The German website PhotoWorld.de have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT DSLR.

Website: PhotoWorld.de - Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT Review

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Imaging Resource have published their review of the 5 megapixel Epson L-500V digital camera.

“The Epson L-500V is the first digital camera from that company in quite a while, but their (much) earlier PhotoPC 3000 and 3100 were among my favorites at the time. The new Epson L-500V happily carries forward many of the hallmarks of the earlier Epson models, including good color and build quality. Among its most salient points though, the Epson 500V sports one of the most downright beautiful LCDs I’ve yet seen in a digital camera. All in all, the L-500V is an excellent product with which to mark Epson’s return to the consumer digital camera market. - Read on for all the details!”

Website: Imaging Resource - Epson L-500V Review

Pocket-Lint have published the first online review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T7, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and a 3x optical zoom lens.

”...the drain on the battery is unbelievable. We were given a full charged battery and within an hour of use (and not really using the flash) we were already running low on juice. The second is that there is no optical viewfinder on the T7. While we realise that more and more compacts are being made without an optical viewfinder, with such a large screen that has such a high battery drain it would have made sense to include an option that didn’t mean you had to rely on the power guzzling screen.”

Website: Pocket-Lint - Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T7 Review

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Nikon Press Release

The Nikkor special website is up and running

Nikkor lenses, popular for more than 70 years, are featured under such categories as philosophy, history, technology and achievement

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of its Nikkor special website on April 20, 2005, to commemorate total production of more than 35 million Nikkor lenses.

Our popular range of Nikkor lenses, which have been loved by customers for more than 70 years, is featured under such categories as philosophy, history, technology and achievement. This attractive site offers you a wealth of information to help you increase your enjoyment and use of Nikkor lenses, and is equally suited to long-time Nikkor fans, the owners of a Nikon digital SLR with a Nikkor lens as well as those who are still thinking about buying a Nikkor lens. We promise that you won’t be disappointed.

Professional photographer Michael Weber has published a review of the new 12 megapixel Nikon D2X digital SLR.

Website: Michael Weber - Nikon D2X Review

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Pentax have released a new firmware update for the 5 megapixel, twistable Pentax Optio X.

Changes to V1.01
1. Improved auto focus performance.
2. Fixes a problem when change the image folder name from the standard to the date

Website: Pentax Optio X Firmware

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CNET have published the first online review of the HP Photosmart R717, a 6.2 megapixel digicam with a 1.8 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens in a stylish stainless steel body.

“It has a well-conceived design, a few interesting features, and decent image quality, but the one thing that the 6.2-megapixel HP Photosmart R717 has in spades is a crippling case of sloth. We’re talking performance that makes you feel like you’re operating in bullet-time, like Keanu Reeves in The Matrix, without the benefits of superhuman reflexes or the ability to fly. But despite some redeeming qualities—a menu and control layout that are easy for even novices to master, an effective panorama mode, and a very good macro setting that yields sharp results—the R717’s subpar performance makes us hestitant to recommend it unreservedly.”

Website: CNET - HP Photosmart R717 Review

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The Danish website Akamera.dk have published their review of the new 8 megapixel Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT DSLR.

Website: Akamera.dk - Canon EOS 350D / Digital Rebel XT Review

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The Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z20 is an ultra-zoom digital camera that promises a lot in exchange for a relatively small amount of money. Based around a 5 megapixel CCD sensor and an 8x zoom lens that is equivalent to 36-290mm on a 35mm camera, the Konica Minolta Z20 has an amazing list of advanced features that make you look twice at its budget price-tag. The Konica Minolta Z20 has a very fast start-up time of around 0.5 second, semi-automatic and manual exposure modes, futuristic body design, rapid autofocus and a macro mode that that lets you focus as close as 1cm from your subject. Six months ago I enthusiastically reviewed the Z20’s predecessor, the 3 megapixel DiMAGE Z10. Can the Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z20 maintain the same high standards that the Z10 set? Carry on reading to discover the answer.

Website: Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z20 Review

Nikon D50 is announced today. The 6.1 megapixel Nikon D50 is a lighter, smaller and easier to use digital SLR camera than the D70 and new D70s (also announced today). The Nikon D50 is targeted at consumers looking to upgrade from a compact digicam. Consequently the D50 has a range of different scene modes as well as offering full manual control. The Nikon D50 has a shutter speed range of 30 to 1/4,000 second and the built-in flash can synchronize at shutter speeds of up to 1/500 second. The Nikon D50 has a large 2 inch LCD screen and a new high-energy battery that lasts for up to 2,000 shots. The Nikon D50 body only will cost £549.99 / €821.00. The Nikon D50 kit with AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G lens will cost £649.99 / €971.00. The D50 will ship in June.

Nikon UK Press Release

Wednesday April 20, 2005

Nikon UK is pleased to announce the introduction of the D50, an entry level D-SLR camera which combines outstanding response and exceptional optical performance with ease of use.  Specifically designed for consumers looking to upgrade from a digital compact to the next level of digital photography, the D50 is affordable and simple to use; perfect for the SLR beginner.

Image capture is made easy thanks to Nikon’s scene-optimised, Digital Vari-Program modes. By selecting one of seven easily distinguishable icons from the handy exposure mode dial, complex settings are optimised to produce consistently remarkable results. A new function available with the D50 is ‘Child’ mode, ‘Child’ mode is a pre-programmed mode, ideal for the family user allowing the photographer to take great images of their children. Skin tones are naturally smooth without sacrificing vibrancy. Settings within this mode are optimised for photographing young children giving them a healthier colouring. ISO sensitivity is automatically controlled and the saturation and hue are suitably adjusted. Full manual exposure control is also available with the D50; allowing more advanced photographers the creative freedom they desire.

Nikon D70s is announced today. The 6.1 megapixel Nikon D70s is an updated version of the popular D70 digital SLR camera. The D70s has a larger 2 inch LCD screen, a more accurate auto-focusing system, increased flash coverage to support lenses as wide as 18mm, new high-energy battery that lasts for up to 2,500 shots, and a redesigned menu system. The Nikon D70s has a shutter speed range of 30 to 1/8,000 second and the built-in flash can synchronize at shutter speeds of up to 1/500 second. The new optional Remote Cord (MC-DC1) increases the number of remote control options for the D70s. The Nikon D70s body only will cost £699.99 / €1045.00 / $899. The Nikon D70s kit with 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G AF-S DX lens will cost £899.99 / €1343.00 / $1199. The D70s will ship in late April/early May.

Nikon UK Press Release

Wednesday April 20, 2005

Nikon UK is pleased to announce the introduction of the D70s digital SLR, a camera which further refines the award winning image quality, high performance and user friendliness of the D70.

The D70s employs the Nikon DX Format sensor and Nikon F lens mount design shared by all Nikon SLR cameras for compatibility with AF Nikkor lenses, as well as the expanding range of high quality DX Nikkor lenses.

The D70s is ready to shoot in an instant, taking just 0.2 seconds to power up. Shutter release time lag is minimised for quick response which makes shooting even more efficient and enjoyable. The D70s is capable of shooting a rapid 3 frames per second for a continuous burst of 144 pictures*.
(*When using JPEG NORMAL - Large setting, and a SanDisk SDCFH (Ultra II), SDCFX (Extreme/Extreme III), or Lexar Media 80X WA CompactFlash™ card).

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm lens is announced today. The Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm lens is designed specifically for digital SLR cameras and is available in two colours, black and silver, to match the new Nikon D50 DSLR. The The new Nikon 18-55mm lens will be available in June for £199.99 / €299.00 / $180.

Nikon UK Press Release

Wednesday April 20, 2005

Nikon is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED.  This ultra compact, lightweight standard zoom lens has a 3x focal range and is ideally suited to the new Nikon D50.

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED offers users a focal length range which conveniently covers everything from tight indoor portraits to standard snap shots. (The picture angle is equivalent to a 27-82.5mm lens in 35mm format.)  The lens features the newly developed compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) which allows excellent handling and an ultra compact, lightweight design.  Including the new SWM, the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED measures a compact Ø69 x 74mm (2.7 x 2.9 in.) and weighs approximately 210g (6.8 oz.).

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm lens is announced today. The Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm lens is designed specifically for digital SLR cameras and is available in two colours, black and silver, to match the new Nikon D50 DSLR. The The new Nikon 55-200mm lens will be available in June for £199.99 / €299.00 / $250.

Nikon UK Press Release

Wednesday April 20, 2005

Nikon UK is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED. This ultra compact, lightweight telephoto zoom lens has a 3.6x 55-200mm focal range and is ideally suited to the new Nikon D50.

The compact zoom lens offers powerful zoom performance of 55-200mm (providing a picture angle equivalent to an 82.5-300mm lens in 35mm format) and is suitable for everything from candid portraits to sports, nature and wildlife photography. The lens features the newly developed compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) which allows excellent handling and an ultra compact, lightweight design. The lens weighs approximately 255g (9 oz.) and measures a compact Ø68 x 79mm (2.7 x 3.1 in.).

Nikon Press Release

New firmware update further enhances the functionality of 2004’s Digital SLR Camera of the Year

TOKYO - April 20th, 2005. Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce a firmware update that brings refined performance enhancements to the Nikon D70.

The rapid pace at which development of digital technologies is proceeding inevitably leads to a continual release of new products. In the face of this dynamic, Nikon is determined to demonstrate our respect for the many customers who purchased a D70 digital SLR camera by delivering, where possible, the latest technology that the digital world has to offer through firmware updates. The D70 firmware update to be released shortly aims to share enhancements developed for the new D70s, and thereby to strengthen the performance of the D70.

nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 is announced. nik Sharpener Pro 2 is a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop and other programs that allows you to sharpen digital images. nik Sharpener Pro 2 adds compatibility with 16-bit images, more control over sharpening and a larger preview area. nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 also features a new RAW Presharpening filter. nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 will be available in June. The Inkjet Edition costs $169.95 and nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 Complete Edition costs $329.95.

nik multimedia, Inc. Press Release

New version of company’s award-winning digital image editing software features new tools for photographers

San Diego, CA – April 19, 2005 – nik multimedia, Inc. today announces nik Sharpener Pro™ 2.0, the long awaited upgrade to the popular nik Sharpener Pro software.  nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 provides the easiest way for photographers and digital artists to optimally sharpen their digital images and achieve the best possible detail in their final prints.  As a plug-in to Adobe® Photoshop® and other image editing applications, nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 is the perfect addition to a photographer’s digital workflow.

M-ROCK Press Release

Biscayne Bay & Denali are Built for Ultimate in Style and Functionality

Aventura, FL, April 19, 2005, M-ROCK, the ultimate camera and accessory bag manufacturer, announced today that it is shipping the Biscayne Bay and Denali (pictured) bags made especially for detail-oriented photographers. 

Biscayne Bay - the Bag for Mini Digital Cameras
New to the M-ROCK camera bag line-up for 2005, the Biscayne Bay is the perfect little camera bag shaped to fit mini digital point n’ shoot digital cameras.  Priced at only $16, the Biscayne Bay beats the competition with loads of user-friendly features packed into a small mini-cam package.

Ricoh Press Release

New Design Reflects Strong Global Commitment

TOKYO, April 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/—Ricoh Company, Ltd. today unveiled its new corporate logo, which will become effective in September this year. The new logo symbolizes the Ricoh Group’s increased global presence.

The simple elegant design reflects Ricoh’s three core values: 1) Simplify knowledge creation, 2) Think solutions that fit, 3) Harmonize with the environment.

The rounded edges of the new logo were designed to express intelligence tempered by a friendly and human disposition. At the same time readability on a global scale is greatly enhanced.

Canon have released a new firmware update, version 2.0.0, for the EOS 20D DSLR camera.

This firmware update (version 2.0.0) incorporates the following additions and improvements:

1. Support for the wireless file transmitter WFT-E1.
This function works when the WFT-E1 firmware is 2.0.1 or later.

This firmware update applies to cameras with firmware versions up to 1.1.0 installed. If your camera’s firmware is already version 2.0.0, it is not necessary to perform this update.

Website: Canon EOS 20D Firmware Version 2.0.0

DigiCamReview have posted a review of the entry-level Olympus C-500 Zoom digicam (also known as the D-595).

” Image quality is very good, the images have good colour, saturation, contrast and good detail - however there is some purple fringing. Images tend to come out of the camera looking very good. The camera did a good job focusing - although in low-light did struggle. Noise was on the low side, even up to ISO400, however I did notice a colour shift at ISO400. I didn’t notice any vignetting in the corners. There is a small range of image sizes and a very small choice of compression options. The super macro mode is very good. Auto white balance and metering seemed to be very good. Red-eye was controlled quite well. The movie mode is slightly better than average, at 320x240 / 30fps with sound.”

Website: DigiCamReview - Olympus C-500 Zoom Review

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Trusted Reviews have just posted their review of the 6 megapixel Pentax *ist DS DSLR.

“I’ve been using a Pentax *ist D professionally for over a year now, and I’ve been very impressed by the results I’ve obtained from it. I was initially a little dismissive of the *ist DS, since I thought it was just a cut down version of the *ist D. However, I’ve been using the newer camera for a couple of weeks now and I am seriously considering getting one. Although it does have many similarities to the D, and even looks superficially similar, it is a completely different camera with a new body design, larger LCD monitor, new image processing engine and a faster AF system.”

Website: Trusted Reviews - Pentax *ist DS Review

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