DIGITAL CAMERA

Nikon 1 V1 / J1 Review

2012-01-22T21:53:00.000-08:00

Nikon's entry into the mirrorless interchangeable lens market late last year was widely anticipated, but the products that were finally announced took a lot of people by surprise. Nikon has created an entirely new system based around a relatively small sensor, that's about 30% of the size of those used in the company's DX-format SLRs. The system is spearheaded by two cameras - the Nikon 1 J1 and 1 V1. The J1 is the entry-level model, and the V1 is aimed at a slightly more advanced user, but both cameras are intended essentially for beginners upgrading from compact cameras or cameraphones, and who find the size and complexity of a DSLR intimidating.

The V1 and J1's standout features are their autofocus and continuous shooting abilities. Both cameras feature a 'hybrid' AF system that combines both Phase and Contrast Detection methods, which in principle allows them to keep track of fast-moving subjects in much the same way as SLRs can (and compacts and other mirrorless cameras conspicuously can't). Both also feature a remarkable maximum shooting speed of 60 frames per second at full resolution, and to support this they use dual image processors that offer Nikon's latest 'EXPEED 3' processing.

In addition to the J1 and its slightly higher specified big brother the V1, the Nikon 1 system debuts with four '1 Nikkor' interchangeable lenses (including a 'pancake' prime and a video-optimized power superzoom), and a range of accessory port add-ons for the V1. Perhaps nothing signals Nikon's long-term commitment to the 1 System, however, more than its decision to build both cameras around a completely new lens mount and a unique 10MP CMOS sensor.

Unlike the rest of the market, which is populated by cameras baked to the same basic 'small body, large sensor' recipe, the 1 System's 1-inch sensor that is small in two ways - both physically and in terms of its resolution. At 13.2 x 8.8mm, the 10MP sensor at the heart of these new cameras is considerably smaller in comparison with every other mirrorless competitor except the Pentax Q, and results in a 2.7x effective focal length multiplier. The cameras, on the other hand, aren't that small at all. The dimensions of the V1 place it alongside the Panasonic DMC-G3 and Sony NEX-7 - two of the larger-bodied mirrorless cameras.

The differences between the J1 and V1 are important - the V1 has a built-in 1.4M-dot LCD viewfinder, while the J1 does not. However, despite being the cheaper, simpler model, the J1 has a built-in flash which the V1 lacks. The V1 makes up for this omission with a multi-accessory port that can be used to mount a dedicated external Speedlight SB-N5 flashgun or GPS unit.

The V1 has a higher resolution rear LCD screen and a mechanical shutter (in addition to the electronic shutter found in the J1), which makes it a better choice for high framerate captures of moving subjects. The mechanical shutter also allows it to use flash at shutter speeds of 1/250th of a second, rather than the 1/60th that the electronic shutter limits the cameras to. Ergonomically though, with the exception of the V1's built-in EVF, both cameras handle in much the same way. Both lack a traditional exposure mode dial, and neither camera offers much in the way of customization. Both are - in essence - designed for multi-purpose point and shoot operation.

Nikon 1 J1 and V1 specification highlights

10MP 1" CMOS sensor with 2.7x effective focal length multiplier
Hybrid AF system with both phase and contrast detection
60fps at full resolution (with electronic shutter only)
1080/60i video
ISO 100-3200 ('Hi 1' option at approx. ISO 6400)

Nikon 1 J1 and V1 key differences

V1 has built-in 1.4M dot LCD electronic viewfinder
V1 has VGA (920k dot) rear LCD, J1 has 460k dot panel
V1 has mechanical and electronic shutter option, J1 has electronic only
J1 has built-in flash, V1 requires optional accessory flash
V1's accessory port allows attachment of external Speedlight or GPS unit (J1 has no port)
V1 has a larger, higher capacity battery (the same as found on the D7000)

Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM

2012-01-17T23:39:00.000-08:00

Wideangle fisheye zoom lens | Canon EF

Manufacturer description: For filmmakers and photographers who want the look and feel only possible with extreme wide angle and fisheye photography, the new Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM is a world-class choice. With its unique focal length range, the EF 8-15mm f/4L USM is the world's widest fisheye zoom lens. It delivers 180° diagonal angle of view images for all EOS SLR cameras with imaging formats ranging from full-frame to APS-C, and provides 180° circular fisheye images for full-frame EOS models. It features UD glass for suppression of chromatic aberration, a Subwavelength coating for reduced ghosting, a newly developed Fluorine coating that keeps soiling, smears and fingerprints to a minimum, has full-time manual focus for instant switching from AF to Manual operation, and is built to the standards of the amazing Canon L-series of lenses. This means the finest optics, the best construction and the best performance available, all in a lens designed to stimulate creativity and deliver stunning images every time.

Principal specifications
Lens Type	Zoom lens
Max Format Size	35mm FF
Focal length	8 – 15 mm
Image stabilisation	No
Lens mount	Canon EF
Aperture
Maximum aperture	F4.0
Minimum aperture	F22.0
Aperture ring	No
Number of diaphragm blades	7
Optics
Elements	14
Groups	11
Special elements / coatings	1 aspherical element, 1 Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) element, SubWavelength Structure Coating (SWC), Fluorine Coating
Focus
Minimum focus	0.15 m (5.91")
Maximum magnification	0.39 x
Autofocus	Yes
Motor type	Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual	Yes
Focus method	Rear
Distance scale	Yes
DoF scale	No
Physical
Weight	540 g (1.19 lb)
Diameter	79 mm (3.11")
Length	83 mm (3.27")
Materials	Metal barrel, metal mount
Sealing	Yes
Colour	Black
Zoom method	Rotary (internal)
Filter notes	Rear drop-in gelatin filter holder
Hood supplied	Yes
Hood product code	EW-77
Tripod collar	No
Optional accessories	Hard case LHP-C10 Soft case ES-C9/LP814

Canon PowerShot G1 X Hands-on Preview

2012-01-11T22:23:00.000-08:00

Any person observing the particular introduction regarding mirrorless compatible contact lens video cameras could have put in a lot of the past yr with consideration looking forward to Rule and also Nikon showing their particular palms. Nikon plainly made a decision these kinds of video cameras failed to will need huge receptors, now it seems Rule provides deducted they don't really will need compatible contact lenses. Equally these kinds of movements sound right regarding organizations looking committed professional photographers to help keep getting Digital slrs, yet Canon's method may very well be regarding a lot more attention to be able to people lovers.

The particular Rule PowerShot G1 TIMES may well appear to be their present G-series compacts, yet can be a completely different possibility. It's really a huge sensor photographic camera using a adaptable 28-112mm-equivalent, 4x contact and also substantial handbook handles. The business claims that recognizes that being a photographic camera regarding professional photographers which have a top conclusion DIGITAL CAMERA for instance a 5D Indicate II or perhaps 7D, yet with a value regarding $799, we all consider it is going to charm far more extensively as compared to in which. Right after duplicated ocean regarding video cameras directed at point-and-shoot upgraders, it really is heartening to find out any photographic camera actually dwelling around the particular payment of your 'serious lightweight. i

The particular sensor inside the G1 TIMES will be 20. 7 times 14mm, this means it really is 20% more compact compared to the receptors Rule makes use of generally in most regarding the Digital slrs. Nonetheless it really is a bit bigger than the particular Several Thirds dimensions employed by Olympus and also Panasonic, plus more as compared to 4x the particular section of the Fujifilm X10's sensor. Clearly, the pixel rely can be about 20% below Canon's 18MP DIGITAL CAMERA computer chip : assisting the affirmation in which the layout will be strongly connected, with all the identical root pixel layout. This may simply bode properly, offered the particular good quality final results in which video cameras including the EOS 7D can easily generate.

Besides the particular G1 TIMES presents the vast majority of the particular substantial outside handles in which show up around the G12 : any photographic camera which is alone the item of several years regarding advancement. The sole booking we've in regards to the G12 will be there's a lot regarding photographic camera regarding this kind of tiny sensor : and so the mix of G-series construction and also ergonomics using a sensor to fit in which ability is incredibly encouraging. The particular G1 TIMES won't change the particular G12, but rather health supplements that inside Canon's collection, incorporating a fresh rate for the GARY collection.

Employing a built-in contact lens, rather than contact lens support, assists in maintaining how big is the particular package deal straight down, and also permits Rule to supply an extremely beneficial 28-112mm comparable array. There could be Mirrorless video cameras in which compete with the particular G1 TIMES regarding dimensions (Panasonic's GX1 together with strength contact, regarding example), yet probably none are capable of doing thus and will be offering this kind of adaptable focus array. And also, despite the fact that a great aperture array of F2. 8-5. 8 just isn't planning to entice low-light lovers, it's going to offer you no less than the particular handle above depth-of-field a DIGITAL CAMERA system contact lens gives.
Only for DIGITAL CAMERA masters?

Which is adequate to produce us all consider Rule will be slightly small inside indicating in which it is a photographic camera regarding high-end DIGITAL CAMERA masters. There is certainly each purpose to be able to think the particular G1 TIMES offer the capacity of your Rebel/600D in the more compact package deal and also with a a bit cheap. Considering that handful of low-end DIGITAL CAMERA people at any time acquire the particular system contact lens away from their particular photographic camera, next provided that they may be not necessarily defer simply by the 'serious' seems, the particular G1 TIMES can find any significantly greater market.

Having its flip-out 920k department of transportation (VGA) display screen, metallic design, optical viewfinder, sits firmly contact lens, dual handle calls, personalized shortcut option and also coverage settlement switch, it includes a whole lot to be able to any person who would like to try the particular picture taking method. Regardless of seeking to make a photographic camera that wont immediately take on the Digital slrs, Rule could have accidentally included with the particular set of video cameras several would-be Cool dude customers can look with as an alternative.

Canon G1 X specification highlights

14MP 1.5" CMOS sensor (18.7 x 14mm)
28-112mm F2.8-5.8 lens
Optical viewfinder
ISO 100-12,800
3.0", 920,000 dot swivelling LCD
Extensive manual control
14-bit Raw shooting
4.5fps continuous shooting (up to 6 frames)
6.8Wh NB-10L battery rated at 250 shots (CIPA standard)

Fujifilm X10 Hands-on Preview

2012-01-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

The particular resurrection with the lover photographic camera market within the last several years is a huge unexpected yet pleasant advancement on the market. The particular popular acclaim for your Panasonic LX3 provides motivated some other suppliers to participate or perhaps re-enter the particular mix together with high-end products of these very own, causing outstanding, high-spec video cameras including the Samsung TL500, Olympus XZ-1 and also Rule S95.

Now you must regarding Fujifilm to be able to enjoy the palm, which usually it's got finished with the X10. Conceptually that borrows well known characteristics from your a couple of specific sub-types who have come about on this group : it will take the particular quickly contact lens coming from video cameras including the TL500 and also XZ-1 and also includes that with all the optical viewfinder and also substantial handles with the Rule G12 and also Nikon P7100. In order to end items away from, Fujifilm wraps the whole lot inside magnesium blend bodywork in which evokes the government, the particular X100 as well as the fifties rangefinders that coppied the hair styling coming from.

The particular X10's innards are usually since accelerating since the external will be staid. That comes with a 12MP, '2/3" type' sensor, this means it really is among 26% and also 40% bigger than the particular receptors employed by the lover lightweight colleagues and also doubly huge since people found in virtually all typical compacts. In addition, it makes use of their special 'EXR' engineering which makes it an easy task to blend twos regarding pixels to make 6MP photos who have both recently been averaged to cut back noises or perhaps in different ways uncovered in order that a lot more spotlight details will be grabbed. The particular root computer chip makes use of standard CMOS set up, as opposed to the back-side lighted sort which will help increase mild seize inside tiny receptors.
Vivid handbook contact

Inspite of the greater sensor, Fujifilm deals with to get area with an image-stabilized, retracting 28-112mm comparable F2. 0-2. 8 contact lens. The particular extensive aperture, along with huge sensor signifies not merely can the particular X10 offer you a lot more handle above depth-of-field as compared to any photographic camera inside the school, in addition, it permits shallower degree regarding industry as compared to many Digital slrs any time used in combination with their particular system zooms, any time each and every are usually established with their individual telephoto comes to an end.

The particular contact lens will be personally zoomed, similar to people about compatible contact lens video cameras and also this movements will be mechanically connected to a great optical viewfinder, that means an individual push the particular viewfinder when you prolong the particular contact lens. The particular mechanically-driven contact lens and also viewfinder layout provides a couple of important positive aspects. The very first is which it provides a agreeably primary experience regarding handle on the lens' habits, enabling steady (rather as compared to stepped) driving. Crucially in addition, it signifies the particular photographic camera just isn't influenced by the battery power regarding traveling the particular contact lens and also viewfinder. The particular X10's somewhat tiny battery power will be graded with 270 photos every demand : which will become significantly reduced when in addition, it acquired a lot more power generators to operate a vehicle.

The particular quickly readout from your CMOS sensor permits the particular photographic camera to be able to blast with around 7 frames-per-second with total decision and also 10fps with 6MP. In addition, it permits 1080p30 motion picture firing as well as the generation regarding panoramas within a mop with the photographic camera.

Since is appropriate for any photographic camera on this school, the particular X10 can easily seize Natural photos and also, in a pleasant inclusion, it may also re-process a unique Natural data files in-camera (the Olympus XZ-1 could be the simply some other photographic camera on this school we could consider that will carry out this). Blend this kind of characteristic with all the X10's motion picture simulation methods and also color-filtered mono methods and also it could be actually ideal for having the finest with the photographs right after firing.

Fujifilm X10 specification highlights

12MP EXR CMOS sensor
28-112mm F2.0-2.8 lens
Optical viewfinder (85% coverage)
2.8", 460,000 dot LCD
Extensive manual control
Raw shooting and in-camera Raw conversion
Continuous shooting up to 7fps at full resolution (10fps at 6MP)

SLR Magic announces HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95 M-mount lens

2012-01-03T01:10:00.000-08:00

Hong Kong lens maker SLR Magic has announced the HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95 lens for the Leica M mount. The lens, which can be easily adapted for Micro Four Thirds or Sony NEX cameras, is designed for low light and shallow depth-of-field videography and available-light photography. The lens features 12 elements in 7 groups and, the company says, is optimized to be shot with the aperture wide open. The lens won't be available until September 2012. In the meantime, the company has also announced a spotting scope that mounts directly to Micro Four Thirds cameras.

Hong Kong, China (January 1, 2012) - SLR Magic opens up the M mount lens lineup with the new SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95 ultra fast normal focal length lens. The world's fastest interchangeable camera lens with an image circle beyond full frame coverage in its focal length, the SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95 concept lens will be publicly available for experience testing in September 2012 at Photokina in Cologne, Germany.

The field of view of this new HyperPrime Lens corresponds to a 50mm lens in 35mm format. It is optimized to be shot wide open. This ultra fast normal focal length prime lens opens up many new creative composition opportunities, particularly in the fields of available light, in portrait, and street cinematography. Built with modern non aspherical lens technology, the lens excels at defocusing busy backgrounds at T0.95. A minimum focus distance of 0.70m allows for artistic bokeh effect. A fast maximum aperture of T0.95 makes the SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95 ideal for available-light photography.

Our highest priority in the development of all HyperPrime lenses is to fulfill the demands of professional cinematographers and photographers. The design and build of the SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95 is solid and reliable.

The SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 50mm T0.95, a concept lens, will be available from authorized SLR Magic dealers by the end of September 2012.

Fujifilm X10 Hands-on Preview

2011-12-31T11:23:00.000-08:00

Fujifilm X10 specification highlights

12MP EXR CMOS sensor
28-112mm F2.0-2.8 lens
Optical viewfinder (85% coverage)
2.8", 460,000 dot LCD
Extensive manual control
Raw shooting and in-camera Raw conversion
Continuous shooting up to 7fps at full resolution (10fps at 6MP)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 Hands-on Preview

2011-12-30T22:17:00.000-08:00

Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GX1 could be the firm's newest inclusion to be able to the G-series collection. And also even though the photographic camera contains the particular '1' appendage inside the product identify, it really is apparent coming from a good basic glimpse in which with all the GX1, Panasonic provides offered the particular long-awaited non secular heir for the respectable Lumix DMC-GF1. Regarding possibly even better value, the particular go on to bring in a different GX products (as against delivering the particular photographic camera being a 'GF4') would appear to be able to advise any long-term determination from the photographic camera creator to fulfill the particular calls for regarding lovers which appreciated the particular GF1.

Introduced back last year, the particular GF1 has been, ironically, Panasonic's try to court docket compact-camera masters trying to improve, in what has been next invoiced since, 'the earth's tiniest, lightest compatible contact lens camera'. As an alternative, the particular GF1's good quality Natural end result and also vintage rangefinder cosmetic obtained a solid and also zealous pursuing inside the lover industry. DIGITAL CAMERA masters buying a next 'go-anywhere' photographic camera together with large graphic top quality appreciated the particular camera's outside handle items and its particular comparatively lightweight Small Several Thirds contact lens products.

It really is exactly these kinds of people who've been unhappy 2 times above with all the Lumix DMC-GF2 and also Lumix DMC-GF3 emits, which usually out of cash with all the old style hair styling and also button-driven in business handle and only ever-smaller kind aspects and also layout cues in which aimed unambiguously to be able to people which could be deterred simply by a great extremely intricate (and expensive) photographic camera. With all the GX1 Panasonic will be using rectangular purpose with more complex people regarding which the particular GF1 minted an enjoyable equilibrium among dimensions and also operability.

Needless to say, your competitors regarding these kinds of people has exploded significantly more rigid nowadays, and also Panasonic acknowledges that when that desires to broaden the particular camera's charm, the particular GX1 need to offer you positive aspects not merely for the GF collection yet with a congested industry that features robust APS-C sensor opposition coming from equally Sony and also Samsung. On this consider, the particular GX1 uses any 16MP sensor in which we've been generated feel will be the same for the computer chip not too long ago noticed in the particular Lumix DMC-G3, though it is currently getting sent with a leading ISO regarding 12, 400.

A whole new viewfinder, the particular LVF2 continues to be released along with the particular GX1. Using a increased magnification and also decision, the particular LVF2 can be a obvious development above the precursor, the particular LVF1. Crucially even though, a fresh specifications and also connection tends to make the particular LVF2 incompatible together with virtually any GF designs; none are you able to suit the particular LVF1 around the GX1. More quickly connection involving the photographic camera and also contact lenses aids the particular GX1 emphasis also more quickly compared to the 120Hz sensor readout authorized inside the not too long ago introduced G3 and also GF3 designs, together with Panasonic proclaiming any 10% development.

Panasonic's well-regarded touchscreen display software in addition has obtained several fresh tips, using a stage determine and also ingenious Feel Loss star in which lets you disguise, expose (and needless to say activate) a tiny cell regarding food selection alternatives immediately on-screen. One more extremely pleasant characteristic could be the introduction of your positioning sensor in which immediately swivels top to bottom photos even though grabbed together with non-OIS contact lenses.

The particular GX1 will be offered inside equally african american and also gold body. As opposed to earlier GF designs, probably none with the GX1's system alternatives carries a repaired focal size contact lens. As an alternative, the particular system contact lens alternatives are usually restricted to merely a couple of; the particular Lumix GARY TIMES Vario PZ 14-42mm F3. 5-5. 6 ASPH Strength OIS contact as well as the a lot more standard (and a smaller amount expensive) Lumix GARY Vario 14-42mm F3. 5-5. 6 ASPH OIS contact lens.

Simply by making a independent products for your GX, Panasonic provides simply by inference clarified which it recognizes considerable progress prospective inside the GF collection between compact-camera upgraders. With all the GH2 attracting people which blast plenty of video clip as well as the G3 made for (primarily) nonetheless fps who want any built-in EVF and also articulated LCD, the particular GX1 is pretty prudently placed as a possible lover supplying for many who need the best graphic top quality from your Small Several Thirds photographic camera, in the kind aspect in which perfectly fits a selection of focus contact lenses and also will not sacrifice quality about outside handles.

Panasonic GX1 specification highlights

16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor
ISO 160-12,800
Orientation sensor (providing information with non-OIS lenses)
3.0", 460k dot LCD
Full AVCHD 1080/60i video (from 30fps sensor output)
Continuous shooting up to 20fps (at reduced resolution)
Electronic level gauge
Four available Fn buttons (two onscreen)

Differences between the GX1 and the GF1

Higher resolution sensor (16MP vs 12MP)
Touchscreen interface
Top ISO of 12,800 (vs 3200)
AVCHD 1080/60i video (vs 720p AVCHD Lite format)
Stereo mic
Electronic level gauge
Two additional Fn buttons

Sony SLT-A65 Review

2011-12-30T04:57:00.000-08:00

The particular Sony SLT-A65 premiered along with the particular SLT-A77 : the particular long-awaited alternative to the particular DSLR-A700. Despite the fact that relatively overshadowed simply by the higher-end stablemate during the start, the particular less costly SLT-A65 provides a lot more mass-market prospective and also we all feel there is certainly each possibility oahu is the A65 that may hold the better long-term influence.

There may be undoubtedly about collecting the particular plastic-bodied A65 it is any photographic camera designed to be competitive in the a bit reduced school compared to the A77. The particular A65 is lacking in the particular A77's magnesium blend design and also fresh AF sensor (it makes use of the identical 15-point AF sensor that individuals observed inside the authentic SLT-A55). In addition, it can minus the A77's top-plate LCD, raise handle switch and also works on the less difficult joint device for your raise exhibit, yet notably, it really is created across the identical 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor as well as the identical a couple of. 4M department of transportation OLED viewfinder.

You can find a couple of causes we all feel the particular A65 gets the prospective being the harder considerable photographic camera inside the SLT line-up: to begin with as it will be directed at a more well-known portion with the industry : additional folks acquire consumer-level Digital slrs as compared to acquire lover kinds. And also second of all, due to the fact regardless of a couple of absent requirements, the particular A65 contains lots of the A77's central second-generation SLT characteristics yet with a cheap level. Except if the existing industry management deliver one thing innovative for the get together relatively shortly, the particular A65 might be the particular stand-out merchandise Sony wants to acquire a appropriate foot-hold inside the buyer DSLR/ILC industry : a thing that regardless of remarkable aspirations, it's got to date did not carry out.

Supplying 24MP seize, any 10fps steady firing fee, full-time stay see and also phase-detection AF and a number regarding some other progressive characteristics, the particular A65 is exclusive inside the industry portion. In some recoverable format, the particular A65 can be a a lot more intriguing photographic camera in a few aspects as compared to colleagues just like the Rule EOS 600D and Cool dude T3i and also Nikon D5100.

Sony's SLT layout, having its power to offer you DSLR-style autofocus inside stay see and also video clip, pleased us all if the business introduced the particular A33 and also A55. Nonetheless, the particular A65 will take the particular engineering significantly more, many crucially with all the benefits with the high-resolution OLED viewfinder. The particular 'TruFinder' layout supplies a 64% boost inside decision and also, moreover, presents accelerating display screen revisions as opposed to rejuvenating a single shade right after one more, gives any significantly simpler, a lot more life-like firing knowledge. The particular viewfinders inside the A33, thirty five and also fifty-five are usually outstanding, nevertheless the fresh product inside the A65 and also A77 will be substantially far better. Really a great good results. Keep reading to learn just how every one of the fresh characteristics and also advancements around the A65 lead to real-life efficiency.

Sony NEX-7 In-Depth Review

2011-12-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

Any time Sony initial released the array of mirrorless compatible contact lens video cameras inside May well 2010, the business has been specific concerning which that considered would certainly choose the NEX-5 and its particular near-identical-twin NEX-3. Tiny video cameras together with APS-C receptors, we all have been advised, would certainly interest lightweight photographic camera people which wished to improve yet could be intimidated from the volume and also identified difficulty of your DIGITAL SLR. The particular video cameras have been any revenue accomplishment (especially inside Japan), and also their particular effect with this market with the industry is now more and more apparent, together with Olympus's DOG PEN E-PL3 spending substantial honor with their important layout characteristics, and also Panasonic stripping-down the GF series from your enthusiast-friendly DMC-GF1 for the clearly beginner-orientated DMC-GF3.

Used, even though, that had not been merely novices getting these kinds of video cameras. Several lover professional photographers are already just as interested in the particular assure regarding outstanding graphic top quality in the tiny, very easily transportable photographic camera, fuelled simply by the opportunity to modify just about any contact lens to match. To be able to the credit rating Sony has brought take note and also gradually improved the particular NEXs' charm, together with effective firmware revisions to boost functionality and also increase characteristics.

Today, with all the NEX-7, Sony will be especially concentrating on people superior people using a photographic camera whoever important specifications says just like it really is appear right away from a great enthusiast's wishlist. Initial upwards could be the 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor, distributed to the particular SLT-A77, that permits correct 1080p60 video clip saving. Next there is certainly the particular EVF that has been compressed in to the lightweight physique (and furthermore distributed to the particular A77) : the two. 4M department of transportation OLED product could be the maximum decision but noticed in any stills photographic camera, and contains an eye fixed sensor regarding programmed moving over with all the raise LCD. Rounding over enhancements certainly are a built-in display and also Alpha-type hotshoe, almost all in the physique which is a comparable dimensions because the Olympus DOG PEN E-P3.

The particular NEX-7 furthermore stretches around the present graphical user interface, incorporating a couple of calls at the top menu which you can use to regulate numerous capabilities, and also a conveniently-placed option next to the shutter which is utilized to routine by means of their particular capabilities. A corner switch and also a few 'soft' tips common from your back with the present NEX video cameras are usually stored, since could be the helpful slanting raise LCD. The particular producing 'Triple-dial-control' software tends to make the particular NEX-7 the initial interchangeable-lens digicam in which inside typical utilize receives a single switch specialized in all the principal coverage variables (for illustration shutter velocity, aperture and also ISO inside Handbook mode) : this kind of eminently smart set up we have been surprised that wasn't completed just before.

The particular NEX-7 works on the fresh shutter set up, having an (optional) electronic digital initial window curtain. Put simply, the particular photographic camera will no longer must shut the particular shutter next available that once more to start out the particular coverage, and also in accordance with Sony this kind of diminishes shutter lag coming from 100ms to be able to merely 20ms. This is simply not new engineering : Canon's stay see in a position Digital slrs are already deploying it considering that the EOS 40D regarding 2007 : yet it is rather pleasant to find out that applied inside this sort of photographic camera.

More indicator, when virtually any have been necessary, with the NEX-7's significant objectives will be given by the particular co-announced Carl Zeiss-branded ELIZABETH 24mm F1. 8 contact lens (also called the particular SEL24F18Z). This kind of supplies a industry regarding see comparable to any 35mm contact lens about total shape, and also areas the particular NEX-7 squarely against famous brands the particular Fujifilm FinePix X100 (with the repaired 23mm F2 lens), plus the E-P3. The particular NEX-7 furthermore receives a unique african american model with the common ELIZABETH 18-55mm F3. 5-5. 6 OSS system focus.
Sony NEX-7 specs shows

* 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor (shared with all the SLT A-77 and also A-65)
* ISO 100-16000 (100-1600 inside Auto)
* Built-in a couple of. 4M department of transportation OLED EVF together with vision sensor
* Electronic digital first-curtain shutter (cuts reply moment coming from 100ms to be able to 20ms)
* 'AVCHD Progressive' 1080p60 HI-DEF motion picture saving together with built-in music system microphone stand
* Slanting raise display screen
* Three-dial graphical user interface
* Integrated display and also Alpha dog hotshoe
* Infra-red handy remote control radio
* Mike feedback plug.

Canon PowerShot S100 Review

2011-12-24T03:45:00.000-08:00

When Canon revived its PowerShot S vary with the S90 in August 2009, it absolutely was in acknowledgement of a transparent demand from enthusiast photographers for top quality nonetheless pocketable cameras providing in depth manual management. The S95, that followed virtually specifically a year later, stuck with abundant a similar formula - a comparatively giant sensor (at least in compact camera terms), a 28-105mm equivalent zoom lens with a quick F2 most aperture at wideangle, and a multi-functional management dial round the lens. however whereas its successor, the S100, appearance abundant a similar once more on the skin, it's to all or any intents and functions a greenhorn camera.

Crucially, the S100's 3 key imaging components are all entirely new. The lens vary has been extended wider and longer, to a 24-120mm equivalent 5x zoom; it retains the quick F2 most aperture at wideangle however is restricted to a rather less-impressive F5.9 at telephoto (an inevitable consequence of the camera's compact dimensions). Secondly the S100 debuts Canon's latest DIGIC five image processor, that the corporate says is six times faster than the previous version, permitting additional subtle image processing and noise reduction. however maybe most importantly, the S100's image sensor may be a Canon-made twelve.1 MP 'high sensitivity' CMOS sensor within the one/1.7" format (approx seven.5 x 5.5mm); solely the second home-grown sensor the corporate has employed in a compact camera once the PowerShot SX1 IS of 2008.

Canon says the new sensor employs technology like that employed in its EOS SLRs, as well as an on-chip noise cancellation system, and microlenses that cowl additional of the sensor space to enhance its light-gathering characteristics. the corporate claims that this ends up in reduced noise and increased dynamic range; the most accessible ISO has accordingly been increased to 6400. A 4-channel readout system additionally improves the continual shooting rate, up to 2.3 fps compared to the S95's most framerate of one.9 fps. For real speed freaks there is additionally a scene mode that may capture eight frames at a powerful nine.6 fps, however it's restricted to JPEG pictures solely, with no manual management.

The new sensor additionally permits the S100 to supply this year's must-have feature: full HD movie recording at 1920x1080 resolution, with a 24P output framerate. in contrast to the S95, optical zoom is obtainable whereas recording movies. This enhanced video capability is supported by a revised management layout, that currently includes an instantaneous movie recording button beneath your thumb on the rear of the camera. different options enabled by the new sensor and processor embrace user management over noise reduction, and a white balance system that may change totally different areas of the image separately to catch up on mixed lighting (when the camera is ready to good Auto mode).

The lens's optical image stabilization system has been updated too, with no fewer than seven modes accessible for various functions as well as macro, panning, video, and tripod work. The 'Intelligent IS' system can automatically choose the mode it considers most acceptable for the present shooting scenario. The S100's lens additionally gains a built-in neutral density filter, as seen on PowerShot G series, to permit the employment of larger apertures in bright daylight.

Also new to the S100 is its built-in GPS unit, like that employed in the PowerShot SX230 HS 'travel zoom'. This not solely permits you to tag pictures with the situation at that they were taken, however additionally includes a logger operate that may keep track of your movements (regardless of whether or not or not you are taking pictures) and plot the result on Google Maps.

In terms of external style, the S100 gains delicate finger and thumb grips, that ought to cut back the possibilities of it slipping from your grasp if you are not paying due care and a focus. The camera is additionally accessible during a 'titanium silver' version alongside the additional typical black - this is often not the shiny silver of the Elph / Ixus series, however a darker, matte-finish look.

Digital Photography Tips - How to Take Great Photographs! by Digital Dave

2011-12-07T10:38:00.000-08:00

Looking for great digital photography tips? Who hasn't flipped through the covers of a glossy magazine and been 'Wowed' by amazing photographs. If you are like I was when I was much younger, you will have thought those shots were close to impossible to take, and that you would never be able to take such shots.

But in fact, digital photography is a skill, and as in all skills, if you learn and practice a technique again and again, you can become really accomplished. Even just using a few hours a week with the right techniques and advice, can improve your digital photography ten-fold!

These days with digital photography being so easily accessible to everyone, many people are taking shots left right and center. Yet, as my old photography teacher used to say, 'quantity doesn't equal quality'!

How to Take Shots With The Wow Factor!

In fact, digital photography is much easier to understand once you realize that when you include certain digital photography tips into all your shots, you then make a shot sixty to seventy percent better than in may have been.

Lets take a look at a few digital photography secrets right now:

1. Composition. Now, this one's a big topic, and we can't really cover the whole subject in an article of this size, so after, make sure you click the resource link at the bottom where you'll find more articles about it. But firstly, let me say this: One of the worst things you can do when taking a picture is to take it 'flat-on', the way the vast majority of people do.

Advice: It really looks bad if you do that. So, if you simply re-angle yourself or the subject, maybe to the left or right, or from below or above, you will find that, that shot just became about thirty percent better!

2. Distance. To be perfectly honest, a shot that contains all of the subject, no matter what the subject is, person or object, doesn't always do much for the viewer, no matter you think this is the way a photograph should be. Let's fact it, the person that taught you or I this rule, was, like it was for me, my mother or father, who by the way were not professional photographers.

Advice: Try moving closer to your subject. You don't necessarily need to get all of the subject in the frame at all. Move forward and see how the shot looks and take one. You may find later when comparing shots that, it looks much, much better from a certain distance, than when the subject is fully in frame.

3. Lighting. In photography lighting is one of the most important, yet most neglected aspects of digital photography. The light effects the colors withing an image, so much so that with too much light an image can look washed-out and unattractive, yet with too little, it may be hard to see any detail whatsoever, and can even look depressing!

Advice: In the beginning try to get an exposure that keeps the colors saturated. You can do this by either adjusting the shutter speed until the colors look rich, or if you are using a 'point and shoot' digital camera, adjust the setting from macro, to portrait to sports and see what you get.

Just one further point, in creative photography it may be desirable to have too much, or too little light in the shot. It can create a certain mood with the right subjects.

The key when using digital photography tips is experimentation. Only this way will you become skilled , and more importantly, find your own view and style as a photographer. That is the real goal.

Make sure you always keep expanding your knowledge base by learning tips and taking some tutorials.

Go to Digital Photography Tips Tutorial and also see the digital photography tips blog go to http://www.digital-photography-tips-tutorial.com/index.html to learn FREE tutorials, and tons of photography tips, and great articles!

Sony SLT-A77 In-depth Review

2011-10-26T23:42:00.000-07:00

After a four-year wait, Sony has returned to the enthusiast/semi-pro end of the DSLR market. Having made little impact in that market with the A700 that very closely resembled the conventional DSLRs made by Canon and Nikon, Sony has spent the intervening time developing something a bit different. The A77 builds on the company's 'translucent mirror' technology, and uses an electronic rather than optical viewfinder. The final result is a product that may look traditional, but is able to promise the unconventional.

Spec-wise the A77 is impressive: it features a new 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor, 12fps full-resolution shooting and the highest resolution EVF we've ever encountered (a 2.4M dot OLED finder). It also uses a new 19-point AF sensor, 11 points of which are cross-type (sensitive to detail in both the vertical and horizontal axis). Clever use of the main sensor's live view allows the A77 to track objects as they move across the frame, enabling the camera to have a better understanding of which AF point it should be using at any given time.

Last year's SLT-A55 gave some clues about how Sony hoped to bring its electronics know-how to bear in a high-end camera. Its fixed, semi-transparent mirror design meant Sony could do away with a conventional optical viewfinder and use an electronic display. It also meant that the phase-detection autofocus that gives DSLRs much of their immediacy could be used all the time. The result was a camera that could shoot at an impressive 10fps, could focus quickly in video mode and offered full-time live view with consistent DSLR-like behaviour in a way that no camera had really managed before.

Unsurprisingly the A77 takes all these capabilities a lot further than the consumer-level A55 - it combines the latest processor with an electronic first curtain shutter to offer the level of responsiveness the more demanding enthusiast/semi-pro users will expect. The A77's massively improved viewfinder is also key to ensuring the A77 can hold its own against the very stiff competition it faces from the likes of Canon's 7D. (You don't have to read particularly far between the lines to conclude it was this feature Sony wanted to perfect before launching an SLT into this market.)

And, as with the A55 and a handful of other recent Sony cameras, the A77 offers in-camera GPS. It can be a really useful feature for organising and retrieving images, as allowing tagged images to be geo-located on sites such as Flickr.

In addition to the technological advances, Sony has clearly been listening to its audience when developing the camera's firmware - the A77 is not just the most customizable Sony we've ever encountered, but it includes a full quota of high-end features. This includes the ability to fine-adjust the AF tuning, and to define the upper and lower extremes that the Auto ISO system will use - features we've not seen on a Sony camera since the DSLR-A850.
Sony SLT-A77 key features:

* 24MP CMOS Sensor
* 12fps continuous shooting with autofocus
* 1080p60 movies with autofocus
* 2.4M dot OLED viewfinder
* 1/8000th maximum shutter speed, shutter rated for 150,000 actuations
* ISO 100 - 16,000 (25,600 with multi-image combination. Expands down to ISO 50)
* Auto ISO with customisable lower and upper limits
* Built-in dark red autofocus illuminator
* Optional, profile-based correction of vignetting, chromatic aberration and geometric distortion
* Pull-out three-hinge tilt/swivel 920k dot LCD screen
* Built-in GPS
* Top panel LCD
* Stereo microphone and external mic socket
* AF Micro Adjust
* Dust shake sensor cleaning

Olympus PEN E-P3 in-depth review

2011-08-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

The Olympus PEN E-P3 looks a lot like its forebears - not just the E-P1 and E-P2 but, just as significantly, the company's film era Pen F camera. Significantly because, in an age in which the major electronics giants are building their photographic presence, Olympus is one of only a handful of companies with genuine heritage to turn to. And, despite modern cameras making high image quality more accessible than ever, there is an undeniable reverence for the look and feel of 1960s cameras.

Just like Fujifilm's X100, the Olympus PEN E-P1 generated a lot of excitement at its launch thanks to its elegant traditional styling. And, in common with the X100, the shooting experience didn't always live up to the high expectations that its classic looks might have engendered. The E-P2 was a slight reworking of the E-P1, doing little more than adding the ability to use the excellent VF-2 electronic viewfinder, and could still be a slightly slow and awkward camera to actually use.The E-P3's similarity of appearance to its predecessors could, all too easily, suggest that Olympus has again been subtle with its changes. But this isn't the case at all, and the new model brings with it a whole raft of updates and refinements. Olympus has addressed many of the key criticisms of the older models, to the extent that we'd be tempted to say that the E-P3 is finally the camera that the PEN has always promised to be.The changes may be somewhat hidden but they are certainly there. Physically the biggest addition is a built-in flash - deliberately styled so that the pop-up element doesn't interrupt the front plate of the camera. The accessory port is also more neatly integrated into the body design than before. The other big physical change is a removable hand grip; a large screw now holds the rectangular grip in place, giving users the choice of removing or swapping it for a more substantial design (in a fashion more than a little reminiscent of Olympus's OM-4 film camera).But it's inside the camera that the biggest changes have been made: the sensor is still the familiar 12MP unit but the camera's processing is greatly improved. The latest TruePic VI processor is much faster than previous designs, allowing the camera to check focus 120 times per second. This, of course, means that it can adjust focus more often and therefore confirm focus more quickly. The dual core processor also means image processing and live view can be run in parallel, decreasing the blackout time after each shot.In addition, the E-P3 has a 614,000 dot OLED screen that is touch-sensitive. This particular panel uses Samsung's Pentile dot layout to give VGA-equivalent resolution, coupled with capacitance-type touch technology similar to the Apple iPhone. The touch screen can be used to set the focus point and optionally fire the shutter, and can operate some of the camera's other functions too. Crucially though this is always in addition to the rest of the camera's controls, rather than attempting to replace them. If you decide such features don't have a place on such a traditional-looking camera, they can be disabled with no overall loss of functionality.Another very welcome addition is a built-in autofocus illuminator light, in the form of a bright orange LED on the front of the camera (previous PENs were notorious for their reluctance to focus in low light). The autofocus system has been updated too, with 35 zones covering most of the image area. The movie recording specification has also been significantly upgraded, and the E-P3 can now capture full HD 1080i60 movies in AVCHD format.The control layout has been revised too, most notably by the addition of direct movie record and display magnification buttons - indeed overall it's now much more closely related to the E-PL line than the older E-P models. As is the Olympus way the camera's controls are remarkably customisable - no fewer than five buttons can now have their functions defined by the user. All of the goodies that Olympus introduced in the E-PLs have also found their way across - ranging the beginner-friendly 'Live Guide' control and iEnhance colour mode, through to the ability to display user-configurable shadow and highlight clipping warnings in live view.The Art Filters have been expanded dramatically too, with a number of additional filters plus the ability to tune their looks and add effects such as frames and even a digital 'starburst' filter on point highlights. There's also a new tonal control that allows you to manually adjust shadow brightness independent of overall exposure. Last, but by no means least, the menu system has finally benefited from a substantial makeover, and is not only much easier on the eye, but easier to find your way around too.Olympus E-P3 key specifications: * Updated 12MP Live MOS sensor * 120 Hz 'Fast AF' focus system * Built-in pop-up flash * Built-in autofocus illuminator light (orange LED) * Touch-sensitive VGA-equivalent 614,000 dot OLED screen (3:2 aspect ratio) * Dual-core TruePic VI processor * 1080i60 movies in AVCHD format * Independent Shadow and Highlight tone adjustment controls * Interchangeable hand grips * In-body image stabilisation (works with all lenses)What's new / changed (vs E-P2) * 35-area AF system * Touch AF and Touch shutter * Direct movie record and display magnification buttons * E-PL2-style control layout, 5 customisable buttons * Live guide control in iAuto * iEnhance colour mode * Revised and expanded Art Filters (with quick preview option)

Panasonic announces the LUMIX GF3X, the company's smallest compact system camera with a new retractable power zoom, LUMIX G X lens

2011-08-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

SECAUCUS, NJ (August 26, 2011) –Panasonic today announces a newly designed and innovative LUMIX G “X” lens that retracts to help minimize its size, without compromising its focal length or image quality. Panasonic’s new premium LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042) lens, will be available with the company’s smallest and lightest compact system camera as a lens kit option in the DMC-GF3X model. With electric-powered zoom operation, the retractable Power Zoom H-PS14042 lens is extremely compact, approximately 26.8mm in length, and weighs approximately 3.35oz, offering ultra-high portability.

Panasonic’s new premium LUMIX ”X” Series of lenses, including the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S., offers a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm) suitable for a wide range of scenes, such as dynamic landscape to portrait. Also announced today is another LUMIX X lens, the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm/F4.0-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S. Crystallizing Panasonic's optical technologies, the LUMIX X lenses feature superb image rendering for lifelike textures, crisp edge-to-edge contrast, a unique Nano Surface Coating to help minimize ghosts and flaring in natural settings with remarkable transparency.“Panasonic continues to innovate in digital photography by offering advanced features in small and compact bodies, thus addressing the consumer’s need for camera equipment to be lightweight and easy to carry,” said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “With the new LUMIX X Series of premium lenses, we do not sacrifice size for quality and Panasonic still offers top-of-the-line image quality for our G Series, but in a smaller design that makes it extremely mobile.”With the LUMIX GF3X, the camera and lens combination can achieve Light Speed AF of approximately 0.1 second – making it an extremely quick and high-performing digital camera. The LUMIX GF3X with the new 14-42 PZ lens also features POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), to make it easier to shoot clear photos even in low-lit situations. The convenient zoom lever on the lens barrel gives users a stable way to zoom. Manual focusing is also available with a manual focus lever for even more precise control.The LUMIX GF3, like all the LUMIX G Series of Compact System Cameras, captures high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. With its stunningly small compact profile, the LUMIX GF3 boasts high-speed, precise Contrast AF system and quick response times. The LUMIX GF3 is also capable of 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition video in the AVCHD format.The LUMIX GF3X will be available in a black body and black lens or a silver body and silver lens kits options in October 2011 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $749.99. The new LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ POWER O.I.S. (H-PS14042) lens will also be available separately for an SRP of $399.99 and will be compatible the Panasonic LUMIX G Series.

Nikon CoolPix P7100

2011-08-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

When Nikon released the CoolPix P7000 last year, several commentators, including ourselves, remarked on its uncanny resemblance to the Canon Powershot G-series. Clearly intended to compete with Canon's G-series in the high-end compact camera market, the raw-enabled P7000 offered very similar ergonomics, as well as near-identical top-level specifications to the Powershot G12. Sadly, although it was capable of producing excellent image quality, the P7000 was plagued with poor operational speed and frustratingly glitchy on-screen menus. The overall impression was of a camera which was almost, but not quite finished for public release. It was a camera that we wanted to love, but just couldn't.

It was with great interest then, that we received news from Nikon of a successor. The P7100 isn't hugely different to the P7000 in terms of specification - it utilizes the same 10MP CCD as its predecessor (and is thus limited to the same 720p video specification) and the same lens. The LCD screen might be articulated, but it is the same excellent 3in, 921k-dot display as before. The P7100's form factor is almost exactly the same as the P7000, and is partly defined by the same optical viewfinder - a slightly anachronistic touch on a modern compact camera, perhaps, but no doubt a welcome one for some users and useful in some situations.Meaningful changes can be seen though to both its ergonomics and operational speed, if you go looking for them. The most obvious physical additions are a command dial dial on the front of the camera, and of course that flip-out LCD screen on the rear. Operationally, Nikon claims to have greatly increased the P7100's responsiveness compared to the P7000, in everything from image processing time to menu activation/dismissal - areas in which the P7000 badly lagged behind its competitors.

In all other external respects, the P7100 resembles its predecessor. Like the P7000, the P7100 offers full manual exposure control, and pleasantly chunky mode dials on the top-plate, which reinforce the utilitarian, fashionably 'old fashioned' design aesthetic which is so prevalent in its class.Not all of the cameras in its class are quite so large though. In fact, the P7100, like its predecessor and like the Canon Powershot G12, are remarkable amongst their peers for their bulk. Even direct competitors like Panasonic's Lumix-DMC LX5, and Samsung's TL500 / EX1 (which shares the same 10MP CCD sensor), are relatively small cameras. The P7100, by comparison, is something of a beast, thanks mostly to its height. Certainly not small enough to fit in a shirt or trouser pocket, the P7100 rivals some interchangeable lens cameras in terms of its overall dimensions, despite having a sensor many times smaller. As such, despite its trump card - a 28-200mm (equivalent) optical zoom lens - it faces stiff competition on two fronts. Nikon's engineers will be hoping that by taking the imperfect P7000, and refining its ergonomics and its operation, they have done enough to keep the resulting updated model relevant in a changing market.Compared to CoolPix P7000 - key differencesThe differences between the P7100 and its predecessor are relatively few, and quite subtle. Here's a list: * Rear LCD now articulated (fold out design) * New front control dial * AE lock in movie mode * New effects modes (including cross-process, optical zoom burst effect and mono filters) * Claimed improvements to AF response and accuracy * Claimed improvements to raw (.NRW) write times * Claimed improvements to operation speed (menu activation/dismissal etc). * Claimed improvements to noise-reduction using Expeed C2 'ultraimaging' processing

SONY'S LATEST α DSLR CAMERAS BRING NEW LEVELS OF SPEED, PERFORMANCE AND CREATIVITY TO PHOTO ENTHUSIASTS

2011-08-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 24, 2011 – Blazing speed, enhanced image quality, high resolution and incredible performance are just some of the features advanced amateurs and photo enthusiasts will find in Sony's newest alpha cameras, models SLT-A77 (α77) and SLT-A65 (α65).Sony's latest refinements to its Translucent Mirror Technology make these new cameras the fastest, most responsive interchangeable lens cameras in their class, as well as set new performance benchmarks that even professional DSLRs have yet to achieve. The α77 and α65 both feature a newly developed Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor with 24.3 effective megapixel resolution, as well as the world's first XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ viewfinder. The sensor teams with the next generation of Sony's BIONZ® image processing engine to handle huge amounts of high speed data from the camera sensor, enabling unprecedented response times and flawless image quality with ultra-low noise when shooting still images or Full HD video.

"We feel that these cameras are not only a significant evolution of our breakthrough Translucent Mirror Technology," said Mike Kahn, director of the alpha camera business group for Sony Electronics. "They're also a revolution in terms of redefining how this unique technology can be put to use by enthusiasts."The much anticipated successor to Sony's acclaimed α700 DSLR, the α77 boasts the world's fastest continuous autofocus (AF) shooting performance (among DSLRs in Aug 2011), capturing a burst of full resolution, 24 megapixel images at 12 frames per second with full-time phase-detection AF. The α65 achieves a similarly impressive 10fps shooting speed.Precision AF tracking of moving subjects is more precise with the α77 due to a new 19-point autofocus system with 11 cross sensors. The α65 boasts 15-point AF with three cross sensors. Tracking Focus maintains accurate focus lock on a moving subject – even if the target is momentarily obscured. Additionally, a new electronic front shutter curtain achieves a minimum release time lag of approximately 50 milliseconds, comparable to much more expensive professional-class DSLRs.The α77 and α65 further refine Sony's acclaimed Fast Continuous AF Full HD Movie shooting, already featured on previous Sony Translucent Mirror cameras. Phase Detection maintains accurate focus during video shooting of portrait subjects, even when they're moving at fast speeds.Unprecedented image quality and creative optionsA broad sensitivity range of ISO 100-16000 expands (α77 only) down to ISO 50. At the highest sensitivities, both cameras can freeze fast action or capture atmospheric low-noise shots without flash. Low ISO settings are ideal when used with a long exposure to create expressive shots, such as splashing water.Both cameras showcase a remarkably crisp OLED Tru-Finder™ viewfinder, the world's first of its kind. With a 2359k dot (XGA) resolution, this precision electronic viewfinder offers a bright, highly detailed, high contrast image with 100 percent frame coverage and a wide field of view comparable to the most advanced class optical viewfinders.However, unlike optical viewfinders, users have expansive customization capabilities through the XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ viewfinder and can preview the effects of adjusting exposure, white balance and other settings in real-time. Photographers can also make fine focus adjustments via a zoomed-in portion of the image.The Smart Teleconverter displays an enlarged central portion of the image sensor, allowing compositions to be displayed clearly on the OLED viewfinder and captured as 12 megapixel images with a digital zoom factor of 1.4x or 2x.In another first for DSLR cameras, both new models can capture Full HD video at 60p (progressive) frame rates – incorporating the recently introduced AVCHD™ Progressive (Ver. 2.0) format. Also, 24p shooting is available for capturing beautiful cinematic video footage. Manual focusing and P/A/S/M exposure modes, familiar to creative filmmakers, also can provide enhanced control during video shooting.Shooters can compose and review stills and video on the adjustable-angle three-inch Xtra Fine LCD™ display that offers high resolution (921k dot) and TruBlack™ technology for superb detail and contrast. As an extra refinement, the α77 introduces the world's first three-way adjustable screen that tilts and pivots freely for effortless framing at any angle (α65: two-way adjust LCD).Revised ergonomics on both cameras include a comfortably contoured new grip design and tactile new button layout for 'eyes off' operation while viewing via the high-resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ viewfinder.The α77 adds front and rear control dials for intuitive fingertip operation and a separate top-mounted LCD data display. The durable body features magnesium alloy panels for strength and lightness. Key controls are sealed against the effects of dust and moisture, complementing similar levels of protection offered by the new SAL1650 lens, VG-C77AM Vertical Grip for α77 and HVL-F43AM flash unit.A new shutter unit on the α77 is tested up to 150,000 cycles and supports an ultra-fast minimum 1/8000 sec shutter speed (1/250 sec flash sync). On-board GPS allows automatic geo-tagging of photos and video clips with location data.New DT 16-50mm F2.8 SSM zoom lens and accessoriesThe growing range of compatible A-mount lenses for both cameras now includes the quiet, bright DT 16-50mm F2.8 SSM standard zoom with 16mm wide angle coverage that's ideal for both portrait and everyday shooting.The high-performance lens features a dust- and moisture-resistant design, and offers a zoom range of approximately 3x range at constant wide F2.8 aperture. Optical performance is assured by aspherical glass and three ED (Extra Low Dispersion) lens elements to minimize aberration at all focal lengths. An internal Super Sonic wave Motor (SSM) drive enables fast, quiet autofocus.An optional dust- and moisture-resistant VG-C77AM Vertical Grip for α77 assures comfortable handling in vertical shooting positions. It can house up to two NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM® batteries, doubling shooting stamina up to approximately 1060 shots (via LCD monitor)/940 shots (via Tru-Finder™ viewfinder) when using Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media. Other new A-mount system accessories include a back pack (LCS-BP2), soft carrying cases (LCS-SC21 and LCS-SC8), LCD protectors and eyepiece cups.Pricing and AvailabilityThe new α77 Translucent Mirror interchangeable lens camera will be available in a kit with the new SAL1650 f2.8 lens for about $2000, and offered as body-only for about $1400. The SAL1650 lens will also be sold separately for about $700.The new VG-C77AM vertical grip, designed for the α77 camera, will be available in October for about $300.The new α65 Translucent Mirror interchangeable lens camera will be available in a kit with a standard 18-55mm lens (SAL1855) for about $1000, and offered as body-only for about $900.Both the α77 and α65 cameras kits and the new SAL1650 lens will be available this October at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) as well as other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network.

Fujifilm Finepix F200 EXR Review

2009-05-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

Fujifilm won a great many fans with its F30 and F31fd models, which combined slightly larger than average sensors containing fewer pixels than their competitors with some clever image processing, to produce some of the best high ISO images we'd ever seen from a compact camera. In fact, three years later, there are very few compacts we can think of that do a better job once the sun goes down. While playing lip-service to the needs of low-light photography (and continuing to produce cameras whose processing give them a slight edge over their contemporaries), Fujifilm didn't appear to make further progress in the direction the F30 had pioneered. With the F200 EXR, Fujifilm seems to suggest that it wants to regain its low-light crown, based on a novel sensor technology it has developed (explained on the next page). In a time when compact cameras are becoming increasingly commoditized, it's interesting to see a company trying to use more than just marketing to differentiate its products.

And, even without its EXR cleverness, the F200 EXR is still a fairly well specified camera. It has one of the largest sensors used in any compact camera (it's a 1/1.6" type, which means it has a surface area of around 0.45cm2) combined with a lens that offers a very useful range, equivalent to 28-140mm in 35mm film terms. To put this in perspective, most DSLRs are supplied with lenses covering a roughly 28-85mm range. It's not the fastest (brightest) lens in the world but it's not excessively slow compared to its peers.

The F200 also offers image stabilization, which is one of the best features for ensuring consistently sharp images, along with modes that allow a reasonable amount of control over the camera and ones that take care of everything for you.

* 12MP Super CCD EXR sensor with 6MP dynamic range and high sensitivity modes
* Dual Image Stabilization (High sensitivity + CCD shift)
* 5.0x optical zoom (28-140mm equiv)
* 3.0-inch TFT screen with 230.000 dots
* ISO 3200 sensitivity at full resolution
* IR Communication (IR simple™/IR SS™)
* VGA movie capture of 25 frames per second with sound
* Micro thumbnail view (up to 100 thumbnails visible)
* 5fps continuous mode (3MP, 12 frames max)
* Aperture priority modes

Changes over the F100fd

Looking at the differences between the F100fd and the F200 EXR (if you can find them), you very quickly come to the conclusion that the F200 EXR is essentially an F100fd with a clever new sensor inserted. This is no bad thing, since the F100fd was a pretty popular camera and change of sensor may well address the most discussed shortcoming (pink banding appearing in high-ISO shooting).

Pentax K-7 Preview

2009-05-24T22:21:00.000-07:00

Preview based on a pre-production Pentax K-7 Pentax is a name that will evoke fond memories for many photographers whose first SLR experience would have been with a Spotmatic, KM, K1000 or ME Super. Although the company's market position isn't as well entrenched as it was during the halcyon days of 35mm film, it continues to attract a devoted following of enthusiasts. And that following isn't just based on nostalgia - Pentax is alone in having developed a comprehensive range of prime lenses for the APS-C format that dominates modern DSLR photography, while most of its competitors concentrate on offering a selection of zooms.

Pentax's cameras have also catered well for this market in the shape of the competitively-priced K20D, a very likeable, solid upgrade to the K10D. Both cameras offered robust semi-pro build quality and a fairly advanced degree of environmental sealing, combined with a good level of customizability and well worked-out handling. But it's now been over two-and-a-half years since the K10D appeared and, as it tends to, the market has moved on. The K20D's live view system was not exactly class leading, and the camera was starting to look a little long-in-the-tooth when compared to the video-shooting Canons and Nikons that have started to appear, with their VGA screens and polished interfaces.

So here we have the K-7, Pentax's latest enthusiast/semi-pro level DSLR. And a handsome creature it is, too - gone is the K20D's slightly pudgy utilitarianism, to be replaced by a sleek, pared-down elegance. But it's not just on the outside that things have changed: although the megapixel count remains the same, just about everything that matters has been replaced, revised or spruced-up.

Its spec isn't quite what the rumors might have suggested, but it still manages to look an awful lot like the wish-list of most enthusiast photographers (though one based in reality, rather than the increasingly surreal suggestions being churned out by the rumor mill).

The headline changes:

* 720p/1080i HD video recording
* Smaller magnesium/steel alloy body
* Revised viewfinder (less magnified but with greater coverage)
* Updated sensor with four-channel readout
* 3.0" VGA (920,000 dot) LCD
* New shutter mechanism with 1/8000th shutter speed
* Faster continuous shooting (up to 5.2 fps)
* 77 segment exposure metering sensor
* Revised autofocus algorithms
* AF illumination lamp
* New dust removal system
* HDMI output

And that's just the big stuff. The implications of some of these changes are almost as significant as their obvious effects - as well as allowing faster frame rates and video, the reworked, four-channel sensor promises to generate less noise than the version used in the K20D. There are also lots of more subtle additions that show just how fundamental a change this camera is from its predecessor.

* New dedicated ISO button
* Distortion and chromatic aberration correction for DA and DFA lenses (also available in RAW conversion)
* Adjustable dynamic range highlight and shadow correction
* Three-shot in-camera HDR capture
* Electronic level indicator
* Composition adjustment (Uses the SR system to reposition the sensor to fine-tune composition)

However you look at it, it's a well-specified camera.
Weather sealed lenses

To allow the K-7 to make the most of its weather sealing, while still allowing it to be sold as part of relatively inexpensive kits, two weather-resistant kit lenses have also been introduced. The optics are based on the existing DA lenses but with what the company describes as 'simplified weather-resistant construction' that offers greater protection against moisture and dust ingress than the older designs.

SONY INTRODUCES THREE MAINSTREAM ALPHA CAMERAS DESIGNED FOR FIRST-TIME DIGITAL SLR BUYERS

2009-05-19T04:11:00.000-07:00

SAN DIEGO, May 17, 2009 – Sony is making it easy for first-time digital SLR buyers to step up from point-and-shoot digital still cameras with the introduction today of three new easy-to-use α (alpha) cameras (models DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230), four new lenses, a flash and accessories. Uniquely Matched to Customers’ Needs The new cameras are designed to overcome challenges faced by many customers taking their first steps in DSLR photography. Without compromising performance and versatility, the new models are smaller, lighter, easier to use and offer innovative expansion options not found in other systems. “Our new alpha cameras, lenses and accessories make it easier for new users to get the great photos they expect without the steep learning curve that DSLRs have traditionally required,” said Kristen Elder, senior manager for the alpha business at Sony Electronics Inc. “By overcoming the obstacles, we’ve made it much easier for newcomers to take great pictures with DSLRs.”

Light and Compact
The 10.2 megapixel α230 camera is the lightest, most compact alpha DSLR camera body ever at 15.9 ounces. The 10.2 megapixel α330 and the 14.2 megapixel α380 cameras are also smaller and lighter than their predecessor models (the DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350, respectively). These cameras are also more compact and feature an intuitive control layout that allows for easy single-handed operation.

SteadyShot INSIDE™ in-camera image stabilization is built into each camera body, so every α-mount lens benefits from the ability to minimize blur due to camera shake.

Quick AF Live View System
Both the α380 and α330 cameras offer Sony’s Quick Autofocus (AF) Live View technology, so you can frame photos on the camera’s LCD screen as well as in the optical viewfinder. Through the use of a dedicated image sensor, Quick AF Live View maintains the rapid response of a DSLR, while avoiding the focus delay common to other live view systems.

The new cameras feature a 2.7-inch (diagonally) Clear Photo LCD™ screen that is easy to view even in bright sunlight. Additionally, the LCD on the α380 and α330 models can be tilted up or down, making it easy to frame your subject from high or low positions, otherwise difficult to see using an eye-level viewfinder. The range of adjustment has been increased from their predecessors, making it even easier to get shots from difficult angles.

By combining Quick AF Live View and an adjustable LCD, users can frame the scene without holding the camera in front of their face, allowing parents, for example, to maintain eye-contact when photographing their children for more natural expressions.

An HDMI™ terminal gives you the option of connecting your camera to a compatible HDTV and playing back your images in high definition quality (HDMI cable required, sold separately). Additionally, BRAVIA® Sync™ works with compatible Sony® BRAVIA HDTVs to let you control camera playback using the television’s remote (HDMI cable and BRAVIA Sync capable HDTV required, sold separately).

The new cameras include dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™ and SD/DSHC media (sold separately).

Built-in Help Guide
The α380, α330 and α230 models are Sony’s first DSLR cameras to feature a graphical user interface (GUI) with built-in on-screen Help Guide.

The Help Guide offers clear, concise explanations of various modes and settings, while the Graphic Display helps you understand the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results.

Systems, Lenses and Flash
Making it easier for first-time DSLR users to get started, the new Sony cameras come in camera-and-lens packages. In addition to the two new standard zoom and telephoto lenses that are offered with the camera bodies, the company introduced new portrait and macro lenses. These purpose-built lenses make it much easier to obtain professional-looking, creative results.

Optimized for use with APS-C sized image sensors, these lenses feature a Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) that enables in-lens auto focus (AF) drive for smooth, quiet operation, and high optical performance in a compact size.

The DT 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens (model SAL-1855) incorporates aspherical and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements to provide an all purpose lens with outstanding image quality. The DT 55-200mm F/4-5.6 telephoto zoom lens (model SAL-55200/2) features an ED glass element and helps bring distant subjects closer, ideal for capturing sports. Both the SAL-1855 and SAL-55200 lenses are available separately, or packaged as kits with the new cameras.

To make the benefits of portrait and macro photography easier and more accessible, Sony is introducing a DT 50mm F/1.8 portrait lens (model SAL-50F18) and DT 30mm F/2.8 (model SAL-30M28) macro lens. The wide aperture SAL-50F18 lens helps users capture beautiful portraits with gently defocused backgrounds while the SAL-30M28 macro lens captures intricate close-ups. Both techniques are difficult to achieve with standard lenses.

To help users take better shots with flash, Sony offers an affordable, compact external flash unit (model HVL-F20AM) that is simple to operate. Unlike a camera’s built-in flash, this external flash provides higher output (Guide Number 20), and enables users to bounce light off the ceiling to eliminate harsh shadows and achieve more even illumination when shooting indoors.

Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders will begin on May 18, 2009 at www.sonystyle.com/retail and at selected retailers nationwide. The cameras and a range of accessories will be available in July at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.

The α380L, α330L and α230L will cost about $850, $650 and $550, respectively. The L series one-lens kit comes with the SAL-1855 standard zoom lens.

The α380Y, α330Y and α230Y will cost about $1050, $850 and $750, respectively. The Y series two-lens kit comes with both the SAL-1855 standard zoom and SAL-55200 telephoto zoom lenses.

* The SAL-1855 standard zoom lens will cost about $200.
* The SAL-55200 telephoto zoom lens will cost about $230.
* The SAL-50F18 portrait lens will cost about $150.
* The HVL-F20AM flash will cost about $130.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Review

2009-03-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Panasonic's LX series has always been home to the company's most ambitious compacts, offering a range of photographer-friendly features in a small, stylish and solid body festooned with external controls. It's been two years since the launch of the LX2 and the market has changed a lot in that time - the level of features offered even on inexpensive models has grown and the cost of all cameras, particularly DSLRs, has fallen drastically. Both of these trends risk reducing the potential market for premium compacts if their features are available on cheaper compacts, and much better photographic tools (in terms of flexibility of purpose and image quality) are available for only a little more money. So the LX3, more than its predecessors, has to play to its strengths - it needs to offer some of the best compact camera image quality, a good degree of user control and a body that is more convenient and pocketable than DSLRs can be.

And Panasonic seems fully aware of these challenges. When announcing the camera, the company pointed out that more pixels on the same sized sensor does not always result in better image quality and described its approach with the LX3 as: "boldly reversing the industry trend of pushing toward ever-higher pixel counts." It's an admirable position (though one that would be easier to acclaim if the company hadn't, on the same day, released one of the most pixel-dense cameras we've ever seen), and one that seems promising - the benefits of newer sensor and processing technology without those advances being strangled by the downsides of smaller pixels. (And we believe that if you offer more pixels with the hard drive clutter and slower camera operation they bring, then those pixels must be good at the pixel level, otherwise, what benefits do those additional pixels bring?)

Headline features

24mm wide 2.5x optical LEICA DC lens
F2.0-2.8 maximum aperture range
MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer)
Venus Engine IV
Joystick-operated manual control
Large 3.0” 460k dot LCD monitor
Raw and JPEG recording modes
Up to ISO 3200 sensitivity
Up to 1280x720 (30 fps) pixel movie capture
Manual exposure and focus options
1/2000th to 60 sec shutter speeds
Available in black or silver
LX3 vs LX2: main differences

Although the outward appearance hasn't changed that dramatically, the LX2 and LX3 are very different creatures. The the easiest thing to miss about the LX3 is its lens - a part of the specification sheet that is sometimes easy to overlook as a string of numbers. With the LX3 it's really worth spending a moment thinking about it: starting at 24mm equivalent is pretty unusual in a compact camera. Offering an aperture range of F2.0-2.8 is extraordinary. But to combine the two and include Image Stabilization is simply astonishing - this is not an everyday lens and it's something that defines how the camera behaves and what it can be used for.

To put that aperture range in perspective, this means it's one 'stop' faster (brighter) at the wide end and over 1.5 brighter at the long end than the F2.8-4.9 lens fitted to its predecessor. And this means that you can get the same exposure using the same shutter speed but using a lower ISO setting than with the older camera.

Beyond that, there the new, higher-resolution rear screen that conforms to the more traditional 3:2 aspect ratio, rather than its forebear's 16:9 unit.

The other differences are:

Similar pixel count sensor (10.1 vs 10.0 MP)
Venus Engine IV (vs Venus Engine III)
3:2 aspect ratio 3-inch screen (was 2.8-inch 16:9)
Flash hot-shoe
Threaded lens barrel for adding optional conversion lenses or filters
USB 2.0 Hi Speed interface (at last!)
More internal memory (50 MB)
720p HD movie mode now at 30fps
Closer minimum focusing distance: 1cm, rather than 5cm
Faster continuous shooting (2.5fps for 8 frames, cf. 2fps for 5 frames)
Separate component video out (for HD playback)
Improved battery life
Minor control and interface change

Canon EOS 50D Review

2009-03-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

Almost exactly a year after the arrival of the EOS 40D, Canon has announced the 50D, which we're assured will be a sister-model, rather than a replacement. Recent history has seen Canon release new models every 18 months-or-so but it's been a busy year with newcomers such as the Nikon D300 getting a lot of attention in the 40D's keen-amateur/professional segment. The 50D is essentially a 40D body wrapped around a newly-developed 15 megapixel sensor that finally rectifies the situation in which Canon's XXD range trailed the company's entry-level line, in pixel terms. Canon is claiming that the new sensor's design (new manufacturing processes, redesigned photo diodes and micro lenses) mean that despite the higher resolution image noise has improved, something we'll be putting to the test later.

The other big change is the inclusion of a new, high-resolution LCD screen. 920,000 dots mean that it can convey 640 x 480 RGB pixels, making it effectively a VGA standard monitor. Three anti-reflection layers built into the screen do their best to keep it useable in bright conditions, too.

There are various other changes and added features, with many of them stemming from the first appearance of the Canon's Digic 4 processor. The key differences between the 50D and 40D are detailed below.
Foreword / notes

If you're new to digital photography you may wish to read some of our Digital Photography Glossary before diving into this article (it may help you understand some of the terms used).

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Panasonic Lumix G1 Review

2009-03-19T04:50:00.000-07:00

When you consider the incredible flexibility offered by digital capture (unencumbered by the physical need to put the film behind the lens and to advance it frame by frame) it's perhaps surprising that the digital interchangeable lens camera has remained so firmly rooted in a basic design that hasn't changed since the 1950's. The single lens reflex does its job very well, but building a camera around a mirror box seriously ties the designer's hands - not only in the physical size and shape of the body, but in the lenses too (the distance to the sensor means retrofocus designs are needed to overcome the distance from the sensor to the flange).

The reasons for this seemingly dogmatic attachment to the single lens reflex are fairly obvious; the main players in the market have a vested interest in maintaining compatibility with legacy lenses and offering as seamless a transition from film to digital as possible for their millions of existing users. Besides, it's a lot easier to design a body that works in the same way SLRs always did than to launch an entirely new lens system.

There have also been some technological barriers to deal with; the lack of digital displays good enough to produce an electronic viewfinder that can even get close to a good mirror and prism, and the fact that current phase-detect autofocus systems won't work without a mirror being the two most commonly cited.

It is perhaps unsurprising then, that the first company to challenge the SLR hegemony is Panasonic, a manufacturer with no legacy film SLR system to support and a share of the digital SLR market so small that it's relatively easy to simply drop it and move on. We strongly suspect that the L10 will be the end of Panasonic's brief foray into the standard Four Thirds System and that - for all the joint development statements - it was Panasonic, not Olympus that was the driving force behind the introduction of Micro Four Thirds.

And so we have a new system with a new lens mount and this, the G1; the world's first electronic viewfinder interchangeable lens camera. From the outside it looks for all the world like a conventional SLR (albeit a very small one) - we're told that the design (complete with faux prism 'hump') is deliberately conservative; Panasonic's research has shown that its target market (particularly in Japan) still prefers a camera that looks like a camera is supposed to, and wasn't going to risk falling at the first hurdle by producing something too radical.

On the inside of course it is indeed radically different to every SLR on the market; the mirror and pentaprism/pentamirror viewfinder is gone, replaced by a live view-only system using either the newly-developed high resolution electronic viewfinder or the large articulated rear screen (which, interestingly, has a 3:2 aspect ratio - not the 4:3 ratio of the sensor).

Panasonic's stated reasons for introducing Micro Four Thirds are simple; to produce smaller cameras that act more like compact DSCs whilst offering the quality and versatility of a DSLR - and in doing so to convert some of the millions of compact camera buyers who - according to research - are put off digital SLRs by the bulk, complexity and lack of user-friendliness. And our initial tests would suggest that they have solved at least one of the technological problems mentioned earlier (the contrast-detect autofocus is easily as fast as any other entry-level DSLR). The viewfinder is also very impressive and significantly better than any viewfinder we've seen on a digital stills camera before.

The Micro Four Thirds standard - and the Panasonic G1 - represents the first complete break with legacy SLR technology going back well over half a century, and as such represents an important moment in digital photography's short history. It would be fair to describe it as the first truly 'all digital' interchangeable lens camera, and I think it would also be fair to say it finally delivers on the promise made for the Four Thirds system when it was first introduced back in 2002 (to quote from the original press release 'The major benefit of Four Thirds System is that it will allow the design of dedicated, high-performance digital camera lens systems that are more compact than their 35 mm film SLR camera lens counterparts').

It's worth remembering that this 'mini SLR' thing has been tried before; in the mid to late 1990's Canon, Nikon and Minolta all launched compact SLR systems based around the new APS film format, and all failed to make any impact at all. Of course a lot of that was down to timing (digital was already starting to reshape the entire landscape of the photo industry), but crucially these systems also offered little beyond a size reduction (and a far more limited choice of films) to differentiate them from their 35mm counterparts.

Where the G1 - and Micro Four Thirds - has the edge is that there has never been a wider gap between the image quality offered by compact cameras and SLRs. By offering a camera that works and handles like a compact (Panasonic FZ users will feel right at home) but produces output a lot more like an SLR, Micro Four Thirds has carved out a potentially lucrative niche for itself in a market crying out for innovation. It may seem like a relatively low-key product to herald a minor revolution in the digital SLR market, but have no doubt, the G1 is one of the most interesting products we've had under this roof for quite some time. Let's see how it performs in our in-depth review.

Olympus E-620 Preview, February 2009, Lars Rehm and Richard Butler

2009-03-06T01:29:00.000-08:00

Olympus has established a tradition of offering very well specified cameras in the entry-level, and was one of the first to offer two cameras in this bracket - the little E-410 and its image-stabilized big brother, the E-510 (later upgraded to the 420 and 520 respectively). Now it has introduced the E-620, a model that will 'sell alongside' the E-420 and E-520 (in the sense that we suspect it will eventually replace the E-520) as the company's attempt at a '450D-killer'.

And, even by Olympus's standards of entry-level generosity, it's not short on toys - including an articulated screen to make full use of its live view system, which itself is one of the better implementations of this feature (from the company that got there first). It's also got 'Art' modes and the ability to shoot in four different aspect ratios - adapted from the features of the recently announced E-30. There's also in-body Image Stabilization and a level of configurability that is unparalleled in this class. In fact it's astonishing how much Olympus has crammed into its small dimensions - it's nearer to the size of the E-4X0 than the E-5X0 series (due in part to use of the small BLS-1 battery), and the E-420 was famously the smallest DSLR in the world.

More importantly, perhaps, the E-620 seems to address some of the main shortcomings of the E-520 - the viewfinder is slightly larger and has been reworked so that the information panel appears below the view screen, rather than tucked-away off to the right. It also moves on from the old three-point AF system with the introduction of a seven-point version, which includes five cross-type sensors. In fact, the specification of the E-620 is so high that it makes as much sense for us to compare it to Olympus's recently introduced semi-pro body, the E-30, as to the company's existing entry-level models.
Compared to E-30 - key differences

When the E-30 was launched, we commented that it sailed remarkably close to E-3 territory, but with a smaller viewfinder and less grand claims made about environmental sealing and image stabilization. The E-620 comes close to pulling the same trick on the E-30; again the size of the viewfinder is smaller, but the cameras share the same 12 megapixel sensor, Truepix III+ processing and a great many other features. The differences between the two cameras are easier to list than the similarities:
E-620 is smaller (by around 1cm in each dimension) and around 180g lighter (body only)
Slightly smaller viewfinder with reduced frame coverage (0.96x, 95%, vs. 1.02x, 98%)
7-point AF (5 cross-type) vs. 11-point (all cross-type)
Improved LCD (Hypercrystal III, vs. E-30s' version II unit)
Only one control dial (vs. E-30's two)
Slower continuous shooting rate (4fps for 5 RAW frames, vs. 5fps for 12)
Fewer aspect ratio crops (3 vs. 8)
No built-in digital level gauge
Only allows two exposures to be overlaid in multi-exposure mode (vs. 4)
No PC flash sync or DC-in sockets
Slower x-sync (1/180 sec vs. 1/250 sec) and max shutter speed (1/4000 sec vs. 1/8000 sec)
Lower capacity BLS-1 battery (7.2V 1150 mAh) vs. BLM-1 (7.2V 1500 mAh)
Key feature comparison (vs E-30 and E-520)

Although Olympus says that the E-620 is supposed to sell alongside the E-520, that would give the company three entry-level offerings, with the E-620 clearly out-gunning both its siblings by a fair margin but without distinguishing itself quite enough to sensibly co-exist. There will be wide-spread hat consumption in the dpreview.com offices if the Olympus lineup retains the E-420, E-520 and E-620 for long.

The E-620 is overall smaller than the E-520 that sits below it in the E-system hierarchy, while offering a slightly larger viewfinder plus a selection of the features we were just getting to grips with in the considerably more expensive E-30. The chart below shows the key spec differences between the three cameras that now span the middle of the Olympus DSLR range.

Sony Alpha DSLR-A900 Review October 2008

2009-01-12T04:08:00.000-08:00

Review based on a production Alpha DSLR-A900 In the cut-throat digital camera market it's increasingly unusual for products to be shown in prototype form or announced more than a matter of weeks before they hit the stores. There's several reasons for the manufacturers' habit of playing their cards so close to their chests, not least that they can't afford to harm sales of the models they've already released. Sony, the newest 'new kid' on the DLSR block, has no such worries, this being its first proper 'high end' DSLR. In fact, if anything the pressure was on the company to show it was committed to becoming a major SLR system player and that it wasn't going to squander Minolta's long legacy in this market after picking up the assets Konica Minolta shed when it pulled out of the photography market. Thus we saw the first prototype of the Alpha 900 - Sony's flagship full frame digital SLR - back in early 2007 (it appeared behind glass at trade shows such as PMA in March 07), and information has been trickling out ever since; most significantly with the announcement in January of this year of a 35mm full frame CMOS sensor.

And so when Sony finally showed the finished Alpha 900 to us back in the late summer there were few surprises at the basic specification or the appearance of the camera. As we started to dig a little deeper, pore over the fine print and actually use the Alpha 900 we were, however, increasingly surprised - and almost always pleasantly so - at some of the decisions made by Sony's engineers when designing its flagship SLR.

The success of the Alpha 900 amongst the Minolta, Konica Minolta and Sony faithful seems assured; at a launch price of just shy of $3000 it offers a lot of 'bang for your buck' and there is undoubtedly a significant number of Minolta film SLR users who've been waiting years for a full frame digital body on which to use their existing lenses. The challenge for Sony, however, is to generate some interest from people without an existing investment in the Minolta (or subsequent Alpha) system. And on paper the Alpha 900 looks promising - and we're already impressed with the build, handling and viewfinder, so let's find out how well the latest addition to the small but growing 'full frame club' performs.
Key features

* 24.6 MP 35mm format full-frame CMOS sensor (highest res in class)
* SteadyShot INSIDE full frame image sensor shift stabilization (world first)
* High Speed Dual Bionz processors
* Eye-level glass Penta-prism OVF, 100% coverage, 0.74x magnification
* 9 point AF with 10 assist points, center dual-cross AF w/2.8 sensor
* 5 frames per second burst, newly developed mirror box
* Intelligent Preview Function
* 3 User programmable custom memory modes on mode dial
* Advanced Dynamic Range Optimizer (5 step selectable)
* 40 segment honeycomb metering
* 3.0" 921K pixel Photo Quality (270 dpi) LCD display, 100% coverage
* Direct HDMI output
* ISO 200-3200 (ISO 100-6400 expanded range)
* User interchangeable focusing screens (3 options)
* CF Type I/II and MS slots, LI-ION battery, STAMINA 880 shots
* Weight 850g (without battery, card, accs)
* New Image Data Converter SR software (includes vignetting control)
* New Vertical Grip
* Supplied with wireless remote control
* Magnesium Alloy body and rubber seals for dust and moisture resistance
* AF micro adjustment
Compared to Alpha 700 - key differences

As someone who has used the Alpha 700 extensively I was immediately struck by just how similar its new big brother is; the basic design and layout is almost identical, as are the user interface and the core feature set. Unlike Canon and Nikon, who tend to add further differentiation to their professional products with swathes of extra features and (especially) custom function options, Sony has gone for almost total consistency between the A700 and A900.
Obviously there are some pretty significant differences both physically and functionally (some of which are upgrades we'd expect to see in the Alpha 700's eventual replacement); aside from the obvious (sensor size/resolution) the key changes are:

* Dual Bionz processors (A700 only has one)
* Three custom modes on mode dial in place of A700's scene modes
* All magnesium alloy construction
* New 9 point AF with 10 assist points for Wide AF mode
* 100% viewfinder coverage (A700 is 95%)
* Improved noise reduction options (including 'off')
* Improved D-Range Optimizer auto function
* No grip sensor or built-in flash
* Top LCD info panel
* Intelligent Preview Mode
* Increased pixel pitch due to improvements in sensor design

Olympus Zuiko Digital 12-60mm 1:2.8-4.0 review

2008-12-25T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Digital Zuiko ED 12-60mm 1:2.8-4.0 SWD is Olympus's latest upmarket standard zoom, announced to accompany its E-3 flagship DSLR in October 2007. Firmly placed in what Olympus refers to as its 'Pro' lens lineup, this lens offers a near-ideal focal length range for a standard zoom (24mm to 120mm in 35mm-equivalent terms), combining a useful wideangle for landscapes and architecture with a telephoto extending nicely into the classic 'portrait' range. Hopefully this 5x zoom range isn't so ambitious as to introduce unacceptable optical compromises. The optical configuration is sufficiently exotic to offer great hopes in this regard; the lens boasts no fewer than three extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements, one of which is aspherical, coupled with two further aspherical elements, and as the icing on the cake one Super ED glass element. Clearly Olympus has adopted a "no holds barred" approach to lens design here, which can only be applauded.

This lens also sees Olympus finally adopting the now near-ubiquitous ultrasonic motor for focusing, here dubbed the 'Supersonic Wave Drive', and (according to their press material at least) offering the world's fastest autofocus when used with the E-3. This in turn allows the use of a mechanically-coupled manual focus ring, in a welcome contrast to the somewhat-unloved 'focus-by-wire' mechanisms on its previous lenses. Further headline features include dust and splashproofing for protection against the elements, a 25cm close focusing distance, and a circular aperture diaphragm promising pleasing background blur. On paper at least, this makes for a hugely compelling overall package.

Of course the 12-60mm has a hard act to follow, as the spiritual successor to the highly regarded 14-54mm F2.8-3.5, which was the standard kit lens for the E-1. In comparison, the newcomer offers extended range at both wideangle and telephoto, improved focusing, and even better macro performance, but at the expense of a slightly dimmer maximum aperture throughout the range. Of course this all comes at a price, and the 12-60mm is by no means cheap; so do the optics justify the price tag?
Use of the Panasonic L10 as Four Thirds test body

We have chosen to use the Panasonic L10 as our standard test body for Four Thirds lenses purely because it gives the highest numbers in our resolution tests (which we believe is most likely due it it having a relatively weak anti-aliasing filter); this is intended simply to provide the fairest comparison to other manufacturers' systems. The samples gallery contains images taken using various camera bodies (Olympus E-3, Olympus E-510, and Panasonic L-10).

Canon PowerShot G10 Review,

2008-12-23T08:58:00.000-08:00

Review based on a production Canon PowerShot G10, Firmware version 1.00

The G10 is the third incarnation of Canon’s flagship ‘prosumer’ compact since the G series was reinvented with the G7 in 2006. Announced two years after the G6, the G7 caused quite a buzz; partly because everyone had presumed the budget SLR had killed off this sector of the market, partly because it lacked several of what had become G series trademarks (fast lens, tilting screen, raw mode, secondary LCD panel), and it would be fair to say the response was ‘mixed’. The G9 went some way towards placating the critics, reintroducing raw mode and improving handling, but it still suffered from the fundamental problem that the sensor inside couldn’t deliver on what the fantastic camera promised on the outside.

When we reviewed the G9 last year, we praised it for the styling, handling and build and for its excellent output at low ISO settings. The G10 builds on this by adding handling and control refinements, improving the LCD resolution, and, most importantly, adding a wider lens starting at 28mm (equiv.). It also retains the rangefinder styling and solid build quality, and reduces the amount of silver accents on the camera. All the external controls have been carried over, and a new one has been added (a very useful exposure compensation dial).

The things we criticized the G9 for (the unneeded increase in resolution, and the slow-ish lens) have not been addressed. Instead Canon has increased the resolution for the sensor even more, to 14.7 megapixels. The updated lens, though wider at the wide end, is also shorter at the long end, and has less zoom range overall. The speed of the lens is again almost the same F2.8-4.5, though the wider lens does retain the G9’s relatively compact dimensions. The price remains at around $500.

Note that some sections of this review (feature descriptions where nothing has changed) are reproduced from the G9 review.
Headline features

* 14.7 Megapixel CCD sensor
* 5x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer
* RAW image recording plus support for Canon Digital Photo Professional
* DIGIC 4 for clear, sharp images, high-speed AF (including Servo AF) and fast response times
* Targets all the main causes of blur with High ISO Auto, optical
Image Stabilizer, Motion Detection Technology and Auto ISO shift
* Improved Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB plus Face Select & Track and FaceSelf-Timer
* 3.0” PureColor LCD II (461k dots resolution) with wide viewing angle and optical viewfinder
* i-Contrast boosts brightness and retains detail in dark areas
* Dedicated Exposure Compensation and ISO dials
* 26 shooting modes with manual control and custom settings
* Accessories include tele-converter, Speedlights flashes and waterproof case
* Smooth, 30fps VGA movies

Nikon D90 Review Richard Butler & Simon Joinson, October 2008

2008-12-21T02:18:00.000-08:00

Review based on a production Nikon D90 with firmware V1.0 Almost exactly two years after the D80 was announced comes its replacement, the rather predictably named D90. The D80 has been one of Nikon's quiet successes, and even today, despite being positively Methuselah-like in digital camera terms it continues to sell and often makes its way into our top 10 most clicked on cameras. Because it looks so similar to the D80 the D90 appears at first glance to be one of those rather subdued incremental upgrades, but dig a little deeper and you'll find there's plenty to keep Nikon fans happy. First and foremost there's a new CMOS sensor, which Nikon claim produces D300 quality output at up to ISO 6400 and - one of several features to 'trickle down' from higher models - the same highly acclaimed 3.0-inch VGA screen as the D3/D300. Naturally it has Live View with contrast-detect AF and it would have been surprising had it not sported some form of dust removal system. More surprising is the inclusion of the world's first DSLR movie mode (720p HDTV quality, no less) and HDMI output, though as we'll see later it does come with some limitations. A lot of the core photographic spec is the same as or very similar to the D80, though there is a new shutter and an implementation of the 3D tracking AF seen on the D3/D300.

And it's not just the high end models that have lent features and technology to the D90; the user interface has been given the same user-friendly treatment as the D60, as have the retouching options. As it was explained to us the D90 is intended to appeal to the broadest audience of any Nikon SLR, from first-time 'step up' customers moving from a compact to serious amateurs wanting comprehensive photographic control without the cost and weight of a D300. Whether the D90 is as capable as its feature set suggests, we'll see as the review unfolds.
Nikon D90 Key Features

* 12.9 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (effective pixels: 12.3 million)
* 3.0-inch 920,000 pixel (VGA x 3 colors) TFT-LCD (same as D3 and D300)
* Live View with contrast-detect AF, face detection
* Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)
* Illuminated focus points
* Movie capture at up to 1280 x 720 (720p) 24 fps with mono sound
* IS0 200-3200 range (100-6400 expanded)
* 4.5 frames per second continuous shooting (buffer: 7 RAW, 25 JPEG fine, 100 JPEG Normal)
* Expeed image processing engine
* 3D tracking AF (11 point)
* Short startup time, viewfinder blackout and shutter lag
* Slightly improved viewfinder (96% frame coverage)
* Extensive in-camera retouching including raw development and straightening
* Improved user interface
* New optional compact GPS unit (fits on hot shoe)
* Same battery and vertical grip as D80
* Vignetting control in-camera
* 72 thumbnail and calendar view in playback

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Review, November 2008 Richard Butler

2008-12-21T02:13:00.000-08:00

Camera based on a production LX3 with V1.0 firmware (White balance section updated to reflect V1.1 performance) Panasonic's LX series has always been home to the company's most ambitious compacts, offering a range of photographer-friendly features in a small, stylish and solid body festooned with external controls. It's been two years since the launch of the LX2 and the market has changed a lot in that time - the level of features offered even on inexpensive models has grown and the cost of all cameras, particularly DSLRs, has fallen drastically. Both of these trends risk reducing the potential market for premium compacts if their features are available on cheaper compacts, and much better photographic tools (in terms of flexibility of purpose and image quality) are available for only a little more money. So the LX3, more than its predecessors, has to play to its strengths - it needs to offer some of the best compact camera image quality, a good degree of user control and a body that is more convenient and pocketable than DSLRs can be.

And Panasonic seems fully aware of these challenges. When announcing the camera, the company pointed out that more pixels on the same sized sensor does not always result in better image quality and described its approach with the LX3 as: "boldly reversing the industry trend of pushing toward ever-higher pixel counts." It's an admirable position (though one that would be easier to acclaim if the company hadn't, on the same day, released one of the most pixel-dense cameras we've ever seen), and one that seems promising - the benefits of newer sensor and processing technology without those advances being strangled by the downsides of smaller pixels. (And we believe that if you offer more pixels with the hard drive clutter and slower camera operation they bring, then those pixels must be good at the pixel level, otherwise, what benefits do those additional pixels bring?)
Headline features

* 24mm wide 2.5x optical LEICA DC lens
* F2.0-2.8 maximum aperture range
* MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer)
* Venus Engine IV
* Joystick-operated manual control
* Large 3.0” 460k dot LCD monitor
* Raw and JPEG recording modes
* Up to ISO 3200 sensitivity
* Up to 1280x720 (30 fps) pixel movie capture
* Manual exposure and focus options
* 1/2000th to 60 sec shutter speeds
* Available in black or silver

LX3 vs LX2: main differences

Although the outward appearance hasn't changed that dramatically, the LX2 and LX3 are very different creatures. The the easiest thing to miss about the LX3 is its lens - a part of the specification sheet that is sometimes easy to overlook as a string of numbers. With the LX3 it's really worth spending a moment thinking about it: starting at 24mm equivalent is pretty unusual in a compact camera. Offering an aperture range of F2.0-2.8 is extraordinary. But to combine the two and include Image Stabilization is simply astonishing - this is not an everyday lens and it's something that defines how the camera behaves and what it can be used for.

To put that aperture range in perspective, this means it's one 'stop' faster (brighter) at the wide end and over 1.5 brighter at the long end than the F2.8-4.9 lens fitted to its predecessor. And this means that you can get the same exposure using the same shutter speed but using a lower ISO setting than with the older camera.

Beyond that, there the new, higher-resolution rear screen that conforms to the more traditional 3:2 aspect ratio, rather than its forebear's 16:9 unit.

The other differences are:

* Similar pixel count sensor (10.1 vs 10.0 MP)
* Venus Engine IV (vs Venus Engine III)
* 3:2 aspect ratio 3-inch screen (was 2.8-inch 16:9)
* Flash hot-shoe
* Threaded lens barrel for adding optional conversion lenses or filters
* USB 2.0 Hi Speed interface (at last!)
* More internal memory (50 MB)
* 720p HD movie mode now at 30fps
* Closer minimum focusing distance: 1cm, rather than 5cm
* Faster continuous shooting (2.5fps for 8 frames, cf. 2fps for 5 frames)
* Separate component video out (for HD playback)
* Improved battery life
* Minor control and interface changes

Canon PowerShot G10 Review, Don Wan, November 2008

2008-12-21T02:08:00.000-08:00

Review based on a production Canon PowerShot G10, Firmware version 1.00 The G10 is the third incarnation of Canon’s flagship ‘prosumer’ compact since the G series was reinvented with the G7 in 2006. Announced two years after the G6, the G7 caused quite a buzz; partly because everyone had presumed the budget SLR had killed off this sector of the market, partly because it lacked several of what had become G series trademarks (fast lens, tilting screen, raw mode, secondary LCD panel), and it would be fair to say the response was ‘mixed’. The G9 went some way towards placating the critics, reintroducing raw mode and improving handling, but it still suffered from the fundamental problem that the sensor inside couldn’t deliver on what the fantastic camera promised on the outside.

Nikon Sets New Standard For Professional D-SLRs

2008-12-21T02:05:00.000-08:00

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 1 December 2008 - Nikon Europe today introduced its new top-of-the-range D-SLR, the D3X. Building on the reliability, handling and durability of the award-winning D3, the D3X offers an imaging sensor with far higher resolution than its counterpart, breaking new ground in imaging quality. The all-new 24.5MP CMOS sensor makes the new camera eminently suitable for the broadest range of shooting situations, both in the studio and on location, and will be especially appreciated by uncompromising photographers in nature photography, studio work and fashion. “This is the camera that many professional photographers have been waiting for,” said Robert Cristina, Manager Professional Products and NPS at Nikon Europe. “Just as the D3 has become the professionals’ camera of choice in sports photography, the D3X’s extremely high imaging resolution will raise the bar for commercial, fashion and stock photography. The results speak for themselves: this is without doubt our highest-quality camera to date.”

The World is Your Studio
The D3X boasts a specially-developed FX-format CMOS image sensor with 12-channel readout, gapless micro lens array and on-chip noise reduction. It delivers class-leading levels of continuous shooting speed and noise management at higher sensitivities without sacrificing detail.

The D3X supports a broad ISO range from ISO 100-1600, extendable down to ISO 50 and up to 6400 equivalent with up to 5 fps continuous shooting at full resolution, or 7 fps in the 10MP DX-crop mode. The acclaimed Multi-CAM3500FX 51-point autofocus system enables extremely accurate single-point accuracy with outstanding dynamic tracking for fast moving subjects in low light.

The camera’s LiveView function offers a smooth workflow option, perfect for studio work or other situations where the use of the viewfinder is impractical. The camera also delivers a superb response rate, with a start-up of just 12 milliseconds and 40ms shutter lag. The Kevlar/carbon fibre composite shutter has been designed for intensive professional needs and tested to 300,000 cycles.

Images with the X factor
The D3X reaps the benefits of the very latest developments in sensor design and image processing technology. Designed to produce files suitable to meet the demands of tomorrow’s commercial and stock requirements, the camera produces 50MB 14-bit NEF (Raw) files. Using Capture NX2 software, NEF files can be processed into medium format terrain; 140MB (16-bit TIFF-RGB). Fine details are reproduced with incredible clarity, whilst shadows and highlights contain tonal gradation with minimal clipping for pictures with a unique look and feel.

Intuitive control
The D3X shares the same ergonomics and handling as the D3, which have been designed to enable anyone to get to work quickly and efficiently. The bright, uncluttered viewfinder features 100% coverage and comprehensive illuminated displays, while the high-definition, 3-inch, 920,000-dot VGA TFT monitor enables outstanding playback quality for on-the-spot image assessment. The D3X’s magnesium body, which is sealed for moisture and dust resistance, also supports Nikon’s wireless system (the WT-4), HDMI output, offers a dual slot for CF cards and is compatible with the new GP-1 GPS unit

Olympus Rebrands Stylus SW Cameras To Stylus Tough Series

2008-12-21T02:02:00.000-08:00

Center Valley, Pa., December 2008 – Olympus, the company that introduced shockproof/waterproof digital compact cameras (Stylus 720 SW) in 2006 to mass consumers with active lifestyles, is now redefining the segment it continues to dominate. Starting with its Spring 2009 line-up in January, Olympus’ incredibly rugged cameras built to capture amazing images in aquatic adventures, harsh climates and everyday activities with kids will be rebranded "Stylus Tough." "Consumers' passion and excitement for our tough cameras has continued to grow throughout the last three years, and they love the freedom of being able to capture beautiful images where other cameras wouldn’t dare to venture," said Mark Huggins, executive director, Brand Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "Once our innovations moved beyond purely shockproof and waterproof – some Olympus cameras offer freezeproof and crushproof – the SW name became limiting. The Stylus Tough brand will be more descriptive and visual, and will provide us with greater flexibility as we grow this and other camera lines."

The current line-up of Stylus SW cameras offers different levels of durability, providing consumers with options that best meet their needs. Cameras that are shockproof and waterproof are perfect for those who want worryproof, kidproof or lifeproof shooting. Building on these original tough features, other cameras also offer freezeproof and crushproof capabilities for those who seek adventure from the highest slopes to the most tropical depths and want to take their cameras anywhere to capture brilliant images.

The new Stylus Tough brand will enable the company to expand the line-up beyond these current tough benefits, and will be even easier for consumers to quickly understand the cameras’ unique benefits. If it is not waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof, then by Olympus standards, it is not "Tough." It also allows the company to offer one or more of these unique features in other Olympus camera lines. According to a recent study, many consumers looking for a new digital camera chose durable, weatherproofing as a feature they desire.

The new Stylus TOUGH cameras will be available in January 2009.

Pentax announces limited edition white K2000 Double Zoom Digital SLR System

2008-12-21T01:59:00.000-08:00

Golden, CO, December 16, 2008 - Pentax Imaging Company has announced a limited edition, white PENTAX K2000 DSLR system with a double zoom kit. This new model replicates the original K2000 design that launched in September 2008 for consumers who are ready to make the transition from a point-and-shoot digital camera to digital SLR photography. The new camera body and both lenses* feature a brilliant white color with black trim. The white Pentax K2000 is an entry-level system consisting of the new Pentax K2000 body, a white smc Pentax DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL lens, and a white smc Pentax DA L 50-200mm F4-5.6 AL lens. Bundled as a complete kit for the convenience of the customer, the Pentax K2000 system offers uncomplicated operation for new digital SLR users and family photographers seeking high-quality digital SLR photography for the first time.

Combining Pentax-developed, easy-to-use Auto Picture modes as well as powerful learning functions all housed in one of the smallest, lightest camera bodies in its class, the Pentax K2000 system is ideal for digital SLR beginners.

Additional features on the newest digital K2000 SLR body include a 10.2 megapixel CCD, a 2.7 inch, 230,000 dot high resolution, wide-view LCD panel, and an ultra compact design that facilitates one handed operation. The body also features the same Pentax-developed Shake Reduction technology found on more advanced K series digital SLRs. Pentax Shake Reduction is compatible with more than 25 million Pentax lenses to deliver sharp images even when handheld at slower shutter speeds.

The K2000 also features the powerful Pentax-developed Auto Picture Mode, which selects from Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action, and Night Portrait modes to tailor the camera settings for any photographic situation.

The camera also has a comprehensive Dust Removal system to help keep images spotless. A dedicated programmable help button clearly explains current camera settings to guide and teach the user about digital SLR photography.

The lenses included with this Pentax K2000 system are the white versions of a newer series introduced with the DA L designation. This DA L series offers the same optical performance and compatibility as the current smc Pentax DA 18-55mm II and smc Pentax DA 50-200mm lenses.

This stylish, limited edition white Pentax K2000 kit will be available on a very limited basis in February 2009 at a price to be announced.

Fujifilm S5 Pro firmware Ver 1.06

2007-05-12T02:50:00.000-07:00

Fujifilm has issued a second firmware update for its recently launched S5 Pro digital SLR. This latest upgrade deals with the menu system, allowing four additional parameters to be locked against modification. The Barcode-reading feature has also been tweaked, now allowing more than one value to be incorporated into the EXIF data for each image.

Sony announces Cyber-Shot S800

2007-05-12T02:49:00.000-07:00

Sony has announced the latest in its popular Cyber-Shot line of compact digital cameras. Packing a 6x zoom and 8.1 megapixel sensor into its slim metal shell, the Cyber-Shot S800 aims to make high-quality images available to style-conscious photographers

Just Posted! Casio EX-V7 Review

2007-05-12T02:48:00.000-07:00

Just Posted! Our concise review of the Casio Exilim EX-V7 digital camera. As well as being the first ultra-slim Exilim to sport a large (7x) zoom it is the first with mechanical (CCD-shift) image stabilization. It's also got a wealth of unique features and a fair degree of photographic control. But is the EX-V7 as good in use as it looks on paper? Read the review after the link to find out

Face Detection Technology and optical

2007-05-12T02:45:00.000-07:00

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 07 May, 2007: Canon today launches the 8.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 950 IS, an upgrade to the award-winning Digital IXUS 800 IS. Sporting a three-tone metal finish with distinctive curved lines, the Digital IXUS 950 IS comes equipped with a 4x optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer and the DIGIC III image processor. Along with faster processing and advanced Noise Reduction, DIGIC III powers Canon’s Face Detection Technology and Red-Eye Correction for superb people shots.
Other key advancements include ISO 1600 with Auto ISO Shift for improved low light shooting and a 2.5” PureColor LCD screen offering enhanced colour reproduction and scratch-resistance. New creative features include Time Lapse Movie and Creative Light Effect modes.
Features at a glance:

* 8.0 Megapixels
* 4x optical zoom 35-140mm (35mm equivalent) UA lens with optical Image Stabilizer
* Eye-catching design with Touch Control Dial
* DIGIC III with Face Detection AF/AE/FE and
* Noise Reduction Technology
* Red-Eye Correction in playback
* 2.5” high resolution PureColor LCD
* ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift
* 18 Shooting modes including Creative Light Effect plus My Colors photo effects
* 30fps VGA Movies and Time Lapse Movie function
* Shortcut button for instant access to favourite functions

Canon PowerShot S5 IS: Zoom is just the beginning

2007-05-12T02:42:00.000-07:00

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 07 May, 2007: Canon today announces the launch of the 12x optical zoom, 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot S5 IS. The new compact inherits optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, professional-grade optics and extensive movie functions while introducing a host of new features designed to increase the photographer’s success rate. Powered by Canon’s DIGIC III image processor, Face Detection Technology improves focus, exposure and flash output for people shots while the new Red-Eye Correction feature effectively solves red-eye problems in captured photos. An increased sensitivity range of ISO 80-1600 complements the optical IS system for extended low light performance.
Other key advancements include a larger, higher resolution 2.5” vari-angle LCD, additional shooting modes and extended video recording. The compact design incorporates a new hot shoe that provides compatibility with selected Canon EX Speedlite external flashes, adding to an accessory list that includes Wide, Tele and Close-up converter lenses.
Features at a glance:
* 12x optical zoom lens with Ultrasonic Motor (USM) and UD lens
* Optical Image Stabilizer
* 8.0 Megapixel CCD
* DIGIC III with advanced Noise Reduction technology and Face Detection for stills and movies
* Red-Eye Correction in playback
* 2.5” high-resolution vari-angle LCD
* Long-play VGA movies with stereo sound and Photo in Movie
* 22 shooting modes including full manual control and 0cm Super Macro
* High ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift
* Compatible with Wide/Tele/Close-up converter lenses and Canon EX Speedlite flashes

Olympus Evolt E-500 (Double Lens Kit) Digital Camera

2007-02-09T04:37:00.000-08:00

Product Review:

Premium picture quality and superb performance come easy with this comfortable to handle digital SLR. At a time when we want complex things to become simple, the EVOLT E-500 succeeds in doing so with a sleek, lightweight design for impressive portability and advanced controls and options that can be accessed with minimal effort. Bursting with speed and producing spotless pictures with exceptional color and detail, the EVOLT E-500 is tailor-made for anyone to use while capturing the imagination in the process.

Canon EOS 400D / Rebel XTi Body Only Digital Camera

2007-02-09T04:36:00.000-08:00

Product Review:

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi offers an unbeatable combination of performance, ease-of-use and value. It has a newly designed 10.1 MP Canon CMOS sensor plus a host of new features including a 2.5-inch LCD monitor, the exclusive EOS Integrated Cleaning System featuring a Self Cleaning Sensor and Canon's Picture Style technology, all in a lightweight, ergonomic body. The Digital Rebel XTi is proof positive that Canon continues to lead the way with their phenomenal digital SLRs.

Canon SD900 Digital ELPH (IXUS 900 Ti) Concise Review

2007-02-07T01:08:00.000-08:00

Review based on a production Canon Digital IXUS 900 Ti (SD900)
Announced (along with a handful of other PowerShots) just before Photokina in September 2006, the SD900 (we'll call it this throughout the review - see below for EU/Japanese names) sits at the top of Canon's successful ELPH / IXUS range and offers the highest resolution yet; 10 megapixels (on a 1/1.8" CCD). It also features Canon's new DIGIC III processor and another first; a solid titanium body, which as well as adding a touch of class makes for a lighter, more durable camera. Otherwise there's no surprises here; the IXUS formula is one that has served Canon well, and the SD900 is functionally pretty much indistinguishable from its other recent stable mates. So is the SD900 the ultimate ELPH or a megapixel too far dressed up in a snazzy jacket? Let's find out, starting as ever with the headline features:
* Titanium body with Perpetual Curve design and Touch Control Dial
* 10.0 Megapixels and 3x optical zoom
* DIGIC III with Advanced Noise Reduction and Face Detection AF/AE
* Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom for extra telephoto reach
* 2.5” super-high resolution LCD with wide viewing angle
* ISO 1600 for flash-free low light shooting
* 18 shooting modes including XGA movies
* My Category automatic image tagging
* Range of optional accessories including Underwater Case

PENTAX OPTIO A20

2007-02-06T23:30:00.000-08:00

The PENTAX Optio A20 is a 10.0 megapixel camera with an ultra-compact alumninum alloy body. Features include 3x optical zoom lens, built in Shake Reduction and Tracking AF, a versatile manual shooting mode, 2.5 inch LCD and Movie mode MPEG-4 DivX (640 x 480) capture at 30fps and guaranteed video playback on all DivX® certified devices.
Other features:
- Calendar Display function allows image retrieval based on the capture date
- Easy image search and arrangement on a PC using a Date Folder function
- Green Mode enables the use of fixed, automatic settings when taking a photograph
- Digital zooming provides up to 4x magnification
- Approximately 22MB of built-in memory
- A wide range of exposure setting modes
- Auto Picture mode
- Pan-focus function for effortless snapshots
- ACDSee for PENTAX image viewer/image management software
- USB 2.0 (HI-SPEED) compatible
- Supports PictBridge, DPOF functions, Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III

FUJIFILM FINEPIX F30

2007-02-06T23:25:00.000-08:00

The F30 Zoom offers an unsurpassed full-resolution performance of ISO 3200, meaning that you can shoot with confidence in any light. What's more, the quality available at the lower sensitivities is truly staggering for such a small camera.
The F30 Zoom was recognised as 2006's TIPA Digital Compact Camera of the Year.
Key Features is 2.5" LCD
The F30 Zoom's monitor is designed for fast, accurate viewing of your pictures. With a refresh rate of sixty frames per second there is little chance that the action will escape you. What is more, the anti-glare CV film coating will ensure that your images can be viewed in all kinds of lighting conditions.

SONY CYBER-SHOT W50

2007-02-06T23:17:00.000-08:00

The Cyber-shot W50 - Slim aluminium body with great features: 6.0 effective Megapixels, High ISO Sensitivity for sharper shots, Carl Zeiss 3x Optical zoom lens, extra large and bright 2.5-inch LCD screen, and STAMINA battery life.
Key Features :
With 6.0 Effective Megapixel, Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens, 3x Optical Zoom, up to 13x Smart Zoom, 6x Precision Digital Zoom, "Anti-blur" ISO1000 High Sensitivity, Stamina Battery Life (approx 390 shots by CIPA standard), Slim & Compact High Quality Metal Body, 2.5" (6.2cm) LCD Monitor, Clear RAW NR, Quick Operation (Start-up 1.3 sec, Shutter Time Lag 0.3 sec, Shutter Release Lag 0.001sec), "Cyber-shot Viewer" Software Supplied, Real Imaging Processor, Macro 2cm, 16:9 Mode for Wide Screen TV, Internal Memory 32MB, MPEG VX Fine with Audio, 100% LCD Field of view, AF Illuminator, Histogram Indication, USB 2.0 High Speed Transfer, Scene Selection Mode, PictBridge Compatible and 15 Menu Languages

Canon PowerShot A640 Review

2007-01-29T01:55:00.000-08:00

Review based on a production Canon PowerShot A640
The PowerShot A640, launched in August, just before Photokina 06, replaces the popular A620 at the top of Canon's increasingly well-specified 'budget' A series range. The new model gets a bit of a facelift (and a new coat of black paint) as well as a bigger screen, major pixel boost (up from 7MP to 10MP) and a few feature tweaks. Otherwise it offers pretty much everything the A620 did; 4x zoom lens, tilt and swivel LCD, full photographic control and optional converter lenses. And like its predecessor, the A640 was launched with an almost identical twin, the A630, the only major difference being the sensor (8MP as opposed to 10MP). Therefore much of what is said in this review will also be applicable to the A630 (we will be adding A630 IQ results in the new year). The A620 was one of our favorite cameras of the last 12 months, and is a tough act to follow. So is the A640 up to the job?
Let's find out, starting with the headline features...
-10.0 million effective pixels
-35-140mm (equiv.) 4x zoom lens
-DIGIC II, iSAPS, 9-Point AiAF, FlexiZone AF/AE
-Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom
-2.5-inch vari-angle LCD and real-image optical viewfinder
-21 shooting modes
-1cm macro mode
-Optional wide and tele converter lenses

Fujifilm Finepix S6000fd / S6500fd Review

2007-01-29T01:50:00.000-08:00

Headline features :

1. Hardware based Face Detection technology
2. Sensitivity range of ISO 100-3200 for low-noise photography in all light situations
3. Super CCD HR VI sensor delivering six million effective pixels
4. Real Photo Processor II reduces noise and delivers enhanced color reproduction
5. Fixed 10.7x (28-300mm equivalent) optical zoom lens with twist barrel control
6. Intelligent Flash achieves the optimum combination of high sensitivity and natural skin tones
7. Manual, shutter- and aperture-priority and program exposure modes
8. Single, continuous and manual focus modes
9. Jpeg and RAW file formats
10. High Speed Shooting Mode with a shutter lag of just 0.035 seconds
11. High resolution 2.5 inch LCD screen with reinforced, scratch-resistant glass
12. cTV-quality VGA movie recording of 30 frames per second with sound
13. PictBridge™ compatible for direct printing without a PC

Olympus SP-550 UZ: 18x ultra zoom

2007-01-29T01:44:00.000-08:00

Comfortable, creative control
Thanks to an ergonomic design plus the intuitive menu and button layouts, the SP-550 UZ is a delight to hold and just as much fun to operate. With P/A/S/M exposure modes and 23 scene modes available, there’s a perfect setting for every user, and for pretty much any situation.
The versatile Olympus SP-550 UZ turns creative dreams into reality. Featuring the world’s first wide 18x optical zoom, this compact camera will be available from February 2007. It is expected to cost in the region of £375 (US price - unconfirmed - is expect to be around $500).
The SP-550 UZ main features:
-18x wide optical zoom (equivalent to 28-504mm on a 35mm camera) 1:2.8-4.5
- Dual Image Stabilization
- 7.1 Megapixels
- 6.4cm/2.5” LCD with 230,000 pixels
- High burst rate (up to 15fps*)
- Super Macro mode (from as close as 1cm)
- P/A/S/M exposure modes
- BrightCapture Technology for better low light photography – also available in movie mode
- 23 scene modes (including Portrait, Sports, Night Scene)
- 25 languages on board
- Internal memory plus xD-Picture Card slot
- Supplied with Olympus Master software and four AA batteries

Just Posted! Samsung NV7 OPS review

2007-01-29T01:41:00.000-08:00

Just Posted! Our in depth review of the Samsung NV7 OPS.
Which has taken a lot longer than expected due to faulty cameras and some fairly extensive re-testing to double-check some of our findings. The NV7 OPS is - on paper at least - an exciting product from the increasingly innovative Korean manufacturer, offering 7MP, 7x zoom, image stabilization and a feature list as long as your arm in a surprisingly compact body. And it's very aggressively priced to boot. Find out if the NV7 OPS lives up to its promise after the link...

The SD14, 14 megapixels (2,652 × 1,768 × 3 layers) Digital SLR camera

2007-01-26T02:27:00.000-08:00

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new Sigma SD14 Digital SLR camera.
The new SD14, powered by the 14 megapixel Foveon X3® direct-image-sensor, can reproduce high definition images rich in gradation and impressive three-dimensional detail.
The SD14 Digital SLR camera features four JPEG recording modes, a large and bright pentaprism viewfinder with 98% coverage, a built-in flash with a Guide Number of 11, 5-point AF system, a large 2.5” 150,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor as well as a new user friendly design. The durable shutter mechanism has over 100,000-cycle life and is ideal for the demands of digital photography.
Development
Sigma introduced its first digital SLR camera, the SD9, to the market in October 2002, and has established strong support from a wide range of photographers both amateur and professional alike. The second model, the SD10, released on to the market in November 2003 continued to build on the support of loyal photographers. However, demand for JPEG’s greater convenience in image handling has increased and in order to meet this demand the new SD14, powered by Foveon X3® direct image sensor, now includes JPEG mode with high image quality, high performance and versatility.
Product Summary

Kodak Announces new 10-Megapixel and 8-Megapixel Digital Cameras

2007-01-16T02:50:00.000-08:00

The KODAK EASYSHARE V1003 and V803 Cameras produce vibrant shots with dynamic picture quality that can be viewed on the large 2.5-inch (6.4 cm) color LCD screen. The cameras are packed with smart features that make great picture taking incredibly simple, including:
* New high ISO mode up to ISO 1600 for bright pictures when shooting under low light conditions.
* KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology for better, brighter pictures automatically. This exclusive KODAK Technology examines each picture to bring out shadow detail and deliver more vibrant colors in the shot.
* 22 scene modes, including simple on-camera stitching for dynamic panorama shots.
* Digital image stabilization using the anti-blur mode to prevent blurring from subject or hand movement.
* Advanced video mode to record VGA video (640 x 480) with sound at 30 fps; includes trimming and tagging for easy editing and searching.
* Convenient on-camera tools include blurry picture alert, digital red-eye reduction and picture cropping for consistently better shots.

Casio Introduces the World’s Slimmest Digital Camera with a 7X Optical Zoom Lens

2007-01-12T02:49:00.000-08:00

Main features :
The world’s slimmest* digital camera with a 7X optical zoom lens, as stylish as any EXILIM
59.8 mm high, 95.5 mm wide, and 25.1 mm thin (20.8 mm at the thinnest part).Incorporates a cutting-edge, non-protruding 7X internal optical zoom lens.Offers 10X-equivalent zoom without loss of picture quality (in 3.0-megapixel mode).
Four blur reduction technologies with new CCD shift system.New CCD shift system actually mechanically compensates for camera shake.Automatically analyzes the velocity and vector of a moving subject and sets the most appropriate ISO sensitivity and shutter speed.Anti Shake DSP reduces blur due to shaky hands and subject movement, using high shutter speeds and high sensitivity settings.Electronic camera shake compensation function eliminates blur when shooting in movie mode.

New KODAK EASYSHARE Z710 Zoom Digital Camera Combines Advanced Features with Point-and-Shoot Simplicity

2007-01-10T02:43:00.000-08:00

LONDON and COLOGNE, Germany, September 25 — Eastman Kodak Company today announced the latest addition to its award-winning line of consumer digital cameras, the EASYSHARE Z710 zoom digital camera. With impressive 10X optical zoom, phenomenal picture quality, and a host of performance features, this new model bridges the gap between value and performance. Intuitive enough for beginners and sophisticated enough for digital photography enthusiasts, the Z710 camera provides point-and-shoot simplicity with advanced features to easily get professional-looking results.
Available in September, the Z710 camera will retail for £279 (RRP).

Nikon D40, hands-on preview

2006-11-16T06:43:00.000-08:00

Preview based on a production Nikon D40

The Nikon D40 is an all new affordable, compact, point-and-shoot digital SLR from Nikon, it follows on from the D50 but at a significantly lower price point and with a subtly different feature set. The biggest news however is probably fact that Nikon resisted the temptation to keep chasing megapixels (hooray for that) and instead appear to have concentrated on what makes a good camera, a decent viewfinder, short shutter lag, very short viewfinder blackout. They've trimmed some of the 'less important features' (you can't change the exposure steps for example) but have squeezed a range of new features such as custom Auto ISO which we welcomed with the D80.
Auto Focus only for AF-S or AF-I lenses

Canon Powershot A710 IS Review

2006-11-10T03:33:00.000-08:00

The Canon Powershot A710 IS is a seven megapixels digital camera with a six times optical zoom lens. It also offers image stabilisation. Canon have packed a good range of controls and features into the Powershot A710 IS including manual exposure controls.
I would say that this camera has a particularly wide appeal. With a fairly compact body the extra zoom is a very worthwhile addition for just about anyone. The manual controls mean that it is suitable for anyone who is looking for a step up from a typical point and shoot camera.
Image Quality
If I was buying a consumer level digital camera for around about &pound200 and my purchasing decision was based purely on picture quality then the Powershot A710 IS is the one I would buy. I have no real complaints about any of my test photos and there are a large number of plus points too.