Category: Digital Compact Cameras

Saturday, May 29, 2004

Canon PowerShot S1CNET have just reviewed the Canon Powershot S1 IS digital camera, which offers 10x image stablised zoom, 3 megapixels and high-quality 640 x 480 video at 30 frames/second with sound.

“With the 3.2-megapixel Canon PowerShot S1 IS, the company takes the appeal of a 10X zoom lens one step further with optical image stabilization. Excellent movie capture, manual exposure control, solid image quality, and a host of other pluses add to its attractiveness. Its design isn’t for those who favor simplicity or elegance, though, and advanced photographers may be turned off by its limited resolution and file-type options.”

Website: CNET - Canon PowerShot S1 IS Review

CNET have just reviewed the Canon Powershot S1 IS digital camera, which offers 10x image stablised zoom, 3 megapixels and high-quality 640 x 480 video at 30 frames/second with sound. “With the 3.2-megapixel Canon PowerShot S1 IS, the company takes the appeal of a 10X zoom lens one step further…

Friday, May 28, 2004

Nikon Coolpix 4100Nikon UK Press Release 28/05/04

Nikon, leader in film and digital cameras, today announced the introduction of the Coolpix 4100, a new consumer digital camera with slim dimensions, 4.0-megapixel performance and surprisingly simple operation.

Building on the success and capabilities of the Coolpix 3200 and featuring the same stylish grip, the Coolpix 4100 feels comfortable in the hand and makes operation easy through its enhanced Graphic User Interface (GUI), which displays easy-to-see menus on a bright 1.6-in. TFT LCD monitor. All controls are placed on the back of the camera for convenient access.

The Coolpix 4100 even has the advantage of 14.5MB of internal memory. This allows the user to shoot pictures when there’s no SD memory card inserted, or copy shots between the internal memory and SD cards as desired.

Nikon UK Press Release 28/05/04 Nikon, leader in film and digital cameras, today announced the introduction of the Coolpix 4100, a new consumer digital camera with slim dimensions, 4.0-megapixel performance and surprisingly simple operation. Building on the success and capabilities of the Coolpix 3200 and featuring the same stylish grip…

Sony DSC-P120Sony has announced the DSC-P120, a Special Edition black body version of the DSC-P100 digital camera, with a black leather case and 2 InfoLITHIUM batteries supplied. Available mid-June 2004 for £379.00.

Features:
- Same as DSCP100 plus: Special Edition black body, 2 x InfoLITHIUM batteries and black leather case supplied
- Compact aluminium body
- 5 effective megapixel Sony Super HAD CCD
- 3x optical zoom
- Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar lens
- Real Imaging processor
- MPEG Movie VX Fine with sound
- 9 scene modes
- Manual exposure mode
- Conversion lens compatible
- STAMINA InfoLITHIUM battery supplied: up to 350 shots per charge
- Compatible with all Memory Stick formats
- USB direct print with PictBridge
- 32MB memory Stick supplied
- Optional Cyber-shot station available at extra cost (PC, TV connection and charging)
- Optional Accessories available at extra cost: Battery NPFR1; Accessory Kit ACCCFR; Cyber-shot station CSSPHA; Carry Cases LCMPHA, LCSPHC, LCSCSD and Marine Pack MPKPHB

Sony has announced the DSC-P120, a Special Edition black body version of the DSC-P100 digital camera, with a black leather case and 2 InfoLITHIUM batteries supplied. Available mid-June 2004 for £379.00. Features: - Same as DSCP100 plus: Special Edition black body, 2 x InfoLITHIUM batteries and black leather case supplied…

Canon PowerShot S1Imaging Resource have just reviewed the Canon Powershot S1 IS digital camera, which offers 10x image stablised zoom, 3 megapixels and high-quality 640 x 480 video at 30 frames/second with sound.

“I’ll say right up front that I liked the PowerShot S1 IS quite a bit. I’ve always been a fan of long-zoom digicams, and the S1 IS’s unusually effective image-stabilization makes it long, 10x zoom much more usable than it would be otherwise. I don’t have any way to quantify how good a job an image stabilizer does, but would estimate that the one on the S1 IS should let you shoot a good 3 f-stops slower than you’d be able to otherwise, and still get sharp pictures.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Canon PowerShot S1 IS Review

Imaging Resource have just reviewed the Canon Powershot S1 IS digital camera, which offers 10x image stablised zoom, 3 megapixels and high-quality 640 x 480 video at 30 frames/second with sound. “I’ll say right up front that I liked the PowerShot S1 IS quite a bit. I’ve always been a…

Kyocera Finecam SL300RImaging Resource have just reviewed the 3.2 megapixel Kyocera Finecam SL300R.

“Design-wise, the SL300R is an appealing little camera. It’s sleek and small, and has that ineffable “cool factor” associated with a select few high-tech gadgets. Alas, its performance doesn’t really live up to its appearance, as it has rather sluggish shutter lag and cycle times, too-contrasty images (for my taste, at least), and very short battery life.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Kyocera Finecam SL300R Review

Imaging Resource have just reviewed the 3.2 megapixel Kyocera Finecam SL300R. “Design-wise, the SL300R is an appealing little camera. It’s sleek and small, and has that ineffable “cool factor” associated with a select few high-tech gadgets. Alas, its performance doesn’t really live up to its appearance, as it has rather…

HP Photosmart R707ByteSector have reviewed the new HP Photosmart R707, a stylish 5 megapixel digital camera.

“When it comes to design, it seems that HP has finally decided to make their cameras pleasant to look at. This camera has a flat yet ergonomic design that makes it clean cut and allows its users the opportunity to be gawked at once in a while. All the buttons, microphone, speaker, and outlets are nicely placed and allow even a large handed user (such as myself) to operate the camera with ease. The option buttons are placed nicely around the LCD with the remaining buttons neatly spaced out.”

Website: ByteSector - HP Photosmart R707 Review

ByteSector have reviewed the new HP Photosmart R707, a stylish 5 megapixel digital camera. “When it comes to design, it seems that HP has finally decided to make their cameras pleasant to look at. This camera has a flat yet ergonomic design that makes it clean cut and allows its…

Thursday, May 27, 2004

Olympus Mju 410 DigitalThe German website Photoworld.de have reviewed the Olympus Mju 410 Digital camera. The Mju 410 is encased in a full metal body with a silver finish, offers 4 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom. The Mju 410 is the first Mju Digital model to feature TruePic Turbo, a new image processor which sharpens image clarity, contrast and colour for life-like results. Available now for ?299.99 (inc VAT).

Website: Photoworld.de - Olympus Mju 410 Digital Review

Website: Read my review of the Olympus Mju 410 Digital

The German website Photoworld.de have reviewed the Olympus Mju 410 Digital camera. The Mju 410 is encased in a full metal body with a silver finish, offers 4 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom. The Mju 410 is the first Mju Digital model to feature TruePic Turbo, a new image…

Nikon Coolpix 5200Digital Secrets have published their review of the new 5 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 5200 compact digital camera.

“Do I like it? You bet. It’s more camera in a less-camera package than any other 5-megger I’ve seen and it is very capable. Physical packaging is superb. Most of its image qualities are fine (detail, colorimetry). Most operations are fast, intuitive and easy to understand. Nikon has gone out of its way to improve and streamline menu functions with their recent cameras and it’s appreciated.”

Website: Digital Secrets - Nikon Coolpix 5200 Review

Digital Secrets have published their review of the new 5 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 5200 compact digital camera. “Do I like it? You bet. It’s more camera in a less-camera package than any other 5-megger I’ve seen and it is very capable. Physical packaging is superb. Most of its image qualities…

Olympus C-8080 Wide ZoomDigital Secrets have just reviewed the 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera.

“Somewhere along the line—perhaps several places along the line—choices were made and compromises were accepted. Sadly, the image that the 8080 delivers is a full step lower in quality than the one delivered by the Sony 828. Not quite as much detail, laid back tonality, less vivid color tracking into shadows and apparently less overall dynamic range come out of this camera, even at its most optimum f-stops in a head to head comparison.”

Website: Digital Secrets - Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom Review

Website: Read my review of the Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom

Digital Secrets have just reviewed the 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera. “Somewhere along the line—perhaps several places along the line—choices were made and compromises were accepted. Sadly, the image that the 8080 delivers is a full step lower in quality than the one delivered by the Sony 828…

Olympus D-580 ZoomBytesector have reviewed the Olympus D-580 Zoom which has 4 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom lens.

“On the LCD screen on the back of the camera, the images looked sharp, well defined and well balanced. I can happily report that this picture quality holds up when the picture is viewed on your PC. Even if the image looks dark on the LCD screen, the camera?s software automatically adjusts the image. When the pictures are loaded into an editor, and viewed at full size, some users reported a little over sharpening. As most users will just be using this camera for taking pictures and printing them, this will not be an issue for most users.”

Website: Bytesector - Olympus D-580 Zoom Review

Bytesector have reviewed the Olympus D-580 Zoom which has 4 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom lens. “On the LCD screen on the back of the camera, the images looked sharp, well defined and well balanced. I can happily report that this picture quality holds up when the picture is…

Wednesday, May 26, 2004

Casio EWC-40 Underwater HousingCasio Japan have announced the Casio EWC-40, an underwater housing for the EX-Z40/30 digital cameras. The EWC-40 can be used down to a depth of 40 metres and will cost around $190 when it’s released in July. Availability outside Japan is unknown at this point.

Website: Casio Japan - EWC-40 Underwater Housing

Website: DPReview - Casio EWC-40 underwater housing for EX-Z40/30

Casio Japan have announced the Casio EWC-40, an underwater housing for the EX-Z40/30 digital cameras. The EWC-40 can be used down to a depth of 40 metres and will cost around $190 when it’s released in July. Availability outside Japan is unknown at this point. Website: Casio Japan - EWC-4…

Casio EXILIM PRO EX-P600DCResource have just reviewed the 6 megapixel Casio EXILIM PRO EX-P600 digital camera.

“I was quite impressed with the Exilim EX-P600—it may be Casio’s best camera yet. It’s not the best looking camera out there, but it takes good quality pictures, is very responsive, and is loaded with features (and some gimmicks too). The P600 takes nice pictures, with much less noise than I was expecting.”

Website: DCResource - Casio EXILIM PRO EX-P600 Review

DCResource have just reviewed the 6 megapixel Casio EXILIM PRO EX-P600 digital camera. “I was quite impressed with the Exilim EX-P600—it may be Casio’s best camera yet. It’s not the best looking camera out there, but it takes good quality pictures, is very responsive, and is loaded with features (and…

Canon PowerShot Pro 1Bytesector have reviewed the 8 megapixel Canon PowerShot Pro1, which was announced by Canon just before the start of the PMA 2004 trade show.

“It is by far the best camera I have come across. The image quality is realistic, the functions are easy to use, the design is appealing and the overall performance is satisfactory. This is one of the very few cameras I have the least complaints about. The only other grudge I have is that I cannot simply plug in the camera to a USB cable and use it as a storage device. Instead, I have to go through Canon?s provided software to transfer images. A minor downside for me, but it may not concern many consumers.”

Website: Bytesector - Canon PowerShot Pro1 Review

Bytesector have reviewed the 8 megapixel Canon PowerShot Pro1, which was announced by Canon just before the start of the PMA 2004 trade show. “It is by far the best camera I have come across. The image quality is realistic, the functions are easy to use, the design is appealing…

Casio QV-R40Josh Waller has reviewed the Casio QV-R40, a 4 megapixel digicam which has an amazing start-up time of one second and shutter-lag of 0.01 seconds. The Casio QV-R40 currently retails for around $300 / £200, but apparently is available refurbished at Dixons in the UK for just £99! 4 meagpixels for less than £100 - what a bargain! (sadly they’re out of stock at the moment, not that I checked or anything).

“It’s main selling points are the small size and very fast start up time. The camera is also fast in operation - it’s quick to focus, and quick to take the picture. This is very much a good thing, and has been one of the major drawbacks of using a digital camera, compared to using a film camera. The size of the camera is also very good, it will easily fit into a pocket, and therefore is more likely to be used, meaning you’re more likely to catch the moment.”

Website: Josh Waller - Casio QV-R40 Review

Josh Waller has reviewed the Casio QV-R40, a 4 megapixel digicam which has an amazing start-up time of one second and shutter-lag of 0.01 seconds. The Casio QV-R40 currently retails for around $300 / £200, but apparently is available refurbished at Dixons in the UK for just £99! 4 meagpixels…

Tuesday, May 25, 2004

Nikon Coolpix 3200Imaging Resource have just reviewed the 3-megapixel Nikon Coolpix 3200 compact digital camera.

“Nikon’s Coolpix line of consumer digicams has always been well-received, appreciated for their image quality and ease of use. From the sharp Nikon optics to the full range of exposure control, the Coolpix series has satisfied a wide range of users. The Coolpix 3200 continues this trend, with its 3x Nikkor lens (with exceptional macro capabilities), 3.2-megapixel CCD, and well-rounded offering of preset shooting modes.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Nikon Coolpix 3200 Review

Imaging Resource have just reviewed the 3-megapixel Nikon Coolpix 3200 compact digital camera. “Nikon’s Coolpix line of consumer digicams has always been well-received, appreciated for their image quality and ease of use. From the sharp Nikon optics to the full range of exposure control, the Coolpix series has satisfied a…

Canon PowerShot Pro 1Tom’s Hardware have just compared the 8 megapixel Canon PowerShot Pro1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F828 digital cameras.

“As our results show, the Sony DSC-F828 and Canon Pro 1 are not ideal cameras for professional applications due to their slowness. It is interesting, however, that they can deliver A4 images at 300dpi, a standard that has typically been the domain of printed media. So who are these 8-million pixel high-end digicams really designed for? The answer is: informed amateurs (or prosumers, as they are now called). Serious professionals could also be interested in these for specific uses that are not related to photojournalism, where the SLR reigns supreme.”

Website: Tom’s Hardware - Canon PowerShot Pro1 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F828

Tom’s Hardware have just compared the 8 megapixel Canon PowerShot Pro1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F828 digital cameras. “As our results show, the Sony DSC-F828 and Canon Pro 1 are not ideal cameras for professional applications due to their slowness. It is interesting, however, that they can deliver A4 images at…

Minox DD100Minox Press Release 19/05/04

MINOX DD100 - Compact digital camera with stainless steel look

The MINOX DD100 is a true companion for every occasion and comes in a distinguished stainless steel look. But this small, flat camera features more than an excellent design. All the sophisticated controls you need are ready at your command.

With a resolution of 3 million pixels and 4x digital zoom, excellent imaging results are guaranteed. Despite ultra compact dimensions of just 94 mm x 56 mm x 26 mm the new MINOX DD100 features a 1.6” TFT colour monitor which allows instant assessment of the image during and after the shot. A fast picture sequence and minimal release time lag capture spontaneous snap shots in every situation. The integrated flash switches on automatically when needed and guarantees perfect illumination, even in critical light conditions.

Minox Press Release 19/05/04 MINOX DD100 - Compact digital camera with stainless steel look The MINOX DD100 is a true companion for every occasion and comes in a distinguished stainless steel look. But this small, flat camera features more than an excellent design. All the sophisticated controls you need are…

Monday, May 24, 2004

DigiTimes are reporting that a Taiwanese company called Ability Enterprise is currently developing a 6 megapixel digital camera with MPEG4 support for Panasonic.

“According to Ability Enterprise, the company is developing 6-megapixel digital cameras mainly targeting channel distributors in the US and Europe. The company indicated that Casio is its main Japanese client and it has not received any OEM orders from Panasonic. The production of 6-megapixel digital cameras will begin sometime in the second half of this year, the company added.”

Website: DigiTimes - Ability Enterprise reportedly makes 6-megapixel digital cameras for Panasonic

DigiTimes are reporting that a Taiwanese company called Ability Enterprise is currently developing a 6 megapixel digital camera with MPEG4 support for Panasonic. “According to Ability Enterprise, the company is developing 6-megapixel digital cameras mainly targeting channel distributors in the US and Europe. The company indicated that Casio is its…

Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2Photoxels have just reviewed the new 8-megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 digital camera.

“Smaller than a dSLR but engineered like one, the Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 wins our OriGenial Seal of Approval for the most original and ingenious set of professional features to be seen in a prosumer digital camera. With its combination of practical and usable features, the Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 has redefined the feature set of a prosumer digital camera.”

Website: Photoxels - Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 Review

Photoxels have just reviewed the new 8-megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 digital camera. “Smaller than a dSLR but engineered like one, the Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 wins our OriGenial Seal of Approval for the most original and ingenious set of professional features to be seen in a prosumer digital camera…

Sony Cyber-shot U40The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just published their review of the Sony Cybershot DSC U40, a stylish 2-megapixel digicam available in four colors (silver, black, dark blue and red), which costs around $200.

Website: Index Digicam - Sony Cybershot DSC U40 Review

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just published their review of the Sony Cybershot DSC U40, a stylish 2-megapixel digicam available in four colors (silver, black, dark blue and red), which costs around $200. Website: Index Digicam - Sony Cybershot DSC U40 Review