Olympus grabs for entry-level DSLR dollars with $600 E-600

Olympus grabs for entry-level DSLR dollars with $600 E-600

We had some pretty overwhelming evidence that Olympus' entry-level E-600 was more than just some fancy Photoshop, and sure enough, the outfit has today made things official for us. Designed as a low-cost E-620, the 12.3-megapixel shooter drops only the backlit buttons, a trio of 'art filter' modes, aspect mask control and the two-shot multi exposure mode from an otherwise heralded device. If you can live without those, you'll find a delectable $599.99 price tag that includes a 14-42mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko zoom lens, a 2.7-inch swiveling Live View LCD, in-body image stabilization, a dust reduction system, sequential shooting at four frames per second and the ability to accept CF, UDMA and xD memory cards (sorry, SD lovers). It'll be available from respectable camera outlets this November -- just in time to satisfy that nagging need on the forthcoming holiday gift list.

Gallery: Olympus grabs for entry-level DSLR dollars with E-600

[Via Electronista]

Nikon Coolpix S1000pj won't be with us until October, others also delayed

Nikon Coolpix S1000pj won't be with us until October, others also delayed

Alas, our dream of rocking parties with the projector-packing s1000pj will have to wait an extra month. Turns out that demand for the shooter was so high that even Nikon, whose sole purpose in life is making imaging equipment, couldn't satiate it in time. The new dates for your calendar are October 23 for the 12.1 megapixel, 5x optical zoom S1000pj, and September 19 for its S70 and S570 brethren. The S70 switches out the projector for a 3.5-inch OLED multitouch screen, and should prove quite the attractive proposition in its own right, but for now all we can do is look admiringly from afar. Sigh.



[Via Impress]

Fujifilm FinePix Z30 Black Swirl Design

Fujifilm FinePix Z30 Black Swirl Design

BestBuy is offering you this exclusive art deco version of the FujiFilm FinePix Z30. This eye catching camera features swirly like floral designs on the face of the camera in black. Despite all that, the rest of the specs remain exactly the same to the original version, you’ll find a 10MP image sensor, 3x optical zoom, 5.7x digital zoom, a 2.7-inch color LCD, a 50MB of internal memory, ISO up to 1600, face detection, antiblur image stabilization and the ability to record video in VGA quality at 30fps. The Fujifilm FinePix Z30 Black Swirl Design is currently on sale for $129.99.

(Via The Digital Camera Blog.)

Canon EOS 7D Unveiled

Canon EOS 7D Unveiled

The specs for the upcoming Canon EOS 7D have been unveiled. This high-end DSLR will come with a 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor, a 3-inch LCD display (920,000 dot resolution, 160 degree viewing angle), DiG!C 4 imaging processors and an ISO range of 100 to 6400, which extends to 12800. a 1.0x optical viewfinder with intelligent display with electronic horizon line, and EOS Integrated Dust Removal system. There is no info on pricing so far. Stay tuned for more updates.
[Neutralday]

Phantom v12.1 High-Speed Camera Can Capture 6,933 FPS at 720P

Phantom v12.1 High-Speed Camera Can Capture 6,933 FPS at 720P

Need another reason to pick up the FlashBox digital video recorder I wrote about yesterday? Well here it is. The Phantom v12.1 CMOS-based high-speed digital camera is capable of capturing a whopping 6,933 frames per second at a resolution of 1280 x 720. According to Ben Cain’s HD CINEMA blog, the Phantom high-speed cameras where originally developed by Vision Research with the military in mind, but have been adopted by the film and TV industries for high-speed photography with great success.

Now shooting HD footage at almost 7,000 fps isn’t quite as easy as shooting with a consumer-level HD camera, but Ben has posted his recent experiences and successes with using the Phantom v12.1 on a high-speed shoot for Starz on his blog. Interesting tidbit, it’s apparently better to use massive 5K lights on a high-speed shoot instead of 2Ks because you can actually see the light cool slightly in-between the alternating current’s 60 cycles on the high-speed footage, causing flicker. 5K lights on the other hand burn hot enough that their intensity isn’t visibly reduced in-between cycles. Crazy!

[VIA [ HD CINEMA ]

Samsung's upcoming WB5000 24x zoomer shoots RAW photos and HD video

Samsung's upcoming WB5000 24x zoomer shoots RAW photos and HD video

Samsung has a new one in the works, the WB5000, presumably offering the price advantages of an 24x zoomin' all-in-one with some of the features and image quality of a DSLR -- that's the dream, anyway. The camera shoots 12.5 megapixel stills, with full manual controls, face detection and support for RAW formatted images, while also offering HD recording and a relatively compact form factor. True details are scarce, but it sounds promising on the surface. The WB5000 should be out in the fourth quarter, no word on price just yet.



[Via Engadget Spanish]

Sony Alpha 500 DSLR gets a hands-on

Sony Alpha 500 DSLR gets a hands-on

Sony's announcement of the three Alpha line cameras just came today -- but we're already seeing plenty of them. Pocket Lint's got a fairly extensive hands-on with the Alpha 500, which boasts an Exmor CMOS 12.3-megapixel sensor, an ISO range of up to 12,800, with a four frames per second continuous shooting. It also packs an HDR shooting mode, and an HDMI output. The Alpha 500 will be out in October, and it will run you $750. There's one more shot after the break -- hit the read link for the full set.

(Via Engadget.)

Sony Alpha 380 gets lukewarm reviews, must be someone's perfect bowl of porridge

Sony Alpha 380 gets lukewarm reviews, must be someone's perfect bowl of porridge

The leading model of Sony's 'upper entry level' trifecta of Alpha-branded shooters, the 14.2 megapixel DSLR-A380, has been hitting test benches lately and we've rounded up the results for your perusal. The consensus appears to be that Sony has focused on bringing fans of compact cams up to the big time, with its uniquely responsive Live View and straightforward usability. Alas, ease of use is not the only thing brought up from the little leagues, with comparatively poor output at ISO 400 and above, lack of any video recording (which can be found on the Canon EOS 500D and Nikon D5000, its nearest competitors) and unsatisfying viewfinder ergonomics. Conclusion? If you were looking for a point-and-shoot on steroids, your search is at an end, young hobbit -- but photography enthusiasts should probably look elsewhere.

(Via Engadget.)

Nikon D3000 summons up courage to get tested, needn't have worried

Nikon D3000 summons up courage to get tested, needn't have worried

The best thing to be said about the Nikon D3000 is that it's simple. It's a camera that knows who it's aimed at -- first time or amateur DSLR users -- and makes direct provisions for that audience by automating as much as possible. Simple to understand, simple to use. Having undergone a grueling review session, it can now boast about its Photography Blog-approved image quality, solid body construction and actually useful extras like 3D subject tracking, 11-point AF, built-in lens sensor cleaning, and an accelerometer that rotates menu items when you turn the camera for a portrait shot. The lack of live view or video recording might prove a stumbling block for some, but the reviewers found this shooter compelling enough to give it their 'Highly Recommended' badge of honor.

(Via Engadget.)

Purported Olympus E-600 apparently spotted in the wild

Purported Olympus E-600 apparently spotted in the wild

This one is being greeted with a fair bit of skepticism on the forums given its seemingly odd placement in Olympus' lineup but, if the pictures are to be believed, it looks like the company could be set to release a new E-600 Micro classic Four Thirds camera -- and soon, considering it's already in a camera shop. As you can see above, however, the camera looks a fair bit like Olympus' existing entry-level E-620 DSLR, and there's unfortunately no specs to speak of, although the E-600 model name did apparently crop up in another rumor a few weeks back. Is it the real thing? Hit up the link below for a closer look to judge for yourself.

[Via 4/3 Rumors]

Sony debuts Alpha A850, A550 and A500 DSLRs

Sony debuts Alpha A850, A550 and A500 DSLRs

Sony's really hitting two sweet spots this morning with its new (or, newly confirmed) full-frame A850 (pictured) and mid-range A550 and A500 DSLR additions to the Alpha family. The rumors were basically dead on, with the A850 offering a slight reduction to the A900's skillset while keeping on the exact same 24.6 megapixel sensor -- and nabbing a $1,000 or so price cut in the process (it's now landing at around $2,000). The A550 and A500, meanwhile, fill in any perceived gaps in the Alpha line with 14.2 and 12.3 megapixel sensors, respectively. They also both score tilt-out LCDs akin to the poorly-received A380, with the A550 sporting a much higher resolution screen than its sibling. Still, even with the other minor tweaks present, we're not sure how reasonable the $200 price difference between the two cameras is: the A550 goes for $950 ($1050 with a kit lens), while the A500 hits at $750 ($850 with a kit). The glaring omission in all of these cameras, of course, is video recording -- something that Sony's various competition is sporting in a majority of these pricepoints. A head scratcher, to be sure.



Gallery: Sony Alpha A850

Exemode Yashica DV-535HD Camcorder

Exemode Yashica DV-535HD Camcorder

Exemode will release the Yashica DV-535HD low-priced camcorder on September 11th, 2009 in Japan for just 25,000 Yen ($263). The video recorder can record 1080p 30fps HD video and features a 5x optical zoom, a 5MP CMOS sensor, and a 3-inch touch-sensitive LCD screen. Measuring 53mm x 65mm x 114mm and weighing about 288grams, the Yashica DV-535HD also sports SDHC memory cards (up to 32GB) and has an HDMI Type-C connector.
[Tech-On!]

More Sony Alpha 500, 850 info leaked?

More Sony Alpha 500, 850 info leaked?

We've already seen plenty of leaked info on Sony's upcoming Alpha DSLR -- the 850 (including what is presumably its user manual). Well, now the German site DigitalKamera's got some more info on it, as well as the a500. First up, the a850 will boast a 24.6 megapixel sensor, a 35mm CMOS sensor, an ISO range of 100 to 6400, and will be capable of shooting 3 frames per second, with a 3-inch, VGA display. The a500 -- about which a lot less info has been previously leaked -- will have a 12.3-megapixel sensor, an up 12800 ISO, with two live view modes (quick autofocus and direct view). There is still absolutely no official word on either of these bad boys, though we're hearing September -- so maybe we'll catch a glimpse of them at IFA -- we'll keep our eyes peeled until then. There's a shot of the a500 after the break.



[Via 1001 Noisy Cameras]

Sanyo Xacti CG11 is the perfect cam for 'beginners and women'

Sanyo Xacti CG11 is the perfect cam for 'beginners and women'

Sanyo's range of Xacti camcorders may be as wide as the Sargasso Sea, but nowadays even its entry-level shooters pimp some pretty advanced features. The CG11 is a case in point, coming with a 10 megapixel CMOS sensor capable of 720p recording, integrated EyeFi and mini-HDMI connectivity options, and the usual gunslinger aesthetic. Storage of the H.264-encoded MPEG-4 output is handled by SDHC media, and there's also 5x optical zoom, anti-shake and a stereo mic for getting things just right. Folks in Japan, whether they be beginners, pros, women or men (no matter what the mangled machine translation tells us), will be able to buy one from September 11 for ¥30,000 ($318).



[Via Impress]

Sony Alpha 380 gets lukewarm reviews, must be someone's perfect bowl of porridge

Sony Alpha 380 gets lukewarm reviews, must be someone's perfect bowl of porridge

The leading model of Sony's 'upper entry level' trifecta of Alpha-branded shooters, the 14.2 megapixel DSLR-A380, has been hitting test benches lately and we've rounded up the results for your perusal. The consensus appears to be that Sony has focused on bringing fans of compact cams up to the big time, with its uniquely responsive Live View and straightforward usability. Alas, ease of use is not the only thing brought up from the little leagues, with comparatively poor output at ISO 400 and above, lack of any video recording (as with the Canon EOS 500D and Nikon D5000, its nearest competitors) and unsatisfying viewfinder ergonomics. Conclusion? If you were looking for a point-and-shoot on steroids, your search is at an end, young hobbit -- but photography enthusiasts should probably look elsewhere.

(Via Engadget.)

Fujifilm To Launch FinePix S200EXR

Fujifilm To Launch FinePix S200EXR

Fujifilm is gearing up to launch the FinePix S200EXR for the Japanese market starting on September 5. Touted as the successor to the award winning FinePix S100FS, the S200EXR is a new super-zoom digital camera with a 14.3x (30.5-436mm) manual zoom lens, a 12MP Super CCD EXR sensor, a 2.7-inch high contrast LCD with 160-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angles, Super Intelligent Flash, an improved battery life - almost a 50% increase on the FinePix S100FS and the capability to record video in VGA quality (640 x 480) at 30fps. The FinePix S200EXR will be sold for around 60,000 Yen (about $632).
[AVING]

Ricoh GR Digital III hits the review bench, collects plaudits

Ricoh GR Digital III hits the review bench, collects plaudits

The dudes and dudettes at Photography Blog are nothing if not thorough, and their latest review is no exception. The GR Digital III and its peculiar 28mm wide-angle fixed focal length lens (i.e. no optical zoom) have been subjected to an inspection and the verdict is an exuberant thumbs up. The aluminum alloy body impressed them right from the off, and the reviewers also liked the customizable menus, improved shutter speed, Dynamic Range double shot, and Adobe DNG RAW output. Those were all mere cherries, however, to the cake of 'excellent' image quality and 'stand-out' Macro performance. The sole blemishes found were the price (£529 / $699) and noise issues beyond ISO 800, but then the latter is a well known weakness of compact cameras. Check out the read link for sample images and the (very) full review.

(Via Engadget.)

Canon Vixia HF S11 Camcorder

Canon Vixia HF S11 Camcorder

Canon USA has released their new VIXIA HF S11 Dual Flash Memory camcorder that features a Genuine Canon HD Video Lens, Canon designed and manufactured 8.59-megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor and Canon DIGIC DV III Image Processor, all of which allow the video recorder to produce breathtaking video and stunning 8.0MP photos. It also features Genuine Canon Face Detection, Instant AutoFocus, and the ability to record in 24p Cinema Mode or 30p Progressive Mode.

Canon also released a new camcorder accessory, the RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter for professional-level functionality when shooting from a tripod. The Canon Vixia HF S11 will be launched later next month for $1,500, meanwhile the RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter is priced at $120.

(Via The Digital Camera Blog.)

Casio finds one more compact camera to debut: the Exilim EX-Z33

Casio finds one more compact camera to debut: the Exilim EX-Z33

Thought Casio was done when it rolled out three mostly similar Exilim compact cameras earlier this week? Think again, 'cause the company's now let slip its new Exilim EX-Z33 model, which offers just a little bit less all around compared to its slightly higher-end counterparts. That includes 10.1 megapixels as opposed to twelve, a 3x optical zoom instead of a 4x, and a 2.5-inch widescreen LCD instead of a 2.7- or 3.0-incher. You'll also get the usual face recognition and best shot modes, a built-in YouTube video mode to take some of the work out of uploading, and an all new Easy Mode that's supposedly even easier to use than before. No word on a price just yet, but we'd assume it'll be less than the $149 Casio is asking for its more capable EX-Z90.

(Via Engadget.)

Ricoh CX2 has 10.7x optical zoom, CX1 pedigree

Ricoh CX2 has 10.7x optical zoom, CX1 pedigree

Ah, the cruelty of rapid refresh cycles. It was only six months ago that the well reviewed CX1 hit the scene, but already Ricoh is trotting out its replacement in the form of the CX2. You needn't fret though, as the new shooter retains its predecessor's winning features while adding a few goodies of its own. The zoom has gone from 7.1x to 10.7x, taking it comfortably into the superzoom category, continuous shooting gets upgraded from 4 to 5 fps, and face detection and AF have been enhanced. The latter features should make the new cam easier to use for novices, but when you add up the whole package -- including the already competent 9 megapixel CMOS sensor and HDR imaging capabilities inherited from the CX1 -- you have to wonder if this camera isn't too good for the point and shoot moniker. Suggested UK price is £299.99 ($495), and it should be available in early September.

Gallery: Ricoh CX2 has 10.7x optical zoom, CX1 pedigree

[Via Akihabara News]

Canon PowerShot SD980 Digital Camera

Canon PowerShot SD980 Digital Camera

Canon has announced the PowerShot SD980 IS Digital ELPH 12.1MP camera that features a 3-inch touchscreen display with a 5X optical zoom. Available in silver, blue, purple and gold, the PowerShot SD980 features 720p HD video shooting capabilities plus HDMI output connector for easy playback of video and photos on HDTV. The Canon PowerShot SD980 IS Digital ELPH Camera will be launched in October 2009 for $329.
[Canon]

Canon EOS 7D image appears online, might be in Best Buy systems

Canon EOS 7D image appears online, might be in Best Buy systems

Canon might have announced a slew of new compacts today, but we're thinking the most exciting news might be this image of the legendary EOS 7D. That flash button would indicate the presence of a built-in flash, and those mic holes hint at video features, but apart from that we've got little else to go on -- there are whispers that the Best Buy inventory system is listing the body at $2700 and the kit with an EF 28-135 lens at $2900, but we can't verify those at the moment. We're dying to find out more about this one, stay tuned.

(Via Engadget.)

The digital dash camera

The digital dash camera

This is a handy device that simply sits on the dash and records what is going on in front of you, in the event of an accident this information could be invaluable as you would never have to reactions pick a camera or cell phone in time. The device has a 1 Gb memory card installed which is enough to record your entire journey.

 

Product Features

Record traffic in front of you

Powered by 12 Volt or 3 AAA Batteries

Includes 1 GB SD Memory Card

View on a computer or on a TV

Red laser points to area being recorded

Priced at $59.95

 

(Via zedomax.com.)

Canon's PowerShot lineup hands-on: the best of the rest

Canon's PowerShot lineup hands-on: the best of the rest

Sure, the G11 might grab all the headlines, but there's tons of meat to the rest of Canon's new point and shoots. The S90, for instance, packs the same sensor of the G11 into a deliciously compact (though scarily plastic) body, the new SD940 IS Digital ELPH cams show off slim, curved metal bodies befitting their lineage, and the SD980 IS doesn't sacrifice much in the name of fashion -- while using their ultra-sized touchscreens to the utmost. All the cameras we handled were labeled prototype, and so hopefully the d-pad jiggle we detected on most of these (particularly pronounced on the S90) will be rectified before these hit shelves, but otherwise we like what we see so far.

Gallery: Canon's PowerShot lineup hands-on: the best of the rest

(Via Engadget.)