PMA 2006: The Samsung Digimax L85 is unveiled. 8-megapixels, 5x optical zoom (38-190mm - 35mm equivalent), 2.5-inch LCD display (230K pixels), full manual control, 11 preset scene modes. Available in March.

Samsung UK Press Release

Samsung Unveils the New High-Performance Samsung Digimax L85 with the World’s First High Definition Multimedia Interface. The new Digimax L85 is the latest addition to Samsung’s prestigious line of digital cameras.  It is the world’s first digital still camera to feature High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) - a revolutionary new feature allowing users to view their photos on a high definition television with outstanding quality. Set to launch in April, the eight-mega-pixel Digimax L85 also includes a top-class Schneider Kreuznach lens with 5x optical zoom and a 2.5-inch LCD display (approximately 230K pixels), which provides the photographer with a greater zoom options and a vivid display.

PMA 2006: The Samsung Digimax L60 is introduced today. 6 megapixels, 3x optical zoom lens, MPEG4 video recording, 2.4-inch LCD screen. Available in March.

Samsung UK Press Release

Samsung is announcing the new Digimax L60. Part of the L series featuring sleek designs and user-friendly advanced features, the L60 features a 3x optical zoom SHD lens, a 5x digital zoom and a large 2.4-inch color LCD display. Set to hit the shelves in March the Samsung L60 is perfect for those who demand easy to use features and high quality optics. The Samsung L60 packs advanced features such as MPEG4 into a sleek, stylish body. MPEG-4 is a high-compression, high-quality video format, which can record up to 4 times longer than traditional video formats commonly used in other digital cameras. This means the user can record in VGA (640x480) at 30fps, for smoother video and a bigger view of the movie on LCD and TV screens.

PMA 2006: The Ricoh Caplio R4 is announced today. 6 megapixels, 7x zoom lens, 2.5 inch LCD screen, Vibration Correction function. The Ricoh R4 will be available from March for £249.99.

Ricoh UK Press Release

London –UK February 23rd 2006. – Ricoh has announced the release of the new Caplio R4 compact digital camera featuring a 7.1x optical wide zoom, (28–200 mm in 35 mm camera format), the largest in the compact class* and vibration correction function. With a smaller body, the new Ricoh R4, has a 7.1x (28—200 mm) wide-angle, high-powered zoom lens, the biggest in its class. Building on the highly successful R3, the new Ricoh R4 boasts 6 megapixels, longer battery life and a high resolution LCD. The R4 will be available in both Black and Silver.

PMA 2006: The Ricoh Caplio RR630 is announced today. 6.1 megapixels, 3x zoom lens, 2 inch LCD screen. The Ricoh RR630 will be available from March for £129.99.

Ricoh UK Press Release

London – UK February 23rd 2006. – Ricoh is delighted to announce the release of the Caplio RR630 - a compact 6.1-megapixel digital camera that brings the joy of digital photography within reach of even first time users. The Ricoh RR630 is the latest addition to Ricoh’s popular, award-winning range of digital cameras, whose outstanding performance, value for money and stylish designs have won favour with photographers around the world. The Ricoh RR630 consistently produces vivid, crystal-clear images that place it a touch above other cameras in its class. Equipped with a 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom, for a combined 12x zoom, the Caplio RR630 is ready to take on any photographic challenge.

PMA Show: The Ricoh GR Digital Creative Set is introduced today. This consists of the Ricoh GR Digital camera, wide conversion lens, external viewfinder, hood and adapter, camera case and neck strap. The GR Digital Creative Set Package will be available from March for £699.

Ricoh UK Press Release

London – UK February 23rd 2006, RICOH EUROPE B.V. have announced the launch of the “GR DIGITAL Creative Set” including the award winning GR DIGITAL combined with an exciting package of accessories (consisting of wide conversion lens GW-1, external viewfinder GV-1, hood and adapter GH-1, and camera case and neck strap) designed to maximise the camera’s already superb performance. The new GR Digital inherits the superb image quality that made the award winning GR Series (first launched in 1996) of 35mm compact film cameras so popular, as well as the depictive performance to satisfy professional photographers, distilled into a compact 25-mm thin body. With a high-quality feel and superb expandability, this is the perfect tool for both professional photographers and advanced amateurs.

PMA 2006: The Ricoh Caplio GX8 Creative Set is announced. It includes the Caplio GX8 digital camera, wide conversion lens, hood and adapter, rechargeable battery, charger, camera case and neck strap. The Caplio GX8 Creative Set Package will be available from March for £349.99.

Ricoh UK Press Release

London – UK February 23rd 2006, RICOH EUROPE B.V. announced the launch of the “Caplio GX8 Creative Set” including the Caplio GX8 digital camera, featuring high image quality with 8.24 effective megapixels, combined with an exciting package of accessories designed to enhance the enjoyment of photography. The accessory bundle includes a wide conversion lens DW-4, hood and adapter HA-1, rechargeable battery DB-43, charger BJ-2, and camera case and neck strap. The Caplio GX8 faithfully carries on the Caplio GX concept. Attaining even higher performance standards in a compact format, it meets the needs even most demanding users. Its CCD with 8.24 effective megapixels ranks it among the best compact digital performers, enabling the Caplio GX8 to accurately render details in stunningly vivid, high-quality images.

Kodak Press Release

Nikon, Olympus, Pentax Debut IMAGELINK System-Enabled Cameras at PMA - Acceptance of Printing Standard Will Benefit Millions of Consumers Worldwide

ROCHESTER, NY, February 22—Nikon, Olympus and Pentax introduced five digital cameras designed to connect to Kodak’s EASYSHARE printer dock via the IMAGELINK system standard at the Photo Marketing Association International Convention and Trade Show this week. The IMAGELINK print system, introduced by Kodak and a consortium of leading digital camera manufacturers at Photokina in September 2004, is a standard that allows pictures taken with a digital camera to be printed directly on the KODAK EASYSHARE printer dock. The dock enables consumers to print outstanding quality snapshots at the press of a button without connecting to a computer—a task that many consumers find complicated and time consuming.

DigiCamReview have just reviewed the Ricoh GR Digital, an 8 megapixel compact digicam based on the GR Series of 35mm compact film cameras.

“mage quality is very good to excellent. Images have very good natural colour, with good saturation, contrast, detail, and low purple fringing. Images were slightly soft (although sharpness can be increased in-camera), and images were noisy when higher ISO settings were used. The camera did a good job focusing even in low light thanks to the focus-assist lamp - however macro focusing in low light was occassionally unsuccessful. I did not notice vignetting in photos, and there was very low barrel distortion considering the wide angle lens. There is a good range of image sizes, and a good choice of compression options. The macro mode is excellent, and provides good detail and colour. Auto white balance and metering seemed to be good the majority of the time. Red-eye was not a huge problem.”

Website: DigiCamReview - Ricoh GR Digital Review

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ByteSector have just posted their review of the diminutive and stylish 4 megapixel Olympus Mju Mini digicam (called the Stylus Verve in the USA).

“I must say that the camera worked wonderfully. Of all the cameras I have tested, this one had the most comfortable button arrangement and menu organization. I particularly enjoyed having the thumb scroll bar on the top right, changing between the modes was very easy, and could be done with the camera powered off, so you can start off in whichever mode you wanted. The camera’s load up time was average for its category, and didn’t feel obstinately long.”

Website: ByteSector - Olympus Mju Mini Review

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DIWA member and Czech website Fotoaparat have reviewed the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body.

Website: Fotoaparat - Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 Review

Latest Prices / User Reviews

PMA 2006: The Canon Digital IXUS 800 IS is announced today. 6 megapixels, image stabilized 4x zoom lens (first time on an IXUS), ISO 800. The Canon IXUS 800 IS will be available from April 2006, priced at £399.00 / €589.99.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon’s new Digital IXUS 800 IS: A new class of IXUS (called the Canon PowerShot SD700 IS Digital ELPH in the USA).
 
Canon is pleased to announce the launch of the Digital IXUS that advanced photographers have been waiting for – the 6.0 Megapixel Digital IXUS 800 IS. Redefining the boundaries of compact camera design, the new flagship of the Digital IXUS range fits a 4x optical zoom lens and Canon’s optical Image Stabiliser (IS) technology into an incredibly slender body. “IXUS is synonymous with distinctive style and leading technology,” comments Mogens Jensen, head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “The Digital IXUS 800 IS adds another dimension to the range with a new level of functionality that will thrill serious photo enthusiasts.

PMA 2006: The Canon Digital IXUS 65 and Canon Digital IXUS 60 are announced today. 6 megapixels, 3x zoom lens, ISO 800, Widescreen (16:9) mode, 3 inch and 2.5 inch LCD respectively. The Digital IXUS 60 will be available from March 2006 and Digital IXUS 65 from April 2006, priced at £299.00 / €449.99 and £349.00 / €519.99 respectively.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon builds on design pedigree with two new Digital IXUS models; the Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65 (called the PowerShot SD600 Digital ELPH and PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH in the USA).

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of two new jewels in the Digital IXUS crown – the Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65. The two cameras continue the IXUS tradition of fusing cutting-edge technologies and superb build quality with compelling camera design. Featuring a high resolution 2.5” LCD screen, the steel-bodied Digital IXUS 60 draws on original IXUS designer Yasushi Shiotani’s ‘box and circle’ concept to achieve a look of classic elegance. The innovative Digital IXUS 65 sports a massive 3.0” LCD, unique Touch Control Dial and a two-tone finish in brushed silver and ebony black. The Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65 sit above the Digital IXUS 55 in the IXUS range and will appeal to style-conscious consumers seeking large displays, advanced functionality and great image quality in a compact and elegant camera. “These new additions to the Digital IXUS range exemplify everything IXUS stands for – leading design, innovative technologies and outstanding performance,” said Mogens Jensen Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe.

PMA 2006: The Canon PowerShot S3 IS is announced today. 6 megapixels, image stabilized 12x zoom lens, ISO 800, 2 inch LCD. The Canon PowerShot S3 IS will be available from early May 2006, priced at £449.00 / €649.99.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon launches new PowerShot S3 IS; improved monster zoom compact

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of the 12x optical zoom PowerShot S3 IS. Successor to the popular PowerShot S2 IS, the latest addition to the PowerShot S-series incorporates a 6.0 Megapixel CCD sensor, Canon’s renowned optical Image Stabiliser technology and video functionality rivalling that of dedicated digital video camcorders. Sporting a striking new finish in gunmetal grey, the compact PowerShot S3 IS answers the demands of advanced photographers with several improvements over its predecessor, including an increased sensitivity range of ISO 80 to ISO 800, a larger 2.0” vari-angle LCD screen, widescreen (16:9) recording, new movie features and an additional Sports mode. The PowerShot S3 IS caters for serious photo enthusiasts seeking extended zooming flexibility and fully featured movie recording in a versatile compact digital stills camera.

PMA 2006: The Canon PowerShot A700 and Canon PowerShot A540 are announced today. 6 megapixels, ISO 800, 2.5 inch LCD, 6x and 4x optical zoom lens respectively. The PowerShot A700 and PowerShot A540 will be available from March 2006, priced at £289.00 / €429.99 and £249.00 / €369.99 respectively.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon broadens PowerShot A-series range with two versatile models for creative shooting
 
Canon is pleased to announce the launch of two new PowerShot cameras that combine ease of use with creative flexibility – the PowerShot A700 and PowerShot A540. The 6.0 Megapixel PowerShot A700 defines a new level of performance for the A-series range with a 6x optical zoom lens featuring a real-image optical viewfinder. The PowerShot A540 delivers 6.0 Megapixel resolution and a high performance 4x optical zoom lens. Both cameras feature an extensive range of creative shooting modes and are compatible with optional converter lenses for extended versatility. With its powerful optical performance and rich feature set, the PowerShot A700 is the new flagship of the A-series range. The versatile PowerShot A540 is the replacement to last year’s popular PowerShot A520. “The PowerShot A-series range stands for performance, ease of use and affordability,” explains Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “By broadening the range with these fully featured cameras, Canon is putting advanced photography into the hands of the mainstream consumer.”

PMA 2006: The Canon PowerShot A530 and Canon PowerShot A430 are announced today. 5 and 4 megapixels, ISO 800, 2.5 inch LCD, 4x optical zoom lens. The PowerShot A430 and PowerShot A530 will be available from March 2006, priced at £149.00 / €219.99 and £199.00 / €299.99 respectively.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon launches new point-and-shoot PowerShot A430 and PowerShot A530

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of two fun, easy and affordable cameras – the PowerShot A430 and PowerShot A530. The new additions to the popular PowerShot A-series range offer consumers an outstanding combination of easy-to-use features, solid construction and excellent image quality at an entry-level price. Both cameras incorporate Canon’s acclaimed DIGIC II processor and iSAPS technology for rapid processing speeds, highly responsive controls and superb image quality. Sitting just below the PowerShot A540 – also released today – in the PowerShot A-series range, the cameras will appeal to first time digital camera buyers as well as experienced photographers looking for a second take-anywhere camera. “Since the launch of the PowerShot A5 in 1998, the A-series has helped millions of European consumers switch to digital,” explains Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “With these new additions to the range, Canon is making high quality digital photography more accessible than ever before.”

DIWA member Steves Digicams have reviewed the new dual lens Kodak V570 camera.

“Taking over from the V550 as the top of Kodak’s pocket series of consumer digicams, the V570 continues to live up to its EASYSHARE family name. Designed with the beginner in mind, it combines point-n-shoot simplicity with a 5-megapixel imager, brilliant 2.5-inch LCD and a unique dual lens system into a very stylish, pocketable body.”

Website: Steves Digicams - Kodak V570 Review

Website: Read my Kodak Easyshare V570 Review

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PMA 2006: The Casio EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z850 camera is announced. 8.1 megapixels, 3x optical zoom lens, manual exposure and advanced flash options. Available from the beginning of March.

Casio Europe Press Release

High Resolution 8.1 Megapixel Images Highlight Casio EX-Z850 - New Digital Camera Offers Big Performance In A Small, Sleek Package

February 21, 2006, Norderstedt - CASIO Europe GmbH, in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announced the release of the latest addition to its EXILIM ZOOM digital camera series with the stylish, compact, and high-resolution EX-Z850. Offering high quality 8.1 megapixel photos, the EX Z850 includes a 3X optical zoom, and offers both manual aperture and shutter speed priority AE options for advanced users who prefer to create customized images. The impressive 2.5” Super Bright LCD generates approximately 1,200 cd/m2 of luminescent output, making the monitor even easier to view when outdoors. The Casio EX-Z850 includes the latest version of the EXILIM Engine, featuring the Anti Shake DSP which considerably reduces the incidence of blurred images due to shaky hands or moving subjects, so you only have to worry about which shots to take, not how they will come out. In response to user’s high demand, the Casio EX-Z850’s Super Life Battery supports 440 shots per charge, providing convenient, long-lasting usability.

PMA 2006: The Casio EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z850 camera is announced. 6 megapixels, 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5 inch LCD. Available from the beginning of March.

Casio Press Release

New Casio EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z60 Loaded With Convenient Features, Even Easier To Use - Combines Cutting-Edge Technology With User-Friendly Functionality and Compact Style

February 21, 2006, Norderstedt - CASIO Europe GmbH, in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announced the release of a new addition to its stylish and high-resolution EXILIM ZOOM digital camera series. The simple to use Casio EX-Z60 offers 6.0 megapixel images and a 3X optical zoom packed into a slim body enhanced by rounded edges. The camera features a large, easy-to-see 2.5” LCD monitor as well as the Anti Shake DSP, which along with the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions considerably reduces the incidence of blurred images due to moving subjects or shaky hands, ensuring that beautiful images can be created and enjoyed by anyone. The Casio EX-Z60 comes with many other convenient and user-friendly features, including Easy Mode, a simplified camera menu that facilitates effortless picture taking. The EXILIM line is a culmination of CASIO’s core technologies of miniaturization and digital technology resulting in a smaller, higher resolution camera—which has created the current digital camera trend with stylish, compact and fast action functions. The Casio EX-Z60 is the latest in CASIO’s pursuit of a digital camera that is both high tech and hassle-free—bringing the fun and enjoyment of digital photography to everyone.

DCResource have reviewed the new dual lens Kodak V570 camera.

“The Kodak EasyShare V570 is a one-of-a-kind ultra compact camera with two lenses: one is a fixed 23 mm ultra wide, while the other is a more traditional 39 - 117 mm zoom. While Kodak’s “5X zoom” claim is misleading, the camera more or less gives you the best of both worlds: a regular zoom lens for normal shooting, and an ultra-wide lens that you can call on for interior and landscape shooting. While the camera is far from perfect, it does earn my recommendation.”

Website: DCResource - Kodak V570 Review

Website: Read my Kodak Easyshare V570 Review

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PMA 2006: The Nikon Coolpix S5 and Nikon Coolpix S6 are announced. 6 megapixels, 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5 inch and 3 inch LCDs respectively. Coolpix S5 available end of February for £299.99 / €369. Coolpix S6 available mid March for £349.99 / €459.

Nikon Press Release

Two exciting digital compacts packing new photo-sharing entertainment into attractive wave-surface designs.

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the Nikon Coolpix S5 and Nikon Coolpix S6. Two exciting new cameras built for the sharing of digital photographic enjoyment, the Nikon S5 and Nikon S6 combine high-quality imaging performance with impressive wave-surface design, enable images to be improved in-camera, feature outstandingly large LCDs and introduce the powerful Pictmotion function that allows users to create entertaining in-camera shows. With the COOLPIX S5 and S6, image quality is also pleasingly high. Both cameras offer a 1/2.5-inch CCD and 6.0 effective megapixel resolution to produce images that stay sharp even when significantly enlarged. The Nikon Coolpix S5 and Nikon Coolpix S6 also each feature a superior quality 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the freedom to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm.