The 16-megapixel Olympus SH-50 is the new flagship of the manufacturer’s Stylus Traveller range, featuring 24x optical zoom and a hybrid 5-axis Movie image stabilisation system. First seen in the Olympus OM-D E-M5 compact system camera, the manufacturer’s 5-axis Movie IS allows users to record shake-free video footage even when hand-holding the camera - and also helps when taking still photographs. Other highlights include 1080/60i/30p Full HD movie recording with sound as well as 720p HD with 120fps or HVGA with 240fps high-speed movie recording for slow-motion playback of fast-action scenes; a telemacro mode for shooting close-ups from as far as 40cm from the subject (great for timid creatures or stinging insects), “M” mode for manual adjustment of aperture and exposure time, and FlashAir compatibility for transferring password-protected images to selected smartphones and social networks. The Olympus SH-50 will be available from mid-March for £249.99.

The Olympus TG-2 is a new rugged camera with a 12-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a 25-100mm equivalent zoom lens with an f/2 maximum aperture at the wide end. New to the TG-2 is a telemacro mode which, when combined with a subject distance of 1cm, effectively turns the camera into a digital microscope. Waterproof to a depth of 15 metres, shockproof to a height of 2.1m, freeze proof to -10°C and crushproof to a force of 100kg, the Olympus TG-2 is FlashAir compatible fortransferring password-protected images to selected smartphones and social networks. Other highlights include GPS tracking, Full HD movie capture and video recording at up to 240 frames per second. The Olympus TG-2 will go on sale in early February, priced at £349.99.

Samsung has unveiled a range of upgraded “smart” cameras and the first devices to run on the new technology: the WB250F/WB200F, the WB800F, WB30F, DV150F and ST150F. The Samsung WB250F (pictured) and WB200F boast 18x optical zoom, a 14.2 Megapixel BSI CMOS (WB250F) or CCD (WB200F) sensor and 24mm equivalent wide angle. With the addition of Wi-Fi capabilities, users can share high-quality photos quickly and easily. The WB250F is completed with pop-up flash and is available across four colours; white, cobalt black, gun metal and red. The WB800F is a classic long-zoom camera, with 21x optical zoom and a 16.3 Megapixel BSI CMOS sensor. Built around a hybrid user interface, the Samsung WB800F has both a touchscreen and a five-way manual key. The WB30F is the range’s new ‘mini model’ with 10x optical zoom and 24mm, wide angle lens, in an ultra-slim body that is only 17mm thick. Extra features built into the slim and stylish design include Magic Frame and Live Panorama. Housed in a stylish aluminium body, the Samsung DV150F combines Wi-Fi connectivity with a 2.7” Front LCD for easy and simple self-portraits. “The imaging technology of the DV150F, a 16.2 Megapixel CCD sensor, f/2.5 25mm bright lens and 5x optical zoom, deliver outstanding quality pictures that can then be shared instantly via Wi-Fi,” the company says. The Samsung ST150F also comes with a 25-125mm equivalent lens, f/2,5 maximum aperture 16.2-megapixel CCD sensor and integrated Wi-Fi, but lacks the DV150F’s front mounted LCD.

Want to see exactly what the new Fujifilm X20 camera looks like in the flesh?

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The Fujifilm X20 is a premium compact camera with a 12 megapixel X-Trans CMOS II sensor, EXR Processor II, 4x optical zoom lens, phase detection auto-focusing as fast as 0.06 seconds, and an Advanced Optical Viewfinder.

Successor to the critically acclaimed X100, the Fujifilm X100S is an updated model with a 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, an ultra-fast hybrid AF system, the world’s first “Digital Split Image” feature for precise manual focussing, and new EXR Processor II for speedy response times including a start-up time of approximately 0.5 seconds, and a shooting interval of 0.5 seconds. The newly-developed X-Trans CMOS II sensor has built-in Phase Detection pixels which enable the Fuji X100S to achieve a focus lock in as little as 0.08 second which, coupled with a shutter lag of only 0.01 second allows you to react quickly and capture each moment you want to with no missed photo opportunities, the company claims. In addition to the new features, the Fujifilm X100S retains its predecessor’s famed Hybrid Viewfinder, sharp Fujinon 23mm f/2 lens and unique styling.

The new Fujifilm X20 is successor to the well-received X10, featuring a bright optical viewfinder with a newly developed Digital Trans Panel, brand new 12 megapixel 2/3-type X-Trans CMOS II sensor with built-in Phase Detection pixels and no low-pass filter. The hybrid auto focus system enables the Fuji X20 to achieve focus lock in as little as 0.06 second, while the new EXR Processor II offers fast responses with a start-up time of approximately 0.5 second, a shutter lag of 0.01 second and a shooting interval of 0.5 second, providing advanced flexibility. The X20 also delivers an impressive burst rate of 12 frames per second at the full 12 megapixel resolution. The Intelligent Hybrid AF automatically switches to Contrast AF when the subject or scene demands it to ensure that the camera always auto-focuses at the highest speed and precision levels possible. In addition, a Focus Peak Highlight feature is available to help photographers manually focus the lens by highlighting the area of the image currently in focus. Inherited from the Fujifilm X10, the high-precision f/2.0-2.8 4x manual barrel zoom lens is made up of 11 glass elements in 9 groups, including 3 aspherical lens elements and 2 extra-low dispersion lens elements. In Super Macro mode you can get as close as 1cm from your subject.

The Fujifilm Finepix HS50EXR is a new bridge camera with a 16-megapixel sensor, 24-1000mm equivalent superzoom lens and an ultra-fast hybrid AF system. The newly developed 42x Fujinon zoom lens offers the precision of a manual barrel zoom, and features optical image stabilisation as well as an optical formula that comprises 17 elements in total, 15 of which have Fujinon’s Super EBC coating on both sides for reducing ghosting and flare. The biggest difference over the previous HS30EXR is the inclusion of Phase Detection pixels on the sensor to achieve an incredibly short autofocus lag of just 0.05 second in ideal conditions, less than a third of the already remarkable 0.16-second focus lag of its predecessor.

The Fujifilm FinePix SL1000 is a raw-capable 16-megapixel superzoom camera with 50x optical zoom, Full HD video, 920K dot EVF, tilting 3” LCD screen, an extensive range of manual controls and a conventional mode dial with P, A, S and M exposure modes. The newly developed, 24-1200mm eq. f/2.9-6.5 Fujinon lens features Optical Image Stabilisation and an optical formula that comprises 17 elements in 12 groups including a number of aspherical and ED elements. Thanks to an eye proximity sensor, the Fuji SL1000 is able to switch automatically between the EVF and the articulated rear screen by sensing whenever your eye is near. The camera offers Panoramic shooting just by pressing the shutter and spinning on the spot. You can also create 3D shots by combining two separate shots, taken from slightly different angles. Other highlights include a 1cm Super Macro mode, Full HD video with stereo sound, a 3-level zoom switch, a flash hot-shoe, and a Function button which can be assigned to frequently used features.

Fujifilm has announced new additions to its Finepix S range of superzoom/bridge cameras. The Fujifilm FinePix S8200 and S8500 feature high-precision Fujinon lenses (24-960mm equivalent on the S8200 and 24-1104mm equivalent on the S8500) plus powerful lens shift Optical Image Stabilisation. Featuring 17 elements in 12 groups, and combining aspherical and ED elements, these lenses cover everything from ultra-wideangle to extreme telephoto, with a 1cm super macro mode thrown in for good measure. The Fuji S8200 and S8500 both house 16-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensors, and boast autofocus speeds of 0.3 seconds, a start-up time of 1 second, a 0.5 second interval between shots and a continuous shooting speed of 10fps at full resolution. Both new S series cameras come with built-in 200K dot EVFs, 460K dot rear sreens and Full HD video recording capabilities, and both are powered by readily available AA sized batteries.

The Fujifilm FinePix XP60 is the latest addition to Fuji’s XP range of rugged cameras. Dust- and sandproof, waterproof to a depth of 6m, shockproof from a height of 1.5m and freezeproof down to -10 °C, the Fujifilm FinePix XP60 has a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and an internally stacked 28-140mm equivalent zoom lens. With the fast read-out and high speed processing of the CMOS image sensor and processor, the XP60 can record Full 1080i HD videos at 60 frames per second (fps), while high-speed video recording for slow-motion playback is also available at frame rates of up to 240fps, at reduced resolutions. Sensor-shift image stabilisation, 10fps continuous shooting, Motion Panorama and HDR imaging round off the features list.

The Fujifilm FinePix T500 is a slim travelzoom camera with 12x optical zoom. The lens offers a 35mm equivalent focal length range of 25-288mm, while the camera’s CCD sensor can capture 720p HD video in addition to 16-megapixel stills. Video recording can be started in an instant, thanks to the dedicated Movie recording button. Additionally, the Fuji T500 features a new Advanced Filter option that lets users choose from 6 creative patterns including Pop Colour, Toy Camera, Miniature, Partial Colour and Soft Focus.

Want to see exactly what the new Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FT5 and FT25 cameras look like in the flesh?

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The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FT5 is an action camera that’s Waterproof to a depth of 12 metres, shockproof from a height of 2 metres, freeze proof from a temperature of -10 degrees Celsius and pressure resistant to 100kg.

The FT25 is waterproof to a depth of 7 meters, shockproof from a height of 1.5 metres and freeze proof down to a temperature of -10 degrees Celsius.

Want to see exactly what the new Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ40 and TZ35 cameras look like in the flesh?

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The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ40 is Panasonic’s most advanced photo and video hybrid compact camera to date, with a 20x Optical Zoom, 50p Full HD video recording and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Panasonic will also be launching the DMC-TZ35 which has the same features as the TZ40 but includes a slightly smaller 16.1 megapixel, high sensitivity MOS Sensor and is without Wi-Fi connectivity.

Want to see exactly what the new Panasonic LUMIX DMC-SZ9 and SZ3 cameras look like in the flesh?

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The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-SZ9 has a 10x Optical Zoom LEICA DC lens, 24x digital intelligent zoom, 25mm wide angle lens, 10fps (frames per second) burst shooting, Wi-Fi connectivity and 14 creative effects, all packed into a sleek slim design.

The LUMIX DMC-SZ3 retains the slim, stylish design this family of compacts is known for, with a slightly smaller 2.7” LCD screen, 16.1 megapixel MOS sensor and 1280 x 720 HD video capabilities.

Want to see exactly what the new Panasonic LUMIX DMC-XS1 camera look like in the flesh?

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The LUMIX DMC-XS1 offers users the ultimate in compact style and substance, combining amazing camera performance with stunning design. With 16.1 megapixels and at just 14mm thick, the XS1 is the perfect accessory for anyone taking regular pictures on the go.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 is a 16-megapixel camera with 35x optical zoom. The lens has a 35mm equivalent focal range of 25-875mm and features an optical formula comprising14 elements in 10 groups including three extra-low-dispersion elements and one dual-sided aspherical lens element. Manual operation is available for LZ30 users with P and M modes expanding the photographic experience and for those who enjoy more creative photography. Thanks to newly integrated creative controls the DMC-LZ30 lets users shoot with a filter effect (Expressive, Retro, Low Key, High Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process and One Point Color) that can be pre-visualised on-screen before taking a photo. Furthermore, a Creative Retouch function is available within the camera and enables applying a filter effect (Retro, Low Key, High Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Toy Effect, Miniature Effect, Star Filter and One Point Color) to the picture after shooting. Panorama Shot and HDR are also incorporated in the Panasonic LZ30. The thriee-inch, 460,000-dot LCD ensures high visibility in any lighting circumstances, which is excellent for both shooting and playing back images, the company claims. The Panasonic Lumix. LZ30 will be available from April.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 is a slim, pocket-sized camera with a 16.1-megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, Mega optical image stabiliser and 13 Creative Control filters. Available in a range of 4 different colours including, red, purple, black and white; the Panasonic XS1 comes with a 2.7” screen and offers 720p HD video recording in addition to stills capture. The Panoramic Shot mode enables users to easily take 180-degree panoramic images just by swivelling the camera. The Lumix XS1 will be in available in the stores and online from February. Two similarly styled Lumix compact cameras are also available from Panasonic in the shape of the DMC-FS50 and DMC-F5. The FS50 provides identical performance to the XS1 (minus Creative Control filters) in an ever so slightly larger package. The new, entry-level Lumix F5 retains the design and image stabiliser of the XS1 and FS50 but comes with a 14-megapixel sensor.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ9 is a slim digital compact camera featuring a sixteen-megapixel sensor, 10x optical zoom, 10fps burst shooting and Wi-Fi connectivity. Fitted with a 25-250mm equivalent lens, the SZ9 boasts approx. 0.1-second “Light Speed AF,” integrated GPS and Full HD video recording capabilities. Equipped with 14 creative effects such as soft focus, toy effect and retro, the SZ9 also sports a three-inch LCD screen, while the GPS functionality allows you to record your location and view the map with the associated photos directly on your camera. Also announced today is the Panasonic SZ3, a similar camera that comes with a slightly smaller rear display and 720p video but retains the 16.1-megapixel sensor (CCD rather than CMOS) and 10x optical zoom of the SZ9.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ40 (sold as the ZS30 in the US) is a new travelzoom camera with an 18.1-megapixel sensor, 20x optical zoom, 50p Full HD video, 5-axis image stabiliser and Wi-Fi. Other highlights include “Light Speed AF,” which allows the camera to lock focus on a subject in as little as 0.1 second; manual exposure control, a 10fps burst mode; enhanced GPS functionality; and a 3-inch, 920000-dot touchscreen. The new High Dynamic Range feature means natural images can be captured automatically even when shooting against the light and the Panoramic Shot mode enables you to take panoramic images just by swivelling the camera. Panasonic will also be launching the DMC-TZ35 (ZS25) which has the same features as the TZ40 but includes a 16.1 megapixel sensor and comes without Wi-Fi connectivity.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT5 (marketed as TS6 in the United States) is a new ruggedised compact camera with a 16-megapixel sensor and 28-129mm equivalent zoom lens. Waterproof to a depth of 12m, shockproof from a height of 2m, freezeproof to a temperature of -10 °C and pressure resistant to 100kg, the Panasonic FT5 offers Full HD video recording capabilities and one-touch easy connection to Wi-Fi with NFC, allowing for remote picture capture and quick and easy upload. The enhanced GPS functionality allows you to automatically record your location and view the map and associated photos directly on your camera.

Also announced today is the Panasonic FT25 (TS25), another 16-megapixel tough camera sporting a 25-100mm equivalent lens. The FT25 is waterproof to a depth of 7m, shockproof from a height of 1.5m and freezeproof down to a temperature of -10 °C. In comparison to the FT5, the FT25 lacks the on-board GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities and offers only 720p video.