Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Firmware Friday: Sony NEX-3, NEX-5, Canon SX130, Rebel XS

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Camera Firmware Update

Below you will find this week’s firmware updates.  Hit the manufacturer website links for more details and download instructions for the firmware.

Canon Rebel XS / 1000D version 1.0.7 – “Fixes a rare phenomenon in which “Cannot create folder” is displayed on the camera’s LCD monitor, after which shooting is no longer possible with the SD card in your camera.” [Canon Website]

Canon SX130 IS version 1.0.1.0 – “Fixes a phenomenon in which the audio and video get recorded out of sync when shooting movies with the image quality set to high definition (1280×720 pixels).” [Canon Website]

Sony NEX-3 / Sony NEX-5 version 03 – “Autofocus is now supported when using the NEX-5/NEX-3 with 14 lenses from the full range of A-mount optics by Sony and Carl Zeiss that includes telephotos, primes and zooms. Aperture settings can be maintained during HD movie recording, and system menu operation has been streamlined alongside other usability improvements. Registered NEX-5/NEX-3 owners will be advised of the free update via email.” [Sony Website]

 

Canon Rebel XS / 1000D Firmware Update Version 1.0.6

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Canon has released a firmware update for the Rebel XS / 1000D.

Firmware Version 1.0.6 incorporates the following changes.

1. Some cameras may exhibit a phenomenon in which the LCD monitor does not display, the shutter does not release, and the busy indication remains lit in the viewfinder.
2. The message, “Err 99 Shooting is not possible. Turn the power switch to <OFF> and <ON> again or re-install the battery”, appears on the camera’s LCD monitor, and after the above operation is carried out, the LCD monitor displays in a language that is different from the actual language setting.

To learn more and download Firmware Version 1.0.6, visit Canon’s website.

Canon 50D, Rebel XSi and Rebel XS Firmware Updates

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Canon has released firmware updates for the 50D, Rebel XSi and Rebel XS DSLRs.

Canon 50D Firmware Version 1.0.6

Firmware Version 1.0.6 incorporates the following improvements and fixes.

  1. Supports the AF assist beam feature of the new flash, Speedlite 270 EX, which is scheduled to be released in April 2009.
  2. Changes the error indications that are displayed on the camera.
  3. Addresses the vertical banding noise phenomenon.

Click here to download Firmware Version 1.0.6 for the Canon 50D. [Read more…]

Canon EOS 1000D Review at Photo Review

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Photo Review has published a review of the new Canon EOS 1000D (aka Digital Rebel XS). The EOS 1000D takes over for the EOS 400D (aka Rebel XTi) at the bottom rung of Canon’s DSLR lineup. It features a 10.1 megapixel sensor.

Low-light performance was very good. Shots taken at ISO 1600 were sharp and colour-accurate with only a hint of visible colour noise. This was eliminated with the high ISO noise reduction setting. Long exposure noise reduction produced minimal image softening.

For the latest news, reviews and more, stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS Reviews and Resources.

Canon EOS 1000D Review at DP Review

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DP Review has posted a review of the new Canon EOS 1000D (aka Digital Rebel XS).  The EOS 1000D takes over for the EOS 400D (aka Rebel XTi) at the bottom rung of Canon’s DSLR lineup.  It features a 10.1 megapixel sensor.  DP Review gives it a “Highly Recommended” rating along with a very positive overall impression.

It’s certainly a safe bet and one of the most consistent offerings in the sector (it has few annoying quirks or niggling loose ends) and its all-round competance, excellent high ISO performance and class-leading image quality will win it a lot of friends.

For the latest news, reviews and more, stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS Reviews and Resources.

Canon EOS 1000D Hands-On Review at Let’s Go Digital

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Let’s Go Digital has posted a hands-on, cursory review of the new Canon EOS 1000D (a.k.a. Digital Rebel XS).

The main differences with the 400D are Live View, DIGIC III, a 7-point AF instead of a 9-point AF, auto ISO setting, unlimited JPEG buffer but a lesser amount of RAW pictures, LP-E5 battery instead of the NB-2LH and on top of that a decreased weight of 502 grams which makes the Canon EOS 1000D Canon’s lightest digital SLR camera ever.

For the latest news, reviews and more, stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS Reviews and Resources.

Canon Rebel XS Preview and Sample Images at DP Review

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DP Review has now published a preview and some sample images from the new Canon Rebel XS/1000D.

The EOS 1000D is remarkably similar in appearance to its marginally larger relative – the 450D. The basic shape is pretty much identical, although you will be able to spot some minor differences if you look closely enough.

For the latest news, reviews and more, stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS Reviews and Resources.

Canon EOS 1000D Hands-On at Pocket-Lint

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Pocket-Lint has posted a hands-on first look of the Canon EOS 1000D (aka Digital Rebel XS).

It’s clear that Canon has found itself in a situation where they are lacking a model at the low end of the digital SLR market. While the 450D has allowed Canon to come on leaps and bounds in what it offers, an increase in features and tech has meant the 450D has become a mid-level entry-level camera rather than an entry-level entry-level model.

For the latest news, reviews and more, stay tuned to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS Reviews and Resources.

Canon Rebel XS / 1000D Specs Surface

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UPDATED: The Canon Rebel XS / 1000D has been announced (June 10, 2008)!  Please go to Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS/1000D page for more info.

Specifications for the rumored Canon Rebel XS have began to surface online. The rumored specs seem to confirm the replacement of the Rebel XTi/400D. Still no news on release date, but we’ll continue to bank on Photokina. Kamera & Bild is the first place to tout the specs for the new camera, which are supposedly as follows:

  • 10.1 MP CMOS
  • Digic III
  • 7-point AF
  • 3 FPS
  • 2.5″ LCD
  • Live View
  • Similar Menus to the 450D (but more simplified)
  • Weight 540grams
  • Cheap Price

For the latest news and rumors, check out Photography Bay’s Canon Rebel XS / 1000D page.