbing, fishing, camping, or skiing. With the Marine Case MC-DG300, you can take the camera down as far as 30m (98 feet) underwater.
* As of January 1, 2004, for a water- and dust-proof 3x zoom digital camera good for depths as far as 30m.

About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging
Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe GmbH is a leading provider of consumer and commercial photographic materials, photographic equipment such as analog and digital cameras, and measuring instruments including 3D-scanning. With operative bases within Europe the company covers the three business areas of photo imaging, cameras and industrial instruments. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe is a subsidiary of Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Building on its strong core of optical technologies developed over 130 years, Konica Minolta Photo Imaging aims to be a corporation offering products and services that are essential to all areas of digital imaging.

Website: http://www.konicaminoltaeurope.com/

Minolta DiMAGE Z2

Order your Minolota DiMAGE Z2 today from Amazon for up to $150 off!

Fore more specifications and reviews as they are written on the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z2 read:
- DP Review - Konica MinoltaDiMAGE Z2
- Product Pictures of the DiMAGE Z2

Following is the press release announcing the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z2

Press Release
DiMAGE Z2: High-end functionality in an easy-to-use camera: 10X optical zoom with 4 megapixel performance

Langenhagen, February, 2004

The DiMAGE Z2 is the second in a series of easy-to-use, powerful SLR-type digital cameras and a step up from the groundbreaking DiMAGE Z1. The DiMAGE Z2 also boasts the Rapid AF (Autofocus) and high-quality VGA/SVGA movie functionality of its predecessor. This time, Konica Minolta has raised the bar with the adoption of a GT lens and a 4-megapixel resolution, delivering picture clarity at the very top end of the spectrum. The addition of a Predictive Focus Control has increased the speed of the AF function, which means that shooting sports events or any moving object are even more easy.

With its 4-megapixel resolution, the DiMAGE Z2 will appeal to users with a slightly more developed appreciation of high-resolution photography.

Why not use the DiMAGE Z2 to capture those everyday yet significant occurrences that happen when close friends and family spend time together? The DiMAGE Z2's simple operation makes it easy to keep a record of those precious moments. Whether it's a child's first faltering steps, a day trip with your family, camping in the middle of the great outdoors, or just leisure time spent with those you love, the DiMAGE Z2 can help you capture those images forever.

All the things that you love about digital photography are here: in addition to high resolution pictures and an excellent zoom, the DiMAGE Z2 delivers speed in bundles. Quick start up, fast-reacting LCD display, Rapid AF, minimal release time lag, super-fast continuous advance records and quick playback are all testaments to the speed of the DiMAGE Z2.

Product Highlights
The DiMAGE Z2's 4-megapixel CCD Konica Minolta all-glass apochromatic (APO) GT lens is equipped with Mega-zoom, which allows you to use the 10X optical zoom and a 4X digital zoom for fine, detailed images even in close-up.
Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control, the only camera in its class* that delivers this functionality, gives the sharpest focus possible on a moving subject. The performance feels like you are taking pictures with a high-end SLR camera.
* As of January 1, 2004, digital camera with a built-in 10X or greater optical zoom.

Frame your shots with the same perspective and clarity as the naked eye thanks to the Switch Finder viewfinder with 60 frames per second and Real Motion Monitor. Even moving subjects can be optimally framed thanks to this high refresh-rate.
The DiMAGE Z2 features Progressive Capture. This function means you won't miss a thing. Press and hold the shutter-release button. Immediately Progressive Capture begins saving images in the internal memory.
Incredibly short start-up time for a camera with a 10X optical zoom: The DiMAGE Z2 is ready to go in 1.8 seconds.
The camera records high-quality VGA/SVGA movies. Play your movies back through a TV or a PC and you'll marvel at the picture quality. The picture clarity and resolution of the movies you can take using the DiMAGE Z2 are on a par with today's digital video cameras.
The DiMAGE Z2 includes a movie-editing feature that allows you to leave unwanted clips on the cutting room floor.
It has built-in compatibility with the Minolta Program Flash 3600HS (D) or 5600HS (D) units as well as the latest addition to the line, the Program Flash 2500 (D).
The DiMAGE Z2 is powered by AA long-life batteries.
The body design transmits a feeling of high technology at one's fingertips. The DiMAGE Z2 has a compact body that fits around your lifestyle-take it everywhere with you.

Features
· Fine Image Quality with the Mega-zoom
It's no coincidence that the groundbreaking DiMAGE Z2 is the first Konica Minolta digital camera to be equipped with the new Mega-zoom featuring the all-glass apochromatic (APO) lens. This incredible zoom delivers a focal range equivalent to a 38 to 380 mm range on a 35mm camera lens. Combining the 10X Optical Zoom of the GT Lens with the 4X digital zoom gives the DiMAGE Z2 an amazing 40X total zoom range. This flexibility makes it possible to capture outdoor events, sports, and landscapes the way you see them.

· Konica Minolta GT Lens
The DiMAGE Z2 sports the GT lens, the finest all-glass apochromatic (APO) zoom lens designed specifically for digital photography.

The GT lens is the leading lens designed by Konica Minolta for digital cameras. The reputation of a lens is defined by one thing: image quality. Only those lenses that pass the strictest quality standards earn the GT lens designation. The GT lens is only fitted to those camera models that have been developed true to the concept of "Superior Image Quality" and the DiMAGE Z2 is no exception to this rule. The GT lens benefits from Konica Minolta's original technology for minimizing various types of imperfections, such as colour aberration.

The DiMAGE Z2 user will notice the benefits of the APO lens immediately: every single shot comes out sharper, clearer, and without any colour aberration, even when using the large aperture setting.

The lens is the heart of the camera and this GT lens has 11 elements in 7 groups. The APO effect is delivered by anomalous dispersion (AD) glass elements to ensure maximum colour fidelity and aspheric elements to suppress distortion at the outer edges of an image.

In designing the DiMAGE Z2, Konica Minolta kept in mind that a camera has many faces. The DiMAGE Z2 has to capture shots of scenery, travel, sports, business settings, and close-ups. Even misty locations are rendered in crisp tones and lines thanks to the GT lens.

· Super Macro Mode
With the press of a button, the Super Macro mode lets you focus as close as 3cm (1.2 inches) away from your subject. So whether you're shooting small gadgets, tiny insects, or delicate flowers, get up close with the Super Macro mode.

· Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control
Predictive Focus Control keeps a clear focus on fast-moving subjects until you're ready to shoot. It calculates exactly where a moving subject is going to be at the moment of shutter-release, and makes certain that the focus is razor sharp.

Also, the DiMAGE Z2 employs Rapid AF, the only camera in its class*, to ensure sharp images with minimum delay. The DiMAGE Z2's powerful optics and high-resolution, 4-megapixel 1/2.5 interline primary-colour CCD require a powerful AF system.
* The DiMAGE Z2 is the only camera featuring Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control among digital cameras with a built-in zoom lens with 10X or more optical zoom, as of January 1, 2004.

A passive AF sensor locks on to the moving subject and calculates the distance to the subject, causing the Rapid AF to react and adjust itself. The focus point is determined in relation to the camera CCD. In the blink of an eye, a high-speed drive focuses the lens quickly and smoothly.

· Real Motion LCD monitor and Switch Finder
The DiMAGE Z2 features the Real Motion LCD monitor, which delivers crystal clear images to the user with a 60 frames per second rate. Conventional monitors on digital cameras use a 30-frames-per-second display format that sometimes results in a less-than smooth display. The 60 frames per second Real Motion Monitor rate gives smooth action that brings images to life. The LCD monitor on the DiMAGE Z2 can be viewed directly or through the viewfinder, thanks to Switch Finder. There is no colour, contrast, and resolution difference between separate rear and viewfinder monitors because only one monitor is used. The monitor image is large and clear as the viewfinder was designed with a large apparent angle of view.

· Long Caption (Progressive Capture)
With the DiMAGE Z2 on Progressive Capture mode, when you cease pressing the shutter-release button, your images are saved automatically. Progressive Capture means that it's the last several images in the sequence get saved: as many as 5 images (standard continuous advance) or 12 images (UHS continuous advance). So when you are shooting fast-moving objects, Progressive Capture will ensure that they are recorded when and where you want them.

· Super-Fast UHS Continuous Shooting
Regardless of how fast something is moving, the DiMAGE Z2 can capture everything. Select the UHS (Ultra High Speed) option from the rapid shooting menu. The enlarged 32MB internal memory allows more continuous shooting. The DiMAGE Z2 captures 15 images, 10 frames per second at super-fast UHS continuous shooting mode.

· PASM Exposure Control and Metering Modes
The DiMAGE Z2 offers incredible control over exposure. There are four modes: Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual. Select manual exposure to enable the 30-second time exposures. The DiMAGE Z2 has three metering modes: multi-segment, center-weighted and spot. Multi-segment metering uses 256 segments to determine exposure.

· High-Quality VGA/SVGA Movies
Of course, the DiMAGE Z2 is not limited to capturing still images. Offering the kind of image clarity hitherto only seen on digital video cameras, the DiMAGE Z2 can record high-quality 30 frames per second VGA (640 X 480) movies. The VGA 30 frames per second is as clear and as smooth as the moving image on a television. Try the world's first 15 frames per second SVGA (800 X 600) movie option and you will see that you are only limited by your imagination.* Viewed on a PC the SVGA movie delivers approx. 6 more pixels than the standard QVGA (320 X 240) format favored by other digital cameras. You can keep recording until the memory card is full.* *

Image sharpness and brightness are crucial when capturing movies. This is doubly true for the DiMAGE Z2 because it can capture large, high-quality VGA (640 X 480) movies. The DiMAGE Z2 always maintains the sharpest focus. The Night-Movie mode can make colour recordings under extreme low-light conditions.
*As of January 1st, 2004
**On rare occasions, the memory card may not record to full capacity due to its writing speed.

· Edit on the bounce with the DiMAGE Z2
Editing with this new function couldn't be simpler. Select the scene you wish to cut from the footage being replayed and save the edited version using the Movie Select Shot Function. Unwanted movie footage is removed, freeing up valuable memory space. These saved movie images can also be processed with one of the Colour Modes: vivid, natural, black and white, or sepia.

· CxProcess™ II Image Processing Technology
The DiMAGE Z2 incorporates Konica Minolta's CxProcess™ II image processing technology. This advanced process brings out the best in the 4-megapixel, primary-colour CCD. Brilliant, saturated colour remains vibrant without becoming unnatural or flat, because the CxProcess™ II controls the essential image qualities of colour, contrast, and sharpness while minimizing noise. Details in the highlights and shadows are preserved to render a subtle contrast whilst retaining the richness and depth of the subject. Sharpness is controlled by balancing resolution with acutance to show fine detail, thus minimizing hard, unnatural edges.

· Noise Reduction Function
One characteristic of electronic systems is the phenomena of "dark noise"-a grainy or sandy appearance on images taken with long exposures. The DiMAGE Z2's advanced noise reduction circuitry helps you clearly capture slow shutter images of night scenes.

· Sophisticated Design
The compact design and go-anywhere body can easily slip into a hip bag or fanny pack. The DiMAGE Z2 weighs only 305g (11 oz.) so you certainly won't strain yourself carrying it around.

Also, the simple yet thoughtful layout of the controls and dials makes for clear, intuitive operation. The well-balanced camera body allows you to operate the DiMAGE Z2 from a handheld stance in low-light conditions or when using low focal lengths.

· Wide-Angle Converter (option)
You'll be pleasantly surprised to learn that the DiMAGE Z2 can handle wide shots even with its 10X Mega-zoom. To extend the versatility of the powerful 10X Mega-zoom, an optional 0.75X wide-angle converter is available for the DiMAGE Z2.

This lens attachment increases the lens' angle of view, giving it a maximum coverage approximately equal to a 28mm lens on a 35mm camera. The adapter ring supplied with the wide-angle converter allows 52mm filters to be used with the camera.

· Real-Time Histogram Display
Taking pristine images in brilliant daytime conditions has never been easier with the live viewfinder, equipped with a helpful live histogram function that assists the user in bright sunlight. Because it's not always easy to determine the brightness levels within your image when the sun is beating down from above, the histogram supplies you with the information to adjust exposure more accurately. A luminance reading can be displayed on the DiMAGE Z2's viewfinder before the picture is taken or while playback. With the Histogram Display, the DiMAGE Z2 will inform you of the luminance distribution at a glance. The Histogram Display also adjusts brilliance when viewing pictures and movies from the memory.

· Flash Compatibility
No other digital camera on the market today has a flash as powerful as that of the DiMAGE Z2. When the DiMAGE Z2 is set at the wide-angle position with autoexposure and auto camera sensitivity, even if the subject is standing 6.1m (20ft) away, the flash, rated with a guide number of 12 in meters (39 in feet), can illuminate the subject perfectly.

The DiMAGE Z2 is equipped with a flash unit that will literally light up your pictures. But if it's even more flash power you require, consider the Konica Minolta Program Flash 3600HS (D) or 5600HS (D) units as well as the latest addition to the line, the Program Flash 2500 (D). All of these incredibly versatile and powerful flash units are compatible with the DiMAGE Z2.

· Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection
The DiMAGE Z2's Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection analyzes the shooting conditions and selects from among five subject programs and programmed AE to optimize the camera's exposure, white balance, and image processing controls. This eliminates the need for time-consuming manual adjustments when the subject and shooting environment change. The five subject programs are portrait, sports action, landscape, sunset, and night portrait. These five options cover common and specialized shooting conditions and can be selected manually.

· Rotate Function
Don't worry about turning the DiMAGE Z2 this way and that to view your images. Pictures can be rotated to orient them correctly so you don't need to twist your head to the left or right when playing back vertically framed shots.

· Key Customization
Operation of the DiMAGE Z2 can be tailored to meet the photographer's needs. For example, the function set using the flash-mode button can be customized to control the flash mode, white balance, drive mode, focusing mode, or colour mode.

· Automatic Monitor Amplification
The DiMAGE Z2 compensates when you find yourself working in less than ideal lighting conditions and when framing an image on the monitor is difficult. The Automatic Monitor Amplification function brightens the monitor under low light so the live image is always visible.

· White Balance Control
Auto White Balance compensates for these changes automatically. Select from one of five preset white-balance settings: daylight, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, and flash. The names of the settings refer to specific light sources. The DiMAGE Z2 allows for critical control over colour. Select the custom setting to calibrate the DiMAGE Z2 to the particular lighting conditions at the scene.

Other Features
· Long Battery Life
You'll never have to worry about obscure batteries that require a specialist to replace. Easy-to-find AA batteries power the DiMAGE Z2. Ubiquitous alkaline or rechargeable Ni-MH can be used.

· Manual Focus
MF is an essential for the enthusiast and a great learning tool for the beginner. Switch off the AF and focus your own shots manually.

· Direct Printer Connection
Printouts can be made easily, without going through a computer, by directly connecting the DiMAGE Z2 to a PictBridge*-compliant printer. You can check which image you want to print on the LCD monitor.
* PictBridge is an industry standard established by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA).

ArcSoft VideoImpression™ 2 CD-ROM
ArcSoft VideoImpression™ 2, bundled with the DiMAGE Z2, offers a fun way to merge your movie clips and still shots. Working through a step by step guide, you can add text, music, and special effects to your movie. Record the finished movie onto a video CD.

The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z2 is a versatile and powerful SLR-type digital camera that has everything the enthusiast could ever want, in addition to providing novices all the ease of use they need. So pick up a DiMAGE Z2 today and start capturing those memories forever.

DiMAGE, CxProcess are trademarks or registered trademarks of Konica Minolta Camera, Inc.
Win

About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging
Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe GmbH is a leading provider of consumer and commercial photographic materials, photographic equipment such as analog and digital cameras, and measuring instruments including 3D-scanning. With operative bases within Europe the company covers the three business areas of photo imaging, cameras and industrial instruments. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Europe is a subsidiary of Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Building on its strong core of optical technologies developed over 130 years, Konica Minolta Photo Imaging aims to be a corporation offering products and services that are essential to all areas of digital imaging.

Website: http://www.konicaminoltaeurope.com/

Minolta DiMAGE A2

The A2 has a 3D Auto Focus system which is faster than the A1 a higher frames per second rate in video mode and a new high resolution new viewfinder. It also has an improved anti shake system.

For reviews and more specs on the Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 check out:
- DP Review - DiMAGE A2
- Product pictures of the DiMAGE A2
- Imaging Resource - Minolta DiMAGE A2
- Konica Minolta DiMAGE Sample Images

Read more about the Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 in the follwoing press release from Konica Minolta.

Press Release
Las Vegas, NV (February 12, 2004) - Konica Minolta introduces the DiMAGE A2 SLR-type digital camera, a camera that inherits the excellent image quality and performance of the original DiMAGE A1 while being able to provide photographers with quality digital photographs comparable to an SLR camera. The DiMAGE A2 incorporates a high-quality 8-megapixel CCD and Super Fine Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) outperforming the previous model's resolution by 4 times to achieve extremely clear VGA-level images when both shooting and viewing.

Featuring a fast, innovative new 3D autofocusing (AF) system (1.5 times faster than the DiMAGE A1) with 3D Predicative Focus Control and Movement tracking, a fast built-in f/2.8 - 3.5 7x optical zoom lens, Anti-shake function for still images and VGA quality movies, CxProcess II Image Processing technology, the world's first VGA-resolution Viewfinder (approximately 922,000 pixels), UHS Continuous Advance rate of 7 frames per second, high-speed USB 2.0 support and compatibility with portable and studio flash systems, the DiMAGE A2 provides the tools digital photographers need to express their creativity and solve visual problems. In addition, Konica Minolta has also introduced new remote imaging software for use with the DiMAGE A2, the new DiMAGE Capture software, for enhanced creative capabilities.

"The new DiMAGE A2 digital camera represents a new generation of high-end digital camera quality and performance from Konica Minolta," said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta's Camera Division. "The DiMAGE A2 provides creative digital photographers with excellent image quality in virtually any photographic situation. And multiple professional-type functions which fully utilize the camera's optical and image-processing technologies will please even the most demanding photographer."

The DiMAGE A2 comes equipped with an 8-megapixel 2/3-inch progressive primary-color CCD with 8.0 million effective pixels for super-high-resolution, making even individual hairs or the threads of a suit stand out in sharp detail. The 7x optical Konica Minolta GT APO lens ensures that light reaches the CCD sensor with maximum fidelity. Plus, Konica Minolta's CxProcess™ II image-processing technology ensures that the colors reproduce just the way the photographer sees them.

The DiMAGE A2's Super Fine electronic viewfinder (EVF) is sharp and clear thanks to a high-density display composed of 922,000-pixels, 4 times as many as the previous model. The EVF has also evolved to make digital photography even more of a pleasure. Precise focusing is amazingly easy, allowing the photographer to see the tiniest details in the most realistic colors. Switching into Smooth Mode provides 60 frames per second, making it a easy to focus on fast moving subjects.

As in the DiMAGE A1, the new DiMAGE A2 is equipped with an Anti-Shake function. The camera incorporates CCD shifting technology to minimize the effect of camera shake up to 800%. Konica Minolta's proprietary Anti-Shake function delivers a highly effective way to take high-quality images with hand-held shooting under telephoto and low lighting situations, even when a relative novice is handling the DiMAGE A2.

The DiMAGE A2's fast f2.8 - f3.5 7x optical zoom lens features an advanced apochromatic (APO) lens design employing anomalous dispersion (AD) glass to minimize chromatic aberration at all focal lengths and produce sharp, contrasty images. With a focal range of 7.2mm to 50.8mm, it is equivalent to a 28mm to 200mm zoom lens in 35mm format.

Konica Minolta's 3D AF provides seamless subject tracking as it focuses on moving subjects to capture sharp, high-quality images, even when they are coming straight toward the camera along the X-, Y-, and Z-axes of the picture frame. Pressing the shutter release button launches the 3D Predictive Focus Control, which calculates exactly where the subject will be and accurately focuses on that point at the time of exposure. The AF speed outstrips anything in its class for any SLR-type digital camera with non-interchangeable lens 5x or greater optical zoom.* The 3D AF and the focus speed combine to give hassle-free focusing.
*As of December 1st, 2003

The DiMAGE A2 also features high-quality movie recording at 544 x 408 pixels with audio at 30 frames per second, a resolution that looks great even when viewed on a TV screen. And the bundled video editing software turns users into movie makers.

Nikon Coolpix 2200

Nikon has just announced the release of the Coolpix 2200 which is sure to be a popular addition to their digital camera range. The Nikon Coolpix 2200 is a 2.0 megapixel digital camera with a 3x Optical Zoom.

Following is a review of the Nikon Coolpix 2200 and its big brother the 3200.

Nikon Press Release 07/01/04

Nikon(R) Announces Next Evolution of its Incredibly Successful Compact Digital Cameras With New Coolpix(R) 2200 and Coolpix 3200

Nikon Coolpix 2200 and Coolpix 3200 Place the Power Of Great Pictures In the Eager Hands Of Beginning Digital Photographers

MELVILLE, N.Y., Jan. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaining simplicity doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality. Nikon Inc., the world leader in photography, and its new Nikon Coolpix 2200 and Nikon Coolpix 3200 compact digital cameras prove that 'you can have it all' in an affordable digital camera. The latest additions to the award-winning Nikon Coolpix (http://www.nikoncoolpix.com) consumer line of products are both portable and capable, sharing a slim, new Coolpix body design, ultra-fast operation and a host of new and enhanced features to help digital snap-shooters get the best possible pictures out of their camera.
These exciting new Coolpix cameras build upon Nikon's existing Scene Modes and Scene Assist features to deliver faster, better results without the hassle of haggling through menus and modes.

"The Coolpix 2200 and 3200 will resonate especially well for those looking for a small camera at a great price that's really easy to use," said Jerry Grossman, vice president, marketing, Consumer Digital Products for Nikon Inc. "Nikon's heritage is in understanding picture quality, and these two new cameras make it easier than ever to take great quality images, anytime, anywhere."

Vital Statistics - Nikon Coolpix 2200 and Nikon Coolpix 3200
The Nikon Coolpix 2200 offers 2.0 effective megapixels while the Nikon Coolpix 3200 incorporates a 3.2 effective megapixel CCD. Each camera incorporates Nikon's renowned enhanced image-processing technology, which gives photographers the freedom to shoot wider, crop in tighter and make larger prints, without having to sacrifice the quality of the image.

With a maximum image size of 1600x1200 pixels, the Nikon Coolpix 2200 can produce sharp prints at sizes of up to 8x10-inches. The enhanced resolution of the Nikon Coolpix 3200 delivers a maximum image size of 2048x1536 pixels, which translates to pristine images at up to 11x14-inches.

Bye Bye Red-Eye! - Color Matters
The Nikon Coolpix 2200 and 3200 are lean, mean, red-eye fighting machines. Each camera employs a new LED light that minimizes red-eye in-camera and helps Auto Focus during low light situations. This is combined with Nikon's One-Touch Red-Eye Fix(TM), built into the NikonView 6.0 software, which instantly fixes red-eye within most red-eye digital photos with a simple click of a button. No more highlighting or hand painting.

Legendary Nikkor Optics - The Lens Matters
No matter the type or size of a camera, great pictures begin with great lenses. More professionals choose Nikkor lenses than all other brands combined. That very same quality is built into the Nikkor lens of every Nikon Coolpix digital camera, including the Nikon Coolpix 2200 and Coolpix 3200. The Nikon Coolpix 2200 has a zoom range of 36-108mm while the Nikon Coolpix 3200 features a 38-115mm lens (both 35mm equivalents).

Designed To Make Photography Simple - Features Matter
* Coolpix 2200 - 2.0 effective megapixels, 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens, 4.7-14.1mm coverage (36-108mm in 35mm equivalent)
* Coolpix 3200 - 3.2 effective megapixels, 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens, 5.8-17.4mm coverage (38-115mm in 35mm equivalent)
* 14.5MB of internal memory and compatibility with SD memory cards
* One function-One button design
* AF assist illuminator
* 15 Scene Modes including four with Scene Assist (Portrait, Night portrait, Landscape, Sports); Other Scene Modes (Sunset, Close up, Museum, Beach/Snow, Fireworks show, Back light, Party/Indoor, Copy, Dusk/Dawn, and Night landscape)
* New Panorama Assist Mode
* Unmatched red-eye reduction capabilities - uses an LED lamp in conjunction with flash and One-Touch Red-Eye Fix(TM) software
* Macro shooting capability as close as 1.6 in.
* Nikon's Best Shot Selector (BSS) takes a series of shots, then automatically picks and records the clearest one
* Three Movie Modes (with sound on the Coolpix 3200), including TV movie (640) at 15fps, Small size (320) at 15fps, and Smaller size (160) at 15fps - recordable until SD memory card is full
* Plug-and-play USB interface for smooth connection to a computer
* 5 Creative Color Options, including Standard color, Vivid color, Black-and-white, Sepia, and Cyanotype (blue-toned)
* Blur Warning alerts user to photos that are not sharp
* Can be powered by two rechargeable NiMH, one CRV3 lithium or rechargeable or disposable AA batteries (including alkaline)
* Battery life of up to 320 shots
* Offers direct print capability through support of PictBridge and USB Direct Print
* In-camera editing tools such as cropping and date imprinting
* Both cameras can display photos directly onto a television

The Camera Is Only Half the Fun - Sharing Matters
Both new digital cameras incorporate NikonView 6.0 photo management software to easily transfer, browse, edit, save and print photos. NikonView 6.0 offers the One-Touch Red-Eye Fix software, extensive one-button emailing options and an option to create online photo portfolio templates using HTML (Hyper Text Mark-up Language), which can easily be added to any personal Web site or page.

Nikon continues to offer their product-specific "Let's Get Started" Video CDs to get the user started right after opening the box. The CD instantly loads to Windows or Mac and a program host takes users through the camera operation and answers common questions including: "How do I load software?," "Where did my pictures go?," "How do I use Scene Modes?," and teaches in a progressive manner so users can learn as they go. Those interested in learning more can also visit http://www.coolpix101.com for lessons and tips on how to get the most out of their Nikon Coolpix digital camera.

All Nikon Coolpix cameras include a host of exciting programs from ArcSoft(R) including PhotoImpression(TM), a fun manipulation package that allows users to edit, retouch or apply special effect to their photos; VideoImpression(TM) to edit and share QuickTime(TM) movies taken with the camera and Panorama Maker(TM), which lets users easily stitch together a
number of images to create beautiful panoramic photos. The camera also comes with PhotoBase(TM), which actually allows photos and slide shows to be displayed on the screen of a PDA.

The Nikon Coolpix 2200 and Nikon Coolpix 3200 provide users with all the equipment they need to get started including the new NikonView 6.0 software, wrist strap, USB cable, video cable and 2 AA Alkaline batteries. Optional Nikon rechargeable batteries and a quick charger are also available as an accessory.

The Nikon Coolpix 2200 will have an MSRP of $199.95 while the Nikon Coolpix 3200 will be available at an MSRP of $299.95. Both cameras will be available nationwide in February 2004.

About Nikon
Nikon ... If the picture matters, the camera matters(TM). Nikon Inc. is the world leader in precision optics, 35mm and digital imaging technology and is recognized worldwide for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of
professional 35mm film and digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; 35mm compact cameras; Nikon Coolpix(R) compact digital cameras; Coolscan(R) digital film scanners; Nikonos(R) underwater photographic systems; and Nikon sports and recreational optics. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative(TM), the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800)
NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

Pentax *ist D and Olympus E-1 Price cuts

Both Pentax and Olympus as cutting the prices on their DSLRs effectively by $300. This could be an attempt to take some of the attention off the announcements of Canan's EOS 1D Mark II and Nikon's D70. It might also be a move to clear some stock in the lead up to PMA next week.

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