Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips
PhotographyBLOG has posted a review of the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-FH20.
Photographically speaking, there’s nothing that exceptional about the Casio. However if you’re a YouTube junkie and as keen on video as you are shooting stills, and being able to capture slow motion footage as well as widescreen vistas floats your boat, then the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-FH20 is worth further investigation.
Let’s Go Digital has published a review of the Nikon D90.
The image quality is steady as a rock. Excellent color reproduction and superb dynamic range combined with Nikon’s 3D Matrix metering ensure an outstanding DSLR.
For the latest news and reviews, visit Photography Bay’s Nikon D90 Reviews and Resources.
DC Resource has published a review of the Nikon D700.
It offers you a fantastic mix of photo quality, performance, build quality, and features, without having to spend the money on a D3.
For the latest news and reviews, checkout Photography Bay’s Nikon D700 Reviews and Resources.
Digital Camera Review has published a review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1.
Having now worked with a production version of the camera, it’s safe for me to say it: the G1’s AF technology is truly impressive.
For more news and reviews, visit Photography Bay’s Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Reviews and Resources.
DP Review has posted a full review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3.
The LX3 is an example of a species so endangered that the we were beginning to worry it had become extinct – a compact camera that photographers can get excited about.
This is the first unofficial video made with Canon 5D Mark II that I’ve seen. I’ll let you judge for yourself.
Tokyo Reality (Canon 5D MarkII) from utsuru on Vimeo.
So, what do you think of the “video” capabilities of this new DSLR?
Earlier this week, Luminous Landscape pitted the Canon G10 against the Nikon P6000. Now, PhotographyBLOG has done the same thing – with the same results.
The Nikon Coolpix P6000 is a good camera, but the Canon PowerShot G10 is better – it’s as simple as that.
For the latest G10 news and reviews, see Photography Bay’s Canon G10 Reviews and Resources.
The Sigma DP2 is a 14-megapixel compact, yet powerful digital camera. The DP2 features a 24.2mm f/2.8 fixed lens, which is equivalent to a 41mm lens on a full frame camera.
Great images can come from the DP2. The lens is wonderful and the Foveon X3 sensor lives up to much (if not quite all) of the hype surrounding it. But the fact of the matter is that issues like the abysmal AF speed will cause many photographers to stay away from this camera.
Picture quality at low ISO settings is simply breathtaking, especially when viewing the X3 Raw files using the supplied Sigma Photo Pro software.
True to Sigma’s marketing claims the DP2 is capable of producing a high-quality low-to-moderate-ISO image file very comparable to that of a DSLR with an APS-C sensor. Indeed the DP2’s images can often best those of other cameras in the DP2’s size/price class.
Low-light performance was only marginally better than we found with the DP1, with a severe loss of colour in long exposures that was reflected in both JPEG and raw files. Noise and colour shifts became increasingly obvious from ISO 400 on and 15-second exposures shot at ISO 800 were almost unusable.
Push aside all of the uncool characteristics, focus on what it can do—shooting relatively still objects at relatively close range—and you get some seriously attractive photo work.
The Sigma Corporation (COO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new Sigma DP2 compact digital camera featuring a 14 megapixel FOVEON X3 direct image sensor (2,652 × 1,768 × 3 layers) as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR.
Sigma introduced the DP1 with a direct image sensor as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR to the market in March 2008 as a “unique, groundbreaking, compact digital camera with all the power of a digital SLR”. The multi award winning DP1 has established strong support from a wide range of photographers both amateur and professional. Building on this success, the DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, for increasing creative possibilities and superior image quality, improving handling and performance.
This product is showcased at Photokina 2008 in Koln, Germany.
The size of the image sensor used in the DP2 camera is 20.7mm x 13.8mm. It is approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8inch to 1/2.5inch image sensors used in ordinary compact digital cameras. The pixel size of the image sensor is 7.8?m. The large photodiodes deployed at a large pixel pitch capture pure, rich light efficiently and give the DP2 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.
The DP2 uses the same 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers) direct image sensor as the SD14 and DP1. Utilizing the special features of silicon, which is penetrated to different depths by different wavelengths of light, this direct image sensor succeeds in full-color capture with the full RGB in a single-pixel location. Since the moiré is not generated, use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full information of light and color can be captured with three-dimensional feeling.
The DP2 incorporates “TRUE II” which is an improved version of “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for the three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been developed throughout the development of the SD series digital SLR cameras and DP1, is incorporated into “TRUE II”.
The DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP2. Two molded glass aspherical lenses provide superior image quality. The Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens and SLR-sized image sensor combination provides natural shallow depth-of-field and attractive bokeh effect.
The DP2 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP2 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data which, when processed in Sigma Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.
The DP2 comes complete with SIGMA Photo Pro software, a RAW image developer that converts all RAW data quickly and easily. djustments can be made in three separate modes. The X3F Mode stores the original settings of the image at the point of capture. In the Auto Adjustment Mode, the software analyzes and automatically makes adjustments to the RAW data. The Custom Mode allows the photographer to make individual adjustments. The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by simply adjusting the slider controls within the software.
The DP2 has compact dimensions of 113.3mm/4.5in(W)x59.5mm/2.3in(H)x54.6mm/2.1in(D). Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy to carry everywhere.
The DP2 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the exposure mode from Program AE, Shutter Priority AE, Aperture Priority AE or Manual. Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3 stop increments from +3.0 to -3.0 stops and an auto bracketing function is also available.
The DP2 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash. It is possible to use Normal Flash, Red-Eye Reduction Flash and Slow Synchro Mode. It also features flash exposure compensation in 1/3 stops increments.
Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.
The DP2 camera features large 2.5 inch TFT color LCD monitor. The LCD monitor displays 100% of the images, allowing the photographer to easily and accurately confirm the image compensation.
The DP2 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as Sigma electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG. This hot shoe is also used to attach high performance view finder VF-21 (optional).
* EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG flashgun series can be used in manual mode only.
It is possible to attach the dedicated lens hood to block out extraneous light. It also functions as an adapter, designed to accept the 46mm Close-up Lens and 46mm filters.
* A hood adapter HA-21 is sold separately
The Pentax K2000 is a new 10.2 megapixel DSLR. The K2000 is geared toward entry-level shooters. The new 18-55mm and 55-200mm kit lenses both feature plastic lens mounts. The K2000 became available in November 2008 with an smc Pentax DA-L 18-55mm lens and an AF200FG flash included in the kit for a retail price of $699.95, although many retailers offer it at a significant discount. A second kit option including the smc Pentax DA-L 50-200mm lens will be available in early 2009.
Along with the K2000 (also known as the K-m), Pentax has announced a number of new lenses and accessories, including:
With its ease of use and fine photo quality, the K2000 is an outstanding buy for photo enthusiasts looking for their first digital camera or craving to move from the point-and-shoot world to the digital SLR realm.
I expected the camera to perform better than the *ist DL but fall short of the K10D. Sure enough, the K2000 performed almost exactly as expected. In short, this is one amazing little camera.
It’s great to see Pentax fighting the corner of the user on a budget while other companies concentrate on higher spec models. For the money you will spend, the build quality is great, the colours are rich and the effects are enough fun to keep you occupied for a while.
The new Pentax K-m is another excellent addition to Pentax’s DSLR range. Seamlessly slotting in below the K200D, it offers a simpler and more intuitive layout that will suit beginners better.
Overall, the K2000 stacks up strongly against its competitors. We find the menubased control system more intuitive than some others — just one of the details that makes Pentax a favorite among savvy photographers who watch what they spend. The K2000 should help Pentax hold onto its stellar reputation.
The focusing on the lens felt quick, the body was well crafted, and there are many helpful features designed with new users in mind. The K2000 strikes us as a strong introductory camera for someone considering the jump from point-and-shoot to SLR.
GOLDEN, CO (September 22, 2008)…PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the PENTAX K2000 DSLR system designed specifically for consumers who are ready to make the transition from a point-and-shoot digital camera to digital SLR photography. The PENTAX K2000 is an entry-level system consisting of the new PENTAX K2000 body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL lens, and the PENTAX AF200FG Auto Flash.
Bundled as a complete kit for the convenience of the customer, the PENTAX K2000 system offers uncomplicated operation for new digital SLR users and family photographers seeking high-quality digital SLR photography for the first time. Combining PENTAX developed, easy-to-use Auto Picture modes as well as powerful learning functions all housed in one of the smallest, lightest camera bodies in its class, the PENTAX K2000 system is ideal for digital SLR beginners. Additional features on the newest digital K2000 SLR body include a 10.2 megapixel CCD, a 2.7 inch, 230,000 dot high resolution, wide-view LCD panel, and an ultra compact design that facilitates one handed operation. The body also features the same PENTAX developed Shake Reduction technology found on more advanced K series digital SLRs. PENTAX Shake Reduction is compatible with more than 25 million PENTAX lenses to deliver sharp images even when handheld at slower shutter speeds. The K2000 also features the powerful PENTAX developed Auto Picture Mode, which selects from Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action, and Night Portrait modes to tailor the camera settings for any photographic situation. The camera also has a comprehensive Dust Removal system to help keep images spotless. A dedicated programmable help button clearly explains current camera settings to guide and teach the user about digital SLR photography.
The lens included with the PENTAX K2000 system is the first of a new series introduced with the DA L designation. Along with the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL lens, PENTAX is announcing the smc PENTAX DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6 ED zoom lens.* The affordable DA L series offers the same optical design, construction and compatibility as the current smc PENTAX DA 18-55mm II and smc PENTAX DA 50-200mm lenses. Also included with the system is the easy-to-use PENTAX AF200FG Auto Flash. This hot-shoe flash features a compact, lightweight body, wide angle diffuser, a guide number of 20 (at ISO 100/m) and simple dial operation to assure effortless flash photography for everyone.
*Note:The smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL and smc PENTAX DA L 50-200mm f/4-5.6 ED lenses will only be available in the US as part of the PENTAX K2000 Lens Kit or PENTAX K2000 Double Zoom Kit. This new PENTAX digital SLR body will only be available under the PENTAX K2000 product name in the US. The same body will be available under the PENTAX K-m product name outside of the US.
PENTAX has also announced two high performance interchangeable lenses for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras to deliver top-quality digital images. The smc PENTAX DA* 60-250mm f/4 ED[IF] SDM is a versatile telephoto zoom lens offering a high zoom ratio, while the smc PENTAX DA* 55mm f/1.4 SDM is a compact medium-telephoto lens offering a large maximum aperture. The two lenses are the newest members of the exclusive DA Star (*) series, and each is designed to deliver top optical performance. Combining a host of advanced technologies including extra-low dispersion (ED) optical elements and PENTAX original lens coatings, these new lenses assure outstanding image quality with clear, high-contrast images, even at edges of the image field. These * lenses also feature water and dust resistant sealing for reliable operation in inclement weather conditions, as well as the PENTAX Quick-Shift Focus system to allow instant auto-to-manual focus switching. The objective lens surfaces are treated with the PENTAX original Super Protect (SP) coating. This special fluorine compound is applied to the lens surface through a vapor deposition process to create a surface that effectively repels dust, water and grease, making it easy to wipe off fingerprints and cosmetic marks. The combination of special lens coatings, ideal curvature and best positioning of optical elements assures these lenses are designed to optimize digital imaging characteristics, while effectively minimizing flare and ghosting. Additionally, the DA* 55mm f/1.4 lens also features a new Aero Bright coating for maximum light transmission, as well as rounded diaphragm blades to create a more circular aperture for smooth, beautiful bokeh at large apertures. The image circle of the lenses is perfectly proportioned to the image-sensor size of PENTAX digital SLR cameras, and despite the large maximum aperture, the lenses are designed to be compact and lightweight to enhance maneuverability and operability.
PENTAX also announced the PENTAX AF160FC Auto Macro Ring Flash. This accessory flash unit is uniquely suited for advanced close-up applications using the automatic exposure-control system of PENTAX digital SLR cameras. Designed to offer uniform lighting on a subject to minimize shadows, the flash is ideal for close-up, portrait, product, dental and medical applications.
All of these products will be exhibited at the PENTAX Booth during the Photokina 2008 Trade Show from Septenber 23 – 28 in Cologne, Germany. Two additional products will be previewed under glass during the show including a fifth model in the acclaimed PENTAX DA Limited series. The smc PENTAX DA15mm f/4 ED AL Limited lens offers ultra-wide-angle image capture and is designed for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. This lens is scheduled to ship in Spring 2009 at a price to be announced. PENTAX will also preview the smc PENTAX DA 1.4X SDM Rear Converter. This is the first PENTAX rear converter equipped for autofocus operation on PENTAX digital SLR cameras, and the product will feature the SDM autofocus drive for accurate, extra-smooth, and super-quiet autofocus operation. Price and shipping information to be announced.
HOYA CORPORATION’s PENTAX Imaging Systems Division will exhibit all of these products* at Photokina from September 23 to 28 in Cologne, Germany. Available price and shipping dates of these products in the United States are as follows:
*Price and shipping date subject to change.
PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital SLR and compact cameras, lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.
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PENTAX K2000 Fact Sheet
Compact, lightweight body for enhanced portability and maneuverability
Despite the large image sensor (23.5mm by 15.7mm), the PENTAX K2000 offers a compact, lightweight body to assure remarkable portability and maneuverability. The design incorporates a high-rigidity stainless-steel chassis, a more compact Shake Reduction mechanism and circuit boards, and the latest in high-density body component assembly to ensure efficient positioning and layout of various parts, including the repositioning of the battery compartment, to maximize ergonomics. The camera grip has also been redesigned for a firm, comfortable hold of the camera body.
Simplified ergonomics with dedicated Help button
The PENTAX K2000 features a newly designed control system that positions most of the buttons and dials on the camera’s grip side making it easier to operate the camera with one hand. Additionally, a dedicated reprogrammable Help button displays camera functions on the camera’s LCD screen. This built-in user’s manual is ideal for those who are unfamiliar with digital SLR cameras.
PENTAX original Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free images
The PENTAX K2000 comes equipped with the PENTAX developed Shake Reduction (SR) * mechanism to reduce camera shake for sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions – such as with telephoto lenses, in low light, at night without supplementary flash illumination and for extended exposures in sunset scenes. This innovative SR mechanism shifts the position of the image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force, while adjusting the shifting speed in exact proportion to the amount of camera shake detected by a built-in sensor. SR offers an outstanding compensation effect up to the equivalent of approximately four shutter steps. As a result, the body does not require special anti-shake lenses and may be used with almost all existing PENTAX interchangeable lenses.
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are: the PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2-, and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mount lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be applicable with certain lenses.
Comprehensive Dust Detection and Removal system
The PENTAX K2000 features the user-friendly Dust Removal (DR) system to prevent dust from appearing on images. Applied to the CCD image sensor low pass filter surface through the vapor deposition process of a fluorine compound, the PENTAX developed original SP (Super Protect) coating effectively prevents dust from sticking to the sensor. For any stubborn dust that still remains on the surface, the SR system shifts the image sensor at high speed to shake off these particles. Finally, the dust that is shaken off the image sensor falls onto an adhesive sheet positioned at the bottom of the SR unit, eliminating any possibility of it returning to the image sensor surface. This DR system also offers a Dust Alert function, which allows the user to detect any placement of dust on the sensor in advance of cleaning operations.
Auto Picture and creative Scene modes
The PENTAX developed Auto Picture mode is programmed to automatically select the most appropriate shooting mode such as Portrait, Landscape, Action, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, and Macro for a given subject. Since all camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, white balance, saturation, contrast and sharpness are then automatically adjusted by the camera for optimum results, users can concentrate on image composition rather than mode selection. For more unconventional subjects and environments, PENTAX also includes 10 creative scene modes. Combined, the K2000’s automatic modes offer users great flexibility as they explore digital SLR photography.
High-quality image
The PENTAX K2000 combines a large, 10.2 megapixel sensor with the sophisticated PENTAX Real Image Engine (PRIME) as the imaging engine. This combination produces beautiful, detailed images with subtle gradations. The K2000 also features a Custom Image function, which offers a choice of six processing presets to give photographers high quality image processing flexibility.
High-speed continuous shooting at 3.5 frames per second
The PENTAX K2000 allows users to shoot images up to approximately 3.5 frames per second (in the JPEG recording format), allowing photographers to capture fast action sequences with ease.
High-precision 5-point AF system
The PENTAX K2000 incorporates a five-point, wide-area AF system (SAFOX VIII with five cross-type sensors) for dependable, high-precision autofocusing. Using the five sensors positioned in a cross pattern over the image field, this system automatically selects the optimum focus sensor for a given subject. Additionally, Center Focusing allows the photographer to enable only the centermost focus sensor. PENTAX engineers were also able to improve the focus speed under poor lighting conditions for improved autofocus performance overall.
Auto sensitivity control up to ISO 3200
The PENTAX K2000’s auto sensitivity control function automatically sets the optimum sensitivity between ISO 100 and ISO 3200, based on such data as the subject brightness level and lens focal length. Since this allows the user to take advantage of faster shutter speeds in poor lighting situations (such as indoor sports events and night scenes), it helps the photographer to effectively reduce blur due to camera shake and subject movement.
Enhanced Dynamic Range and Shadow Adjustment Mode
The K2000’s Enhanced Dynamic Range function allows the user to extend the dynamic range to prevent clipping in the highlight areas of the image. Additionally, Shadow Adjustment mode brings out detail in the darkest parts of the image. Combined, these functions help the user to produce beautiful, detailed images when shooting high-contrast subjects.
Large, easy-to-view 2.7 inch LCD monitor
The PENTAX K2000 features a large 2.7 inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots of resolution. This monitor’s wide-view design allows the photographer to check the on-screen image from approximately 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally and offers digital zooming of playback images up to 16X for easy confirmation of the image’s focus and subject details.
Bright, clear viewfinder
With a lightweight penta-mirror prism and the acclaimed Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen, the PENTAX K2000’s viewfinder delivers a large, bright image with an approximately 96 percent field of view and approximately 0.85X magnification.
Digital filters for unique visual expressions
The PENTAX K2000’s built-in digital filters allow users to effortlessly add creative and artistic touches to recorded images without the use of a PC. Users may select one of 14 different digital filters including the new Toy Camera and Retro filters to create the desired visual effect.
Additional Features
PENTAX, and smc PENTAX are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.
PENTAX PHOTO Browser, PENTAX Laboratory, and SDM are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.
All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice
The Canon PowerShot G10 is the successor the popular PowerShot G9. The G10 entered the arena at a $499 retail price. It can be found at slight discounts now at the following trusted online retailers:
Buy it. It’s easy to carry and will always come in handy.
At the lowest ISO settings (80 and 100), the G10 resolves details well and shows little image noise. Color and focus accuracy are also quite good, although overexposure is sometimes a problem.
Print quality is quite excellent from the Canon G10’s images, with good color. Conservatively, the ISO 80 JPEG images look great at 16×20 inches, and are usable at 20×30 straight out of the camera; sharpening and processing from RAW can sharpen things up considerably at all ISO settings.
On the whole, however, I would recommend this camera for the amateur who wants to take some serious outdoor or posed/still shots.
First off, sensor resolution has been increased from 12.1 to 14.7 megapixels. Before anyone groans, the addition of the latest DIGIC 4 processor has made those pixels genuinely useful and image quality has been upped, even at higher ISO settings.
Solid, beautiful digital files, even as the Canon RAW format has been incorporated into the most popular photo editing software.
Each day I became more and more enamored with the quality and accessibility of this little camera.
If you are serious about photography and would like a camera with SLR features, but without the bulk then take a very close look at this camera.
The Canon PowerShot G10 is a very capable fixed-lens camera that does just about everything right.
The G10 is a camera you don’t want to put down once you have picked it up. It encourages users to take pictures, and turn the dials: to experiment and have fun.
Somehow Canon has managed to extract not only superior JPEG resolution from the G10’s image files – but also provided raw files that rate higher in Photo Review’s Imatest test than many of the DSLR cameras we’ve tested this year.
The G10 is the best compact digital camera I’ve ever used. The gotcha words are “digital” and “compact.” Maddeningly, like all other compact (non-interchangable lens) cameras, the G10 still takes too darn long to adjust or change anything.
Luminous Landscape (G10 vs. P6000 Comparison)
The net of this comparison is that while the Nikon P6000 is a fine little camera, it finds itself in the unfortunate position of being released at the same time as the Canon G10, which it would appear is an attempt by Canon to produce a full-featured pocket camera with the highest quality that they are capable of.
The Canon PowerShot G10 is a solid enthusiast digital camera for those who want something compact to complement a dSLR.
The G10 is undoubtedly the best ever Canon G-Series camera, and is a serious alternative to both an entry-level DSLR and other similar compacts (most notably the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and the Nikon Coolpix P6000).
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 17, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the newest addition to its top-of-the line PowerShot G-series digital cameras. The PowerShot G10 digital camera offers serious amateur shooters and professional photographers several essential ingredients for a flagship model, including Canon’s new DIGIC 4 image processor, 28mm Optical Image Stabilized lens and RAW mode. This trilogy of style, performance and image quality is an ideal professional complement for anyone seeking the photo quality of a DSLR, combined with the convenient size of a point-and-shoot.
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 17, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the newest addition to its top-of-the line PowerShot G-series digital cameras. The PowerShot G10 digital camera offers serious amateur shooters and professional photographers several essential ingredients for a flagship model, including Canon’s new DIGIC 4 image processor, 28mm Optical Image Stabilized lens and RAW mode. This trilogy of style, performance and image quality is an ideal professional complement for anyone seeking the photo quality of a DSLR, combined with the convenient size of a point-and-shoot.
As the successor model to the popular PowerShot G9 digital camera, the PowerShot G10 digital camera is loaded with Canon’s latest technologies, including a long-anticipated 28 mm wide-angle lens with 5x optical zoom, 14.7 megapixels and 3.0-inch Pure Color LCD II screen.
“With exquisite image quality, the latest image processor and advanced functionality, the Canon PowerShot G10 digital camera brings an elevated level of performance and usability to the PowerShot line,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “By enhancing key technologies in this camera, including our proprietary DIGIC 4 image processor, Canon has merged the functions typically found in a DSLR with a smaller body form to provide affordable and portable options to photo enthusiasts of all types.”
Control Options
The controller wheel is equipped with a dedicated Exposure Compensation Dial, which allows quick and intuitive adjustment of exposure compensation and the “My Menu” function for registering five user-selected options from the shooting menu, as well as 26 shooting modes. Additionally, the Custom Mode better allows the user to record two types of shooting parameter settings, thus offering the ability to arrange their most often used settings on their LCD display. A host of accessory options are offered, including the remote switch, Macro Ring Lite and Macro Twin Lite (when used with an additional attachment, available in January 2009). Now consumers can utilize similar accessories found in the Canon EOS line, therefore expanding a user’s ability to customize.
Canon DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor
The newly upgraded DIGIC 4 image processor, a proprietary technology, accounts for the camera’s higher performance levels, including significantly improved signal processing speed and higher image quality.
One of the most important new features made possible by the DIGIC 4 image processor is Servo AF, which is a form of continuous focus tracking for moving subjects. By pressing the shutter button half-way, the camera can track subject movement up to the instant of exposure, resulting in sharper photographs. Additionally, the processor’s high ISO speed noise reduction processing has improved substantially to enable consumers to shoot high-quality images, even in extremely dark situations without the use of a flash. The new Intelligent Contrast Correction function automatically improves image quality in high-contrast shooting situations.
The Genuine Canon Face Detection technology has evolved even further, thanks to DIGIC 4. Improved features include the ability to recognize human faces at most angles. Another innovation is the Face Detection Self-Timer, which automatically takes a photo two seconds after a new face enters the scene.
Availability and Pricing
Scheduled to be available in October, the PowerShot G10 digital camera will have an estimated selling price of $499.99*. Kit contents will include a battery, charger, neck strap, USB and A/V interface cables, Canon Digital Solutions Software CD, and a 1-year Canon U.S.A., Inc. limited warranty.