Archive for February, 2008
Canon to buy a chunk of Hitachi’s LCD business
Digital Camera Reviews, OH
Reuters hit the wire first with a story this evening detailing Canon’s plans to purchase a 25-percent stake in Hitachi’s LCD manufacturing business.Â
According to the news agency, Canon will pay $403 million in the deal.Â
The move would give the imaging company more flexibility and control over production of the LCDs it needs for its digital cameras, camcorders, and copiers/printers. Canon has traditionally purchased its LCDs rather than having any controlling stake in their production.
It’s not hard to guess that the growing emphasis on LCD performance as a distinguishing feature and selling point for compact digital cameras in particular is likely a driving force behind Canon’s desire for more control in this part of the process. Look for the company to more uniquely spec its cameras in this area going forward.
Read more on Reuters’ website.
Full-frame controversy too much for Leica’s CEO
Several of the photography and electronics blogs have reported that Steven K. Lee, former CEO of historic high-end camera maker Leica, was let go this week after apparently revealing the company’s intentions to produce a full-frame upgrade for their uber-expensive M8 rangefinder.
Lee’s interview with the UK’s Amateur Photographer magazine given during PMA 2008 is at the center of the controversy. According to the magazine, Lee all but openly admitted that Leica would publicize its plans for a full-frame sensor upgrade for the M8 at the Photokina show this fall.
Amateur Photographer has the complete story on their website.
Worldwide digicam market: 122 million by 2010
PhotographyBlog.com is reporting today on a recent report from Global Industry Analysts, Inc. suggesting that the world digital camera market will hit 122 million units by 2010.
Not surprisingly, the report (entitled “Digital Cameras: A Global Strategic Business Report”) argues that Asian growth is anticipated to remain a driving force in the market over the next few years, though Europe and the US will still represent nearly 60 percent of the digital camera market. Equally unsurprising are the report’s conclusions about market-driving features: “ease of use, compact design, size, style, and convenience.”
The report also makes note of the increased prevalence of and interest in wireless communications for digital cameras, providing further support for our claim that this will be one of the defining technologies of the next several years as the implementation comes into its own.
See the original story for complete details.Â
Nikon unveils revamped corporate website
This evening, Nikon went live with a complete overhaul to its corporate website. The new online home is similar in structure and feel to the old site, but adds some visual interest and interactivity over its predecessor.
Also included in the redesign is a new blog called “Your Shot.” Designed as a space for users to provide feedback about the site, “Your Shot” opened this evening with commentary from Nikon’s Internet Communications Manager.
To see Nikon’s new space in action, check out www.nikonusa.com and blog.nikonusa.com.Â
February 28th, 2008
Digital Camera Shipments Grew 23 Percent In ’07
Twice, NY
FRAMINGHAM, MASS. — Digital camera vendors shipped 37.7 million digital cameras, including digital SLRs, into the U.S. market in 2007, according to research firm IDC.
The unit figure represents growth of 23 percent over 2006. For the fourth quarter, unit shipments grew 31 percent to reach 16.6 million units, IDC reported.
For the third year in a row, Canon led with a 23 percent share (up from 19 percent in 2006). Sony placed second with 18 percent of the market, Kodak was third with 16 percent, followed by Nikon (8.7 percent) and Olympus (6 percent).
February 26th, 2008
GE’s 2008 digital camera line-up
Gizmag, Australia
from Cameras and Imaging (313 articles)
The E840s
Image Gallery ( 2 images )
February 25, 2008 General Imaging, the worldwide exclusive licensee for GE digital cameras, has rolled out the next generation of GE digital cameras for 2008. The nine all-new models unveiled at the 2008 PMA trade show in Las Vegas brings the total number of cameras in the GE-branded digital camera line to 15. Features from last years models such as panorama stitching, face detection and in-camera red-eye removal will be combined with an assortment of additional features, including smile detection, blink detection, upgraded lenses, and LCD screens that adjust to changes in ambient light – all packed into slimmer camera bodies. One new model, the E1050, also adds HDTV playback, touch-screen and GPS capability.
The new models span the entry-level A series, the ultra-compact G series with folded optics (non-protruding lens), and the mid-priced E series. All 2008 models will include smile detection, which automatically detects when subjects are smiling and captures the photo at that point, and blink detection, which alerts the user if the subjects are blinking immediately after the photo is captured, allowing the photo to be retaken. New cameras in the E and G series will also include aspheric, all-glass lenses for sharper images and truer color reproduction, along with auto-adjust LCD screens that adapt to changing light conditions. Many of the new GE cameras are slimmer than their 2007 counterparts, with the G2 and G3 each measuring 18 mm thick, (just under ¾ of an inch), and in response to consumer feedback to the 2007 models, the flash was moved in some cases so it would be out of the way of the user’s shooting fingers.
The new E1050 boasts high-definition movie recording, HDTV playback capability for both movies and stills, user-friendly touch-screen controls for the 3 inch LCD screen to access more features with fewer buttons, and the option of a GPS receiver that allows photographers to keep track of exactly where they were when they shot their favorite scenes. The 10-megapixel E1050 also has a 28mm equivalent wide-angle lens, 5x optical zoom, 4.5x digital zoom, is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and is available for US$249.99 MSRP. Many of the new models will begin reaching store shelves by early spring, while the X3, which boasts state-of-the-art optical image stabilization, 10.7-megapixel resolution, 12x optical zoom and 4.5x digital zoom for a maximum zoom of 54x, is also on the way.
GE digital cameras are now available throughout the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Europe and Asia. To check out the full line up visit GE.
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camera
Digital Cameras
February 25th, 2008
Digital Camera: The Fun Way To Bundle Memories
Best Syndication, CA
Memorable moments of life are to be preserved so that they can be cherished at any future point of time. Some decades ago, this task was taken care by traditional cameras that were able to capture still images, but they provided low image resolutions and distorted quality. Eventually man in his hunt for bringing an effective solution to this problem created digital camera.
Digital cameras took off from where the traditional cameras of the past gave up and have over the time fulfilled the dreams of many photo enthusiasts and others with a different image capturing experience. You can easily capture videos as well as still images with these cameras. These cameras are even suitable for digital SLR photography.
They are quite high on resolution and pixels and deliver consistent and reliable image solutions to all without fail. Moreover, they are easy-to-use and carry as they come with user-friendly buttons and are lightweight and portable.
Digital camera delivers a high performance with the built-in functionality for high pixels, image clarity, resolution and smart features such as red eye reduction, flash, night mode and auto focus to name a few, so that the user can easily click special moments of life.
There are many leading names in the present day digital camera market such as Sony, Panasonic and Nikon to name a few. Nikon digital cameras are among the very few cameras in the modern day digital camera market that make use of seamless technology to deliver exceptional image solutions with perfect ease and control. The Nikon digital cameras are easy-to-use, affordable, and user-friendly and at the same time come with world class image solutions and technology.
The popularity of digital cameras is on an all-time high since the last few years. Earlier, a digital camera was an obsession for the high-class but with the emergence of new market players and reduced prices, even other sections of the society are now able to put their hands on these devices.
Thus, it can be easily said that with the prices of digital camera expected to fall down in the coming years, it will not take a long time before it becomes a necessity for all than just a mere luxury device.
The author is a specialist in retail writing. Her writing skills reflect the outcome of years of exposure to the retail industry. Working with retail giants as a consultant has enriched her knowledge base and her passion for writing got fire. She can be read regularly on RetailsDirect.com. For details please visit: www.retailsdirect.com – Online Shopping Store
February 22nd, 2008
Digital Camera: The Fun Way To Bundle Memories
Best Syndication, CA
Memorable moments of life are to be preserved so that they can be cherished at any future point of time. Some decades ago, this task was taken care by traditional cameras that were able to capture still images, but they provided low image resolutions and distorted quality. Eventually man in his hunt for bringing an effective solution to this problem created digital camera.
Digital cameras took off from where the traditional cameras of the past gave up and have over the time fulfilled the dreams of many photo enthusiasts and others with a different image capturing experience. You can easily capture videos as well as still images with these cameras. These cameras are even suitable for digital SLR photography.
They are quite high on resolution and pixels and deliver consistent and reliable image solutions to all without fail. Moreover, they are easy-to-use and carry as they come with user-friendly buttons and are lightweight and portable.
Digital camera delivers a high performance with the built-in functionality for high pixels, image clarity, resolution and smart features such as red eye reduction, flash, night mode and auto focus to name a few, so that the user can easily click special moments of life.
There are many leading names in the present day digital camera market such as Sony, Panasonic and Nikon to name a few. Nikon digital cameras are among the very few cameras in the modern day digital camera market that make use of seamless technology to deliver exceptional image solutions with perfect ease and control. The Nikon digital cameras are easy-to-use, affordable, and user-friendly and at the same time come with world class image solutions and technology.
The popularity of digital cameras is on an all-time high since the last few years. Earlier, a digital camera was an obsession for the high-class but with the emergence of new market players and reduced prices, even other sections of the society are now able to put their hands on these devices.
Thus, it can be easily said that with the prices of digital camera expected to fall down in the coming years, it will not take a long time before it becomes a necessity for all than just a mere luxury device.
The author is a specialist in retail writing. Her writing skills reflect the outcome of years of exposure to the retail industry. Working with retail giants as a consultant has enriched her knowledge base and her passion for writing got fire. She can be read regularly on RetailsDirect.com. For details please visit: www.retailsdirect.com – Online Shopping Store
February 21st, 2008
Ricoh launches R8 compact digital camera
PC Advisor, UK
February 19, 2008
Ricoh has launched the R8 compact digital camera. The successor to its R7 digital compact camera, the R8 is a 10MP camera priced at £249.99 which features a 7.1 optical wide angle zoom lens and 2.7in HVGA LCD screen.
Measuring 102 x 58.3 x 26.1mm, the slim-line has been re-designed and includes a rubber hand grip that “fits perfectly in your hand”. Users will benefit from the CCD-shift vibration correction function and Face recognition mode, which automatically identifies faces in a scene and optimises the focus, exposure and white balance for the faces.
The camera also offers the 1:1 aspect square format photography function which according to Ricoh offers a “composition that has quite a different feel from the standard rectangular vertical or horizontal formats”. A movie recording function offers the capability to record up to 90 minutes of film. The R8 benefits from a 24MB internal memory but is also compatible with SD cards up to 2GB and SDHC cards up to 8GB.
The rechargeable DB-70 battery that comes bundled with the camera is expected to offer a life of 270 pictures and a battery charger, USB cable, AV cable, two hand straps and software is also included.
The R8 is available in three colours; black, silver or two-tone and can be purchased from March 2008 for £249.99 inc VAT.
See our reviews of the Ricoh Caplio R6 compact digital camera and Ricoh’s Aficio CL3500N colour laser printer
February 20th, 2008
Alpha DSLR-A350 Digital SLR with SAL-1870 Zoom Lens
CameraTown.Com (press release), NH
Description:
Attach the included DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens (SAL-1870 ) and start expressing yourself. With incredible 14.2 MP detail, Sony’s α (alpha) DSLR-A350 raises the bar. This model pushes the envelope, setting a new standard of excellence for step-up digital photographers shooting both family memories and fine-art photos. Live Preview in a large 2.7″ LCD screen links you and your subject-and you’ll have special features like super-quick AF response, continuous shooting at 2 fps while you see your subject in the viewfinder, Creative Style modes for quick recall of custom settings, and in-camera Super SteadyShot® image stabilization that reduces blur for every Sony, Carl Zeiss® and legacy Minolta a-mount lens.
14.2 MP Super HADâ„¢ CCD
The highest pixel resolution in its class (as of January 2008), for spectacular image detail for making big prints and tight crops. An advanced APS-size CCD imager developed by Sony expands dynamic range and minimizes noise more effectively for clear, sharp photos even at high sensitivity setting (up to ISO 3200).
Live Preview of Your Subject
The DSLR-A350′s Live Preview mode links you and your subject on a large 2.7″1 LCD screen, for a familiar point-and-shoot style — with super-quick AF response and accurate exposure control to help you catch the perfect moment. In Live Preview mode, the camera bypasses the optical pentaprism mirror to create a live “eye-to-eye” view on the LCD of loved ones, children, pets and fast-changing scenes.
Tiltable 2.7″ 1 Clear Photo LCD Plusâ„¢ Screen
A large built-in screen with 2-way angle tilt provides a sharp, clear view of your subject and tilts up or down for low-angle or high-angle monitoring in situations where you want a child-level or overhead shot.
Continuous Shooting While Viewing
The DSLR-A350 lets you shoot continuously at up to 2 frames per second while you see your subject in the large 2.7″ LCD viewfinder2, so you never lose track of the action. In JPEG mode, you can shoot up to the limit of your flash memory card; in RAW Burst Mode you can capture up to 4 shots, with intelligent buffer management to allow more shots to be captured without waiting for the buffer to clear.
Smart Teleconverter 2X Zoom
At the touch of a button you can zoom in electronically on your subject, reproducing pixels on a 1:1 basis with no degradation in picture quality. One touch zooms in at 1.4X, the second touch advances to 2X zoom — creating the 35mm equivalent of a 200mm telephoto effect with the DSLR-A350′s standard 18-70mm zoom lens.
Expanded ISO Sensitivity
A broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the DSLR-A350 to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light — with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.
Super SteadyShot® In-Camera Image Stabilization
Because image stabilization is built into the DSLR-A350, every lens benefits by an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 exposure steps. This allows you to shoot effectively with minimum blur even in low light without flash — or adjust exposure control for smaller lens aperture to increase depth of field and bring both foreground and background into sharp focus.
Bionzâ„¢ Image Processor
The “brain” of the α (alpha) DSLR-A350 is the advanced Sony Bionzâ„¢ Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, improved white balance and exposure control, and expanded D-Range Optimizer capabilities. With 2-channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster.
1200-zone Evaluative Metering5
Information from the image sensor dedicated to Live View is divided into 1200 zones of luminance and RGB color information. In addition D-Range Optimizer technology contributes to judge the scene and then determine the optimum exposure to reproduce images with a more natural look.
Dynamic Range Optimizer
To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the DSLR-A350 provides Dynamic Range Optimizer at two levels: Normal DRO, to improve detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, or Advanced DRO, to adjust dynamic range area-by-area for the greatest precision.
Anti-Dust Technology
Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera — so to keep the CCD imager cleaner for better pictures, the DSLR-A350 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.
Auto Pop-Up Flash
The camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed, to help first-time DSLR photographers shoot more effectively. Auto Pop-up works in Auto mode and some scene selection modes; Flash is cancelled in Landscape, Sport or Sunset modes and in “Flash Off” position on the Exposure Mode dial.
Eye-Start Autofocus System
It begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye — so unlike some DSLR cameras that don’t start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony DSLR-A350 never slows down your ability to catch fast action.
9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor
A fast focus motor and improved focus control help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, with predictive focus control that automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject.
Scene Selection Modes
Along with auto exposure, the DSLR-A350 gives you scene selection modes to optimize camera performance for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations.
Creative Style Settings
To express your creativity and personal taste, you can adjust contrast, saturation and sharpness settings for any of 8 finishing styles — including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B&W and Adobe RGB modes.
Index and Slide Show Display
To quickly review your photos, the DSLR-A350 can display 4, 9 or 25-frame index views — or present automatic slide shows with fade-in/fade-out effect.
High-Resolution Thumbnails for PhotoTV HD Viewing4
The DSLR-A350 automatically creates high-resolution thumbnail images for viewing on Sony’s BRAVIA® HDTV in optimized PhotoTV HD mode, with image format adjustable for standard 3:2 or widescreen 16:9 display.
Function Guide Display
On-screen menus are intuitive and easy to use — and a simple Camera Function Display can be activated and operated with one hand using the “Fn”(Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.
Stamina® Battery Power
In optical viewfinder mode, you can take up to 730 shots3 on a fully charged NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM® battery — and you’ll be able to see about how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.
High-Capacity Media Options
For conveniently storing and sharing your images, the DSLR-A350 accepts CompactFlashâ„¢ Type I/II media and optional Memory Stick PRO Duoâ„¢ media.
Advanced Lenses and Accessories
Sony’s α (alpha) system gives you everything you need to expand your creativity in DSLR photography: precision Sony DT zoom lenses and specialty lenses, Sony “G” Series lenses with advanced motorized autofocusing, amazingly bright Carl Zeiss® lens designs, professional-quality flash units, and over 16 million Minolta a-mount lenses sold worldwide.
February 19th, 2008
Digital Camera Buyer’s Guide 2008
InformationWeek, NY
Here’s how to find a DSLR, point-and-shoot, or ultra-compact digital camera that’s right for you, with a look at models from Nikon, Olympus, Sony, Canon, and FujiFilm.
By Don Reisinger
InformationWeek
February 16, 2008 07:00 AM
Digital cameras area a great tool for capturing special memories. But the moment you decide you want to buy one of these devices, you step into a baffling world where terms like ‘megapixel,’ ‘digital zoom,’ and ‘optical zoom’ are tossed around. This guide will explain some of these terms and guide you toward a camera that fits your needs.
Getting to know what to look for in digital cameras and finding the best device to match your photographic intentions is not as difficult as you think. The best place to start is with an explanation of the three main classes of digital cameras: Digital single-lens reflex (DSLR), point-and-shoot, and ultra-compact. We’ll look at what these cameras can do and give examples of each type of camera.
The Three Types Of Digital Cameras: DSLRs, Point-and-Shoot, Ultra Compact
If taking a great picture is your greatest concern and cost is barely an issue, DSLR cameras are the way to go. And as long as you don’t mind lugging a slew of lenses and components around, you won’t be upset with the quality of your image.
Digital single-lens reflex cameras come in a slew of shapes and sizes. And although they appeal to the advanced photographer who wants the greatest amount of control, they range in price from $500 to well over $10,000.
DSLRs are unique because their lenses can be removed and replaced depending on the type of pictures you want to take. Because of that (and to keep the price down), don’t expect a lens to ship with the camera; you’ll need to purchase one separately.
In order to take the picture, DSLRs use an automatic mirror system and a five-sided prism to direct light from the lens, through the viewfinder so you can see what you’re shooting. Dubbed ‘lens reflex’, this method of capturing images requires users to look through the viewfinder in order to frame the shot, unlike ultra-compact cameras and some point-and-shoots, which require users to frame the shot with the LCD on the back. For more on How Digital Cameras Work
February 18th, 2008
Digital Camera News, 2/17/08
Nikon posts new D300 firmware version
Digital Camera Reviews, OH
Nikon has released firmware version 1.02 for its D300 digital SLR. Per the announcement, the latest version corrects “an issue that, in rare cases, caused vertical bands (lines) to appear in images captured at shutter speeds slower than 8s.”
To download the updated firmware using either a PC or Macintosh, visit the link to Nikon’s site here.
Sigma SD14 firmware update announced
Firmware version 1.06 for Sigma’s SD14 has been released on the manufacturer’s website. The update improves the accuracy of the camera’s white balance system, fixes an image recorded date issue, and makes some changes to the camera’s image review and shutter release button functionalities.
February 18th, 2008
New digital smart cameras perform human-like feats
Face recognition among cool features
Steve Makris , The Edmonton Journal
Published: Thursday, February 14, 2008
Canada.com, Canada
LAS VEGAS – Kodak founder George Eastman coined the phrase “You press the button, we do the rest,” more than a century ago.
He couldn’t imagine what pressing the button in today’s digital smart cameras will do.
Like how about your camera automatically taking the photo when everyone is smiling?
Or never having to race to the right spot when the camera is on self-timer because it recognizes you when you walk into its view?
Such human-like feats will be showing up in this year’s crop of cameras, shown at the 2008 PMA (Photo Marketing Association) show in Las Vegas last month.
www.FotoNation.com demonstrated its smile shutter and self-portrait modes, based on its patented face-tracking technology, now in most consumer digital camera brands as well as cellphones.
It recognizes faces in a photo and draws squares on each one, following them on the camera LCD viewfinder.
The camera makes sure the selected faces are in focus and get the best exposure. In cellphones, it can conveniently crop each face out for your contact list.
FotoNation technology also fixes red-eye in the camera right after the photo is taken.
Many other cool features are showing up in cameras coming out later this year in Canada.
- www.Samsung.ca has a fresh perspective on getting more out of photography.
Its consumer digital-SLR will beam pictures right after they are taken to Samsung flat panel TVs already equipped with wireless receivers for cordless connection to stereo and TV components. This instant big-picture show-and-tell will work anywhere within 30 metres.
The company’s flagship NV24HD 10 megapixel point-and-shoot camera features an audible beep indicating your entire face and friends are in the frame when pointing the camera at yourself for a self portrait. The raised knobby touch sensitive controls along the sides of the screen are easy to get to with less guesswork and keep fingerprints off the viewfinder.
- The Olympus SP-570 Ultra Zoom 10 megapixel digital compact camera, stands out from the crowd with a 20X optical zoom from 26mm wide angle equivalent, to 520mm telephoto. The camera fills the needs for those wanting the best quality in a wide zoom range that only optical lenses offer.
- A small Korean company, DiCAPac.com, showed waterproof plastic bags for personal digital assistants, compact and SLR cameras and MP3 players, including a seal for the headphone cord. The heavy duty see-through plastic allows full functionality of devices, including clear hearing and talking on cellphones, and are good to three metres. They also keep sand and dust away. Available now on Amazon.com
- One of my pet peeves on cameras is not being able to see the controls when shooting in a dark room. Olympus solved that with illuminated controls on their Stylus 1010. Every camera should have this feature.
- Canon is pushing the limits on how much serious technology can go in a digital SLR aimed at the consumer market. The new EOS Rebel XSi 12.2 megapixel DSLR features a three-inch diagonal screen with a live view for seeing the picture before you shoot it. It has sensor dust removal and will be available in a kit with an image stabilizing EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens for less than $1,000.
- Flash memory cards for digital cameras are expanding to unthinkable storage sizes. Current SD cards up to two gigabytes are making way for four-GB, eight-GB and now 16 GB SDHC (secure digital high capacity or SH 2.0) memory cards. That will allow longer high definition movie recording on a new wave of palm-size camcorders.
Steve Makris is a freelance technology writer and can be reached at www.stevoid.wordpress.com. He can also be seen on Global TV’s Monday morning news.
SCENE AND NOTED
For better pictures, make frequent use of your digital camera’s scene mode. It has settings for taking good pictures in tricky situations like sandy beaches, bright snow, museums, candlelight or back-lighted photos and more.
© The Edmonton Journal 2008
February 15th, 2008
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