Friday

Hands-on with Nikon's new Coolpix lineup

Hands-on with Nikon's new Coolpix lineup



There were really too many of these new Coolpix cameras on display at Nikon's booth to give any of them a fair shake, but that didn't stop us from giving the Coolpix S51c that very special look we reserve specifically for WiFi-enabled cameras.

(Via Engadget.)

Hands-on with Casio's 60fps digital camera

Hands-on with Casio's 60fps digital camera



You asked for it, you got it. Some sweet, sweet pics of the wild new 6 megapixel Casio prototype. You know the one -- 60fps bursting at full resolution or 300fps VGA video? Believe it or not, the camera is surprisingly light, will use SDHC storage (which won't last long at these resolutions), and is expected to ship sometime in 2008. Hey, that's what they told us. Peep the gallery for all the hotness.


(Via Engadget.)

Casio brings world's first 60fps, 6 megapixel camera/camcorder to IFA

Casio brings world's first 60fps, 6 megapixel camera/camcorder to IFA



Ok, here we go. Casio has a world's first prototype shooter at IFA sporting what must be Sony's 60fps 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor. Right, sixty 6 megapixel frames per second for what should be a resolution in the ballpark of 2921 x 2184. It'll even go 300fps if you want to scale things back to VGA mode. The prototype features a 12x optical zoom and 2.8-inch LCD in a beefy piece of kit measuring in at 127.5 x 79.5 x 130.0-mm / 650-grams. What's also notable is what's missing from the specs: the storage utilized by this cam. A pretty serious omission when you think about the transfer speeds required to move (and store) that much data.


(Via Engadget.)

Olympus’s Shockproof and Waterproof Cameras

Olympus’s Shockproof and Waterproof Cameras: "


Olympus Korea has released new cameras for hardcore user. They are the ‘μ795SW’ and ‘μ790SW’, protecting against shock and water. The μ795SW’s shockproof withstand the falls of up to 1.5m, 100kg and waterproof to 10m depth while the μ790SW is shockproof against falls of up to 3m and waterproof to 3m depth. More pictures after the jump.







(Via 2dayBlog - Technology Journal, New Gadget everyday!.)

Nikon Coolpix S51c Has WiFi With Flickr Combination

Nikon Coolpix S51c Has WiFi With Flickr Combination: "

Nikon Coolpix S51c Has WiFi With Flickr Combination


The Nikon Coolpix S51c 7.99MP digital camera comes jam packed with the WiFi and Flickr support. With this cam, you can upload and email your fav. pictures using ‘my Picturetown’ internet photo upload service, which allows you to upload pictures to Flickr or your own blog. The S51c is actually a successor of the S51 version. Nikon S51c retails for $460, while the S51 is priced at $400. Both cameras will be available in September.




(Via TechFresh.net - Cell Phones, Laptops, Video Games, iPods, Cameras.)

Thursday

Sanyo's Xacti DMX-HD1000: the world's smallest 1080p camcorder

Sanyo's Xacti DMX-HD1000: the world's smallest 1080p camcorder









We like giving Sanyo heaps of grief over their boxy gear from time to time. But make no mistake, they've nailed it with their Xacti series of solid state camcorders. Meet the DMX-HD1000, their first to record full 1080p, 1,920 x 1,080 resolution video using the HD/MPEG-4 AVC codec. It features the ability to shoot 8 megapixel stills via its 1/2.5-inch CMOS sensor, a 10x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD, HDMI-out, and the ability to record direct to SD/SDHC cards for up to 2 hours at a charge. That's plenty of juice since an 8GB SDHC card will only hold about 1 hour and 25 minutes of Full HD recordings. All this in an itty-bitty pistol grip shooter which Sanyo claims is the world's smallest at this resolution. Available in Japan starting mid September for about ¥120,000 or about $1,000.


(Via Engadget.)

Panasonic DMC-L10, previewed

Panasonic DMC-L10, previewed: "Eighteen months after the L1 took PMA 2006 by storm Panasonic has announced its second digital SLR, the Lumix DMC-L10. As well as a more conventional design and a new 10MP LiveMOS sensor (which we presume is the same as that used in the Olympus E-410) the L10 features a wealth of new features including a fully articulated screen and live view with sensor-based (contrast detect) autofocus. Like the L1 the new camera is only available in kit for with a (new) Leica branded lens (for more about the lens, see below). We've had a pre-production L10 for a couple of weeks in order to produce a detailed hands-on preview, available now."



(Via News: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com).)

Nikon Coolpix S700

Nikon Coolpix S700: "The second metal bodied compact Nikon with an image stabilized lens is the S700. Get ready to be a little bit afraid because this camera packs twelve megapixels behind its three times optical zoom lens (F2.8 - F5.4). Naturally like all the cameras today the S700 gets 'EXPEED', lets hope it has an effective noise reduction algorithm. The S700 will cost £279.99 and will be available from 'Autumn 2007'."



(Via News: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com).)

Nikon CoolpixL15

Nikon CoolpixL15: "Compared to the L14 the COOLPIX L15 adds VR and an 8.0 megapixel sensor. Its lens equates to a 35-105mm zoom range and it has a larger 2.8' 230,000 dot LCD (so more of the same, a subtly different price and another piece of shelf space owned). The camera will be in UK shops from Sept 2007 priced at £129.99"



(Via News: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com).)

Nikon Coolpix P5100

Nikon Coolpix P5100: "
p5100F.jpg
Nikon Coolpix P5100 the new flagship model in the Nikon Coolpix lineup is designed to satisfy photography enthusiasts. Class-leading imaging ability begins with a full 12.1 effective megapixels of sharp resolution and a new digital image processing engine that reproduce the finest details and subtlest tones with precision and clarity, even when taking advantage of sensitivity settings as high as ISO 3200. It also includes the compositional freedom of the 3.5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens ((35-123mm equiv.) and compatibility with various converter lenses that further extend wide-angle and telephoto reach. In addition to a variety of automated and scene modes, Four exposure modes- Programmed Auto [P], Shutter-priority Auto [S], Aperture-priority Auto [A] and Manual [M] accessed via the Mode dial provide greater control over camera operation. Distortion control corrects for barrel distortion in images shot, and displays the corrected image on the 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD monitor in real time.
p5100bk.jpg
The quality-crafted body of Nikon Coolpix P5100 is made of solid magnesium alloy (Mg), featuring a quality finish, a comfortable grip covered in grid-pattern rubber, as well as an optical viewfinder to aid composition, particularly in brightly lit conditions. The built-in accessory shoe adds support for Nikon Speedlights and advanced i-TTL flash control. The Nikon Coolpix P5100 with 52 MB of internal memory is compatible with SD / SDHC card. The Coolpix P5100 measures 98 x 64.5 x 41 mm, weigh 200 g (without battery and SD memory card).

(Via Newlaunches.com.)

Nikon Coolpix P5100

Nikon Coolpix P5100: "Nikon today announced its new flagship compact digital camera - the COOLPIX P5100. This update from the P5000 uses a variant of Nikon's new EXPEED image processor along with a slightly larger 12.1 megapixel sensor. The lens is unchanged - 3.5x zoom optically-stabilized with Nikon's VR technology. However the sensor change has widened the field of view to 35-123mm equiv. The P5100 also has in-camera distortion correction which works in real time to correct the live preview as well as stored images."



(Via News: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com).)

Wednesday

Digital Camera Binoculars

Digital Camera Binoculars: "


Many bird watchers are enthusiastic about any new binocular that guarantees the best possible view of birds in the bushes. Although man such promises remain unfulfilled as the conventional binoculars do have some limitations and that is why many bird watchers are not satisfied with the results. The trickiest part is in watching small birds hidden in thick bushes or woods. With any ordinary binocular it would be next to impossible to spot the bird, (more…)



(Via DIGITAL PRODUCTS.)

Kodak EasyShare V1253 Digital Camera for Realistic Photographs and Images

Kodak EasyShare V1253 Digital Camera for Realistic Photographs and Images

Kodak_V1253_1.jpg

Kodak recently placed information about new models of digital cameras and then shut access to those web pages. One of these is the new digital camera Kodak EasyShare V1253 which is especially designed to give realistic photographs and videos. Kodak EasyShare V1253 is equipped with 12.4 MP Sensor (effective quantity of 12,1 MP),stereo microphone, large 3.1 JK- display, 1/1.72 PZS (CCD) the objective: 37-111 mm (in 35 mm equivalent) f/3.4-5.3, Digital Image Stabilizer, 32 Mb built in storage easily expandable through SD/MMC memory cards, high speed of lock 8-1/1200 seconds with wide support of MPEG-4 and QuickTime formats.



(Via Image-Acquire.com.)

Canon SD800IS Digital Camera Review

Canon SD800IS Digital Camera Review

Canon has always made good subcompact digital cameras. And now that they have produced a couple models in their IS (image stabilization) line, the SD800IS has taken things to a whole new level. With a 28-105 zoom lens, you start at a wider angle that almost every other camera in its class. If you’ve ever backed yourself up against a wall trying to fit everyone into the picture, you’ll really appreciate the slightly wider angle. And there still plenty of zoom to get up close. But most important of all, the image quality is AWESOME!


There is a slightly more expensive SD850IS model, which boasts 8 megapixels instead of the SD800IS’ 7.1. But the wider angle is not available on the SD850IS, so I would stick with the 800 for that reason alone. Plus, 7.1 megapixels provides as much fine detail as 35mm film so you can make beautiful prints up to 11x14 inches. While no subcompact camera will ever compare to high end digital SLR cameras, you will have a hard time convincing people you took your pictures with a pocket camera. For under $300 at

(Via TechConsumer.)

Canon PowerShot A650 IS Digital Camera

Canon PowerShot A650 IS Digital Camera
a-650.jpg

Canon introduced its feature rich Digital camera, Canon PowerShot A650 IS Digital Camera. The 12.1-Megapixel Camera presents the combination of quality with technology in its unique style. It uses 6x Optical Zoom Lens with the Lens Shift Type Image Stabilization 7.4 (W)–44.4 (T) mm (35mm equiv. : 35 (W)–210 (T) mm) f/2.8 (W)–f/4.8 (T) and 2.5-inch LCD (Approx. 173,000 pixels) screen with wide viewing angle attributing low-temperature polycrystalline silicon. Other features include 1/1.7-inch CCD, DIGIC III Image Processor, mechanical electronic shutter with a speed of 15-1/2000 sec, wide memory card support, real-image zoom viewfinder, and supports direct connection to computer, TV or printer through USB 2.0. Through four AA batteries it shoots approx. 300 sharp pictures.


(Via Image-Acquire.com.)

Olympus E-3 DSLR Unveiled

Olympus E-3 DSLR Unveiled: "

Olympus E-3 DSLR Unveiled


Olympus has officially launched it’s E-1 DSLR successor, the E-3. The camera will have a live view LCD, work on the 3/4ths mount standard, and be available at least somewhere in November. Additionally, the E-3 has a 10MP sensor, 11 point auto focus, etc. Stay tuned for more updates.




(Via TechFresh.net - Cell Phones, Laptops, Video Games, iPods, Cameras.)

Tuesday

Ricoh Caplio R7: 8.1 megapixel with 7.1x wide zoom

Ricoh Caplio R7: 8.1 megapixel with 7.1x wide zoom



Ricoh keeps on keepin' on with another bump in specs for their R-series shooters. The R7 takes the R6 into 8.1 megapixel territory while maintaining the 7.1x wide zoom lens while tossing in their new Smooth Engine III image processing which should help quiet the noise at higher ISOs. Available in silver, black, and orange next month for a tax inclusive price of £230 in the UK.

(Via Engadget.)

Casio's EX-Z1080 and EX-V8 compact YouTube shooters

Casio's EX-Z1080 and EX-V8 compact YouTube shooters



Casio just hit us with pair of new face detecting, YouTube-ready Exilim cameras. The EX-Z1080 is little more than their 10 megapixel EX-Z1050 with a bit of their new H.264, YouTube Capture Mode sprinkled in. The EX-V8 then, bumps the ho humly reviewed EX-V7 into 8.1 megapixel territory while maintaining the 7x zoom and CCD-shift image stabilization while slapping some YouTube branding and trickery atop its existing H.264 video capabilities. Both cams will pop in September with the V8 hitting for $330 and the Z1080 demanding a cool $280. Click on through for a picture of the Z1080 in a lovely shade of purple-nurple.



(Via Engadget.)

Samsung SC-DC173 Review at CCInfo

Samsung SC-DC173 Review at CCInfo: "

Samsung_DC173.jpg


CamcorderInfo’s review of the Samsung SC-DC173 tries to make the best it can out of this cheap entry-level digital camcorder. Video quality is lacking in sharpness but the color palette actually ended up OK and not over-saturated like so many consumer models. This is truly a point-and-shoot camcorder that may or may not deserve your money, depending on your needs.




(Via Digital Camcorder News.)

Monday

mi VDO FX Digital Video Cam Is Sure To Boost Your YouTube Views

mi VDO FX Digital Video Cam Is Sure To Boost Your YouTube Views: "

mi VDO FX DV Cam (Image courtesy mi Jam)


Anyone can post a video of pretty much anything to YouTube but if you’re hoping to rack up the views and number of times your clip gets ‘favorited’ you better make sure your video is something special. So while we’re seeing quite a few digital video cameras specifically designed for making web-ready videos (translation: sub-NTSC quality) I don’t think any of them will be able to compare to the mi VDO FX.


You see besides having the ability to record a soundtrack directly from an iPod or MP3 player while filming and on-the-go editing the mi VDO FX also includes 18 built-in special effects to further jazz up your production. As to what these effects are I have no idea, but given the images on their website I assume we’re talking about black & white, sepia, negative and other real-time filters. So if the video of your dog chasing it’s tail seems to have gone unnoticed on YouTube try shooting it again with the mi VDO FX’s negative filter, I guarantee it will hit the site’s front page in a matter of hours.


As for useful features the mi VDO FX includes 4x digital zoom, has a 1.5-inch color LCD display and uses SD cards with support for up to 2Gb versions.




(Via OhGizmo!.)

Olympus Evolt E-510

Olympus Evolt E-510: "

Olympus Evolt E-510

It’s no secret Nikon and Canon dominate the market for D-SLRs leaving Sony, Pentax and Olympus to pick up the crumbs. That said, D-SLRs from these companies are far from crummy—in fact they can be pretty good as we reported over a year ago with the Sony alpha. Many people opt for Canon and Nikon because they have older 35mm lenses from those systems and want to use that glass in the digital era. However, if you never bought a lens in your life it’s worth looking beyond the Big Two just as we’ve done in the past. Olympus recently introduced a pair of 10-megapixel D-SLRs using the Four Thirds Standard mounting system (the Evolt E-410 and E-510). Claimed to be digital from the ground up, there are plenty of Olympus Zuiko lenses to choose from (17 to be exact) ranging from fish-eyes up to a 300mm f2.8 super telephoto. Since the Four Thirds Standard has a digital factor of 2x, lenses are actually double the stated focal length (600mm in the case of the 300mm f2.8) giving you a very nice range of glass. Granted it’s nothing near the options of Canon and Nikon but for those dipping into the D-SLR waters there’s enough to keep you happy—and broke. Olympus models also have a feature called ‘Live View’ that lets you frame your shots on the 2.5-inch LCD screen, not just the viewfinder, something very few D-SLRs offer. The Canon EOS 1D Mark III does but it costs over $4,000 USD'and so does the new EOS 40D ($1,299 USD body only). We were sent the $999 USD Evolt E-510 two lens kit and proceeded to give the camera a workout…




(Via Digital Trends.)

Kodak's new trio of EasyShare cams

Kodak's new trio of EasyShare cams courtesy of Google cache



We're expecting an announcement any time now, but Google cache has already revealed some inadvertently posted product pages for a trio of new Kodak EasyShare shooters. The Z812 IS (pictured, top-left) is an 8.2 megapixel cam with 12x Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon zoom lens which doubles-up as a chubby 720p / 30fps video recorder. It's also said to feature a 0.23-second click-to-capture capability while packing optical image stabilization to help manage the shake and noise from that biggie zoom and reported ISO 3200 sensitivity. The V1253 (pictured, bottom) and V1233 then, are both 12 megapixel shooters that offer the same 720p video recording as the super zoom. The V1253 packs a 3.1-inch LCD to the 2.5-incher found on the V1233. Both lack any kind of optical image stabilization, however. Now come on Kodak, make 'em official with dates and pricing.



(Via Engadget.)

Panasonic HDC-SD1 Review at IEBA

Panasonic AG-HSC1U Review at IEBA: "

panasonic_ag-hsc1u_hand.jpg


Anthony Burokas, a name you will see at the top of many video equipment reviews, has just started his own blog where he has posted a Panasonic AG-HSC1U review. For those who are new to this particular camcorder, it is the Panasonic HDC-SD1 with a different color space, increased aperture, and a 40GB external hard drive device used to offload footage from the SD card.


It is a very thorough, informative and educational review; one of the better reviews I have seen. Did the Panasonic AG-HSC1U make the cut? Is it a ‘pro’ AVCHD camcorder that will be useful to professionals or is it just a more expensive Panasonic HDC-SD1?


The site is still being worked on, but after this first review I am looking forward to seeing what else Mr. Burokas has to say on video production.


Link




(Via Digital Camcorder News.)

Sunday

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS with 10X Zoom

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS with 10X Zoom: "

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS with 10X Zoom


Canon announced the PowerShot SX100 IS digital camera with 10X optical zoom. SX100 is a 8 Megapixel camera with 10x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, Optical Image Stabilizer System, ISO rating up to 1600 and a 2.5-inch LCD display.


The PowerShot SX100 supports SD/SDHC as well as MMC cards. It measures 108.7 x 71.4 x 46.7mm and weighs 265g.


‘We developed the PowerShot SX100 IS digital camera with all the zooming power and creative control a traditional photo-taker could ever want in a compact and value-priced package,’ said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. ‘At a price point of just under $300 with a simple and intuitive user interface, this camera is just as appropriate for beginners as it is for more seasoned enthusiasts with a need to capture quality images from a distance.’




(Via iTech News Net.)

Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital camera

Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital camera: "

Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital camera


Olympus presents the Stylus 1200, a 12 Megapixel digital camera. Olympus Stylus 1200 features 3x optical zoom, 5x digital zoom, Image Stabilization, an ISO rating up to 6400, a 2.7-inch LCD display. It has 47MB internal memory and supports xD memory cards.


The Stylus 1200 measures 98.1 x 56.2 x 23.0mm and weights 125g. It will be available in the coming September for around $350.




Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital camera


Olympus Stylus 1200 12MP Digital camera




(Via iTech News Net.)

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Digital SLR

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Digital SLR: "

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Digital SLR


Canon announced the new EOS-1Ds Mark III digital SLR camera. Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III features a 21 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS image sensor, dual ‘DIGIC III’ image processors and it supports Framing and shooting subjects using the camera’s 3-inch LCD screen.


The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III will be shipped in November and will be priced at$7,999.





(Via iTech News Net.)

Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR

Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR: "

Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR


Canon announced also EOS 40D digital SLR camera. 40D features a 10 Megapixel CMOS image sensor, an ISO rating up to 3200, and it is powered by Canon’s DIGIC III image processor. Like the Mark III, the EOS 40D supports framing and capturing of subjects using the camera’s 3-inch LCD screen instead of the viewfinder.


Canon EOS 40D supports CF card Type 1 and II.




(Via iTech News Net.)

Canon PowerShot SD950 IS Digital ELPH Camera

Canon PowerShot SD950 IS Digital ELPH Camera: "

Canon PowerShot SD950 IS Digital ELPH Camera


Canon shows us the PowerShot SD950 IS Digital ELPH camera which is a 12 Megapixel camera with 3.7x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, optical image stabilizer, DIGIC III image processor, and the Face Detection technology.


Canon PowerShot SD950 can capture 640 x 480 videos at 30fps. It has also a 2.5-inch LCD display and it supports SD/SDHC Memory Card, MultiMediaCard, MMC Plus Card, HC MMC Plus Card.


This camera continues the ELPH tradition with its full-body titanium good looks, featuring sinuous curves and advanced design, while standing on its own with optimal performance.




(Via iTech News Net.)

Canon PowerShot SD870 IS Digital ELPH Camera

Canon PowerShot SD870 IS Digital ELPH Camera: "

Canon PowerShot SD870 IS Digital ELPH Camera


Canon PowerShot SD870 IS is the little brother of the SD950 camera. It features a 8 Megapixel CCD sensor, 3.8x wide-angle optical zoom with with optical image stabilization and 4x digital zoom, an ISO rating up to 1600 and a 3-inch LCD display.


The Canon PowerShot SD870 IS, of course, comes with Canon’s DIGIC III image processor and it can record 640x480 videos at 30fps. It measures 92.6 x 58.8 x 25.9mm and weights 155g. It will be priced at $399.99.




(Via iTech News Net.)

Saturday

Canon PowerShot G6 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom

Canon PowerShot G6 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom: " Some people are taking pictures using their cameras just to have them, as a sweet memory. They don’t care about the quality of the taken pictures. For them is important just the fact that they have any type of camera and take any quality of pictures… If you don’t concern to that type of people, that article is for you!"



(Via Gadgets Reviews.)

Pentax announces Optio Z10 and S10

Pentax announces Optio Z10 and S10: "Pentax today announced its Optio Z10 and S10 compact digital cameras. The Optio Z10 is a slimline 8.0 megapixel device with a non-protruding 7x zoom lens giving a range of 38-266mm (35mm equiv.). The Optio S10 - which is available exclusively through Wal-Mart stores in the US - boasts 10.0 megapixels and a 3x zoom (38-114mm equiv.). Both cameras will be available from September with a price tag of $249.95."



(Via News: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com).)

Thursday

Nikon D300 DSLR Announced

Nikon D300 DSLR Announced: "

Nikon D300 DSLR Announced


Nikon has recently announced the D300 DSLR that features a 12.3MP DX format CMOS sensor, HDMI support with 1080i playback, 200-3200 ISO range, live view and a 3-inch viewfinder. Nikon D300 DSLR will ship in November with the price tag of $1799.




(Via TechFresh.net - Cell Phones, Laptops, Video Games, iPods, Cameras.)

Review: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 — An SLR in Point-and-Shoot Clothing

Review: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 — An SLR in Point-and-Shoot Clothing: "

Oneone

If you're shopping for a new digital camera you basically have two options: pick up a toy shooter that can't grow with you; or plunk down a grand for a fancy digital SLR and face its huge learning curve. Now there's a third way: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18, a hybrid compact-cum SLR that shoots striking pictures but is as friendly as any point-and-shoot. The DMC-FZ18 conatins an 8.1 megapixel sensor and a head-scratchingly powerful 18x zoom on a 28mm wide-angle lens (12x is standard on rival cameras). With this lens, you can zoom in on the pitcher (or belly itcher) from the bleachers or pan out and shoot the whole field. But the DMC-FZ18's strength is its intuitive interface and friendly presets. The Intelligent Auto Mode combines four great features into one: image stabilization to minimize camera-shake; intelligent ISO for freezing action scenes; automatic subject and scenery adjustment to cut glare and enhance shadows; and face detection for improving portraits. Lost? The camera is even smart enough to guide you. The Custom mode lets users play with different settings and save them, slowly building confidence, experience, and with any luck, transforming you into Pulitzer potential. —Jose Fermoso



WIRED Takes awesome pictures. Very easy to use. The 18x zoom doesn’t sacrifice detail. Great software package with flawless panoramic stitching.



TIRED You can't use the zoom option when playing back video with audio on the LCD screen, which caused us to miss the loud 18X version of a seal chomping on a companion’s nose. And the audio coming out of the speaker was a bit tinny.



$400, panasonic.com




(Via Gadget Lab.)

Canon Powershot G9

Canon Powershot G9

20070820_hires_g9_3q.jpg


With the new D40, the current talk of the Canon ‘fanboys’, it is refreshing to see another quality ‘point and shoot’ enter the market, for what is in all reality the vast majority of the digital photography world.


At $499.99, the G9 isn’t cheap, but it is packed with features that you would normally expect to see on a more professional DSLR:



  • the option of using RAW+JPEG simultaneous capture functionality

  • class-leading 12.1-megapixel resolution

  • 6x optical zoom

  • Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer

  • Canon’s Image Inspection Tool

  • 23 shooting modes

  • extended battery life and advanced Face Detection technology



Seriously the list goes on and you need to check them all out before making your decision, as $499.99 is a lot of money to pay if you aren’t going to use them all. I would suggest that this would make a great ’step up’ camera for anyone thinking of getting into DSLR photography as it will help you improve on creating a photogrpah rather than just taking a picture, and once you get your DSLR it will continue to have a good use as a ‘carry around’ camera for day to day stuff that you didn’t expect or couldn’t be bothered to take a DSLR to.



(Via Gadgetell.)

Review: Canon HV20 HD Camcorder — High Definition Labor of Love

Review: Canon HV20 HD Camcorder — High Definition Labor of Love: "

Hv20
When it comes to HD cameras, call us hopeless romantics. We’d love to find a shooter capable of taking beautiful footage but without the bulk of a professional cam. Canon’s new HV20 got close, but eventually it just broke our hearts. Here’s why: We took the cam to Bay to Breakers (a 7.46-mile foot race across San Francisco that often features more binge drinking and nudity than actual running). Our movie from the event? Hyper-clear with very little jitter due to the camera's excellent image stabilizer. But the honeymoon ended when we tried using the playback functions at the bottom of the LCD screen. The poor menu setup and messy control scheme left us scratching our heads. Plus, for the thousand-dollar price tag, you'd think Canon could have included an HDMI connector. Sigh. The search for true love continues. —Rachel Swaby



WIRED Super clear, super clean, super colorful 1080i video quality. Tapes eject quickly and cleanly. 10x zoom and rapid auto focus. Compact size and light weight (1.3 pounds!) make transporting the cam second nature. Top mounted mic cancels out ambient noise like a pro.



TIRED Holy design flaw! The electronic lens cover sputtered and failed to open right out of the box; we had to prop it open with our fingers. Poor menu configuration — especially with playback functions. Image stabilization has its limits: 10x zoom requires a tripod if you don’t want it to look like you are experiencing an earthquake.



$1099, usa.canon.com




(Via Gadget Lab.)

Olympus' FE-Series of shooters detect smiles, not snark

Olympus' FE-Series of shooters detect smiles, not snark



Olympus is in a tizzy this morning with four new shooters from their FE-series of compact digital cameras. The 12 megapixel (1/1.72-inch CCD) FE-300 is the big pixel-huntin' dog of the bunch packing a TruePic III image processor, 17 scene modes, xD expansion, and 2.5-inch LCD in a 22.1-mm thick package. Next up is the 7.1 megapixel (1/2.5-inch CCD) FE-290 which lacks the face detection of the FE-300 but squeezes in a 3-inch LCD and 4x wide angle optical zoom lens. The FE-280 then, crams 8 megapixels into a 1/2.35-inch CCD and super slim 19.1-mm body. Ammusingly, it features a 'Smile Shot' mode which automatically tracks faces and then throws the shutter when your subject smiles, or grimaces presumably, when snuggled up with aunt vinegar. Bringing up the tail-end is the ho hum 7.1 megapixel FE-270. Look for 'em all to ship starting September.


(Via Engadget.)