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Panasonic Lumix FZ35 Reviews and Resources

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The Panasonic Lumix FZ35 is a super-zoom point and shoot camera, featuring an 18x optical zoom Leica lens.  The zoom range is equivalent to a 27-486mm zoom on a full frame camera.  The FZ35 records HD video at 720p resolution in the AVCHD Lite format (MPEG-4/H.264).  Additionally, the FZ35 offers a stereo mic for better sound quality to go along with your HD video.

The FZ35 will carry an initial retail price of $399.99 and will be available in September 2009.

Check availability on Amazon.com.

Panasonic Lumix FZ35 Reviews

Buy-n-Shoot

Aside from its portability, the FZ35 has an expansive zoom range that will easily cover a variety of scenes you come across in your travels without having to carry and fiddle with multiple lenses.

Panasonic Lumix FZ35 Press Release

Secaucus, NJ (July 27, 2009) – Today, Panasonic announced the new LUMIX DMC-FZ35, a digital camera featuring AVCHD Lite, High Definition (HD) video recording capability, combined with a powerful 27mm wide-angle, 18x optical zoom LEICA DC lens. A successor to the popular FZ28, the FZ35 packs enhanced creative features combined with the power to shoot HD videos, including motion zoom capabilities to take full advantage of the 18x zoom. The operational layout of the FZ35 includes a dedicated video record button, making it a true hybrid – a single model that performs seamlessly at capturing both still and motion images – while still providing smooth and easy operation in either mode.

“The LUMIX FZ35 is truly unique as it includes advanced features like HD video recording, but still resembles and functions like an intuitive point-and-shoot with the ability to capture beautiful photos and video,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “This model’s versatility makes it a great choice for a new or advanced user who wants a hybrid device that shoots high-quality still and motion images.”

For users looking for increased creativity while shooting both video and still images, the LUMIX FZ35 delivers. New manual controls and creative options, include:

– Creative Movie Mode – Allows the user to set the shutter speed and aperture manually to make even more impressive movies. Changing the shutter speed brings special effects to movies, which is especially suitable for shooting fast-moving subjects. The ability to control the aperture is convenient when there are several subjects at different distances.

– My Color Mode – This special option gives free reign to the user’s creativity. The color, brightness and saturation parameters can be freely adjusted while seeing how the adjustments affect the picture, live on the monitor.

– High Dynamic Mode – Helps to capture a scene with moderate exposure even though the scene may contain both bright and dark areas.

The 12.1 mega pixel-FZ35 features the upgraded POWER Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.), which allows for double the repression power compared to the conventional image stabilization system, MEGA O.I.S., and ultra high-speed Auto Focus (AF) for capturing action scenes as they happen. Additionally, with the super-powerful 18x optical zoom lens, it is easy to capture subjects that are far away or take dramatic close-ups.

With the enhanced energy-efficient image processing LSI – the Venus Engine HD* – the FZ35 has an extended battery life of approximately 470 pictures, making it the ideal choice for active photo enthusiasts. As with all Panasonic LUMIX cameras, the FZ35 features Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode, a suite of intuitive technologies including Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector, Intelligent Exposure and Face Recognition. With the improved Face Recognition, the FZ35 recognizes up to three faces simultaneously while taking photos** and allows users to specify the age of the registered subject. When babies under 3 years-old are registered, the camera will automatically switch to Baby mode if the baby appears to be in the frame.

The LUMIX DMC-FZ35 will have a suggested retail price of $399.99 and will be available in September 2009 in black.

*Based on a CIPA standard.

**Turn Face Recognition item ON and register the person with full-face portrait on the shooting menu in advance.

 

Panasonic Lumix ZR1

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The Panasonic Lumix ZR1 is an compact point and shoot digital camera featuring a 12.1-megapixel sensor and a Leica 8x optical zoom lens.  The ZR1 offers a full frame equivalent 25-200mm zoom.  The ZR1 will initially retail for $279.95 and should be available in September 2009.

Check availability on Amazon.com.

Panasonic Lumix ZR1 Reviews

PC World

It’s easy to use, has excellent focusing, and can take vibrant and reasonably clear photos.

Panasonic Lumix ZR1 Press Release

Secaucus, NJ (July 27, 2009) – Today, Panasonic introduced the new LUMIX DMC-ZR1 digital camera, featuring the world’s first 0.3mm thin aspherical lens*, allowing for a compact body that still features a powerful, 25mm-ultra-wide-angle, 8x optical zoom** LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens. Known for its long-zoom, yet compact digital cameras, Panasonic’s newest ZR1 compact digital camera gives consumers increased flexibility.

“The ZR1 answers the call of consumers looking for a truly pocketable digital camera, while still featuring a zoom more powerful than typical compact cameras,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “We know consumers want to catch every shooting opportunity, and with the ZR1, this is possible through unique features such as the ultra-wide-angle lens and Panasonic’s popular iA Mode.”

With a zoom range of 25-200mm, the ZR1 allows for both expansive scenery photos as well as close-ups. This powerful zoom also works during video recording. The 12.1-megapixel resolution allows photos to be greatly enlarged while still retaining outstanding detail.

Another key feature of the ZR1 is its fast, high-speed Auto Focus (AF). This, combined with a high-speed start-up of only 1.1 second, helps the ZR1 to catch even the quick action shots. Making this camera even more versatile and easy-to-use, the ZR1 has a 2.7-inch Intelligent LCD, and a powerful battery life with the highly energy-efficient image processing LSI – Venus Engine V*** – which takes approximately 330 pictures during a single charge. As found in all Panasonic LUMIX cameras, the ZR1 features Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode, now with POWER Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.), which features double the repression power, compared to MEGA O.I.S., the previous image stabilization system, to help capture blur-free images.

Other features of the DMC-ZR1 include:

– Additional Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode Features

– Hand-Shake Component – Answers the problem of natural hand-shaking that goes along with pressing the shutter button.

– Face Recognition – Up to six faces can be registered, and up to three can be simultaneously recognized to show their names once registered.

– Travel Mode – Users can quickly organize information related to travel, including destination, date and time. Playback of these photos is just as easy, by designating the date or period of travel on the calendar menu interface.

– High Dynamic Mode – Helps to capture a scene with moderate exposure even when the scene may contain both bright and dark areas.

– PHOTOfunSTUDIO 4.0 – Included software allows the user to view, edit and archive captured photos and videos. It features dramatic speed-up of operation and also allows users to store and sort photos by a specific, recognized face in the image.

The LUMIX DMC-ZR1 will have a suggested retail price of $279.95 and will be available in September 2009 in black, red, blue, and silver.

* For digital still cameras

**35mm film camera equivalent: 25-200mm

***Based on a CIPA standard

Panasonic Lumix FP8

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The Panasonic Lumix FP8 is a 12.1 megapixel point and shoot camera with a 4.6x optical zoom featuring Leica glass.  The FP8 also features the ability to capture 720p video at 30fps.  The new camera will retail initially for $299.95 and will be available beginning September 2009.

Check availability on Amazon.com. [Read more…]

Sony A330 vs. A300 vs. A700 Review – ISO Comparison

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The Sony A330 is one of the new entry-level Sony Alpha DSLRs, replacing the revolutionary A300.  The standout feature in the A300 and A330 is the fast-autofocus Live View display.  One step behind this awesome feature is the fact that the screen articulates.  These features are solid and, frankly speaking, put Nikon and Canon’s efforts of Live View in a DSLR to shame.

However, fancy features mean nothing if image quality is not up to snuff.  In today’s digital imaging world, a big component of overall image quality focuses on low light performance – and that means clean images at high ISO.  The Sony A330 and A300’s max sensitivity setting is at ISO 3200, while the Canon Rebel T1i and Nikon D5000 cover the sensitivity range up to ISO 12800 and ISO 6400, respectively.  Sony’s A700 has a max sensitivity up to ISO 6400. [Read more…]

Sony A850 Reviews and Resources

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Sony A850

The Sony A850 is a full frame 24.6-megapixel CMOS sensor.  The A850 also features SteadyShot sensor-based image stabilization, a 3-inch 921k dot LCD and a 9-point AF.  Check out the full Sony A850 Review.

The A850 should be available in November 2009 at an initial retail price of $2000.  Check availability at Amazon.com.

Sony A850 Key Features

• Full-frame 24.6 effective megapixel ExmorTM CMOS sensor and dual BIONZ processors for detail-packed, low-noise images with high sensitivity up to ISO 6400 (with expanded ISO range)
• Bright optical glass pentaprism viewfinder with 98% coverage
• SteadyShot INSIDETM offers up to 4.0 steps anti-shake performance with all lenses
• Photo quality (921k dot) 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD
• Fast, high-accuracy 9-point AF with 10 focus assist points

Sony A850 Reviews

Buy-n-Shoot

Cnet Asia

Photocrati

Imaging Resource

Sony A850 Press Release

SAN DIEGO, August 27, 2009 – Aimed at experienced shooters looking for value and sophisticated SLR performance, Sony today introduced the full-frame ? (alpha) DSLR-A850 camera and a new 28-75mm F2.8 lens.

The ?850 model shares the same 24.6 megapixel sensor and most features of the flagship ?900 camera, introduced last year, but will be available for just under $2000 (body only).

“Sony is bringing the benefits of a full-frame digital SLR camera to a broader group of consumers,” said Kristen Elder, director of the Digital Imaging business at Sony Electronics. “The ?850 strengthens Sony’s alpha DSLR line, which now offers models in each step from high-end professional down to the amateur enthusiast.”

The ?850 camera is designed to deliver ultra-fine picture quality with a high resolution, 24.6-megapixel, 35-mm full-frame ExmorTM CMOS sensor and fast image processing with dual BIONZTM processing engines. It also offers high-speed continuous shooting of 24.6 megapixel images at up to three frames per second.

Ultra-Fine Images

The camera’s Exmor CMOS sensor delivers the photographic expressive power of wide angles and perspective that only a 35 mm full-frame sensor can offer, and is designed to take advantage of the resolving power of high-precision alpha lenses. Its high pixel count and large size provide enhanced image detail and a wider dynamic range for natural color reproduction and subtle tonal gradations.

Image processing gets a boost in speed and power from two BIONZ processing engines. Large amounts of data captured by the 24.6-megapixel sensor can be quickly processed to achieve a fast shooting response. Additionally, this dual BIONZ system applies advanced noise reduction algorithms producing images of exceptional quality and detail, especially at high ISO sensitivities.

Capture the Right Shot the First Time

The camera’s innovative intelligent preview function takes the guesswork out of setting up a shot and the hassle of taking multiple shots to achieve a desired effect.

After pressing the depth of field preview button, the camera “grabs” a RAW

preview image which is processed and displayed on the LCD screen. You can then fine tune white balance, determine the best level and effect of dynamic range optimization, adjust exposure compensation and check histogram data, all before you actually take the picture. Preview images are not recorded on the camera’s memory card, thus saving capacity.

The camera’s autofocus system features nine sensors with 10 assist points for improved tracking of moving subjects. A center dual cross sensor comprised of two horizontal and two vertical line sensors as well as a dedicated f/2.8 sensor are included to achieve greater precision, especially when using fast-aperture lenses.

Ultra-Bright Viewfinder with 98 Percent Coverage

The ultra-bright viewfinder with 98 percent field of view coverage and 0.74x magnification enables accurate framing and preview. It features a high-power condenser lens, an eyepiece with high reflective-index glass, and a multi-layer, anti-reflective coating on optical surfaces to deliver its extraordinarily bright view.

A mirror box features a parallel-link mirror mechanism that moves on two horizontal axes to accommodate both the large full frame mirror and the body-integrated image stabilization system without increasing the camera’s size.

Anti-Shake System for a Full-Frame Sensor

With its body-integrated SteadyShot INSIDETM image stabilization, the camera achieves an anti-shake effect equivalent to shutter speeds faster by 2.5 to 4 stops. The anti-shake system stabilizes all Sony, Minolta and Konica-Minolta compatible lenses even wide angle or large aperture lenses.

Versatility to Unleash Creative Possibilities

Other key features aimed to expand creative options include the Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) with five levels of user-selectable correction as well as DRO bracketing for enhanced scene analysis and graduation optimization. EV bracketing with ±2EV range makes it easy to create high dynamic range composite images.

With the camera’s HDMITM output and Photo TV HD mode, your creative output can be enjoyed on a compatible HD television. This mode brings the look of actual printed photography to the television, by fine-tuning such image parameters as sharpness, gradation, and color reproduction.

The a850 model features a 3-inch (diagonally), Xtra Fine LCDTM screen (921K) making it possible to check focus and image quality with accuracy. It incorporates an easy-to-see display with a quick navigation menu to easily access common functions without interrupting your creative flow. A backlit LCD panel sits on top of the camera and displays key settings.

The camera includes dedicated slots for high-capacity Memory Stick PRO DuoTM, Memory Stick PRO-HG DuoTM, HX series and CompactFlash® media.

Bright Lens

The choice of full-frame lenses to complement the ?850 model is enhanced with the new SAL2875 28-75mm F2.8 SAM lens. This compact, easy-to-carry lens is ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to add a bright, general purpose zoom to their collection of full-frame optics.

Delivering excellent imaging quality at an accessible price, it offers a wide F2.8 aperture over its entire zoom range. Ideal for day-to-day shooting tasks, its bright constant aperture makes the 28-75mm F2.8 SAM particularly valuable for depth-of-field control and available-light portraits.

Pricing and Availability

The a850 (model DSLR-A850) will be available in September for about $2,000 (body only) along with related accessories. All a900 accessories are compatible with the a850 camera, including the dedicated vertical grip (model VG-C90AM). The SAL2875 lens will be available in November for about $800. All will be available at authorized dealers, at military base exchanges, Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail) and at sonystyle.com.

Canon Instant Rebates Extended

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Canon Instant Rebates

In case you missed the prior post where we suspected that Canon had extended its Spring/Summer Instant Rebate Program, it has now been confirmed directly from Canon that the rebates are extended through August 8, 2009.

The full list of qualifying products is listed below, along with a link to the product page at Amazon, B&H Photo and Adorama.  [Read more…]

Nikon D2Xs Works Hard, Gets Stolen as NYC Traffic Cameras

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I had always assumed that the traffic cameras that snap shots of motorists at intersections were some kind of special purpose camera developed for that exclusive purpose.  It looks like NYC is using the Nikon D2Xs as its shooter to capture images of vehicles running red lights.

The above video from ABC7 in New York is a story about a former employee of the company that installs the traffic cameras – he is alleged to have been stealing the D2Xs cameras and selling them to support his heroin addiction.  The video, however, confirms that the Nikon D2Xs is used as a traffic camera, although it doesn’t say whether it is the exclusive camera for this purpose or not.

My mind is racing over the system that sets off the remote trigger on the D2Xs, and the extreme temperatures that these cameras endure . . . .

[h/t PDNPulse]

Canon Upgrade Rebates – Summer 2009

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Canon PowerShot Rebates

Canon has introduced their Semi-Annual Step-Up Program that is exclusively targeted toward Canon PowerShot owners.  The upgrade applies to Canon EOS DSLRs, specifically the Rebel XS, XSi and T1i, and the 50D and 5D Mark II.

PowerShot users stepping up to the Rebel XSi, XS or T1i are eligible for a $50 rebate.  For the PowerShot users looking at the 50D or 5D Mark II, you get a $100 rebate.

The devil is in the details though.  This is a mail-in rebate.  You must have registered your Canon PowerShot camera prior to July 20, 2009 and the purchase of the qualifying Canon EOS DSLR must occur between July 20, 2009 and October 5, 2009.  The rebate form must be postmarked no later than November 2, 2009 and received no later than November 16, 2009.

You can see all of the details and get the rebate form from Canon here.

Fuji FinePix REAL 3D W1 Hands-On at Cnet Asia

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Cnet Asia got to spend some time with the new Fuji FinePix REAL 3D W1 and you can get a closer look at the new 3D camera in the above video. I am anxiously awaiting the availability of this new camera and to see if it lives up to the hype that Fuji is building.  For now, you can read a little more at Cnet Asia with their first look.  Likewise, if you missed the launch of this new Fuji shooter, it’s available on Photography Bay’s Fuji FinePix REAL 3D W1 page published earlier this week.