The Olympus SP-590UZ ultra-zoom digital camera has a 26x wide-angle optical zoom lens that covers an amazing 26-676mm focal length. Add the optional TCON-17N Teleconverter and CLA-11 Adapter Ring, and the SP590UZ can reach up to 1149mm. The 12 megapixel SP-590UZ also offers a 2.7 inch LCD screen, Dual Image Stabilisation, P/A/S/M exposure modes, and built-in flash and wireless flash control. The Olympus SP-590UZ will be available in early March 2009 for $449.99 / £360.

Olympus Europe Press Release

26x zoom and ultimate versatility

The Olympus SP-590UZ: world’s leading ultra-zoom

Hamburg, 7 January 2009 – A new leader has emerged in the compact ultra-zoom category: the Olympus SP-590UZ. With its incredible 26x wide-angle optical zoom it covers an amazing 26-676mm* focal length range, leaving the competition far behind. From close-ups of distant subjects to group shots indoors, this camera takes everything in its stride. There is also significantly less need to worry about blur caused by camera shake: crisp and clear images are what you get thanks to Dual Image Stabilisation. Ensuring that you’ll never miss a heartbeat of the action, this model boasts ultra-high-speed shooting at up to 10fps**. Viewing the results on the bright and clear 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD is a pleasure – even in direct sunlight. And although the SP-590UZ gives photographers the freedom of full manual control, it also offers point-and-shoot ease. The SP-590UZ hits stores in early March 2009.

Powerful and versatile
Whether you’re indoors, out in nature or taking it easy somewhere else on holiday, the SP-590UZ is the ideal camera for shooting every aspect of your surroundings without the need to lug around loads of equipment. It stands alone in its ability to capture subjects from great distances thanks to its bright 26x wide optical zoom (equivalent to 26-676mm on a 35mm camera). At the racetrack this makes it easy to get impressive close-up shots of your favourite drivers celebrating their win – even if you’re up in the bleacher seats. Furthermore, the wide angle of view lets photographers record more of the action in a single image. And with the optional TCON-17N Teleconverter and CLA-11 Adapter Ring, the SP-590UZ can reach unparalleled magnifications of up to 1149mm*. Add to this the 5x digital zoom and the total magnification factor hits a phenomenal 130x or 3380mm*.

Zooming prowess is not the SP-590UZ’s only claim to fame, however. For those with a real need for speed, the SP-590UZ features ultra-high-speed shooting: up to 10fps** will let you make the call when the race is truly a “photo finish”! Meanwhile, down in pit lane, photographers will really appreciate this model’s Super Macro mode. It allows detailed close-ups to be taken from just 1cm.

Brilliant, high-quality images
The 12 Megapixel SP-590UZ offers a broad range of functions and features to improve results – and enhance the overall photo experience. Dual Image Stabilisation compensates for camera shake to ensure the sharpest images possible, even at the tele end of the focal range. In addition, Advanced Face Detection Technology recognises the faces of subjects for perfect focus and exposure, while Shadow Adjustment Technology ensures optimal contrast in images. With Multiple Exposure mode, two images can be combined to create an overlapped composite photo. And Beauty Mode automatically smoothes the skin of subjects to make the skin tone of faces appear more even and vibrant.

Ease of use and creative freedom in perfect balance
Besides the ease and comfort of automatic shooting and the choice of 18 shooting modes, the SP-590UZ also offers full manual control for maximum flexibility. P/A/S/M exposure modes ensure that those seeking to give their creativity free rein are catered for. In addition, Perfect Shot Preview lets the photographer preview the effects of a particular setting on the LCD before actually taking the shot. Moreover, numerous options exist for getting the lighting perfect: in addition to the built-in flash, the SP-590UZ is also capable of remotely controlling the Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R wireless flash units – thereby opening up completely new photographic possibilities.

39 available languages make the camera menus comprehensible for nearly everyone. And dioptric correction means those wearing glasses can also comfortably use the viewfinder. Pictures can be stored to xD Picture Card, or – thanks to a bundled attachment – to microSD Card.

The SP-590UZ will hit stores in early March 2009.

The Olympus SP-590UZ – main features:
• Most powerful optical performance in minimum size: 26x wide optical zoom (26-676mm*) - from extreme close-ups to the action as well as stunning scenes, 130x incl. digital zoom
• Avoids camera shake and blurry images thanks to Dual Image Stabilisation (combines mechanical and digital image stabilisation)
• Don’t miss the moment with high-speed 10fps sequence shooting**
• P/A/S/M exposure modes for creative freedom
• High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI™) technology incorporated for viewing images in high definition quality on HDMI compatible HD TVs
• 12 Megapixels to make poster-size prints if you want to
• Advanced Face Detection of up to 16 persons for perfectly focused and exposed faces. In combination with Shadow Adjustment Technology other main parts of the picture are also correctly exposed.
• 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD with a bright display even in brilliant sunlight and at extreme angles (230,000 dots)
• Built-in flash and wireless flash control directly from the camera body
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30fps)
• xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible

* 35mm camera equivalent
** in 3.0 Megapixel mode
microSD is a trademark of SD Card Association

Your Comments