Archive for January, 2007
Japanese digital camera growth to slow in 2007
Reuters
TOKYO (Reuters) - Growth in digital camera shipments by Japanese makers in 2007 is expected to slow to 7.5 percent from a year earlier, when lower prices and a wider variety of models with interchangeable lenses spurred growth to 22 percent.
Global shipments by makers such as Canon Inc. (7751.T: Quote, NEWS , Research) and Sony Corp. (6758.T: Quote, NEWS , Research) are estimated to rise to 84.9 million units in calendar 2007 from 79.0 million units last year, according to figures released by the Camera and Imaging Products Association
Demand will continue to lose speed as shipment growth is expected to slow to 4.3 percent in 2008, and 2.5 percent the following year, the association said.
The Tokyo-based industry group also forecast shipments of digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) models, geared for professionals and hobbyists, will continue to show double-digit growth in 2007, but their growth too will slow compared to 2006.
This year, shipments of DSLRs are forecast to increase 13.9 percent to 5.99 million units, lagging behind a 38.9 percent jump in 2006 to 5.26 million units.
Canon and Nikon Corp. (7731.T: Quote, NEWS , Research) are the dominant leaders in the market for DSLRs, while newcomers such as Sony and Matsushita Electric Industrial (6752.T: Quote, NEWS , Research) are also trying to expand in this segment as DSLRs are more profitable than compact devices.
Shipments of compact models, which have faced fierce price competition, is forecast to increase 7 percent to 78.9 million units this year, lower than the 20.9 percent jump in 2006 led by demand in emerging markets and the United States.
Other major Japanese digital camera makers include Olympus Corp. (7733.T: Quote, NEWS , Research), Fujifilm Holdings Corp. (4901.T: Quote, NEWS , Research) and Pentax Corp. (7750.T: Quote, NEWS , Research), which compete against global rivals such as Eastman Kodak (EK.N: Quote, Profile , Research) and Samsung Electronics Co. (005930.KS: Quote, Profile , Research).
© Reuters 2007. All Rights Reserved.
January 31st, 2007
Samsung Introduces the i7 Digital Camera in Europe
CameraTown.Com (press release), NH
Tuesday 30th January - Building on its heritage in digital camera innovation, Samsung Cameras has today unveiled the sleek i7 equipped with an industry leading, intuitive, Physical User Interface (PUI) designed to make capturing and enjoying special moments an effortless affair. A must-have for the style conscious, the i7 is equipped with a 3.0” touch screen LCD which rotates through 180 degrees allowing the user to quickly switch between features, so that they’re always ready to capture the action. An in-built Tour Guide function provides instant access to travel information covering 4,000 regions in 30 countries, so you’ll always know where the action is!
The 7 mega pixel i7, with 3x optical zoom, has been created for those who want to capture sound, video and photos wherever they are without compromising on feature quality or design. With the LCD in neutral (0 degrees) the user can access SRS quality music files through the integrated MP3 player; and with the LCD rotated to 90 degrees its Portable Multimedia Player (PMP) function; and turned a full 180 degrees, high quality still images and MPEG-4 SVGA quality moving pictures can be taken. On camera editing means that it’s simple to keep the best material and cut unwanted elements without having to wait until you can get access to a computer.
The i7’s multimedia capabilities also provides access to the easy to use Tour Guide function providing quick access to information about places to see and things to do in over 4,000 regions in 30 countries. Further information can also be downloaded directly from the internet, and with 512 MB of internal memory you won’t need to worry about space for favourite travel tips.
Whilst equipped with compelling multimedia functionality, the i7 is first and foremost a high quality digital camera. In dimly lit situations, the i7s superior performance can be assured. The camera is equipped with the Samsung Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) system and ISO 1600 high sensitivity support so that images remain crisp and detailed even without a flash. It also features a Face Recognition feature for great portraits of friends, and family can always be guaranteed!
The striking new Samsung i7 is the perfect camera packed with intelligently integrated multimedia features. The i7 will retail at £249.99 and will be available from leading high street and online retailers from mid-March 2007.
January 30th, 2007
Nikon D40 Digital Camera Review
Digital Camera Reviews, OH
The Nikon D40 was announced just in time for the holiday buying season. Nikon’s goal with the D40 was to introduce an affordable digital SLR that is easy to use and compact to address a couple of the reasons why people decide against buying a digital SLR. The D40 features a 6.1 megapixel DX format sensor, a 2.5 inch LCD with a nice graphical user interface, and it comes as a kit with an 18-55mm lens for under $600.
NUTS & BOLTS
Viewfinder/LCD
Since this is a digital SLR, you get a true optical viewfinder. The viewfinder is actually very nice and bright. A diopter adjustment is available so that the focus point marks and information in the viewfinder are sharp. The viewfinder covers about 95% of the actual captured image. While shooting, camera settings (focus, metering, exposure compensation, aperture, shutter speed, etc) are very visible in green text and symbols below the frame.
For reviewing your images and working in the menu system, there is a single 2.5 inch LCD that has 230K pixels of resolution. To make the camera and its “info” display less intimidating, Nikon provides several options for the style of display, including a very polished graphical display. You can choose from “graphical”, “classic” and “wallpaper” display styles. The graphical interface displays all of the camera settings, but the information is laid out very simply. The classic view shows all the information that you need to know. The wallpaper mode lets you choose one of your images as wallpaper behind a layout similar to graphical mode. Shots of the interfaces are below.
Lens
Since the D40 is targeted at beginning users, it’s sold as a “kit” with one lens included. They include an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor lens. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 11 inches, an aperture range of f/3.5-f22 at wide angle and f/5.6-38 at telephoto. If you’re just starting out, this lens is a great start. As your skills get better, you can start checking out the other lenses that Nikon offers.
Focus Modes
The D40 has a 3-point AF system with a focus assist lamp for low-light conditions. You can let the camera decide the correct point to use, you can use the center point, or you can set the camera so that it lets you set the focus point using the directional pad on the back of the camera.
There are a few focus modes that can be used. AF-A lets the camera decide whether to use single AF for stationary subjects or continuous AF to keep moving subjects in focus. AF-S mode starts the auto focus process as soon as you partially press the shutter release. AF-C mode attempts to keep the subject focused continuously. Finally, you can switch the kit lens to manual mode so that you can focus by hand.
Flash
The built-in flash pops up automatically, when needed, in auto mode and the preset scene modes (what Nikon calls Digital Vari-Programs). When shooting in the ”exposure” modes (P, S, A, and M), the flash can be activated (popped-up) by pushing a button on the left side of the camera.
Memory Media
The Nikon D40 accepts only Secure Digital (SD) and SDHC media.
Image File Format(s)
You can save files as JPEG or NEF (Nikon’s RAW file format) files.
Connectivity
For transferring files, there is a USB 2.0 Hi-speed interface. There is also a video out jack for display images on a TV or other projector.
Power
The camera is powered by a 1000mAh lithium-ion battery. Battery life for single frame shooting, by CIPA standards is 470 shots. If you shoot continuous frames, the battery life is 2200 shots. These numbers are achieved in ideal conditions – real life conditions won’t achieve these numbers. The battery can be charged in about 90 minutes.
EXPOSURE
As you would expect with any digital SLR, there is a full complement of shooting modes. Nikon calls the easy modes Digital Vari-Programs. This term encompasses auto, auto with flash off, portrait, landscape, child, sports, close up, and night portrait modes. All of these modes are accessible by using the mode dial on top of the camera. If you want more creative control, you can use program auto (auto exposure with user input), aperture priority mode (you set the aperture while camera determines shutter speed), shutter priority mode (you set the shutter speed and the camera sets the aperture), and full manual mode. These modes are also accessible on the mode dial via P, A, S, and M indicators.
Metering
The D40 includes Nikon’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II system that evaluates the scene using a 420 segment sensor. The scene is then compared to 30,000 scenes in an onboard database to determine the best settings for the shot. You can also use center-weighted metering and spot metering. I was very pleased with the metering performance of the camera.
White Balance
The auto white balance is determined using the 420 segment RGB sensor in the camera. In addition to auto, there are six presets (incandescent, fluorescent, direct sunlight, flash, cloudy, shade) and a mode that you can set the white balance by using a reference card, or copying white balance settings from a picture on your memory card. You are free to change the white balance settings in the P, S, A, and M modes. While shooting in any of the Digital Vari-Programs, the white balance is set to auto. With the exception of the custom setting, the white balance presets can be fine-tuned.
Sensitivity
The ISO range on the D40 is from ISO 200-1600. An additional “Hi1” mode is roughly equivalent to ISO 3200. During the Digital Vari-Program there is an auto ISO option, in addition to the settings for a specific ISO. By default, while in P, S, A, and M modes, there is no option for “auto ISO”, but this can be changed with a setting in Custom Setting Menu.
In-Camera Image Adjustment
On digital SLRs in the past, there really haven’t been a ton of options for in-camera editing since the typical user was just going to download pictures and do their tweaking in Photoshop or other editing tools. As digital SLRs have come down in price, this “typical user” has changed to include casual shooters who like to have some options like this. With the D40, you can apply D-Lighting, apply red-eye correction, trim images, create a monochrome (B&W, sepia, or cyanotype) image from an existing one, or apply filter effects (sky light, warm filter, color balance). You can also create a small picture copy of an existing picture. If you have two RAW images that you want to combine, you can do so using the image overlay feature in the retouch menu.
CONTROLS, DESIGN, ENGINEERING, & ERGONOMICS
The D40 is Nikon’s lightest and most compact digital SLR. The body is plastic over a metal chassis, but it still feels very solid. The matte black finish sort of lessens the “plastic” feel of the camera. The battery and memory compartment doors are solid and it does have a metal tripod mount. While the camera is compact, I think that the lighter weight and “deep” grip will allow people with larger hands to still get a good grip. The shutter release is positioned well, as is the command dial on the back of the camera.
As far as controls, Nikon faced the challenge of making the camera appear simpler, yet setting up controls make it easy to tweak the camera settings. A “typical” digital SLR has many dedicated buttons that give you one-touch access to things like AF mode, white balance, ISO, etc., so you can leave the camera up to your face while you change settings. Nikon has minimized the number of buttons so one-touch access to most of these things is not there. However, they realized that the user of this camera is not a person who already owns a digital SLR, but a person that would like to make the jump to a digital SLR from a point and shoot. So, if you’re used to using a digital SLR with all of the buttons, you will probably not like the controls of the D40. However, if you’re just learning your way around an SLR, you’ll appreciate it.
Controlling the camera pretty much revolves around the Info screen. To save battery, the camera turns off the display at a pretty quick interval, but a button next to the shutter turns it on so you can see the settings. If you need to change the ISO, for example, you turn on the info screen, press the “I” button, use the directional pad to select the ISO setting, press Ok, and choose the ISO value that you want. There is a programmable function (Fn) button that can toggle through the settings that you’d like it to.
Technical Specifications
Focal Length, kit lens: 18-55mm
Sensor resolution: 6.1 megapixels
Optical zoom: 3x
LCD Monitor: 2.5 inch, 230K pixel, wide viewing angle
Shutter Speed: 30 – 1/4000 sec, bulb mode
Sensitivity: Auto, ISO 200, 400, 800, 1600, Hi ISO of 3200
Light Metering Mode: 3D Color Matrix Metering II, center-weighted, spot AF area
Exposure modes: Digital Vari-program (Auto, Auto [Flash Off], Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close Up, Night Portrait), Programmed Auto (P) with flexible program; Shutter-Priority Auto (S); Aperture Priority Auto (A); Manual (M)
Exposure Compensation: +/- 5 stops in 1/3-stop increments
White Balance Control: Auto, custom, incandescent, fluorescent, direct sunlight, flash, cloudy, shade
Shooting modes: 1) Single frame shooting mode; 2) Continuous shooting mode: approx. 2.5 frames per second*; 3) Self-timer mode; 4) Delayed remote mode: 2 s. delay; 5) Quick-response remote mode *Approx. 1.7 frames per second with Noise reduction turned on and approx. 1 frame per second with ISO HI1
Storage Media: SD, SDHC expansion slot
Computer Interface: USB 2.0 Hi-speed
Battery Type: lithium-ion battery (EN-EL9)
Weight: Approx. 1lb. 1oz. without battery, memory card or body cap
Dimensions: 5.0 x 2.5 x 3.7 inches
Included
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, battery charger, USB cable, PictureProject, rubber eyecup, camera strap, body cap, eyepiece cap, accessory shoe cap.
Optional
Wireless remote control, Capture NX, Camera Control Pro, AC adapter, AC adapter connector, video cable, semi-soft case, Speedlight SB-800/SB-600/SB-400/R1C1
PERFORMANCE
Image Quality
I was very impressed with the image quality from the D40, right out of the box (probably the most important aspect for beginning digital SLR users). Colors were reproduced well, as long as the white balance was set correctly. I highly recommend that you learn how to set a custom white balance, especially for indoor shots without the flash – your results will be much better. Flash shots and indoor shots with lots of light from windows turned out well, but some shots under different types of lighting took on a color cast that can easily be resolved by setting a custom white balance. Images had nice detail and good dynamic range.
Noise performance was also pretty good. ISO 200 was fairly noise free. Noise is visible at ISO 400 and 800, but would still be acceptable for fairly large prints. Noise at ISO 1600 was easily visible.
Timing/Shutter Lag
As you should expect from a digital SLR, the D40 operates quickly. The start-up time is not amazing, but if you leave the power switch on, the camera goes into a standby mode from which it can wake up from just about instantaneously.
Focus times are very good, and the focus assist lamp helps out quite a bit to achieve auto focus in low light. Shutter lag is minimal and more or less non-existent if you’ve completed a partial press of the shutter. If you have to do a full press of the shutter, the click to capture time is about 0.2 seconds. This time is needed to get a focus lock and calculate exposure.
Sample Images
Conclusion
The Nikon D40 is the “gateway drug” into the world of digital SLRs. The combination of nice price, high quality and ease of use is certain to lead to SLR addiction. With the D40, Nikon wants to make sure that you’re not intimidated by the controls or size of an SLR and I think that they’ve done a good job. Also, by including plenty of “help” features into the camera, it becomes very easy to figure out which setting does what.
Besides all of the features th make this a beginner-friendly camera, the D40 takes great pictures. It provides all of the flexibility and creative options that a beginning SLR user will need. The camera performs quickly and takes great shots. Sure, there are things about this camera that you could nit-pick, but I think that a package like this, with the quality and value that it provides, will be responsible for getting more people into using a digital SLR than any previous digital SLR.
I would highly recommend this camera to anyone looking for their first digital SLR and aren’t entirely comfortable with all the options that an SLR can offer. When you first get the camera, you can leave it in auto mode and enjoy the quick operation and excellent image quality that you get from an SLR. When you’re ready, you can start using the manual exposure modes and then start thinking about all the cool glass that you could get.
Pros
Easy to use
Takes great pictures “right out of the box”
Quick focus system and has focus assist lamp
Nice LCD and good user interface
Cons
Can’t really change settings without taking camera away from your face
Sometimes too many steps to make setting changes
The f3.5 kit lens is not that “fast” - the maximum aperture is not amazing - but this is a beginners camera
January 29th, 2007
Olympus SP-550 UZ Digital Camera
Buy N Shoot, Australia
Get up close and personal in a whole new way. With the world’s first wide 18x optical zoom, the Olympus SP-550 UZ accepts no limits, bringing photographers closer to far-away subjects. Capture candid street scenes from a discreet distance, or snap the details of a football game from way up in the stands – then even use the wide angle lens to see and shoot more within closer range: This model’s focal length spans an amazing 28-504mm (35mm camera equivalent)! Enjoy double protection against blur with Dual Image Stabilization. Even at high magnifications or when capturing fast-moving objects, this technology ensures that results are significantly sharper. Packing 7.1 Megapixels of detail-capturing power, the SP-550 UZ opens up a new realm of creative possibility – because if it’s in your life, it’s in your Olympus SP-550 UZ.
Come in close from afar
Explore the possibilities of this kind of magnification power. With an 18x wide zoom lens (equivalent to 28-504mm on a 35mm camera) there’s no need to disturb a subject, whether it be an animal wandering through the wilderness or people lounging in a city park. Since telephoto shots can be more prone to blur caused by camera shake, the SP-550 UZ features Dual Image Stabilization to help deliver the clearest results possible. Get a front-row view from a safe distance in high-action situations – and even make use of the phenomenally-high burst rate to take great sequential shots at speeds never before seen in this category: Up to 15 frames per second*!
See more all around
Experience a lens that’s simply more versatile. On top of astounding ultra-zoom attributes, its wide-angle capabilities reach to 28mm (35mm camera equivalent). The SP-550 UZ therefore offers photographers a broader perspective to see and do more. And with a 6.4cm LCD it’s easy to frame and capture shots without having to squint and make guesses about how the image will turn out.
Go for the details
See the world from a different point of view with Super Macro mode – making shots possible from as close as 1cm! From the tiniest wonders nature has to offer to the simple details of everyday life: The most unique photographic opportunities are at hand with the SP-550 UZ.
Capture the night
Don’t let low light ruin a photo-op: Count on integrated BrightCapture Technology to add brightness to any shot, even in movie mode! With the help of an extra-bright LCD, framing dim shots is no problem, making high-quality photo and video capture a reality in virtually any low-light situation.
Comfortable, creative control
Thanks to an ergonomic design plus the intuitive menu and button layouts, the SP-550 UZ is a delight to hold and just as much fun to operate. With P/A/S/M exposure modes and 23 scene modes available, there’s a perfect setting for every user. And 25 languages on board ensure that just about anyone can enjoy the camera’s user-friendly menus.
The versatile Olympus SP-550 UZ turns creative dreams into reality. Featuring the world’s first wide 18x optical zoom, this compact camera will be available from February 2007.
The SP-550 UZ main features:
- 18x wide optical zoom (equivalent to 28-504mm on a 35mm camera) 1:2.8-4.5
- Dual Image Stabilization
- 7.1 Megapixels
- 6.4cm/2.5” LCD with 230,000 pixels
- High burst rate (up to 15fps*)
- Super Macro mode (from as close as 1cm)
- P/A/S/M exposure modes
- BrightCapture Technology for better low light photography – also available in movie mode
- 23 scene modes (including Portrait, Sports, Night Scene)
- 25 languages on board
- Internal memory plus xD-Picture Card slot
- Supplied with Olympus Master software and four AA batteries
* In 1.2 Megapixel mode
About Olympus
In Greek mythology, Mt.Olympus is the home of the twelve supreme gods and goddesses. Olympus was named after this mountain to reflect its strong aspiration to create high quality, world famous products.
“Olympus” has been used as a trademark since the time of Takachiho Seisakusho, the predecessor of Olympus Corporation.
In Japanese mythology, it is said that eight million gods and goddesses live in Takamagahara, the peak of Mt.Takachiho. The name “Olympus” was selected as the trademark because Mt.Olympus, like Mt.Takachiho, was the home of gods and goddesses. This trademark is also imbued with the aspiration of Olympus to illuminate the world with its optical devices, just like Takamagahara brought light to the world.
Takachiho Seisakusho was renamed Takachiho Optical Co., Ltd. in 1942 when optical products became the mainstay of the company. In 1947, the name was changed again to Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. in an attempt to enhance its corporate image.
And in 2003, the company made a fresh start as Olympus Corporation, to show its willingness to establish a dynamic corporate brand by unifying the corporate name and the well-known brand.
In recent years, Olympus Corporation has focused on “Opto-Digital Technology” as its core competence, technological strengths that competitors cannot easily imitate, to maximize corporate value and to become one of the top optical instrument manufactures.
Visit the Olympus website
Locate an Olympus retailer
Source more news on Olympus digital cameras, news & press releases
January 26th, 2007
Olympus Stylus 770 SW Digital Camera Introduction
CameraTown.Com (press release), NH
Shockproof, Waterproof, Freezeproof and Crushproof Ultra-Compact Digital Camera is Designed to Capture Amazing Images Anywhere
CENTER VALLEY, Pa, January 25, 2007 – Olympus today rolled out the toughest digital camera in the Stylus series: the Stylus 770 SW. Built for active lifestyles, the 7.1-megapixel ultra-compact camera is designed to take great photos in nearly any environment, including in water down to depths of 33 feet (10 meters) and in winter weather as frigid as 18 degrees below freezing (14 degrees Fahrenheit; -10 degrees Celsius). It can also survive falls up to five feet and heavy loads up to 220 pounds of pressure. Within the camera’s rugged exterior is an array of innovative technologies to ensure clear, sharp images in the roughest of shooting situations.
The Stylus 770 SW boasts several signature features:
Shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof and crushproof, the Stylus 770 SW’s rugged body design is strong enough to sustain life’s adventures;
A large, bright 2.5-inch HyperCrystal™ LCD improves shooting and sharing pictures in bright-light and low-light situations; and
Digital Image Stabilization boosts ISO sensitivity and shutter speed to capture crisp, clear pictures when you or your subject is moving.
“Olympus pioneered the shockproof and waterproof category in 2006 with the Stylus SW series, and in many ways has changed the face of digital photography,” said Michael Barnett, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Today, we’re unveiling the Stylus 770 SW, which offers extended waterproof capabilities, increased durability and enhanced LCD performance. It’s perfect for the great outdoors or a night on the town, and it’s truly the anytime, anywhere digital camera.”
Designed to Withstand Drops from Five Feet
Built with durable materials and shock-absorption technology that minimizes the impact delivered to the lens and circuitry when dropped, the Stylus 770 SW delivers superior durability in a premium point-and-shoot digital camera.
Offers Increased Waterproof Capabilities
Take great photos down to 33 Feet (10 Meters)
By combining a lightweight, stainless steel exterior with rubber gaskets and O-rings to seal the interior from the elements, Olympus delivers a slim body design that performs as well under water (down to 33 feet/10 meters below the surface) as it does on land. Also, the inclusion of four custom underwater scene modes make the Stylus 770 SW the perfect camera for the pool, snorkeling and scuba diving. For those who want to explore greater depths, the PT-035 underwater housing, designed specifically for the Stylus 770 SW, enables the camera to venture approximately 130 feet (40 meters) beneath the surface.
Built-in Manometer Records Depth and Altitude
The Stylus 770 SW offers the first built-in manometer, which measures water and air pressure, enabling you to accurately monitor the depth or altitude of your images. It’s the perfect camera for adventure-seekers who want to snap shots while scuba diving, skiing and hiking. The depth and altitude are recorded when each image is taken, and the information is stored within each picture’s digital file. Wow friends and family with the exact depth or altitude of your favorite underwater snapshot, mountain landscape or any other image!
Water-Repellant Lens Coating
The Stylus 770 SW features a water-repellant lens coating to prevent water droplets from forming on the lens so you get crystal clear shots no matter how wet the shooting environment.
Freezeproof for Winter’s Bitter Cold
Harsh winter weather doesn’t stop outdoor enthusiasts, athletes and sports fans. Don’t let it stop you from capturing memorable moments. The Stylus 770 SW performs when mother nature dips below freezing (14 degrees Fahrenheit; -10 degrees Celsius).
Crushproof to 220 Pounds-Force
Thin enough to fit in a back pocket, the camera also features a durable stainless steel body and reinforced LCD panel engineered to withstand loads of up to 220 pounds-force. So you do not have to worry about damaging your camera in a backpack, luggage or by simply sitting down.
Large 2.5-Inch HyperCrystal™ LCD
The Stylus 770 SW boasts a large, high-resolution HyperCrystal™ LCD, which enables clear, high-contrast images. It increases the brightness of the LCD for better visibility in low-light and bright-light situations – perfect for composing subjects underwater or in direct sunlight. Images are also viewable on the 2.5-inch LCD from 140-degrees, enabling photos to be composed from a wider range of angles and viewed by several people at once.
Digital Image Stabilization
The Stylus 770 SW features Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) for capturing crisp, clear pictures. By boosting the camera’s ISO sensitivity and shutter speed, DIS freezes the action and provides blur-free images.
Bright Capture Technology for Easy Low-Light Photography
Low-light photography has never been easier thanks to Olympus’ revolutionary Bright Capture Technology. A brightened preview on the LCD enables simple composition; and with specific scene modes for high sensitivity settings (up to ISO 1600) and rapid auto-focus, even fast-action photos can be captured under low levels of available light.
LED Illuminator
An LED Illuminator works like a mini-flashlight on the front of the camera to enhance focus during macro shooting – great for underwater close-ups where light is scarce. The LED also works in conjunction with Bright Capture to help illuminate your subject when taking low-light portraits.
7.1-Megapixel Image Sensor for Superior Image Quality
The 7.1-megapixel CCD image sensor inside the Stylus 770 SW delivers high-quality images that are consistently sharp and vivid even in large-format prints – up to poster sizes as large as 16 x 20 inches.
Stylish, Compact, Rugged Design
The Stylus 770 SW combines light, durable body construction and shock-absorbing materials throughout the interior with the sealant technology used in Olympus underwater housings. In addition to the shockproof, waterproof and crushproof construction, the Stylus 770 SW features the stainless steel body and clean, smooth lines that make it the ideal pocket camera. At a thickness of less than 0.8 inch, the camera easily slips into a pocket, handbag or backpack.
High Quality Olympus Lens Elements
Olympus lenses are known worldwide for producing sharp, vibrant image quality. This is achieved through a number of key technologies, such as Olympus ED and high-refractive lens elements, designed specifically for digital cameras. The 3x lens provides the equivalent of 38 to 114mm focal length in 35mm photography to bring the action closer, and a Super Macro Mode that captures details as nuanced as the iridescent petals of a flower, from as close as 2.8 inches.
TruePic TURBO™ for High-Speed Response
Olympus’ exclusive TruePic TURBO™ Image Processor enhances image quality and delivers faster overall processing speeds for rapid startup, shutter release and playback. TruePic TURBOTM enables the Stylus 770 SW to capture information from all 7.1 million pixels with pixel “micro-smoothing” that delivers clearer and more color-accurate photos. The fast startup of less than one second and nearly instant shutter release time ensures a high-speed response so your camera is always ready to take great pictures.
27 Selectable Shooting Modes
With 24 pre-programmed scene modes, such as Beach & Snow, Available Light Portrait, Sunset, and Under Water Snapshot, the Stylus 770 SW makes it easy to capture beautiful images in a variety of lighting and shooting situations. Also, with its Movie Mode, the Stylus 770 SW can record VGA-quality videos with sound – above and below the water’s surface – limited only by the size of the internal memory or xD-Picture Card™ in the camera.
In-camera Editing
With in-camera editing features such as red-eye fix, resizing, adding frames or text, and color brightness or saturation adjustments, users can edit photos anywhere with ease – touch up or embellish your photos without your computer.
OLYMPUS Master™ Software
OLYMPUS Master™ software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums. And with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or e-mailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee? Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.
Olympus Premium and Sporty Carrying Cases
Olympus offers premium cases in six colors, including chocolate suede and red leather. A sporty neoprene case is also available for the Stylus 770 SW and is perfect for active or outdoor situations.
Availability
The Stylus 770 SW will be available in March 2007. It includes: a wrist strap, camera WIN/Mac USB cable, audio/video cable, LI-42B Li-Ion rechargeable battery and charger, manual, warranty card and OLYMPUS Master software (CD-ROM).
U.S. Pricing
Stylus 770 SW Estimated Street Price: $379.99 (U.S.)
ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhances peoples’ lives every day. These include:
Digital and film cameras
Professional SLR Imaging Systems
Digital and Microcassette recorders
Personal Photo Printers
Digital Media
Binoculars
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.
January 25th, 2007
Samsung VLUU i70 digital camera does text messages, packs HSDPA
Mobilemag.com
It’s nothing new anymore to find a cell phone that can tackle the same realm as a standalone digital camera, but the whole concept of “convergence” is going in the equal but opposite direction with the Samsung VLUU i70. This digital camera, unlike so many others that look similar, packs in HSDPA connectivity to let you latch onto the internet, as well as the ability to send and receive text messages.
While online with this 7-megapixel cam, you can download video and music, or alternatively, upload those snapshots that you just took directly to your PC via a remote connection. So, in a sense, it’s a PMP, intenet media device, camera, and a cell phone (sort of). In regards to the camera part of the picture, the Samsung VLUU i70 has got 3x optical zoom, image stabilization, ISO up to 1600, and a 3-inch LCD.
No word on pricing, but we expect more information to become available at PMA.
January 24th, 2007
GPS-Ready Digital Camera offers all-weather usability.
ThomasNet Industrial News Room (press release), NY
January 22, 2007 - Developed for outdoor location-based photography, 500SE incorporates precision GPS module that provides all-in-one functionality for geo-coding images and video at time of capture. Waterproof, shock-resistant camera can receive NMEA data streams from external GPS devices via on-board Bluetooth® radio. It can also send captures wirelessly via Bluetooth or WiFi®. Equipped with 8 MP, image-stabilized sensor, camera captures images and video files that support instant GIS integration.
Related categories: Vision Systems
January 23rd, 2007
Review: Pentax Optio A20 Digital Compact Camera
Blogcritics.org, OH
I approached the review of Pentax’s new little baby with some trepidation. Why, you may ask? Well, for the last 5 years I have been a Canon user through and through. I have had two of their Digital Ixus cameras (4 and 6MP - megapixel) and three of their Amateur status Digital SLRs (300D, 350D and 400D).
I have also played with the Canon 10MP Ixus, and was not all that impressed, hence the reason I stuck with our 6MP Ixus.
With that in mind, I came to the Optio not expecting too much. So far, all of the 10MP compacts that I have seen or seen shots from have not been all that impressive.
I was shocked by how well the A20 takes photos, with no advanced configuration.
The A20 is the replacement for Pentax’s much liked A10, but adds some nice touches. The most obvious is the 10 Effective Mega Pixel CCD Sensor with a max capture resolution of 3648 x 2736. Other features are Shake Reduction (3 modes), Facial Recognition, a soft flash mode and most importantly the new ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) processor.
Specifications
10.0 mega pixels
2.5inch TFT LCD screen
3x optical zoom equivalent to 38mm-114mm in 35mm format
22 MB Built-in memory
SD & SDHC memory card compatible
15cm macro
Sensitivity range - ISO64 - ISO800
Shutter speed range - 1/2000 sec. to 4 sec.
January 22nd, 2007
Deciphering digital camera jargon
Indian Muslims, CA
Washington, Jan 15 (DPA) Digital cameras stem from computers as much as they do from the optical heritage of film cameras. It’s no wonder then that today’s digital camera users are bombarded with a plethora of acronyms, just as computer users have been for years.
Buy a digital camera, and you’ll be confronted with terms such as RAW, ISO, and noise. What does all this mean?
Q: What’s a RAW file?
A: Many digital cameras take images in one of two formats: JPG and RAW. Some cameras even offer the option of recording images in both formats simultaneously.
A RAW file records image data directly from the camera’s main imaging chip, with little or no internal processing in areas such as contrast, saturation, and sharpness. JPEG files, on the other hand, are the result of a digital camera’s internal interpretation of the data it receives from the camera’s imaging chip, often called a “sensor”.
JPEG files are also compressed, meaning they have digitally thrown away some of the data that came from the camera’s imager, and as a result they’re almost always smaller than RAW files.
Just about any graphics viewer or editor can work with JPEG files. RAW files, on the other hand, often require the software that came with your camera. Many enthusiasts prefer RAW files because they want to be the ones who enhance the file in software.
Q: What is ISO?
A: ISO is a term that the digital camera makers borrowed from the film industry to describe how sensitive a camera’s sensor is to light. Short for International Standards Organisation, ISO levels on today’s digital cameras typically range from values of 100 to 1,600, with the lower numbers representing less light sensitivity.
When your camera’s sensor is more sensitive to light, it can be used in lower light situations, such as indoors. Brightly lit situations require less sensitivity to light, so lower ISO settings can be used.
Your camera’s internal metering system, which ensures properly exposed images, works in conjunction with the ISO setting of your camera to control how long the camera’s shutter must remain open to obtain a well lit image. If your ISO setting is too low for the light level available, your camera’s metre will force the shutter to remain open longer to let more light in, and you’ll have to hold the camera very steady - or have it on a tripod - in order to get a shake-free image.
For outdoor photography, ISO settings of 100-400 are appropriate. For indoor photography, settings of 400-1,600 are preferred. Generally you want to use the lowest ISO setting possible in a given light situation in order to avoid digital noise.
Q: What is digital noise?
A: When a digital camera has to boost its sensitivity to light in order to record an image properly, digital noise occurs. Digital noise manifests itself through tiny red and blue dots in an image - often more perceptible in large areas of uniform colour, such as the sky or ocean.
Analogous to digital noise would be the hiss you hear in audio sources when you need to turn up the sound in order to hear a weak signal. Digital noise can also be akin to film grain in photographic prints from film cameras.
At lower ISO settings, generally in the range of 100-200, digital noise is almost non-existent. As you increase the ISO of your digital camera, digital noise becomes more apparent. Noise will be so apparent at ISO settings above 800 that some camera users feel pictures taken at these higher ISO levels are unusable.
January 16th, 2007
Nikon Coolpix L5 Digital Camera Review
Digital Camera Reviews, OH
If it’s true that “good things come in small packages”, the Nikon Coolpix L5 has the small part down pat. Open the L5 box and you’ll find a camera that’s about the size of a pack of cigarettes, which makes for easy carrying options.
The camera is plastic but feels solid, and the silver metallic and chrome finish look modern. Fit and finish leave nothing to be desired. The L5 features a 7.2 mega pixel sensor and Nikon 5X optical zoom that provides a 35mm camera equivalent of 38 to 190mm focal lengths.
Photo composition and playback are accomplished by means of a 2.5 inch LCD monitor – there is no viewfinder. Despite its small size, the camera’s external controls can be accessed easily without overlapping buttons. The camera also features Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) system, which moves a lens element to help make sharper pictures at slower shutter speeds.
To give you an idea of the L5’s compact size, in the photo below it poses next to a Nikon D70 with the VR24-120 zoom lens, a DSLR camera with similar sensor capacity and lens focal lengths.
January 15th, 2007
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