Photo&Cameras

Pre-PMA 2008: The Nikon Coolpix P50 intrigued with it’s combination of (relatively) low price, ‘mini P5100′ styling and 28mm wideangle lens. The 8 megapixel P60 is no less alluring but for different reasons; for a start the wide lens is gone, replaced with a 5x 36-180mm equiv. unit backed up by sensor shift stabilization. Then there is something we don’t see very often in non-superzoom compacts – an electronic viewfinder. A (decent) EVF is arguably better than the rather crummy optical viewfinders usually seen in mid-range compacts, at the very least in terms of accurate framing. Of course, Any type of viewfinder is preferable than trying to compose on a sun-splashed LCD. More after the click.

Press Release:

Nikon COOLPIX P60

Solid photographic performance, functional styling and an advanced feature set for excellent photos

January 29, 2008, Tokyo — Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX P60. Delivering reliability and familiarity within its orthodox design, the COOLPIX P60 satisfies the traditional camera enthusiast. Built on a custom application of Nikon’s innovative EXPEED digital image processing concept and incorporating the precision optics of a NIKKOR lens, the COOLPIX P60 realizes optimum performance and maximum image quality.

An impressive effective megapixel count of 8.1 enhances the potential of the high performance digital image-processing engine for outstanding image quality, while an improved 5x Zoom-NIKKOR lens delivers yet more flexibility by ably covering a range from panoramic landscapes to close-up portraits.

Image sensor shift VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization compensates for camera shake or movement by unsteady subjects to realize yet sharper results. And extended light sensitivity up to ISO 2000 further helps prevent blurred shots in lower light, or when capturing fast-moving subjects. The COOLPIX P60 also offers Programmed Auto [P] and Manual [M] exposure modes, enabling the user to enjoy shooting in a variety of styles.

A functional body design with a defined grip for secure finger placement allows for intuitive operation including the use of the Mode dial. Compositional versatility, even in bright sunlight, is achieved thanks to its electronic viewfinder and a 2.5-inch LCD monitor.

Power is supplied by readily available AA-size batteries, which means the COOLPIX P60 can be used in virtually any location without worrying about recharging or running out of power.

Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.

Nikon COOLPIX P60 Feature Highlights

Intuitive access to a wealth of practical shooting modes
The handy Mode dial includes settings for two exposure modes that provide greater personal control over camera operation. Programmed Auto [P] mode automatically selects the optimal shutter and aperture settings, while Manual [M] exposure mode provides full control over both the aperture and shutter speed settings. In addition, the COOLPIX P60 is equipped with a selection of 15 scene-optimized modes and four different movie modes.

Image sensor shift VR image stabilization for sharp images
The COOLPIX P60 features the image stabilizing performance of image sensor shift VR capability. The system applies in-camera image processing to help overcome the effects of camera shake and produce satisfyingly crisp results, while also contributing to a reassuring shooting experience.

ISO 2000 capability for better pictures in lower light
With an extended light sensitivity range from ISO 80 all the way up to ISO 2000, the COOLPIX P60 makes it easier to take great-looking pictures in lower lighting conditions, or to capture fast moving subjects with impressive clarity.

AA-size batteries for shoot-anywhere convenience
Experience the convenience of an AA-size battery compatible compact digital camera. Thanks to the advantage of being able to pick up a new set of batteries in virtually any corner of the world, users can shoot with reassurance, free of any worries about recharging batteries or running out of power when a special shutter chance arises.

Nikon COOLPIX P60 Other Features

• Three Unique Nikon Image Innovations
  – Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, D-Lighting
• Macro shooting from as close as 10 cm (4 in.)
• 4x digital zoom extends compositional freedom
• Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations
• SDHC card compatibility
• Approx. 12 MB of internal memory
• USB connectivity
• PictBridge support

Nikon COOLPIX P60 specifications

Sensor	• 1/2.5" Type CCD • 8.5 million pixels total • 8.1 million effective pixels
Image sizes	3264 x 2448 (8M), 2592 x 1944 (5M), 2048 x 1536 (3M), 1600 x 1200 (2M), 1280 x 960 (1M), 1024 x 768 (PC), 640 x 480 (TV), 3264 x 2176 (3:2), 3264 x 1836 (16:9)
Lens	• 5x optical zoom • 36-180 (35mm equiv.) • 6.4 – 32.0mm • f/3.6 – 4.5
Image stabilization	• Sensor-shift VR
Conversion lenses	no
Digital zoom	up to 4x
Focus distance	• 40cm (1 ft. 4 in.) to infinity (∞) • Macro close-up mode: 10cm (4 in.) to infinity (∞)
ISO sensitivity	ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 2000, Auto (auto gain ISO 80 – 800)
Viewfinder	0.2-in., approx. 201k-dot, equivalent
LCD monitor	2.5-in., approx. 153k-dot, TFT LCD
Connectivity	USB 2.0 High Speed
Storage	• SD/SDHC card • Approx 12MB internal memory
Power	• 2x AA battery • AC Adapter EH-65A (optional)
Weight (no batt)	160 g (5.6 oz.)
Dimensions	95.5 x 63.5 x 36 mm (3.8 x 2.5 x 1.4 in.)

By: www.dpreview.com

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“This has to be the best post-box I’ve ever seen. At the end of a drive in Dalarna, Sweden“. Taken by Rich

Source: planetearthdailyphoto.blogspot.com

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Olympus Mju 840 digital camera : The latest addition to Olympus’ popular Mju series of digital cameras has it both: potency and style. Equipped with an impressive 5x optical zoom range, users can choose the power they want. The elegant Olympus Mju 840 makes it easy to capture distant subjects in full detail, and incorporates an extra large 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal LCD. Topped off with features such as Dual Image Stabilisation and Face Detection Technology, this 8.0 Megapixel model is attention-grabber and sharpshooter in one. It catches the eye with a stylish metal body in a choice of Starry Silver, Midnight Black, Ocean Blue and Candy Pink. The Olympus Mju 840 will hit the shelves in February 2008.

Olympus Mju 840 – Super Macro function
For exciting extreme close-ups, a Super Macro function is there to bring stunning surface details to life. The Olympus Mju 840 incorporates illuminated buttons for improved navigation in low-light conditions as well as BrightCapture Technology for better shots in night-time situations and Face Detection Technology. As an alternative to still pictures, movie recording with sound is available. And to ensure better picture quality and faster performance, the TruePic III image processor is incorporated in the new Olympus Mju 840 digital compact camera.

Olympus Mju 840 – Features
• 5x optical zoom (to 36-180mm) for exciting close-ups
• 8.0 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
• 6.9cm/2.7″ HyperCrystal LCD with extra bright display even in brilliant sunlight
• 20 scene modes for the best results in different situations
• Attractive metal body in a choice of four colours: Starry Silver, Midnight Black, • Ocean Blue and Candy Pink
• Avoids blur thanks to Dual Image Stabilisation
• Face Detection Technology for perfectly focused and exposed faces
• Correct exposure of other image areas
• Better low light shooting thanks to BrightCapture Technology
• New in-camera panorama function
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (VGA resolution 30fps)
• TruePic III image processor for faster image handling and higher image quality

Olympus Mju 840 – BrightCapture Technology
A technology developed for better shooting results in low light situations. It works in two ways: i) All available pixel information from the image sensor is used to provide a view on the LCD that’s up to four times brighter than conventional types, to make framing easy even in dark surroundings. ii) In certain shooting modes sensitivity is increased (resolution is sometimes reduced), which results in well-exposed images with accurate colour reproduction, high contrast and definition, even when not using the flash. Scene modes that benefit from BrightCapture Technology include Candle, Night Scene and Available Light.

Olympus Mju840 – Dual Image Stabilisation
Providing two-fold protection, this special function helps to avoid image blur caused by camera shake or fast-moving subjects. It combines high ISO values with a CCD-based mechanical image stabiliser, where a built-in gyro sensor detects camera movement and adjusts the CCD accordingly.

Olympus Face Detection Technology
A technology that searches for faces in a composition and recognises them as the main subject. It then automatically puts them in focus and optimally adjusts exposure to create an image that’s sharp in the right places and ideally exposed.

Olympus Mju 840 camera – HyperCrystal
A high-grade, fully-transmissive technology used in LCDs, which employs an additional layer at the bottom of the LCD to reflect light from external light sources. This enhances the brightness of the LCD, so even in direct sunlight images are displayed sharply and improved contrast compared to that of conventional displays. Also, it provides for particularly wide viewing angles without glare or shadow, so images can be framed from a variety of angles and viewed by several people at once.

Olympus Mju camera – TruePic III image processor
Olympus’ newest-generation image processing engine. It automatically enhances important aspects of image quality including: Colour reproduction (colour range, saturation and brightness), picture sharpness (reduced image noise, improved edge reproduction), as well as providing faster processing speeds.

Souce: www.letsgodigital.org

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Samsung are showcasing their 14 megapixel GX20 DSLR, successor to the GX10 and close sibling to the Pentax K20D (they’re basically the same camera). Note that in the UK the GX20 is some ВЈ200 cheaper than Pentax’s version. As with every other manufacturer at PMA 2008, Samsung also have a multitude of new compacts on show.

Website: Samsung PMA 2008 Booth Tour

Via: feeds.feedburner.com

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Pre-PMA 2008: Olympus today announced the latest additions to its FE-range of compact digital cameras. All sporting 8 megapixel sensors, the new cameras differ in zoom range, with the FE-310 and FE-340 packing 5x 36-180 equiv. optics and the FE-350 Wide extending the wide end and reigning in the tele for a useful 28-112. All will be available from February.

Press Release (UK):

Take it easy

Up to 5x zoom with latest Olympus FE series models

London, 22 January 2008 – Cameras from the Olympus FE series are renowned for their extreme user-friendliness, great image results and attractive price. The latest collection continues this tradition and adds new highlights. The new FE cameras let you see and do more with wide-angle performance and the power of up to 5x zoom. In addition, 8.0 Megapixels ensure the impeccable capture of every last detail while still leaving room to crop. And thanks to their large LCDs, shots can be easily framed and captured at a moment’s whim.

The new Olympus FE models arrive in stores in February at the following recommended retail prices: FE-310: £120, FE-340: £159.99 and FE-350: £199.99.

Hard to believe that this is the entry class

Boasting remarkable power in a compact form, the Olympus FE-310, FE-340 and FE-350 put advanced features into the entry level segment. Built on the “one button, one function” design principle, all cameras in this colourful new line-up are fun and easy to use. Menus are available in an incredible 38 languages, ensuring operation is a cinch no matter what your native tongue is.

Precision Olympus optics with extra zooming power delivers superior image quality. Furthermore, additional integrated features such as Super Macro mode for ultra-detailed shots make this attractively-priced series a great choice for great photos every time.

FE-310

Get more for your money with the FE-310. This model features a powerful 5x zoom (equiv. to 37-185mm) that takes you straight to the heart of the action and incorporates a metal front for extra toughness. A very ample 8.0 Megapixels for detailed shots is also on board along with the possibility to record movies with sound. And thanks to a 6.4cm LCD you’ll always have a convenient and reliable way to frame and view your shots no matter where you are.

FE-340

Take things up a notch and get closer with the FE-340. It incorporates a 5x zoom (equiv. to 36-180mm) to get you right in where you want to be. Its ultra-slim metal body also comes in four expressive colours including silver, black, blue and pink making this attractive and compact camera a charming addition to any purse or pocket. In addition, integrated Face Detection Technology delivers beautifully exposed and focused subjects every time, while 8.0 Megapixels and a large 6.9cm LCD provide detailed views of shots. A choice of 18 scene modes ensure that there will be one to suit whatever photographic situation you come into contact with.

FE-350

Sporting a bright, 4x wide zoom (equivalent to 28-112mm on a 35mm camera), the FE-350 gets you closer to subjects, while retaining compact flexibility and Olympus lens quality. Thanks to an extra-large 7.6cm LCD, you get the best view possible while framing or reviewing shots. What’s more, an 8.0 Megapixel image sensor is packed into this model’s attractive casing – which is available in silver and black – to deliver brilliant, true-to-life images in dazzling quality.

The newest additions to Olympus’ FE series, including the FE-310, FE-340 and FE-350, will hit the shelves in February.

Main features:

FE-310

• 5x optical zoom (36-180mm*) for exciting close-ups
• See and share images on the 6.4cm/2.5" LCD
• 16 scene modes for best results in different situations
• Valuable metal casing in silver or black

FE-340

• 5x optical zoom (36-180mm*) for exciting close ups
• Super-slim all-metal body to always be at your side
• See and share images on the 6.9cm/ 2.7" LCD
• 18 scene modes for best results in different situations
• Better low-light shooting thanks to BrightCapture Technology
• TruePic III image processor for faster image handling and higher image quality
• Choose your favourite from 4 colours: Silver, Black, Blue or Pink

FE-350

• 4x wide optical zoom (28-112mm*) to capture stunning close-ups
• 28mm* wide-angle lens for great scenic shots
• See and share images on the extra-large 7.6cm/3.0" LCD
• 16 scene modes for best results in different situations
• Valuable metal body in silver or black

Common features of the FE-310, FE-340 and FE-350

• 8.0 Megapixels for poster-size prints
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (FE-340 and FE-350 with VGA resolution at up to 30fps)
• Face Detection for perfectly focused and exposed faces
• Digital Image Stabilisation (FE-350 with ISO up to 800) for less blur
• "One button, one function" design principle and guide function for easy operation
• Great for shots of flowers and detail with Super Macro Mode
• Video out to easily enjoy your images on a TV
• Flexible shooting with internal memory or using xD-Picture Card
  *Equivalent to a 35mm camera

Olympus FE-310 / FE-340 / FE-340 specifications

By: www.dpreview.com

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The Sony Cybershot DSC-S750 is a 7 megapixel point and shoot camera with a 3x optical zoom lens and 2.5 inch LCD. It is aimed at the entry level market.

It features face detection, ISO of up to 1250, seven scene modes and 22 megabytes of internal memory.

The Sony Cybershot DSC-S750 will have a retail price of $150 USD when it ships in March.

Sony Cybershot DSC-S750 News Release SONY ADDS PERFORMANCE AND REFINES DESIGN ON ENTRY-LEVEL CYBER-SHOT CAMERAS

Sony has enhanced the features and updated the design of its new Cyber-shot® DSC-S750 and DSC-S780 digital still camera models….

Both of the new entry-level digital still cameras feature Sony’s face detection technology, which identifies up to three faces in the camera’s LCD frame and automatically adjusts focus and exposure for well-exposed, natural-looking photos.

Sony has also upgraded the two models’ power source to Lithium Ion batteries, instead of AA batteries, to extend battery life and allow for a body design that is just 1-inch slim. The DSC-S780 and DSC-S750 cameras can capture up to 270 and 280 shots on a single full charge, respectively.

“Face detection is just one of the technologies we’re introducing to help customers take better photos more easily,” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics.

The 8.1-megapixel DSC-S780 and the 7.2-megapixel DSC-S750 models incorporate CCD imagers, 3x optical zoom lenses, and 2.5-inch LCD screens for easy framing and viewing of photos.

Higher sensitivity settings up to IS01250 have been added to both models to help reduce the risk of blurry photos when shooting in low-light conditions.

Seven convenient scene selections, including twilight, twilight portrait, landscape, soft snap, beach, snow and high sensitivity, allow you to adjust quickly for specific shooting conditions.

The cameras’ five-point autofocus system helps take the guesswork out of picture taking by intelligently selecting the best focus for the subject. This helps to ensure that the subject is in focus, even if they are not in the center of the frame.

The cameras are equipped with 22MB of internal memory so you can start shooting as soon as the camera is out of the box. Their capacities can be expanded easily with an optional Memory Stick Duo™ or Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media card, now available in capacities up to 16 gigabytes.

Price and Availability Available in classic silver, the DSC-S750 model ships in March for about $150, and the DSC-S780 will be available in April for about $180. Options will include travel chargers, batteries, carrying cases, sports packs and other accessories, all sold separately.

Source: www.livingroom.org.au

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