Photo&Cameras

Pentax has launched the Optio M60, a 10 megapixel compact camera with a 5x optical zoom. It’s got all the features you’d expect, including revised face detection technology that can locate the faces of the best part of a coach-party. The lens covers a range equivalent to 36mm – 180mm, so lacks any wide angle. The camera does offer an Auto Picture mode that automatically selects the scene mode it thinks most relevant for the shot being taken, helping to make the most of its 8 scene modes.

Specifications to follow.

PENTAX Optio M60

A stylish digital compact camera with enhanced functions to support a wide variety of shooting scenarios

July 30th, 2008 – PENTAX UK is pleased to announce the launch of the new PENTAX Optio M60, a feature-filled digital compact camera that is lightweight and equipped with advanced, easy-to-operate functions. The Optio M60 can be used widely by anyone in a variety of situations, and is equipped with the latest scene mode recognition function allowing for easy and convenient capturing of high-quality images.

The M60 is the latest model in the PENTAX Optio M series of digital compact cameras, which have been highly acclaimed for their small, lightweight bodies and enhanced functions. In addition to a metal exterior that gives it a sense of sophistication, the M60 is loaded with an impressive optical 5X zoom, a large LCD monitor, easy-to-understand operability, and approximately 10.0 megapixels. Furthermore, the Optio M60 makes taking great pictures even easier by leaving it up to the camera to determine specific settings. This is made possible thanks to the strengthened face recognition function and advancements to the convenient “Auto Picture” function unique to PENTAX, where the camera automatically detects the conditions of the subject and selects the optimal scene mode. The camera is also available in three different colours, allowing users to select their favourite.

Major Features

1. Advanced Auto Picture mode that lets the camera automatically select the scene mode

Improvements have been made in the recognition performance of the Auto Picture mode, which is a convenient function unique to PENTAX, where the camera automatically selects the optimal scene mode when pointed at the subject. Through the addition of Candlelight to the conventional scene modes of Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Standard, Flower, and Sport, a total of 8 scenes can now be recognised with the Optio M60, which is the greatest for this series. It is now possible to leave everything up to the camera and take beautiful photos of a wide variety of scenes easily and without hassle.

2. High-speed Face Recognition function takes only 0.03 seconds

The Optio M60 is equipped with the Face Recognition AF & AE function, which is useful when taking photos of people, as it automatically sets the focus and exposure. In addition to increasing to 32 the number of faces that can be detected at once, the detection time has been reduced to an impressive 0.03 seconds. The Optio M60 is also supplied with easy to use applications such as Smile Capture, which automatically distinguishes smiles and takes photos, and Blinking Detection, which is a function that warns the photographer if the subject blinked at the moment the shot was taken.

3. New design that pursues a sophisticated texture

The Optio M60 features a new design that is unique down to the texture of each part. Aluminum alloy, which has a certain sophisticated feel and look to it, is used for the body’s exterior. Different colours are used for the decorative ring around the lens that match the body colour. By using parts with a beautiful luster for the grip and the upper surface of the body, the Optio M60 becomes as much an accessory as a state of the art camera technology.

4. Optical 5X zoom lens

Within a compact body that fits into the palm of your hand, the Optio M60 is equipped with an optical 5X zoom lens, with an angle of view equivalent o approximately 36mm to 180mm in 35mm format. It is now possible to zoom in further when taking photos of landscapes, commemorative photos and portraits. The Optio M60 also features an Intelligent Zoom function that extends the zoom range without compromising the optical zoom’s image quality, enabling highmagnification zoom photography, equivalent to a maximum of approximately 28.5X.

5. High sensitivity Digital SR mode that reduces camera shake and subject blurring

The Optio M60 features Digital SR (shake reduction) mode, which can reduce camera shake and subject blurring during still-image photography. This mode automatically adjusts the image sensor sensitivity up to a maximum of ISO 6400, in accordance with the subject’s brightness to permit the fastest shutter speed possible to capture a sharp, clear image with minimal blurring.

6. Approximately 10.0 effective megapixels for high-definition images

For the Optio M60, the effective pixel count was increased to a higher definition of approximately 10.0 megapixels. In addition, clear and high-quality images are realised through a high-performance PENTAX lens. Clear prints, with exceptional detail are possible even when photos are stretched out to large sizes.

7. Other features

1) Large, 2.5-inch LCD monitor of approximately 230,000 dots, with a wide viewing angle for easy viewing even from diagonal directions

2) Digital Wide mode merges two shots into one image in the camera, for ultrawide- angle expressions equivalent to a focal length of approximately 28mm in 35mm format

3) Panorama mode for composing photographs into one panoramic picture

4) Movie recording function with shake reduction enabling high image quality rivaling camcorders

5) Mode palette provides quick access to 24 shooting conditions and 15 playback modes

6) Frame composite function allows photographers to shoot and create images with decorative frames; there are 80 built-in styles to choose from

7) Auto-Macro allows for close-up photography as near as 10cm, without changing the normal focusing mode

Date and Time imprint function for easy image categorising

9) Approximately 36.5MB of built-in memory

10)FotoNation’s red-eye compensation function for flash shots

11)Includes the ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewer/image management software that supports Windows Vista^TM

12)Support PictBridge, DPOF functions, Eixf Print, and PRINT Image Matching III

By: www.dpreview.com

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Nikon Coolpix P80 review : Many people consider a small model with a large optical zoom range the ideal digital camera. This type of easy-to-carry camera enables you to take every picture you like. The so-called Megazoom cameras are therefore still extremely popular, even though reflex cameras are gradually becoming smaller and cheaper. Nikon may have bid the Megazoom concept farewell just a tad too soon, as they rushed into their undeniably successful line of DSLR cameras. With the availability of the Nikon Coolpix P80, Nikon meet the demands of consumers; a demand that still exists in spite of the success of the digital SLR camera.

Nikon Coolpix P80 digital camera
The specifications of the Nikon Coolpix P80 are extremely promising. 10 Megapixels, 18x optical zoom, ISO range up to 6400 and an in-house produced EXPEED processor also found in the latest generation of DSLR cameras of Nikon, and all of this in a body with dimensions of only 110×79x78 mm. The Nikon P80 weighs a mere 365 grams without its battery and this is a lot less than a standard DSLR. The optical zoom range is large, starting at 27 mm which offers you a true wide angle. Thankfully, manufacturers are slowly but surely starting to recognize the benefits of a wide angle.

Optical image stabilizer on the Nikon P80
At maximum telephoto mode a focal length of 486 mm is obtained compared to a 35mm camera, and that is not bad. In order to obtain a sharp picture, you do need an optical image stabilizer. Nikon chose for the Coolpix P80 to apply a moveable sensor; which is a true image stabilization system that should guarantee carefree use of the large optical range in practice.

Edit pictures on the Nikon Coolpix P80
Nikon do not limit to picture-taking alone, also editing afterwards is taken into account. Like most Nikon cameras, the Nikon P80 has also been equipped with D-lighting. Dark areas in a picture are brightened, resulting in a more natural contrast. Naturally, this is done without overwriting the original. This is a very convenient functionality that can be frequently used in practice.

Nikon Coolpix P80 camera review
The Nikon Coolpix P80 is ranked in Nikon’s top class which makes the expectations rise sky-high. We expect a high performance when we look at the impressive specifications, although we are aware of the fact that Nikon place the bar really high for themselves. We had the camera in our possession for quite a while and have submitted it to some extensive tests. Whether or not Nikon have had to compromise can be read in the following Nikon Coolpix P80 camera review.

Source: www.letsgodigital.org

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Superzoom specialist Tamron has today announced the development of its most ambitious lens yet, the characteristically snappily-titled AF 18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Macro. Designed exclusively for digital SLRs with APS-C sensors, this optic offers a 35mm-equivalent range of 28-419* mm, perfect for owners of megazoom compacts looking to upgrade to an SLR, and incorporates the company’s ‘Vibration Control’ optical image stabilisation system. To achieve the spectacular zoom range (billed as the longest in the world),Tamron has used all its design nous, including the use of aspheric elements and low dispersion glass to keep chromatic aberration under control.

The company has not yet announced pricing or availability information. It will initially only be available in Canon and Nikon mounts. *35mm-equivalent focal length ranges will be 27mm – 405 mm on Nikon and 29mm – 432mm on Canon.

Press Release:

TAMRON announces the development of the AF18-270MM Di II VC ULTRA HIGH POWER ZOOM LENS

A Technological Breakthrough—World’s Longest Range 15X Zoom Lens Has Exclusive Built-In Vibration Compensation Mechanism Optimized for Consumer Digital SLR Cameras

July 30, 2008, Saitama City, Japan — Tamron Co., Ltd., under the leadership of Mr. Morio Ono, President, has announced the development of a unique ultra high power zoom lens—the Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical (IF) MACRO (Model B003), the first¹ digital SLR lens in the world that delivers a remarkable zoom ratio of 15X (28-419mm equivalent) and is equipped with a highly effective Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism. Designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras with APS-C sized image sensors², the new lens delivers outstanding image quality over its entire zoom range and its exclusive VC anti-shake system facilitates sharp handheld photography even at the longest telephoto settings.

With its vast zoom-range, the Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC lens enables the user to cover virtually any photographic subject from wide angle to ultra telephoto simply by turning the zoom control. It covers angles of view equivalent to 28mm to 419mm when converted to the 35mm format³. In addition, this breakthrough lens is equipped with Tamron’s exclusive, proprietary tri-axial Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism that eliminates or substantially reduces the effects of handheld camera shake. As a result, the user can enjoy the convenience of handheld photography in virtually any situation, from shooting candid images, to covering sporting events, to news photography, without worrying about camera shake having an adverse effect on image quality. The new lens will be made available in Canon and Nikon mounts. The price and launch date of the new lens will be announced at a later date.

DEVELOPMENT BACKGROUND

Since launching the Tamron AF28-200mm F/3.8-5.6 (Model 71D) in 1992 that was highly acclaimed as the first high power zoom lens suitable for practical use, Tamron has continued to develop innovative zoom lenses as the “pioneer in high power zoom lenses”. With the AF18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 XI Di II (Model A14), Tamron realized an 11.1X zoom power for the first time in a zoom lens exclusively designed for digital SLR cameras and expanded the telephoto range further to 13.9X with the AF18-250mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II (Model A18), making steady progress in extending the range of high performance, high power zoom lenses.

Tamron’s engineers faced the even more formidable challenge of finding solutions for the problem of “handheld camera shake” while expanding the telephoto range even further and have eventually developed the AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC. This lens has attained the maximum zoom power of 15X for the first time in the world, namely as a zoom lens exclusively designed for digital SLR cameras. It enables the user to cover an extremely wide angle-of-view range equivalent to a 28mm-419mm lens in the 35mm format. In addition, the lens is equipped with Tamron’s original and exclusive VC mechanism that effectively compensates for “handheld shake”, which would otherwise become visible as un-sharpness or blur in images shot handheld. Moreover this system is effective over the extremely wide focal length range of this extended ultra telephoto lens and Tamron’s VC mechanism provides maximum compensation performance at all focal lengths. The VC system enables the user to enjoy the full benefits of ultra-tele photography comfortably and provides amazingly stabilized viewfinder images as well. In short, this unique VC image stabilization system delivers the maximum potential built into the world’s longest-ratio zoom lens—15X.

Tamron was able achieve all these remarkable accomplishments thanks to its advanced optical/mechanical design technologies and production know-how accumulated over 16 years as the pioneer in high power zoom lens design, and its commitment to ongoing research and development. Even more important, in combining an amazingly high zoom ratio along with the VC function Tamron has maintained a high priority on its traditional goals of lightness and compactness. As a result the new Tamron AF18-270mm Di II VC delivers all the functionality and performance you expect from the latest Tamron ultra high power zoom, a lens that exemplifies our time-honored concept of “One great lens covering everything from wide angle to telephoto”. 

MAIN FEATURES

1. World’s first and greatest zoom ratio of 15X, covering 28-419mm 35mm-equivalent angle of view
Going back to the basic concept of “one lens covering everything from wide angle to telephoto,” engineers at Tamron took up the difficult task of expanding the zoom range of Tamron’s high power zoom lenses even further. Their unstinting efforts to extend the telephoto end beyond previous limits while retaining the wide-angle end at 18mm has borne fruit as an ultra high power zoom lens that is exclusively designed for DSLR cameras and boasts the greatest zoom range of 15X for the first time in the world.

2. Tamron’s original VC mechanism for effective shake-free hand-held photography
Tamron’s proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) mechanism was built in the AF28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 Di VC (Model A20) for the first time. It demonstrated its powerful compensation effect employing a tri-axial system that is designed to let three coils drive a compensator lens electromagnetically via three steel balls. Since the compensator lens is supported on rolling steel balls with very low friction, follow-up performance is also enhanced, resulting in stabilized viewfinder images. Since the mechanism is designed to allow parallel shifting of the compensator lens solely by means of electrical control, the mechanical construction is simpler and more compact, so the lens can be kept as small and light as possible.

3. Designing a high power, compact zoom lens with VC mechanism: Optical design optimization meets optimum power distribution
In developing the long-range zoom lens, Tamron’s optical designers pursued the optimum distribution of power within the overall optical system based on the optical design know-how Tamron accumulated over 16 years since the introduction of the first compact AF28-200mm in 1992. The resulting optical system uses two LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements and three aspherical elements in order to effectively compensate for various aberrations including astigmatism, yet this design allows the first optical group to be small enough in diameter to realize the overall goal of a compact lens that incorporates a handheld-shake compensation mechanism.

Note: In order to realize the high zoom ratio of 15X, the optical system does not use any XR (extra dispersion glass) element. Instead, compactness is achieved through optimization of the power distribution within the whole optical system.

4. Minimum focusing distance of 19.3” over the entire zoom range for the max. mag. ratio of 1:3.5
The AF18-270mm Di II VC allows close focusing down to 0.49m (19.3 inches) from the subject over the entire zoom range even though it incorporates the VC mechanism. The maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.5⁴ at its 270mm telephoto end is the top class capability among high power zoom lenses exclusively designed for digital SLR cameras.

5. Optical system optimized for digital SLR cameras by taking incident rays of light reaching the image sensor into consideration
In order to effectively compensate for changes in aberrations due to zooming, the zoom lens employs an innovative optical system that is designed to converge the angles of rays of light entering from the center to the periphery of the lens. The light rays thus reach the image sensor within a defined circle that assures high imaging performance and reduces light falloff.

6. High resolution performance
As a lens exclusively designed for digital SLR cameras, this zoom lens delivers high resolution and contrast performance for outstanding image quality with sufficient flatness of the field under an extremely wide range of photographic conditions.

7. Thorough countermeasures, including advanced internal surface coatings, prevent ghosting and flare
Tamron employs multi-layer coatings in order to reduce reflections on lens surfaces as well as internal surface coatings (coatings on the cemented surfaces of lens elements) in order to minimize reflections from the sensor itself within the mirror box, a problem inherent to all digital SLR cameras.

8. The world’s first and greatest zoom power of 15X plus built-in VC mechanism achieved along with a remarkably slim maximum diameter of less than 80mmDesigning a lens with the world’s first and greatest zoom ratio of 15X inevitably entailed a larger travel distance of the components within the optical systems, but Tamron has successfully accommodated the optical system as well as the special VC mechanism in a remarkably compact and slim package by employing mechanical design technology accumulated over many years. The result: A slim design measuring less than 80mm in diameter despite the fact that it is an ultra high power zoom lens that incorporates a VC mechanism. Production engineering this unique zoom lens meant incorporating complex optical/mechanical components, and Tamron’s engineers had to employ innovative manufacturing techniques including methods of further enhancing accuracy, reducing weight, and increasing the strength of many components.

Note: In order to achieve the world’s first and greatest zoom ratio of 15X, metal mounts are used in both Canon- and Nikon-mount lenses.

9. Zoom lock mechanism for convenience in carrying the outfit
The lens has a built-in zoom lock mechanism to prevent its barrel from sliding forward when the lens is being carried on the camera.

10. Flower-shaped lens hood as a standard accessory
The lens is supplied with a flower-shaped lens hood as a standard accessory. It is designed to efficiently cut harmful light entering at angles other than intended angles at all four corners of the frame. This ensures clear, flare-free images.

11. New outer design matches the newest generation high power zoom lens in the digital era

• The lens employs a new outer design that is more refined and smoother in its overall contours by minimizing concavity, convexity, and variations in profile in order to match the latest digital SLR cameras.
• A gold-colored metal ring is placed at a key portion of the lens as used in other Di II lenses. The “TAMRON” logo placed in the center portion of the lens enhances visibility of the brand while refining the overall design.
• Delicate matte finish is added to the black painting over the lens barrel in order to enhance the high quality appearance of the lens.
• The textured rubber pattern of the zoom and focus control rings has been improved again to a more pronounced, easy to grasp design than the conventional rubber pattern, for better feel and touch in manipulating the lens.

1 “The world’s longest zoom range” and “world’s first” are statements that apply to interchangeable lens exclusively designed for digital SLR cameras equipped with APS-C sized image sensors, as of June 2008, according to Tamron’s survey.

2 Di (Digitally integrated) II lenses employ optical systems designed for exclusive use on digital SLR cameras equipped with smaller sized (APS-C sized) image sensors. Di II lenses are not designed for use with 35mm film cameras or digital SLR cameras with image sensors larger than 24mm x 16mm. (This special note “APS-C sized image sensors” is hereinafter omitted.)

3 Tamron’s conversion value is 1.55X

4 A format covered by an APS-C sized image sensor is smaller than that of 35mm format film. Therefore, this lens is capable of filling the frame by capturing an area that is almost the same as an area covered by a lens designed for the 35mm format and providing the maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.3.

Tamron lens specifications

By: www.dpreview.com

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This week Nikon have announced the Nikon SB-900 Speedlight to go with their new Nikon D700 DSLR .

It is a top of the range flash and will be available in August 2008 with a retail price of $499.95 USD.

Learn more about the Nikon SB-900 Speedlight in the promotional material from Nikon below.

Nikon SB-900 Speedlight News Release

New Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Advances Flash Technology At The Speed Of Light With Expansive Zoom And Intelligent Features

Nikon’s Newest Flagship Speedlight Offers a Powerful Addition to the Versatile Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)

Nikon, Inc. today introduced the SB-900 Speedlight to provide Nikon digital SLR photographers with a flash capable of a wide zoom range, increased versatility, faster recycling time, and a wealth of intelligent features to enhance the already vast functionality of the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). Building on the success of the popular SB-800 Speedlight, the SB-900 provides users with extensive creative lighting possibilities with a simplified interface and the ability to stay up to date with future technologies through user-applied firmware updates.*

The SB-900 offers unprecedented zoom range coverage from 17 to 200mm, to increase flexibility in a variety of shooting conditions, while automatically adapting itself to Nikon’s FX or DX-format cameras. Additionally, light output has been increased to a maximum guide number of 48/157.5 (ISO 200, meters/feet at 35mm FX-format and Standard). Photographers can now also select from three light patterns; “Center-weighted” provides the highest guide number and is suitable for images such as portraits, where light falloff at the image edges is of less importance. “Standard” provides a familiar pattern, similar to the SB-800, and is ideal for general photography and “Even” which delivers the most consistent edge-to-edge coverage, making it ideal for situations such as group photography. Additionally, Nikon’s newest flagship Speedlight provides photographers with advanced wireless i-TTL capabilities allowing the utilization of multiple Speedlights with ease and confidence on location or in the studio.

“Nikon is proud that its innovative leadership in flash technologies has been praised by photographers who have realized the versatility and power that the Nikon Creative Lighting System contributes to their photography,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for marketing, SLR System Products at Nikon, Inc. “The SB-900 Speedlight now provides photographers with a new level of portable lighting functionality, with performance and intelligent features that adapt to an even wider scope of lighting challenges.”

The SB-900 Speedlight is engineered to address the creative lighting challenges faced by today’s photographers including a need for fast, on-demand performance, and the ability to adapt seamlessly to nearly any lighting scenario. The SB-900’s innovative design has the Xenon flash tube and reflector system moving independently – allowing for a wider zoom range from an extreme wide angle of 17mm (FX) to the telephoto setting which reaches 200mm without the aid of accessories or as wide as 12mm in DX mode with the built-in wide-angle panel engaged.

The SB-900 offers a quick recycle time of 4.0 seconds (at full power) with four Alkaline AA batteries which drops to a mere 2.3 seconds (at full power) while using four rechargeable NiMH batteries—about 25 percent faster than the SB-800 with its fifth battery attachment.

While ease of use has always been a defining hallmark of the Nikon CLS System, the user interface has been even further refined to simplify control and offer faster operation. Controls for setting the wireless Master and Remote have been relocated to the outside of the unit for easier access and frequently used functions are easily adjusted with a new Rotary Select Dial. A larger LCD screen is easy to read, even in direct sunlight, and photographers can assign “My Menu” hotkeys for quicker access to commonly used functions. A new thermal cut-out protection system monitors conditions when the flash might overheat due to excessive rapid bursts. Helpful operating temperature information is provided to the photographer with an innovative temperature gauge displayed on the LCD screen.

For the first time, Nikon SB-900 Speedlight users will have the ability to take advantage of future performance advancements, by way of user-uploadable firmware. The user will be able to download the firmware onto a flash media card and upload it to the flash through select digital SLR cameras.*

The SB-900 Speedlight is Nikon’s most intelligent Speedlight ever, created in response to the needs of today’s digital photographic professionals. When using the included fluorescent or incandescent filters and adaptor, the flash automatically recognizes what filter is being used and automatically adjusts white balance accordingly on the latest Nikon D-SLRs.* Additionally, the SB-900 aids auto focus with a broader AF assist beam that covers a wide 20-105mm that is matched to all of the D3, D700 and D300’s 51 focus points. The bounce and swivel capability of the SB-900 has been expanded to include: tilt up to 90 degrees, down minus 11 degrees, and a full 180-degree swivel left or right, allowing more creativity for on or off camera use, or as a remote Speedlight.

The SB-900 serves as the new core for the Nikon Creative Lighting System when used in combination with Nikon SLRs, and supports Advanced Wireless Lighting as a master or a remote Speedlight, inviting photographers to discover endless creative possibilities. While using one or more Nikon Speedlights wirelessly, photographers can artistically use shadows, highlight details, and light complicated angles with ease. Along with the SB-900, the Nikon Creative Lighting System features a comprehensive assortment of personal lighting tools that include the agile SB-600 and SB-400, and the remarkable R1 and R1C1 Wireless Close-up Speedlight systems.

Available accessoriesThe SD9 Battery Pack boosts flash recycle time to a mere one second (at full power). For faster recycling or all-day shooting it accepts up to eight AA batteries. To enhance the weatherproof ability of Nikon D-SLRs, optional Water Guards will be available for select cameras to protect the connection between the flash and camera, allowing users to utilize the flash when weather conditions are less than ideal.

Price and availabilityThe new Nikon SB-900 Speedlight is scheduled to be available in August 2008, and will have an estimated selling price of $499.95.** The SB-900 will come packaged with the Speedlight Stand, Bounce Adapter, Color Filter Holder, Intelligent Color Filter Kit, Diffuser Dome and the Soft Case. The SD9 Battery Pack is also scheduled to be available in August 2008 with an estimated selling price of $230.00.

Source: www.livingroom.org.au

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Canon USA has announced the EOS Rebel XS, launched in other markets as the EOS 1000D on June 10th. In the United States, the camera will be available in a choice of black or silver but will not be available as body-only, with all units coming bundled with the EF-S 18-55mm IS lens. Canon has also announced its plans to build its first new Japanese factory for over a quarter of a century, which will build digital cameras.

Canon USA is direct about its intentions for the Rebel XS: “As consumers have fully embraced digital photography, with many consumers purchasing their second or third digital camera models, we see the Rebel XS as the bridge to help photographers cross over from the world of point-and-shoot cameras to digital SLR technology,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

Canon’s estimated retail price is $699 for the camera and lens. You can read our full preview here.

By: www.dpreview.com

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The Nikon D700 is a 12.1 megapixel full frame (FX), professional DSLR. It’s bundled up in a body that is virtually the same as the Nikon D300. In essence it’s the Nikon D3 feature wise (with a few modifications) in a smaller magnesium alloy body.

The Nikon D700 features five frames per second shooting, image sensor cleaning (vibration cleaning) and the first professional DSLR to come with an in built flash. It has an ISO range of 200-6400 (boostable up to 25600 and down to 100), support for DX lenses, a viewfinder with 95% coverage and a 3.0 inch LCD.

The Nikon D700 will have a retail price of $2999 USD when it goes on sale in July (body only).

Learn more about the Nikon D700 in the following promotional material from Nikon. We’ll post reviews of the camera below as they come to hand.

Nikon D700 News Release

Nikon broadens FX-format DSLR camera range with the new D700

Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of an all-new FX-format digital SLR: the 12.1 megapixel Nikon D700, designed to enable many more photographers to enjoy the acclaimed image quality of the Nikon D3, but in a smaller form factor.

”The Nikon D3 has taken the action photography industry by storm, motivating many pros to change brands and we expect the D700 to contin5ue that trend,” said Robert Cristina, Manager Professional Products and NPS at Nikon Europe. He added: “The D700 excels in the extreme low-light and high-contrast conditions under which today’s cameras are judged and affirms Nikon’s ongoing commitment to meeting tomorrows imaging needs too.”

D3 DNA

The D700 inherits the ‘must have’ image quality of the D3. Using the same core technologies such as the highly-sensitive 12.1 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor with large pixel pitch and gapless micro lens array that affords bright, clean files across a broad ISO range. The D700 also features the same innovative EXPEED high-speed image-processing system, 14-bit A/D conversion and 16-bit processing pipeline to provide the detail and smooth gradation necessary for outstanding print enlargement and reproduction.

FX on the move

The D700 is ideal for those seeking a perfectly-balanced DSLR on the move, without compromising durability or environmental resistance to moisture and dust. The D700 incorporates an image sensor cleaning system that uses high frequency vibrations to reduce the accumulation of dust on the image sensor surface. A responsive 5fps is possible with the compact 1500mAh EN-EL3e lithium-ion battery, with up to 8 fps possible by attaching the optional MB-D10 battery pack to use the powerful 2500mAh EN-EL4a battery if desired. This offers complete power supply integration for those already using the D3 and D300. Another first is the practical i-TTL built-in pop up flash with 24mm lens coverage, ideal for discrete flash lighting when a full size Speedlight might be too cumbersome.

Getting the shot right

Despite its attractive price tag, the D700 makes no compromises in its comprehensive feature array with a highly responsive shutter release time lag of just 40ms, the acclaimed accuracy of the 51-point MultiCAM3500 AF system, DX Crop Mode and Live View with contrast-detect AF displayed on the same high-definition 3-inch TFT monitor used on the D3 and D300. One of the most important advantages of FX format cameras is the viewfinder experience and the D700 features an outstanding solid glass pentaprism, 95% coverage and adjustable AF point LED illumination for a bright, uninterrupted view. A clever new feature is the ability to display the Virtual Horizon level indicator during Live View mode to determine camera orientation at arms length.

What NIKKORS have been waiting for

The D700 is designed for the future without ignoring the past. As Nikon celebrates the 75th anniversary of the very first NIKKOR lens, and with well over 40 million sold, intelligent image processing technologies to control peripheral illumination (Vignette) and chromatic aberration enable photographers to rediscover the creative possibilities of their existing NIKKOR F mount lenses. For newcomers, the ever-expanding Nikon Total Imaging System provides lenses, Speedlights, Software and accessories for every photographic challenge both now and in the future.

The D700 is supplied with battery EN-EL3e, charger, and Nikon Software Suite and will go on sale from 25 July 2008 with a MSRP guide price of €2599.

Source: www.livingroom.org.au

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Engineers at Swedish medium format specialist Hasselblad have cooked-up the highest resolution 48 x 36 mm camera: the H3DII-50. The company has announced its intention to produce a 645 format sensor. Continuing the company’s long history of collaboration with Kodak, the new camera is based around the US company’s new 50MP sensor. The new body is also designed to accomodate the company’s HTS 1.5 Tilt/Shift cradle that allows traditional lenses to be tilted and shifted.

More information about the HTS 1.5 is here.

Press release:

Hasselblad Announces New 50 Megapixel Camera and Upcoming 645 Sensor

High-End Digital Camera Manufacturer Announces The Launch Of Two New Products That Fully Utilize The Latest Developments In Sensor Technology.

Following the success of the Hasselblad H3DII-39, the market’s most advanced DSLR, Hasselblad is taking its H camera system even further and today announces the launch of the Hasselblad H3DII-50, featuring a new Kodak 50 megapixel sensor, which is twice the size of the largest 35mm DSLR sensors. A new 645 sensor will also be launched in 2009.

“We are very excited to announce these two ultra-high resolution sensors,” says Christian Poulsen, Hasselblad Chief Executive Officer, “but having huge amounts of megapixels does not help your photography much if you are not using a camera system that can reap the benefits of these resolutions. What we are most proud of is the fact that the unique resolution and optical quality of our H-system lens line, combined with our digital lens correction and UltraFocus accuracy, has made it possible for Hasselblad to take our system even further with regards to the accurate capture and recording of image detail.” 

Full details on the 645 sensor will be part of Hasselblad’s Strategy and Technology seminar at Photokina 2008 (23rd to 28th September, Cologne, Germany). Poulsen continues: “We will discuss the new 645 sensor and other system additions, our overall view of the Medium Format market, its future development, and our role in driving that development, at this seminar.”  

Poulsen adds, “Both the H3DII-50 and the new 645 sensor are designed to serve the photographers who require the highest possible image quality and resolution, and are part of Hasselblad’s ongoing commitment to continue pushing the boundaries of high-level photography."

The new Kodak KAF-50100 image sensor, which measures 36×48 millimeters, will be implemented in the same size housing as the H3DII-39 camera and will comprise the core of the new H3DII-50. The new sensor size is also optimized to work with Hasselblad’s new HTS 1.5 tilt/shift adapter (patent pending), which enlarges the image circle by 50% to bring the benefits of tilt/shift photography into medium format DSLR cameras. An impressive 83 line-pairs/millimeter are resolved over the full, large area of both today’s 36×48 millimeter sensor and of the upcoming larger 645 sensor.

Kodak has also added a set of entirely new features on the 50Mpix sensor, such as new dyes, which will result in even better, richer colors and take full advantage of Hasselblad’s R&D in the area of color rendering technology. The new sensor also includes a range of other new features, including quick flush technology to enable faster capture and lower power consumption, resulting in longer battery life.

Poulsen concludes, “The H3DII camera line has been specially designed to meet the challenging demands of high-end photographers, and these two new products will take the line even further, providing ultimate resolution for photographers who require the best in image quality, performance and creative freedom.”

For further details about the H3DII-50, the 645 sensor, or to sign-up for the Hasselblad Future Technology seminar at Photokina 2008, please contact AD Communications.

The H3DII-50 camera will be available from October 2008 at a price of $39,995.

By: www.dpreview.com

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Ricoh has today announced the GX200 digital compact camera. The new model is replacing the GX100 and inherits the old model’s 24 to 72 mm (equiv.) lens, manual controls and a removable (optional) tilting electronic viewfinder. Resolution has been increased to 12 megapixels, the screen now measures 2.7 inches and the camera is controlled by the latest version of Ricoh’s imaging processor – the Smooth Imaging Engine III. The GX200 will be available in the UK from the beginning of July.

Press release:

A high-end, 24 mm super-wide-angle, optical zoom, digital compact featuring high resolution 12 megapixel CCD coupled with the latest imaging engine SIE III

Tokyo, Japan June, 24, 2008 Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) has announced today the development and release of the GX200. The GX200 is able to reproduce high quality images from edge-to-edge with low noise and natural gradation. This camera succeeds the award winning Caplio GX100 compact digital camera introduced in April 2007.

The GX200 inherits the popular features of the GX100 such as a 24 to 72 mm (35 mm film equivalent focal length) high-performance wide-angle optical zoom lens on a 25 mm thin pocketable compact body, a wide variety of manual shooting functions, and a removable tilting electronic viewfinder. The new GX200 achieves increased resolution via its 12 megapixel CCD and dramatic noise reduction with the addition of the new image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine III.

Already a popular part of the Caplio GX100, the high-resolution wide-angle lens unit has been further configured to enable picture taking at an even higher resolution.

With a large wide-viewing angle 2.7-inch 460,000 dots HVGA LCD and an electronic level function, for horizontal and vertical shooting, the GX200 contains extensive shooting functions to enable camera lovers to enjoy and create stunning photographs.

This model comes in two package types with different accessories. The GX200 package contains: rechargeable lithium ion battery, battery charger, AV cable, USB cable, CD-ROM, strap, and lens cap. The GX200 VF KIT package contains all the above accessories plus the electronic viewfinder.

*The lens focal lengths used in this document are the equivalent focal length for a 35 mm camera.

Main features of the new Ricoh GX200

1. Greater image quality through use of a 12 megapixel CCD, a new image processing engine and continuous RAW mode capture.

• An effective 12 megapixel high-performance 1/1.7-inch CCD has been newly installed, with each pixel comes increased resolution.
• The adoption of a new image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine III allows for greater control over the noise reduction process by the photographer without sacrificing resolution or saturation.
• High image quality combined with a lens with greater backlight capability*.
• *This is the 24 to 72 mm equivalent wide-angle zoom lens mounted on the previous model (Caplio GX100). It features a generous configuration of 11 elements in 7 groups, including superior aspheric surface lenses and high-refractive-index, low-dispersion lenses. This optimal configuration restricts distortion, chromatic aberration, and light falloff at edges for wide-angle operation while delivering aperture light settings from F2.5 (wide) to F4.4 (tele-photo). In addition, ghosting has been further reduced through the improvements made to the lens unit.

2. Large, high-resolution 2.7-inch, 460,000-dots HVGA LCD.

• The new 2.7-inch, 460,000-dots high-resolution LCD has a wide viewing angle and high contrast for distinct, easy viewing even outdoors. When thumbnail images are displayed, even the small 1/20 size images are clearly reproduced.

3. Electronic level utilizing an acceleration sensor to help keep the camera body horizontally or vertically level.

• If the level setting is set on, when the camera is level, the level indicator becomes green in the picture display. Being able to check whether the image is level while looking at the display can be useful for keeping the camera level when composing pictures of landscapes, buildings, and other scenes where the horizon is visible.
• It is possible to check whether the camera is level using the level sound setting.
• The electronic level can also be utilized while using the viewfinder.

4. Extensive shooting functions and high operability.

• Expanding buffer memory has made continuous shooting of up to five images possible in RAW mode, and it is also now possible to use the bracketing function to automatically change exposure settings when shooting in RAW mode. Other expanded RAW shooting capabilities include the ability to shoot 1:1 aspect ratio (vertical/horizontal ratio) format photography in RAW mode.
• The number of mode dial “My Settings” options for defining your own shooting settings has increased to three. (There were two on the Caplio GX100.)
• There are now one-push mode change function buttons both on the top surface and as one of the rear-surface cross keys. These buttons can be used for customized settings to, for example, to switch from JPEG to RAW or from colour to B&W. You can switch quickly to your preferred shooting mode when confronted with a sudden photo opportunity.
• The AF target shift function, which before could only be used in macro shooting, is now also available in normal shooting. Without moving the camera, it is possible to shift the target for AF or AE or both.
• The flash is manually raised by sliding the open switch. Flash functions on the GX200 have been further expanded with a light intensity adjustment function (-2.0 EV to +2.0 EV), a manual flash function in which intensity can be set, and a flash synchro setting where flash timing can be set as „1st Curtain“ or „2nd Curtain.“
• An auto rotate function makes it easier to view images on the picture display.
• Even when shooting in high-contrast situations, the camera can use an auto level correction function to achieve an appropriate level of brightness while reducing areas that are overly bright or dark.
• There is a distortion correction function (on/off selection possible) to automatically correct image distortion during shooting also usable with 19 mm conversion lens.
• When in aperture priority mode, an auto aperture shift function will automatically adjust the aperture setting to prevent overexposure.

5. Enhanced image editing functions enable images to be manipulated in the camera.
(1) Image colour tone correction (white balance compensation).

• By adjusting green, magenta, blue, and amber tones, still image colour tone can be corrected, with the corrected image being recorded in the camera.

(2) Image brightness and contrast correction (level compensation).

• Still image brightness and contrast can be corrected with either auto or manual modes, with the corrected image being recorded in the camera. With manual correction, the image is corrected by adjusting the histogram.

(3) Wide range of creative monochrome possibilities.

• Colour, colour density, contrast, and sharpness can each be defined on a five-level scale.
• Sepia, red, green, blue, and purple colour selections are possible.

6. Additional options further expand possibilities for camera use.

• Lens cap (LC-1) opens and closes automatically in sync with lens movement.
• 135 mm equivalent tele conversion lens (TC-1) with built-in hood. Filter attachment possible.

When the tele conversion lens is attached, vignetting will occur when the zoom is not set to full telephoto. *The above two options can also be used on the Caplio GX100.

7. Removable electronic viewfinder can be attached.

• A removable and tiltable electronic viewfinder can be attached (included in GX200 VF KIT).
• The field of view provides 100% coverage without parallax and can display the same information as on the LCD picture display.
• It is convenient for shooting in bright outdoor environments and enables shooting to be done in a conventional film camera style.

List of GX200 Options:

*1 The VF-1 LCD view finder is included in „GX200 VF KIT“.
*2 The HA-2 hood and adapter is required when using the wide conversion lens or the tele conversion lens. When the wide conversion lens or the tele conversion lens is attached; the internal flash cannot be used because vignetting may occur.
*3 The ST-1 neck strap for the GX/GX8 cannot be used.

Ricoh Caplio GX200 Specifications

List price (EU)	• GX200 £349.99 • GX200 with electronic viewfinder £399.99
Sensor	• 12.1 million effective pixels • 12.4 million total pixels • 1/1.7-inch primary-colour CCD
Image stabilization	CCD-shift
Image sizes	• 4000×3000 [4:3] • 3264×2448 [4:3] • 2592×1944 [4:3] • 2048×1536 [4:3] • 1280×960 [4:3] • 640×480 [4:3] • 3984×2656 [3:2] • 2992×2992 [1:1]
	Movie: 640×480 Movie: AVI (Open DML Motion JPEG Format Compliant)
Output formats	• JPEG (Exif Ver. 2.21) • RAW (DNG)
Image processor	Smooth Imaging Engine III
Lens	• 3x zoom • Focal length: f=5.1 to 15.3 mm (24 to 72 mm equiv.) • Step Zoom: 24 mm, 28 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm, 72 mm) • Aperture: F2.5 (wide) to F4.4 (telephoto) • 11 glass elements in 7 groups
Focus modes	• Multi AF (CCD method) • Spot AF (CCD method) • Manual Focus • Snap • Infinity (with focus lock and AF aux. light)
AF assist lamp	Yes
Shooting modes	• Auto • Program Shift Mode • Aperture Priority Mode • Manual Exposure Mode • Scene Mode • My Settings Mode
Scene modes	• Movie • Portrait • Sports • Landscape • Nightscape • Zoom Macro • Skew Correct Mode • Text Mode
Metering	• Multi Light Metering (256 segments) • Centre-weighted • Spot (TTL-CCD metering, AE lock available)
AE Lock	Yes
AE Bracketing	+/- 0.3/0.5 EV
Exposure compen.	• +/- 2.0 EV • 0.3 EV increments
Sensitivity	• AUTO • AUTO-HI • ISO64 • 100 • 200 • 400 • 800 • 1600
Shutter speed	180, 120, 60, 30, 15, 8, 4, 2, 1 to 1/2000 sec
Aperture values	• F2.5 (wide) to F4.4 (telephoto)
White balance	• Auto  • Outdoors  • Cloudy  • Incandescent Lamp  • Fluorescent Lamp  • Manual Settings  • Detail White balance bracket function
Drive modes	• Single • CONT • S-CONT • M-CONT • Interval Shooting (shooting interval: 5 sec. to 3 hr., in increments of 5 sec.)
Self-timer	Operation time: approx. 10 sec. / 2 sec.
LCD monitor	• 2.7 inch Transparent Amorphous Silicon TFT LCD • approx. 460,000 dots
Flash	• Auto • Red-eye Flash • Flash On • Flash Synchro • Manual Flash • Flash Off • Range (wide): Approx. 20 cm to 5.0 m (ISO AUTO) • Range (tele): Approx. 15 cm to 3.0 m (ISO AUTO) • Flash Compensation: ±2.0 EV (1/3 EV steps)
Connectivity	• USB 2.0 High-Speed (mini B cable) • Mass Storage • Audio Output 1.0Vp-p (75Ω) • Video OUT
Storage	• SD memory card • SDHC memory card (up to 16 GB) • Internal Memory (approx. 54 MB)
Power	• Rechargeable Battery (DB60) ×1 • AAA Dry Alkaline Battery ×2 • AAA Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery ×2 • AC Adapter (Optional)
Dimensions	111.6 mm (W) × 58.0 mm (H) × 25.0 mm (D) excluding protruding parts
Weight (with battery)	Approx. 238 g

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Casio Exilim Pro F1 digital camera review : Casio have been active on the digital camera market for several years now. Although the majority of the people know Casio because of their watches and pocket calculators, many are unaware of the fact that Casio is a real pioneer in the camera world. When the camera market started to rise, Casio were the first to introduce a consumer digital camera; the QV10, which set the ball rolling. Surprisingly enough it took quite a while before renowned photo manufactures caught up. Nowadays, many manufacturers have been forced to adjust their strategy; they either merged or abandoned the photo market. Casio, on the other hand, have proven to be a pioneer and for a reason; they are still very much present in the game.

Casio Exilim EX-F1 Megazoom camera
Striking is the least you can say about a manufacturer as Casio. Their past has made it clear that Casio were always innovative; various innovations started by Casio were later on adopted as similar versions or a derivative version by their competitors. Still, not all is home-made. One example is the new Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 camera. A Megazoom camera as we know from the competition, however, with one great difference; the camera has an on-board ultra-fast CMOS image sensor that is able to achieve unparalleled speed performance.

Casio EX-F1 features ultra-fast CMOS image sensor
The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is a camera belonging to the Pro-series of Casio. This series never convinced us of a Pro status, however; with their new flagship, Casio try to establish their status as innovative camera manufacturer once again. The Casio F1 is equipped with a special CMOS image sensor that is developed by Sony. We call it special since it is a sensor able to manage data at an extremely high speed, resulting in a camera with a capacity of working with a frame speed of 1200 fps, incredible! The 1/1.8 inch CMOS sensor features ‘only’ 6 Megapixels which is not many compared to current resolution ratios, but in any case, it suffices to print photo realistic enlargements.

Casio Exilim Pro EX F1 camera review
The camera features a 12x optical zoom lens and uses image stabilization to be able to guarantee a sharp picture. The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 looks a lot like a LUMIX Megazoom camera, as far as model goes, of the Panasonic stable. The surplus value of the Casio EXILIM Pro F1 is, naturally, found in the frame speed specification. It will offer access to a world of action photography, which until now was inaccessible to amateur photographers, for a consumer price. I had the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 in the office for a while. The camera was tested in practice and a sample was technically tested in our DIWA Lab in Norway, where extensive tests on techniques are carried out in lab circumstances. The results can be read in the following

Source: www.letsgodigital.org

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Just Posted: Our review of the Olympus E-420. The E-420 was launched exactly one year after its predecessor, the E-410, and comes with only a relatively small number of modifications such a larger screen, contrast detect autofocus in live view and the Auto Gradation feature that we’ve first seen on the E3. It’s the smallest SLR on the market but can it compete with the larger and more expensive models from the competition? ..

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