Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Archives for 2008

Fujifilm FinePix Z20fd

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FUJIFILM GENERATION Z STYLE-CAM GETS AN UPGRADE

The New 10 MP FinePix Z20fd Boasts New Colors, New Video Technology and New Dual Blog Mode

Valhalla, N.Y., January 24, 2008 – Continuing the tradition started by its stylish predecessor, the FinePix Z10fd, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today unveiled the FinePix Z20fd, a new ultra-glam digital camera packed with useful features that let you face it, beam it, blog it and now roll it with a new MPEG-4 movie recording mode for the movie-crazed Generation Z.

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The 10-MegaPixel FinePix Z20fd comes in four luminous colors – Jet Black, Wasabi Green, Hot Pink and Ice Blue – an ultra-portable design, a Fujinon 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5″ LCD screen and packs 45MB of internal memory to give you some extra room when your memory card is full. The style-savvy FinePix Z20fd also introduces Fujifilm’s handy new Dual Blog Mode that automatically resizes any still image or movie you’ve captured, letting you post pictures and videos to blogs, video-sharing websites like YouTube, or e-mail to friends with ease. [Read more…]

 

Fujifilm FinePix S8100fd

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FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES 18X ULTRA-ZOOM CAMERA FOR BUDDING PROSUMERS

FinePix S8100fd Offers Advanced Features at an Affordable Price

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Valhalla, NY, January 24, 2008 – FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced the launch of the long zoom, SLR-styled FinePix S8100fd digital camera. Perfect for photographers seeking a step-up digital camera, Fujifilm’s FinePix S8100fd combines user-friendliness with long-zoom flexibility and high speed shooting modes that are rare at the consumer level and perfect for great action shots. [Read more…]

Fujifilm FinePix S1000fd

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FUJIFILM UNVEILS WORLD’S SMALLEST* 12X OPTICAL ZOOM DIGITAL CAMERA

SLR-Style FinePix S1000fd Extends Range and Feature Set With Longer Zoom, Larger LCD and New Panorama Shooting Mode

Valhalla, NY, January 24, 2008– FUJIFILM U.S.A. Inc. today announced the successor to the wildly popular SLR-styled FinePix S700 with the introduction of the world’s smallest digital camera with a 12x optical zoom, the FinePix S1000fd.

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Perfect for advanced amateur photographers who want an affordable, step-up digital camera, the 10-MegaPixel FinePix S1000fd builds on the legacy of the FinePix S700 with the addition of a Fujinon 12x optical zoom (33mm-396mm equivalent) for greater range and flexibility, Fujifilm’s proprietary Face Detection Technology with Automatic Red Eye Removal, and a brand new Panoramic Shooting mode. [Read more…]

Nikon Pro Products at PMA

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Apparently, Nikon will be dropping some more “pro” caliber products on us at PMA:

More new professional products on the way. Announcements will be made at PMA in Las Vegas, at the start of what will be a very busy year.

(Via Colin Inglis of Nikon UK)

Hmmm?  I wonder if it’s just lenses and whatnot, or if we’ll see the Nikon D3X unveiled?

[tags]nikon, pro, pma, d3x[/tags]

Canon 3D

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The clamor for a digital version of the popular Canon EOS 3 film camera has been around for quite a while.  It has continued to grow over the past 2.5 years that the Canon 5D has been around.  Leading up to PMA 2008, rumors of a 5D Mark II also brought more speculation of the fabled Canon 3D.  I’m not saying that a 3D is coming at PMA or anytime for that matter. However, there have been enough rumors floating around that I’ve decided to set up a dedicated page to follow the Canon 3D.


For now, have a look at this recent rumor for the 15MP full frame 3D:

15.1 MP (full frame)
14 bit
1 Digic III
Iso 100 to 6400(up to 12800)
AF like 1Dmk III
3 fps
3 inch screen
A sort of smaller 1D body,with integrated grip but not rear lcd panel
1 slot flash card

Additionally, more recent rumors suggest a step up from the 40D (not quite 5D level specs) may appear at PMA.  Whether this would be the 3D remains to be seen; however, based on Canon’s prior model history, the 3D should be reside in between the 5D and the 1-series.  If this rumor is true, then it would more than likely be something more like the Canon 7D.  (Read More)

UPDATES

7/6/09 – Rumors of an Summer 2009 release. (Read more)

Canon EOS Rebel XSi Announced

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Today Canon has announced the new EOS Rebel XSi, which is a 12.2 megapixel consumer level DSLR that packs a ton of “pro” upgrades.  The new Rebel XSi is available in a body-only configuration for $799 and a kit configuration with the new EF-S 18-55mm IS lens for $899.  You can pre-order each of these configurations at Amazon via the following links.

Canon EOS Rebel XSi (body only)

Canon EOS Rebel XSi w/ EF-S 18-55mm IS lens

Both configurations are expected to ship in April. See the press release below for further details on this impress new camera.

Press Release

Canon ‘Beefs Up’ the New Rebel With Optically Image Stabilized Lens Kit and ‘Pro’ Features

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LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 23, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s EOS Rebel series of digital single lens reflex cameras – the cameras that defined and refined what it means to be an “entry level” digital SLR – have now redefined the gateway prowess and “pro-ness” of the DSLR category with the introduction of the line’s new leader, the 12.2-megapixel EOS Rebel XSi camera. Incorporating a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canon’s professional SLR models, the EOS Rebel XSi camera boasts an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, an advanced Live View function, and the proprietary DIGIC III image processor. When paired with any of the more than 60 compatible Canon EF and EF-S lenses, including optically image stabilized EF-S lenses like the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS – now included in the EOS Rebel XSi kit – or the new EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS, the EOS Rebel XSi DSLR delivers images that will delight and inspire family and friends at an entry level price tag. [Read more…]

Canon EF 200mm f/2L and EF 800mm f/5.6L Launched

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CANON U.S.A. INTRODUCES TWO HIGHLY ANTICIPATED TELEPHOTO LENSES AT PMA 2008

EF 200mm f/2L IS USM and EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM Lenses Add New Levels of Super Telephoto Performance to Canon’s Market-Leading EOS System

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LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 23, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the launch of two new telephoto lenses for use with its EOS SLR cameras: the EF 200mm f/2L IS USM*/** and the EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM*/**, the world’s longest focal length lens with an Optical Image Stabilizer system.*** The Company, which exhibited prototypes of the lenses during PhotoPlus Expo in New York last October, is launching them at the PMA tradeshow (booth E101) at the Las Vegas Convention Center, January 31 to February 2. [Read more…]

Canon Updates “A” Series Cameras

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Head of the Class for Canon: CANON U.S.A. ADDS THREE NEW “A”s TO ITS ACCLAIMED ARRAY OF POWERSHOT POINT & SHOOT DIGITAL CAMERAS

The New PowerShot A590 IS, A580 and A470 Digital Cameras Join Canon’s Industry-Leading “A” Series with Top Marks for Innovation, Image Excellence, Ultra-Easy Operation and Even Greater Affordability

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LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 23, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc. is expanding its acclaimed and perennially popular A-series of PowerShot digital cameras with the introduction of three new, easy-to-use, easy-to-afford, feature-rich models: the optically image stabilized 8.0 megapixel PowerShot A590 IS; the 8.0 megapixel PowerShot A580, and the creatively color-keyed 7.1 megapixel PowerShot A470 digital cameras. [Read more…]

Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH

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The Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH is a 8.0 megapixel, 3x optical zoom, compact point & shoot camera. The SD1100 is available in five different colors at a price of about $250 street.


Reviews

Steve’s Digicams

The overall image quality from the SD1100 was good. When shooting outside on a nice sunny day, the camera’s performance was excellent. The images were very well exposed, and the colors very vivid and bright.

Digital Camera Review

The SD1100 IS is an impressive digicam when compared to the competition, but it doesn’t fare quite as well when compared to the original SD1000.

Cnet

Canon’s SD1100 IS adds optical image stabilization to last year’s hit SD1000, while delivering just as impressive image quality.

DP Review

The SD1100 always feels snappy and responsive, thanks to Canon’s latest generation DIGIC imaging processor. Flash recycling times are decent (which is useful when shooting at a party or in the pub) although flash power is fairly limited.

PC Mag

While I can’t give the SD1100 IS our Editors’ Choice over the SD1000, I will say that it’s a capable camera that’s sure to please snapshooters who don’t need manual control or an extreme wide-angle lens.

Where to Buy

First off, consider going to your local camera store (and I don’t necessarily mean Wolf Camera at the mall). By going to your local camera store, you’re supporting your community and you just might build a lasting relationship with people you can rely on when you need some help or answers. If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices.

Press Release

Personalized, Colorized and Optically Image Stabilized: CANON U.S.A.’S SLEEK AND STYLISH NEW POWERSHOT SD1100 IS DIGITAL ELPH CAMERAS COMPLEMENT THEIR CUTTING EDGE CAPABILITIES WITH A DISTINCTIVE, COLORFUL LOOK

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 23, 2008 – The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera -the newest entry in Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s ever-fashionable line of catwalk-worthy ELPH cameras – adds another dimension to the line’s active lifestyle eye appeal: color. Whether the activity du jour involves painting the town red, dancing ’til dawn, soaking up golden rays as the sun rises over a coral-colored beach or getting lost in a loved ones’ baby blues, these petite and colorfully clad cameras make the scene and capture it, for the magic of the moment or for more enduring memories.

The Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera is offered in five lyrically named designer shades that suit the style, present the personality and express their user’s taste and tempo. From the eclectic mix of antique elegance and au courant accessorizing of Bohemian Brown; the shimmering chic and subtle heat of Pink Melody; the wistful and occasionally wild stirrings of Rhythm and Blue, and of course, the exquisite refinement and enduring appeal of precious metals conveyed by the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera dressed only in its Golden Tone skin or catching the array of light – both brilliant and soft–as it plays on the camera body’s Swing Silver sheen, these cameras capture the images at hand while conveying a picture of their users worth at least a thousand words.

Still, the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera is not just another pretty face. This feature-rich, pocket-sized, 8.0 megapixel, optically image stabilized digital camera is firmly rooted in the traditions of photo excellence and imaging innovation that Canon is known for.

“We recognize that many Digital ELPH camera users view their cameras as statements of personal style, valued as much for the image they convey as the images they capture,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “The color choices of the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera create additional opportunities for personalization and individual expression.”

A Sharp Zoom Lens with Image Stabilization
Adding to the new camera’s versatility and optical excellence is its sharp and fast 3X optical zoom lens (38-114mm equivalent opening up to f/2.8 at wide-angle settings and f/4.9 at telephoto settings). The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera also features Canon’s advanced Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system that significantly reduces the image-blurring effects of camera shake by shifting the lens to compensate for the movement. Available for the first time in an entry level Digital ELPH, Canon’s OIS technology is proven effective for extended telephoto shots as well as low-light shooting conditions and helps users get the best possible picture quality every time.

Genuine Face Detection Technology
Beyond their appeal on the social scene, the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras feature the latest and most advanced generation of Canon’s Genuine Face Detection technology, thus ensuring that up to nine forward-looking faces in the frame – whether posed for a family portrait, candidly capturing friends and fun, or spontaneously snapping a toddler’s expression of triumphant glee as two halting steps – are in focus and properly exposed, with or without flash. In addition to focus and exposure control, the SD1100 IS camera’s Face Detection feature captures truer, more accurately lit skin tones (and hence more beautifully rendered pictures) thanks to Canon’s improved face detection white balance.

Face Selection and Motion Detection Technology
While the face detection algorithm automatically prioritizes up to nine human faces in a scene, it can also be instructed via the Face Select and Track function to lock on to a single face in the crowd, ensuring that the chosen countenance is finely focused, no matter where it appears in the frame. Additionally, a new Motion Detection function linked to the camera’s High ISO Auto mode improves image clarity by raising ISO speeds (and shutter speeds) for fast-moving subjects or lowering ISO speeds to reduce noise when the subject is stationary. These automatic advances provide even more ways for the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras to optimize picture quality with seamless ease.

DIGIC III
The “brain” in every new Canon digital camera is Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor. This exclusive chip is responsible for the cameras’ higher performance levels including faster start up, faster autofocus and quicker shutter response times that leave long lag competitors far behind. What’s more, DIGIC III improves both the image quality and the cameras’ power consumption, extending the battery life under typical shooting conditions.

See and be Scene
The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera offers users a choice of 18 shooting modes including a fully automatic mode that makes these cameras a true point-and-shoot affair; a semi-automatic “Camera M” mode which allows access to features such as Exposure Compensation and White Balance adjustments that Full Auto mode does not, as well as a plethora of scene selection modes – including Canon’s new Sunset mode – that optimize image results under a variety of shooting conditions.

These scene modes put the power of Canon’s collective photo expertise into the hands of even the most rookie shooter, ensuring that in the end, the shots are the best that they can be, whether indoors or out; in day or night light (and now, with the Sunset setting, in between too); through an aquarium glass; across stark snowy vistas or bleached sandy beaches; into lush, colorful foliage or at a brilliant burst of fireworks against a black satin sky.

The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras feature Canon’s precise 9-point Autofocus system along with the new AF-Point Zoom feature that work together with Face Detection Technology to allow users to double check the facial expressions of their subjects, when shooting under more challenging conditions. After activating the feature in the camera’s menu, the AF-Point Zoom can be engaged simply by pressing the shutter button halfway.

Streamlining the image review process, Canon’s Intelligent Orientation Sensor determines whether a scene is being shot as a vertical or horizontal image and automatically adjusts it for quick and easy review on the camera’s bright, sharp and easy-to-read, 230,000-pixel 2.5 inch Pure Color LCD II screen. The Image Inspection Tool feature zooms in on faces automatically during playback to make it even easier to check facial expressions. The new cameras also feature Canon’s newly developed Automatic Red Eye Correction that engages in the shooting mode, minimizing the need for correction before printing or sharing images. In-Camera Trimming is yet another new advancement that allows users to adjust and save cropped versions of their images without using a computer. As an added convenience, the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras are compatible with MMC, MMC+ and HC MMC+ memory cards as well as standard SD and SDHC memory cards.

In the Box
Scheduled to be in stores beginning in March 2008, the five color versions of the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera kit each include a battery pack and charger, a 32MB SD Memory card, a USB interface cable, an AV cable, a wrist strap, and Canon’s software suite. Each kit carries an estimated retail price of $249.99*

Optional accessories include a waterproof case rated for depths up to 130 feet, a wireless flash unit, an AC Adapter Kit, and much more including a full line of compatible Canon PIXMA and SELPHY compact photo printers.

[tags]Canon, PowerShot, SD1100 IS, Digital ELPH[/tags]