Argus Unveils Four New Digital Cameras Under $50, Including the Market’s Lowest-Priced Models With Color LCD Screens - New 1700 Series Set for Apr

PR Newswire via NewsEdge Corporation : LAS VEGAS, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/—PMA Show, Suites X20-22—Argus Camera today announced a new Argus 1700 Series of entry-level digital cameras that will include the market’s least expensive models with full-color LCD screens and external memory card slots, plus one of the lowest-priced digital cameras with a 1.3-megapixel resolution. Cameras in the series will be available at major mass market retailers in April..TABLE The series will include:—The Argus DC 1710 (MSRP $39.99), a VGA model with a color LCD display and an 8MB internal memory capable of storing up to 117 photos.—The Argus DC 1730 (MSRP $44.99), identical to the DC 1710 with the addition of an automatic flash.—The Argus DC 1750 (MSRP $49.99), featuring an external slot that is compatible with SecureDigital/MultiMedia (SD) Cards for unlimited image capacity and easy printing at photo finishing kiosks, plus VGA resolution, an 8MB internal memory, an automatic flash, and a color LCD display.—The Argus DC 1770 (MSRP $44.99), a 1.3-megapixel model with a 4x digital zoom, a text-based status LCD, an SD Card-compatible external memory card slot, an 8MB internal memory, and an automatic flash.

Panasonic Press Release 12/02/04

PANASONIC INTRODUCES NEW 5-MEGAPIXEL LUMIX DIGITAL STILL CAMERA WITH LEICA LENS AND FULL MANUAL CONTROLS

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 13, 2004) - Once again Panasonic revolutionizes the world of digital photography with the new DMC-LC1 Lumix camera.  The DMC-LC1 has a digital brain but the heart and soul of a finely crafted 35mm camera, right down to its controls.  A true breakthrough in digital camera craftsmanship, the 5-megapixel DMC-LC1 brings a traditional photographic experience to the digital world, evoking the look, feel, precision, and responsiveness of a 35mm camera.  Zoom, focus and aperture are manually controlled by ring settings on the lens; shutter speed is controlled by a dial located on the top of the unit.  And, like all of Panasonic’s Lumix models, the DMC-LC1 features a high-performance Leica lens for extraordinary image rendering.

The DMC-LC1 combines unrivalled Leica optics with Panasonic’s most advanced digital electronic technology to create a camera that allows photographers to experience a new level of creative expression.  The camera’s full manual operation serves as a natural extension of the photographer’s hands and eyes.

Leica lenses retain a legendary reputation for creating images that capture the most delicate nuances of light and shade, the elusive ambience of “air”, and subtle gradations of color.  The new DMC-LC1 incorporates a finely crafted, F2.0 - 2.4 Leica DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens (13 elements in 10 groups) with zoom capability equivalent to 28 - 90mm on a 35mm camera.

Imaging Resource have also published their Preview of the new 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera.

“We’ll have to wait for a production model before we’ll know what sort of photos the C-8080 snaps, but based on its specs and features, it appears to kick the bar up another notch for high-end prosumer digicams. (And stay tuned, there are yet other 8 megapixel cameras coming just a little later this year as well!)”

Website: Imaging Resource - Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom Preview

DCResource has posted a detailed Preview of the new 8-megapixel Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom digital camera.

“The camera does very well in the shutter lag department, as well. I didn’t notice it at all until slow shutter speeds like 1/8 sec), and even then, it was barely noticeable.

Shot-to-shot speed is excellent, with a delay of just over one second, assuming you’ve turned off the post-shot review feature. When in TIFF mode, the camera will be locked up for about 18 seconds while the image is being written to the memory card. In RAW mode, the delay is around 13 seconds.”

Website: DCResource - Olympus C-8080 Wide Zoom Preview

Microtek Press Release 13/02/04

Microtek Introduces Three New Digital Cameras at PMA

Take-it D3, M-300, & MV-330 are all sleek, stylish, and versatile cameras for easy on-the-go use Las Vegas, NV (February 13, 2004) - Microtek introduced here at PMA today three new digital cameras aimed at the budding or amateur photographer, each featuring 3.1-or-higher-megapixel CMOS sensors, LCD screens with intuitive on-screen displays, digital and playback zoom, a variety of flash modes, USB connectivity, and built-in internal flash with expandable memory. The three new cameras are the Take-it D3, the M-300, and MV-330.

Konica Minolta Japan have posted 5 sample images from the Minolta DiMAGE A2 on their website, 2 of which show-off the anti-shake system.

Website: Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 Sample Images

Kyocera Press Release 13/02/04

NEW KYOCERA FINECAM M410R DIGITAL CAMERA

Designed To Capture All The Action, 4.0 Megapixel Camera Offers High-Powered 10X Optical Zoom and High-Speed Lens

RTUNETM Technology Ensures Unlimited Continuous Shooting at Even In New Auto Focusing Mode

Somerset, NJ - Kyocera Optics, Inc., the imaging industry arm of Kyocera Corporation, announces it?s most advanced RTUNE digital camera yet, the sleek and powerful Kyocera Finecam M410R. Targeted to prosumers who demand the very best, especially when trying to capture sports or action images, this 4.0 Megapixel camera utilizes Kyocera?s revolutionary RTUNE image processing for incredibly fast, continuous shooting at 3.3 frames per second and a brand new Auto Focus (AF) Mode that allows for continuous AF shooting as well. Photo buffs will also love the high-powered 10X optical zoom, the high-speed f/2.8-3.1 lens, integrated USB 2.0 for faster image transfers and a brand new high-precision Electronic Viewfinder (EVF).

The Hungarian website Index Digicam has found time during all this PMA madness to post a review of the 3 megapixel, 3x optical zoom Pentax Optio 33LF digital camera.

Website: Index Digicam - Pentax Optio 33LF Review

Here are a few more photographs of the new 8 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 digital camera:

Here are a few more photographs of the new Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z2 digital camera:

Ricoh Press Release 12/02/04

Ricoh launches user friendly Caplio RR330, 3.1 Megapixel camera at a competitive price

February 2003, Ricoh is pleased to announce the release of the Caplio RR330 - a 3.1 megapixel, easy to use, digital camera that offers consumers a tempting introduction to the world of digital photography.

The Caplio RR330 is the latest addition to the Ricoh Caplio series - a series that encompasses the concept of delivering high quality performance, excellent value and style to its users. With a 3x optical zoom, and 2x digital zoom giving a combined performance of 6x zoom, the RR330 produces sharp, good quality images that are hard to beat by other cameras in this class, at this price.

Konica Minolta Press Release 12/02/04

DiMAGE A2: Welcome to a second generation digital camera with Super Fine EVF

Langenhagen, February, 2004

Konica Minolta equipped the previous DiMAGE A1 an Anti-Shake function that used an innovative CCD-shift mechanism, as well as incorporating a 5.3-megapixel CCD, a high-definition 7X optical zoom lens, and 3D Autofocus (AF). The DiMAGE A1 delivered high standards of image quality and ease of operation in all-round shooting situations like landscapes, portrait and macro shooting.

In response to user needs for higher picture quality and greater shooting comfort, Konica Minolta released the DiMAGE A2 SLR-type digital camera, a camera that will inherit the quality and performance of the DiMAGE A1. The DiMAGE A2 incorporates a high-quality 8-megapixel CCD and Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) outperforming the previous model’s resolution by 4 times to achieve extremely clear images in both shooting and viewing.

The DiMAGE A2 comes equipped with an 8-megapixel 2/3-type progressive primary-color CCD with 8.0 million effective pixels for super-high-resolution, making even individual hairs or the stitches of a suit stand out in sharp detail. The Konica Minolta GT lens ensures that light gets to the CCD sensor with maximum fidelity. Plus, the CxProcess? II image processing technology ensures that the colors come out just the way you see them.

Konica Minolta Press Release 12/02/04

DiMAGE Z2: High-end functionality in an easy-to-use camera: 10X optical zoom with 4 megapixel performance

Langenhagen, February, 2004

The DiMAGE Z2 is the second in a series of easy-to-use, powerful SLR-type digital cameras and a step up from the groundbreaking DiMAGE Z1. The DiMAGE Z2 also boasts the Rapid AF (Autofocus) and high-quality VGA/SVGA movie functionality of its predecessor. This time, Konica Minolta has raised the bar with the adoption of a GT lens and a 4-megapixel resolution, delivering picture clarity at the very top end of the spectrum. The addition of a Predictive Focus Control has increased the speed of the AF function, which means that shooting sports events or any moving object are even more easy.

Konica Minolta Press Release 12/02/04

DiMAGE Xg with the world’s fastest start-up time* and non-extended 3x folded optical zoom

Langenhagen, February, 2004

The new DiMAGE Xg digital camera, which offers the mobile user the chance to take high-quality pictures in any place and at anytime. With the proud heritage of the DiMAGE X Series built into a stylishly thin profile, the camera has user-friendly functions that enable you to capture images simply and easily for high-quality results.

The DiMAGE Xg’s compact (just 20mm thick), unobtrusive body stems from its proprietary, non-extended 3x folded optical zoom, which is a feature that will make this camera attractive among a wide range of users.

With the world’s fastest start-up time* of approx. 0.8 seconds, the DiMAGE Xg can realize a rapid shot with a highly reliable shutter, ensuring that you’ll be ready to take great pictures right away with no waiting.

Konica Minolta Press Release 12/02/04

DiMAGE X21 - The deal camera for beginners: cool, easy, and fun.

Langenhagen, February, 2004

The common concepts of the X-series-“Thin, Fast and Cool”-are faithfully reproduced with the DiMAGE X21, one of the smallest cameras in the world and boasting a fast startup time of just 1 second. The ultra slim digital camera with 2-megapixel and 3x optical zoom, the DiMAGE X21 is affordable and comes complete with all the basic functions expected by young people that enjoy picture messaging every day. Intuitive button location makes for easy operation and a wide range of features like a mirror to check the look before taking a self-portrait. Picture Composition, and Frame and Border give the user more ways to shoot and view pictures.

Concord Camera Corp. Press Release 12/02/04

Concord Camera Corp. Announces Sleek, Stylish 5 Megapixel Camera at $379.99 SRP; Concord 5345z Digital Camera Offers Features for Beginners & Pros

LAS VEGAS—(Business Wire)—Feb. 12, 2004 Concord Camera Corp. (“Concord”) (Nasdaq:LENS), a leader in high-quality low-priced digital cameras, today announced at Photo Marketing Association (PMA) the new, ultra stylish Concord 5345z digital camera. Concord’s first metal body digital camera offers 5 Megapixels, 3x optical/4x digital zoom (12x total zoom) and rapid response controls. The Concord 5345z beats the competition with a unique combination of options for both advanced and beginner photographers alike, such as 19 scene mode selections, center weighted, spot & multi-pattern metering, auto and preset white balance selections, AVI video, DPOF support along with Concord’s popular easy-to-use camera interface. Everyone, from first-time digital camera users to pros, will love the Concord 5345z.

Concord Camera Corp. Press Release 12/02/04

Concord Camera Corp. Announces New Low-Priced 4 & 3 Megapixel Digital Cameras with Zoom

LAS VEGAS—(Business Wire)—Feb. 12, 2004 Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z Digital Cameras Offer Optical Zoom & Automatic Features at an Affordable Price
Concord Camera Corp. (“Concord”) (Nasdaq:LENS), an award-winning leader in high-quality low-priced digital cameras, today announced at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) two new stylish additions to their line of digital cameras, the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z digital cameras with 3x optical zoom. With suggested retail prices of $249.99 and $199.99 respectively, the Concord Eye-Q 4363z and Concord Eye-Q 3343z are high-quality 4 and 3 Megapixel, CCD cameras at exceptional prices.

Casio UK Press Release 12/02/04

CASIO?s award winning EXILIM range gets a boost with the launch of the all new 6-Megapixel EXILIM PRO

Stylish and fast new flagship EXILIM model

February 13th 2004, LONDON, UK - CASIO Electronics Co.Ltd. today announces an exciting new development in the fast-growing digital camera market with the launch of EXILIM PRO. This marks the beginning of a whole new category of camera, offering something for the increasing number of intelligent digital camera users who want the superior features and functionality of a high-end semi-professional camera without losing the elegance and stunning good looks of an EXILIM.

The EXILIM PRO EX-P600 is an exceptional new addition to the growing family of EXILIM digital cameras. Combining an ease of operation typically expected in compact cameras with a high-performance 6-megapixel CCD and a large diameter Canon 4x optical zoom, the EX-P600 allows users to reach new heights of photographic creativity through its multitude of functions.

Olympus UK Press Release 12/02/04

The 8th wonder: the 8 Megapixel Olympus C-8080 WIDE ZOOM

Olympus is delighted to introduce the 8 megapixel C-8080 WIDE ZOOM digital camera. The C-8080 WZ delivers an outstanding performance and confidently measures up to a digital SLR in its class. Packed with features and offering a wide angle, 5x zoom lens, sunshine LCD technology and a short shutter release lag time, the C-8080 WZ is capable of even the most demanding of creative photography. Housed in a black, robust magnesium alloy body, the C-8080 WIDE ZOOM is due for release in April 2004, RRP ?899.99 [inc VAT]. For stockist information call free phone 0800 072 0070 or visit www.olympus.co.uk.

Olympus UK Press Release 12/02/04

The World?s Smallest 10x Zoom Camera ? The Olympus C-765 Ultra Zoom

Designed for sporting events, travel, nature hikes or any occasion where a more detailed view is necessary, the new C-765 Ultra Zoom model, is the smallest digital camera in the world featuring an optical 10x zoom. Weighing a mere 280g, the new Olympus Ultra Zoom is more than just a digital camera it has a Movie Mode, enabling you to capture video with sound as well. Available from May 2004, the RRP is ?399.99 [inc VAT]. For stockist information call 0800 072 0070 or go to www.olympus.co.uk.