Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips
The Panasonic Lumix S3 and S1 are a pair of new compact cameras introduced at CES 2011. The Lumix S3 features a 14.1MP sensor, 4x optical zoom lens with image stabilization, and the ability to capture 720p HD video. The Lumix S1 offers the same 4x zoom lens with image stabilization and 720p video capture, but steps down to a 12.1MP sensor.
As typical, Panasonic will announce pricing and availability at a later date.
More details in the press release below. [Read more…]
Amazon is serving up several year-end deals on a number of products – including cameras and photography gear.
Lots more deals can be found on Amazon’s dedicated page for year-end camera deals.
Apple has updated its Camera RAW compatibility to version 3.5 and extends RAW image format compatibility to Aperture 3 and iPhoto ‘11 for the following cameras:
The update is available via OS X system updates or via Apple’s Support Site.
Below you will find this week’s firmware updates. Hit the manufacturer website links for more details and download instructions for the firmware.
Casio EX-H20G version 1.01 – “Adds a function that writes position log data saved in camera memory to a memory card (Output Log)” [Casio Website]
Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm G HD Lens version 1.4 – “Improved stability of O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) and AF(Auto Focus) in movie recording.” [Panasonic Website]
Paul C. Buff Cyber Commander version 32 – “Optimizes antenna hardware to increase range by up to 25%. Corrects the power range of the White Lightning X3200 1/4 power as displayed on the FLASH screen. The -3.7f Ws power rating of 640Ws lights now displays as 9.2Ws (previously displayed inaccurately as 49.2Ws).” [Cyber Commander Website]
Below you will find this week’s firmware updates. Hit the manufacturer website links for more details and download instructions for the firmware.
Sony A900 / A850 version 2.0 – “You can release the shutter even when no lens is mounted on the camera (P/A/S/M and Auto mode). The range of the exposure compensation is expanded to ±5 EV (Before the update: ±3 EV). The following setting has been added to the continuous bracket and single bracket shooting functions: The exposure bracket can now be set in 3 EV increments and the camera shoots three images ([3.0 EV– +3.0 EV]). (Before the update: Up to 2.0 EV). The speed of autofocus has been improved. The improvement will be most noticeable when using a tele lens, however the effect is dependent on the shooting condition.” [Sony Website]
Fuji HS10 version 1.04 – “1. Custom white balance can be set correctly when an external flash is mounted. 2. On slide show mode, sound of movie recording data can be performed on the HDTV which is connected with the camera via HDMI interface.” [Fuji Website]
Panasonic FZ100 version 1.2 – “1. Image quality improvement of Motion Deblur in iA Mode 2. Performance improvement of autofocus in taking pictures while recording Motion Pictures” [Panasonic Website]
Panaonsic FX700 and FX75 version 1.1 – “1. Image quality improvement of Motion Deblur in iA Mode (FX70/ FX75/ FX700) 2. Performance improvement of autofocus in taking pictures while recording Motion Pictures (FX700)” [Panasonic Website]
Ricoh CX4 version 1.05 – “Modified the following phenomenon. 1. In the Night Landscape Multi-shot, when pressing the shutter release button half way, the camera shake warning symbol camera shake warning will not be displayed in the screen.” [Ricoh Website]
Apple’s Mac OS X 10.6.5 update has added system-wide support (including Aperture and iPhoto) for a number of new RAW formats captured by the following cameras:
The update is available via systems updates in Mac OS X 10.6.
Panasonic’s HDC-HS700 is a great little HDD/SD hybrid AVCHD camcorder that will serve well for most anyone wanting to produce rock solid HD video and the integrated 5.1 channel built in mic can make for fun, surround sound home movies.
Read the full review at Tech Tilt: Panasonic HDC-HS700 Full HD Camcorder Review
The Panasonic GF2 is a follow-up to the popular Panasonic GF1. The GF2 packs a 12.1MP Live MOS sensor, shoots Full HD at 1920 x 1080 at 60i in AVCHD format, and covers a sensitivity range of ISO 100-6400. The new camera also adds a touch-sensitive 3″ LCD at 460k-dot resolution and a built-in stereo mic.
Like the GF1, the GF2 includes a pop-up flash, along with a hotshoe for an external flash. The GF2 is available as a kit with either a 14mm f/2.5 or 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 lens.
The GF2 will be available in red, black and white, and is expected to ship in January 2011. We should know the retail price next month (expect it to be in the $800-$1000 range depending on the lens). Check availability on Amazon.com.
More details in the press release below. [Read more…]
One of my favorite mirrorless cameras is the Panasonic GF1. In terms of form-factor, controls and image quality, the GF1 delivers a great balance.
If 43rumors.com is accurate with its prediction, we should see the successor to the GF1 tomorrow. It’s looking like the GF2 will have the same 12MP sensor as is found in the Panasonic G2, which is a solid performer.
If the Panasonic GF2 turns out to deliver better performance, while maintaining the friendly form-factor of the GF1, then we should have a real gem on our hands.
Stay tuned for the latest on the Panasonic GF2.
[via 43rumors.com]
Update: It’s already leaked in France. Here’s proof:
[via Photo Rumors]
The Panasonic G2 is one of the many Micro Four Thirds system cameras available now. As you may know, Micro Four Thirds cameras don’t have a mirror like traditional DSLRs. Instead, the G2 and other Micro Four Thirds cameras utilize a live view system where the composition is displayed on the camera’s rear LCD panel. With the G2, you also have the option of viewing an electronic viewfinder (EVF) in a manner similar to traditional optical viewfinders.
The Panasonic G2 is the big brother of the previously reviewed Panasonic G10. The upgrades are mild in most instances, but could the difference maker for some shoppers. The G2 offers the same 12.1MP found in the G10, as well as HD movie capture. However, the G2 features a tilt/swivel LCD and improved video capture modes put the G2 well ahead of the G10.
To see how the G2 stacks up, read on. [Read more…]