Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips
The Canon SELPHY CP780 is a new compact printer that tries to carry on the stylish nature of the SELPHY line. Obviously, it is a consumer grade printer that can be had for a retail price of $99.95. Check availability on Amazon.com
More details in the press release below. [Read more…]
The Canon PowerShot D10 is Canon’s take on the latest trend in digital cameras – rugged and waterproof bodies. The key feature of the D10 is that it can swim with you as deep as 33 feet. It carries a price tag of $329.99 and should be available in May just in time for the beach.
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The somewhat playfully styled camera is is a bit on the bulky side, but is also well equipped to handle most of the abuse it may encounter outdoors.
If you would like a robust digital camera that will stand out from the crown take a good look at the Powershot D10. It takes a good snapshot and is easy enough to use.
More details from Canon’s press release below.
PRESS RELEASE
Consumers looking for an all-around waterproof, freeze proof and shockproof camera should look no further. The Canon PowerShot D10 Digital Camera, a first of its kind for Canon, comes equipped with a 12.1-Megapixel resolution and 3x Optically Stabilized Zoom lens, making it an ideal companion for thrill-seekers of all types. This uniquely styled camera is amazing for capturing high-resolution images and off-camera editing. The PowerShot D10 Digital Camera can withstand depths up-to-33-feet deep, is freeze proof from 14 degrees Fahrenheit and shockproof up-to-four feet. To add a little fun and funky style to this great camera, an optional accessory kit is available containing distinctive accessories, such as a customized strap, cool face plates and a carabineer hook (attached to a strap). The PowerShot D10 IS Digital Camera is scheduled to be available in early May for an estimated retail price of $329.99.
Canon offers no rest for the weary with its line up of no less than 4 new PowerShot SD-series cameras (making it 10, yes 10, new point and shoot camera models from Canon). Packed with every bell and whistle you can put in a pocket-sized camera, Canon is refreshing a line of cameras that’s still plenty fresh.
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The Canon PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH is a very good camera for those seeking a compact camera with a large, ultra-sharp LCD, extra zoom power, and lots of point-and-shoot features.
The Canon PowerShot SD970 Digital ELPH takes good, vivid photos up to ISO 200 and there’s some detail smudging from ISO 400 onwards (something that’s common as compact cameras increase noise reduction levels).
Check availability at Amazon.com.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
Small, very user-friendly and capable in most situations, the Canon SD1200 upholds the ELPH reputation for style and quality.
Simple and stylish, the Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS is a fine back-pocket camera as long as your photo-quality expectations are reasonable.
More details from Canon’s press release below.
Whether the activity du jour involves dancing ’til dawn, attending a black-tie gala or a quiet evening for two, Canon’s colorfully clad Digital ELPH Cameras are there to capture the magic of the moment and preserve the memory for years to come. Their substantive and stylish box and circle design, and striking colors, are the perfect complement to any situation and offer both the fashion-forward and feature-hungry photographer an all-in-one must-have camera.
The Canon PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera offers consumers the “ultimate” in design and feature-set. The camera comes fully loaded with 12.1-Megapixels for amazing resolution and editing, plus a 5x Optical Zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization, all with easy viewing on a large 3.0-inch PureColor LCD II screen. Additional features found on the PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera include Smart AUTO, Blink Detection Technology, Active Display and 720p HD Movie Mode with built-in HDMI connector to view photos and videos on an HDTV. What’s more, the PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera uses advanced features such as Zoom Blur and Creative Light Effect to produce fun and original effects with the camera. Zoom Blur allows the user to zoom during exposure, thus providing a haze-like effect to the image, while Creative Light Effect allows the user to shoot pictures by converting the light from light bulbs and sparks from fireworks into various shapes, such as stars and hearts. The PowerShot SD970 IS Digital ELPH Camera is scheduled to be available in mid-April for an estimated retail price of $379.99.
The elegance and beauty of the Canon PowerShot SD960 IS Digital ELPH Camera epitomizes the ELPH series persona. The camera comes in four subtle hues, including silver, blue, pink and gold, and is equipped with a simple button layout, wide-screen 2.8-inch PureColor LCD II screen, new Active Display and an improved user interface which will intrigue both new and experienced consumers alike. Additional features include Smart AUTO, Blink Detection Technology, 12.1-Megapixel resolution, wide-angle lens (28-112 mm equivalent) and 4x Optical Zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization. Like the SD970 IS Digital ELPH model, the PowerShot SD960 IS Digital ELPH Camera can shoot 720p HD video and it has an on-camera HDMI connector for easy playback of video and photos on an HDTV. The PowerShot SD960 IS Digital ELPH Camera is scheduled to be available in early March for an estimated retail price of $329.99.
The Canon PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH Camera is for the “fashionista” or “fashionisto” who craves the refined design of a Digital ELPH Camera. The ultra-slim, modern look combined with a choice of four colors – black, red, silver or gold – defines a person’s right to choose a color that truly represents them. However, while color and personalization is top-of-mind, so is substance and feature-set. Compact yet feature-rich, the PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH Camera is equipped with 12.1-Megapixels of high-resolution image capture and 3x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilization. For on-camera viewing, the camera features a 2.5-inch PureColor LCD II screen with optical viewfinder. Additional features found on the PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH Camera include Smart AUTO, Blink Detection Technology and 720p HD Movie Mode with built-in HDMI connector for viewing video and photos on an HDTV. The PowerShot SD780 IS Digital ELPH Camera is scheduled to be available in mid-March for an estimated retail price of $279.99.
The Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital ELPH Camera is a great entry-level ELPH camera and comes in six bright colors, including dark gray, blue, pink, green, light gray and orange. With features such as Smart AUTO and 10.0-Megapixels of resolution, printing large-size images with clarity and detail is a breeze. The PowerShot SD1200 IS Digital ELPH Camera is scheduled to be available in mid-March for an estimated retail price of $229.99.
Canon has updated its PowerShot A-series with three additional camers that come in 12.1 megapixel and 10 megapixel flavors. Geared toward the budget shopper, prices range from $129.99 to $249.99.
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Canon’s PowerShot A2100 IS is a good value compact with a longer than average zoom range, excellent image quality and very effective image stabilisation.
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Aside from a couple performance quibbles, the Canon PowerShot A1100 IS provides a good point-and-shoot experience with great pictures as a result.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
More details from Canon’s press release below.
PRESS RELEASE
From the tentative first-timer to the passionate photographer, the PowerShot A-Series product line provides the ever-present convenience and cost-effectiveness of being power driven by two AA batteries. With bright, bold, new colors, no wonder the A-Series line is a convenient must-have among consumers.
Now the Canon PowerShot A2100 IS Digital Camera design has evolved to be smaller in size and higher in performance, but has maintained the essence of the A-Series persona with a mode dial for more creative control. Features such as 12.1-Megapixel resolution, 6x Optical Zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization, large 3.0-inch LCD screen and new Smart AUTO enables this camera to be a go-everywhere and shoot anywhere product. The PowerShot A2100 IS Digital Camera is scheduled to be available in early-April for an estimated retail price of $249.99.
The Canon PowerShot A1100 IS Digital Camera is ideal for the color-conscious consumer. The camera comes in four captivating shades, including gray, blue, pink and green, and the fun doesn’t stop at colors. Features such as 12.1-Megapixel resolution, 4x Optical Zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilization, large 2.5-inch LCD screen with Optical Viewfinder and the new Smart AUTO enables this camera to also be a go-anywhere and match any lifestyle accessory. The PowerShot A1100 IS Digital Camera is scheduled to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $199.99.
The Canon PowerShot A480 Digital Camera is designed for the person on a budget, while offering the perfect balance of features for anyone who just wants to take the camera out of the box and start taking pictures. The new A480 Digital Camera is packed with Canon imaging technology features, such as a 10.0-Megapixel sensor and 3.3x Optical Zoom, with Canon’s DIGIC III imaging processor and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. Enveloped in color, the new model gives consumers four color options to fit their style, including red, blue, silver and black. The PowerShot A480 Digital Camera is sure to be a hit as a starter camera for younger photographers and people looking to upgrade from a traditional film camera. The PowerShot A480 Digital Camera is scheduled to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $129.99.
Canon has released a new professional software package called Studio Solution, which is geared toward photographers working in a studio environment.
More details in the press release below. [Read more…]
The Fuji FinePix S1500 is a 10 megapixel superzoom camera that features a 2.7″ LCD and a 12x optical zoom lens with sensor-based image stabilization. It also offers a full manual mode for those who like to get the most out of their point and shoot cameras. The S1500 can shoot up to 15 frames at 7.5 fps at 2MP and six frames at 3.3 fps at 5MP. It will be available in March 2009 for $249.95.
The Fuji FinePix S1500 is available at trusted online retailers like Amazon.com.
Overall the Finepix S1500 puts in a decent performance. It does not quite hit the heights of the top of the range super zoom cameras, but then again it does not cost as much as the more advanced models.
Don’t get too ambitious, shoot in sunny conditions and the Fujifilm FinePix S1500 won’t disappoint however.
Additional features including sensor-shift image stabilisation, scene recognition and tracking AF, as well as some minor image quality tweaks make the S1500 a worthwhile upgrade over the S1000fd.
Valhalla, NY, February 17, 2009 – FUJIFILM U.S.A. Inc. today announced the successor to the wildly popular FinePix S1000 with the introduction of the FinePix S1500.
Ideal for advanced amateur photographers who are looking for an affordable, SLR-styled digital camera, the 10-MegaPixel FinePix S1500 is wrapped with an eye-catching black casing and has a Fujinon 12x optical zoom (33mm-396mm equivalent) offering great range and flexibility. Building on the legacy of Fujifilm’s S-series digital cameras, the FinePix S1500 includes Fujifilm’s Dual Image Stabilization and SR Auto (Automatic Scene Recognition).
Automatic Scene Recognition
SR Auto (Automatic Scene Recognition) enables the FinePix S1500 to intelligently recognize six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the S1500 will optimize the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease.
Dual Image Stabilization
Dual Image Stabilization is a marriage of mechanical sensor shift stabilization, to steady the photographer’s hand, and Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilization Technology, which uses fast shutter speeds with ISO high sensitivity, to prevent virtually all types of image blur. As a result, an increase in clarity and sharpness is achieved, even in low lighting conditions.
Rounding out the FinePix S1500 powerful feature set is a large 2.7″ high-resolution (230k dots) LCD, electronic viewfinder (EVF) and ISO levels of up to ISO 1600 at full resolution.
Fujifilm’s FinePix S1500 also offers the following useful features:
• Full Manual Photographic Control: Photo enthusiasts and advanced photographers have total control with manual adjustment options for various camera settings including resolution, ISO, aperture, shutter speed and more.
• Face Detection with Automatic Red Eye Removal: Face Detection operates by identifying and prioritizing faces in a framed scene, and then adjusting the focus and exposure accordingly to ensure the sharpness and clarity of human subjects in the picture, regardless of background. After a shot is captured, each detected face is instantly checked for red eye. If it is found, it is corrected automatically, saving the time-consuming process of fixing it later.
• Instant Zoom: Instant Zoom makes it easy to frame and compose shots with moving subjects at high zoom settings. A selectable frame on the LCD screen lets you bracket and track the subject in standard wide view. When the shutter is released, Instant Zoom boosts the zoom ratio and captures only the enlarged area as a full-sized image, keeping the subject in the frame.
• Continuous High Speed Shooting mode: This mode allows moving subjects to be captured by shooting high-speed shots of up to 15 frames at 7.5 fps at 2MP and six frames at 3.3 fps at 5MP.
• Panoramic Shooting mode: Users can capture, combine and save a maximum of three consecutive shots at 3MP resolution each as a panoramic picture.
• Movie Recording: VGA quality at 30 frames per second with sound.
• 14 Pre-programmed Scene Modes: The FinePix S1500 features 14 pre-programmed scene modes that offer a one-touch setting for almost any situation.
• SD / SD-HC Compatible slot: A single media slot that accepts SD/SD-HC media cards.
• Operates on 4xAA Batteries: The ultimate in convenience and accessibility, using AA batteries means in a pinch, more batteries are just moments away. Four x AA alkaline battery power delivers 300 shots and up to 700 shots using lithium AA battery.
“Fujifilm’s FinePix S1500fd offers advanced amateur photographers an affordable, SLR-styled digital camera,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “Sporting a Fujinon 12x Optical Zoom for greater range and flexibility and Automatic Scene Recognition, the FinePix S1500 offers its user an efficient, feature-rich digital camera making it easy to capture amazing images.”
The FinePix S1500fd will debut in March 2009 at a retail price of $249.95.
The Fuji FinePix Z33WP is a 10 megapixel point and shoot camera whose main attraction is a waterproof body – up to 10 feet though. Other features include a 2.7″ LCD and 3x optical zoom. The Z33WP is set to be available in March for $199.95. Check availability on Amazon.com.
For more details see the press release below. [Read more…]
The Fuji FinePix Z30 is a 10 megapixel point and shoot camera that has a stylish body to appeal to the younger crowd. It also features a 2.7″ LCD and 3x optical zoom. The Z30 is priced at $179.95 and due on store shelves in March. Check availability on Amazon.com.
More details in the press release below. [Read more…]
Fuji has added the J250 and J20 to is budget model lineup at $199.95 and $129.95, respectively. Each camera has a 10 megapixel sensor. The J20 has a 3x optical zoom and a 2.7″ LCD, while J250 has a 3″ LCD and 5x optical zoom.
Check availability on Amazon.com:
More details in the following press release. [Read more…]
Sony has added 5 more point and shoot digital cameras to its lineup. The Cyber-shot models, without their DSC designation are: T900, T90, W290, W230 and H20. As you can probably guess, Sony is keeping with the trend of an abundance of megapixels – most are 12 megapixel cameras, with one camera at 10 megapixels. The key features and images are below.
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There is a lot to like about the Sony Cybershot DSC T900. It scores highly for ease of use and build quality as well as more innovative and advanced features.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
Check availability at Amazon.com.
The Sony Cybershot DSC H20 gets most things right. There is plenty of competition, but this camera provides a reliable alternative to models from Panasonic and Canon.
With this camera, Sony has demonstrated that it is a company which listens to user feedback, as most of the issues we criticised the H10 for have been addressed.
For additional info see the press release below.
PRESS RELEASE
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 17, 2009 – Sony today announced five new Cyber-shot® cameras (models DSC-T900, DSC-T90, DSC-W290, DSC-W230 and DSC-H20) that make it easier to take the best pictures without changing settings.
The intelligent auto mode, available on the T900, T90, W290 and H20 models helps “think” for you and detect scene conditions then adjust settings, especially in difficult lighting scenarios.
“This camera provides a seamless experience,” said Karim Noblecilla, senior product marketing manager in Sony Electronics’ Digital Imaging Division. “You can go from a walk in the park to taking pictures of a flower and then back to beautiful landscapes or indoor birthday parties, and the camera will know what to do to get the best shot.”
Additionally, intelligent auto mode enhances pictures of faces to capture natural skin tones, identifies when your subject has closed eyes, and helps reduce blur without damaging image quality.
Sony has combined three key technologies to make these cameras smarter.
Intelligent scene recognition (iSCN) detects up to eight scenes, recognizing objects, faces and lighting conditions (e.g. low light and backlight). Then, in one-thirtieth of a second, it changes the setting to get the best shot.
Face detection registers up to eight faces; adjusts focus, exposure, white balance and flash; and detects motion. This intelligent camera combines face detection with iSCN, featuring blink detection. It takes two pictures and saves the one in which the subject’s eyes are the least shut.
The W290 and H20 cameras also have selected-face memory, allowing you to zero in on the main subject’s face. The next time the camera detects the priority face in the frame, it will automatically focus on that person.
The W230 model has iSCN that detects up to five scene conditions, face detection with child and adult priority, and the Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization feature. You can turn on these features in auto mode to make the W230 camera intelligent.
All of the new cameras have the Optical SteadyShot feature and Smile Shutter™ technology. The Optical SteadyShot image stabilization feature helps prevent blur due to camera shake without impacting image quality. Equipped with Sony’s Smile Shutter technology, these cameras automatically capture a smile the moment it happens.
Another advanced feature that sets these cameras apart from most digital still cameras is iSCN advanced. Noblecilla said the iAuto feature increases the chances of getting a great shot. You can also set up iSCN advanced as a permanent feature. When the scene has difficult lighting such as backlight or low light, the camera will take two shots within a fraction of a second using two alternative settings, so you can select which picture you prefer.
HD Movies
The W290, H20, T90 and T900 cameras feature wide and full-screen 720p movie recording at 30 frames per second in fine, standard and VGA recording modes. The 720p movie resolution is three times higher than VGA movies.
The movie function is based on the MPEG4 codec for video compression. Plus the T900 has a stereo microphone. Benefits of the format include high-quality video as well as PC-friendly files that are easy to download, upload and share.
Style and Color
With a compact design for easy on-the-go portability, the DSC-T90 and DSC-T900 cameras are 15 millimeters and 16.3 millimeters thin, respectively. 2009 line of W and T colors come in a pallet of colors to match your unique style.
Powerful Core Features
The W230 camera has 12.1 megapixels, 4x (30mm) Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar optical zoom lens and 3-inch (measured diagonally) LCD screen. The W290 model adds a 5x wide (28mm) optical zoom lens.
The T90 camera also has 12.1 megapixels and a 4x Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar optical zoom and 3-inch (measured diagonally) wide touch-panel LCD screen. The T900 camera adds a larger 3.5-inch Xtra Fine LCD screen that delivers high resolution images (921,600 dots), which is approximately four times higher than conventional LCD screens.
The H20 model features 10.1 megapixels, a 10x Carl Zeiss optical zoom lens and a 3-inch (measured diagonally) LCD screen.
Easy navigation
Sony has simplified the display of options on most of these cameras to make it easier for customers to use them. The most commonly used features include shooting mode, zoom, play, delete and Smile Shutter. These are available at a click or touch of a button. More sophisticated users can select other shooting modes or change the settings using the menu button.
Tools to Edit, Archive and Share
These cameras are equipped with tools to edit, archive and share. They have in-camera retouch features like red-eye correction and image management to easily sort through thousands of photos in calendar view or album view. You can group favorites and filter by baby, adult, all faces or smiles. The PhotoMusic feature offers an HD slideshow mode with transitions and music for viewing on the camera or television.
The HD output feature lets you view images in high-defintion, although HDMI and component cables are not included. The T900 camera is bundled with a camera stand that allows HDMI connectivity, but the cable is not included.
Bundled Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software allows you to quickly organize images on a compatible PC and upload images to the Web. You can search and organize images by event, smile or face, including children and infants. Then you can display them in calendar or chronological views organized into folders.
Pricing and Availability
Consumers can start pre-ordering these cameras in March at www.sonystyle.com. They will be available for purchase in April online at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail ), at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.