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DIWA member Photoxels have today also reviewed the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body.
“The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 remains the ultra zoom digital camera with the best bang for the money. It has pretty much everything a beginner to serious amateur photographer could wish for: very good to excellent image quality, superb 12x optical zoom with an effective optical image stabilization, flexible exposure control, and very fast operations.”
DIWA member Photoxels have today also reviewed the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body. “The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 remains the ultra zoom digital camera with the best bang for the money. It has pretty much everything a beginner to…
DIWA member LetsGoDigital have reviewed the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body.
“In addition to the quality of the end results, working with the camera in practice is very enjoyable. The compact size of the Panasonic Lumix FZ7 enables you to carry it with you easily; you will in fact be more likely to take the FZ7 than the heavy and larger digital SLR camera. The camera offers a friendly operation and features a low entry-level. The user manual is needed only occasionally to fully comprehend the meaning of a function, but you will quickly familiarise yourself with the camera. The large screen on the back of the camera is a good replacement for the viewfinder.”
DIWA member LetsGoDigital have reviewed the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body. “In addition to the quality of the end results, working with the camera in practice is very enjoyable. The compact size of the Panasonic Lumix FZ…
Auspicious Dragon have published an extensive review of the MAC-only Raw Developer software.
“Raw Developer (RD from here on) is a Mac only developer of digital camera raw files. Over 100 cameras are supported and the list is both wider and more up to date than either Adobe Camera Raw or Capture One. It costs USD 100 from Iridient Digital. This price includes 15 months of updates, major and minor. The website allows downloads of fully functioning demonstration copies which mark the resulting output files with a licence notice which is obvious enough to make the resulting images unusable, but discreet enough to allow the images to be assessed for quality.”
Auspicious Dragon have published an extensive review of the MAC-only Raw Developer software. “Raw Developer (RD from here on) is a Mac only developer of digital camera raw files. Over 100 cameras are supported and the list is both wider and more up to date than either Adobe Camera Raw…
DigitalCameraReview have just reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“Auto ISO images are generally excellent with sharp resolution, bold colors, and lots of snap (although some very minor pattern noise is occasionally visible in shadow areas). ISO 50 and 100 images are consistently excellent with very good detail and virtually no noise. ISO 200 images are surprisingly good, essentially the same as lower ISO images. Noise levels rise noticeably at ISO 400 - images are a bit flat and some fine detail is lost (Noise comes through as an overall soft graininess sort of reminiscent of high speed film). I did see some blotching (chroma noise) in a couple of ISO 400 images.”
DigitalCameraReview have just reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera. “Auto ISO images are generally excellent with sharp resolution, bold colors, and lots of snap (although some very minor pattern noise is occasionally visible in shadow areas). ISO 50 and 100 images are consistently excellent with very…
Imaging Resource have reviewed the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body.
“Not too long ago digital cameras with advanced features and SLR-mimmicking long zoom lenses were considered “chunky” or bulky. But with the public’s increasing demand for smaller and smaller cameras with longer and longer zooms—and with manufacturers’ ability to put more power into petite packages, those chunky cameras have been on a diet lately. The new 6.0-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 is just such a camera. Its remarkably trim body houses a Leica 12x optical zoom and Panasonic’s MEGA Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.). Despite a bevy of features including a 2.5-inch LCD screen, a new widescreen VGA movie mode, and a joystick for controlling manual focus and manual exposure, the Panasonic FZ7 weighs in at just over half a pound and is small enough to stick in a backpack when traveling. Plus, the reasonable $350 price tag won’t break your travel budget.”
Imaging Resource have reviewed the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 which combines a 12x optical zoom lens with MEGA O.I.S. in a compact body. “Not too long ago digital cameras with advanced features and SLR-mimmicking long zoom lenses were considered “chunky” or bulky. But with the public’s increasing demand for smaller…
TrustedReviews have reviewed the new Nikon Coolpix P4, which offers a 3.5x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36mm-126mm on a 35mm film camera, vibration reduction, aperture-priority mode and and a 2.5 inch LCD screen.
“After the poor results I got from the Coolpix S5, I am happy to report that the P4 produces much better images. In fact I would say that it has among the best image quality I’ve seen from a pocket compact camera. Colour reproduction, exposure and focusing are all extremely accurate, and the F2.7-5.3 lens produces excellent edge sharpness, high contrast and plenty of detail. There is significant barrel distortion at the widest setting, but not as bad as the lens on the S5.”
Website: TrustedReviews - Nikon Coolpix P4 Review
Website: Read my Nikon Coolpix P4 Review
TrustedReviews have reviewed the new Nikon Coolpix P4, which offers a 3.5x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36mm-126mm on a 35mm film camera, vibration reduction, aperture-priority mode and and a 2.5 inch LCD screen. “After the poor results I got from the Coolpix S5, I am happy to report that…
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are:
1. My Favorite Vacation Spot
Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, as well as a recording studio owner/operator, and now, a digital camera enthusiast, GARY has more digital camera knowledge in his entire brain than most people have in their little finger. In the unlikely event that GARY would not know the answer to your question, he will answer it anyway, true to the spirit of the word “Parries”, a fencing term which, in this context, implies “cleverly evasive answers”. So let your imagination run wild. Email all your nagging digital camera questions to: [email protected], and then, En Garde!
You may also attach to your email an ORIGINAL PHOTO of your choosing. A preview of the photo will be displayed with your question, and a full-sized version will be just a click away (unless you request otherwise). No personal information will be published with your question unless you specifically include it in the text or attached photo of your email, which may be further edited for grammar, content, or other reasons.
This week’s Gary’s Parries topics are: 1. My Favorite Vacation Spot Introducing this week’s Gary’s Parries column. Everything you always wanted to know about digital cameras, but were afraid to ask. No question too difficult, or too easy. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, and a former Assistant Professor of…
Earlier this week Sony unveiled the new brand name for their up-coming DSLR camera range, which will be launched in the Summer of 2006. Dubbed “Alpha”, the name continues the tradition inherited from Konica Minolta, whose DSLRs were called the same thing in Japan for over 20 years before the company’s decision to pull out of the camera market. The new Sony Alpha DSLRS will be based on the existing Alpha / Maxxum / Dynax lens mount, which is good news for current Konica Minolta DSLR owners. But how much of an impact do you think Sony will have on the wider DSLR market, where Canon and Nikon retain the lion’s share? Can Sony make a bigger impression than Konica Minolta ever did, and challenge the major players, or will they be competing with the likes of Pentax and Samsung instead? Who do you think Sony’s first DSLR will be aimed at - will it be en entry-level model, prosumer or professional? Shout out now…
Earlier this week Sony unveiled the new brand name for their up-coming DSLR camera range, which will be launched in the Summer of 2006. Dubbed “Alpha”, the name continues the tradition inherited from Konica Minolta, whose DSLRs were called the same thing in Japan for over 20 years before the…
Here are the stand-out news stories from the last 7 days:
New Cameras
Sony Alpha DSLR Cameras
New Accessories
Sigma EX DG Filters for DSLRs
LaFrame LCD Monitor Frame
New Software
PhotoKit Color 2.0
Noise Ninja 2.1.1 RC
New Nikon Software Delayed
Other Headlines
60fps Sony CMOS Sensor
Price Increases for Kodak Film
Fujifilm’s Organic Image Sensor
Here are the stand-out news stories from the last 7 days: New CamerasSony Alpha DSLR Cameras New AccessoriesSigma EX DG Filters for DSLRsLaFrame LCD Monitor Frame New SoftwarePhotoKit Color 2.0Noise Ninja 2.1.1 RCNew Nikon Software Delayed Other Headlines60fps Sony CMOS SensorPrice Increases for Kodak FilmFujifilm’s Organic Image Sensor
After yesterday’s announcement by Sony that their new range of DSLR cameras will have the brand name “Alpha” comes some exciting news about their CMOS sensors.
“Sony is now pushing forward with the development of high-speed CMOS sensors for digital cameras that can provide continuous imaging from all pixels at the high frame rate of 60 frame/s. Sony is also developing in parallel a camera digital signal processor (DSP) that can take full advantage of this performance. Sony is now proposing a new way of enjoying photography in which one photographs and records images without concern for the difference between moving images and still images by using this frame readout of 60 frame/s high-speed CMOS sensor and new camera DSP.”
Reading between the lines, the article hints that this sensor may appear in the new camera that Sony are preparing to launch in the summer.
Website: Sony’s CMOS Sensors: Exceptional Imaging Quality and Speed
After yesterday’s announcement by Sony that their new range of DSLR cameras will have the brand name “Alpha” comes some exciting news about their CMOS sensors. “Sony is now pushing forward with the development of high-speed CMOS sensors for digital cameras that can provide continuous imaging from all pixels at…
Fujifilm UK Press Release
Fujifilm’s Landmark Compact Wins At The Camera Oscars - Fujifilm FinePix F30 Zoom scoops TIPA Award for Best Compact Digital Camera in Europe 2006
Fujifilm’s landmark digital compact camera, the FinePix F30 Zoom, is taking Europe by storm. Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) - the largest and most influential photo and imaging press association in Europe - has officially voted the FinePix F30 Zoom ‘The Best Compact Digital Camera in Europe 2006’. The FinePix F30 Zoom is the world’s first compact to deliver ISO 3200 sensitivity at full resolution. This means users are able to produce crisp images with minimal noise, no subject blurring and atmospheric lighting in dark conditions.
Fujifilm UK Press Release Fujifilm’s Landmark Compact Wins At The Camera Oscars - Fujifilm FinePix F30 Zoom scoops TIPA Award for Best Compact Digital Camera in Europe 2006 Fujifilm’s landmark digital compact camera, the FinePix F30 Zoom, is taking Europe by storm. Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) - the largest…
Kingston Technology Press Release
Kingston U3 DataTraveler USB Smart Drive Combines Storage with Leading Software – Pass2Go, ACDSee, and Zinio
Fountain Valley, CA — Kingston Technology Company, Inc. today introduced the Kingston U3 DataTraveler, a U3™ powered smart drive that helps streamline and support the “digital life” experience. Available in capacities up to 2 GB and smaller than a pack of gum, the latest Kingston® U3 DataTraveler® features software to help file, organize and share photos; automatically populate forms; generate, manage and secure passwords; and read and interact with digital publications. Representing a new paradigm in computing, the U3 smart drive computing platform transforms a USB flash drive from simple storage device into a new consumer product that people can use to carry, store and launch their own applications from any PC, wherever they go. One of the goals of the U3 platform is to make software programs, personal preferences, passwords, settings, and files more portable, personal, and protected. U3 smart drives feature a “U3 Launchpad” from which applications can be opened on Windows 2000/XP.
Kingston Technology Press Release Kingston U3 DataTraveler USB Smart Drive Combines Storage with Leading Software – Pass2Go, ACDSee, and Zinio Fountain Valley, CA — Kingston Technology Company, Inc. today introduced the Kingston U3 DataTraveler, a U3™ powered smart drive that helps streamline and support the “digital life” experience. Available in…
Sigma Press Release
Multi coating filters optimized for Digital SLRs
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new SIGMA EX DG range of filters which is optimized for digital SLRs. The new filters benefit from a super multi-layer lens coating developed to counteract the highly reflective characteristics of digital image sensors reducing both flare and ghosting. Black rimmed glass eliminates unnecessary internal reflections. The Sigma EX DG range comprises UV filters, which not only reduce ultraviolet light but are ideal for protecting the lens during general photography, and Circular Polarizing (CP) filters which eliminate reflections from subjects such as glass and water and deepen the intensity of blue skies. The range of CP filters, with the exception of the 86mm, 95mm and 105mm, is encased within an ultra- thin metal ring that does not cause vignetting with wide-angle lenses. Each of these Sigma EX DG filters is designed to accept the front cap of the lens.
Sigma Press Release Multi coating filters optimized for Digital SLRs The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new SIGMA EX DG range of filters which is optimized for digital SLRs. The new filters benefit from a super multi-layer lens coating developed to counteract the highly reflective…
Ulead Press Release
New consumer video editing packages offer enhanced ease of use, expanded creative options and full high-definition support.
UK April 21st, 2006 – Ulead Systems Inc., a 17-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, today announced VideoStudio® 10 and VideoStudio® 10 Plus, the newest versions of its consumer video editing and DVD authoring software. The new releases allow users of all levels to easily turn photos and video into high-quality productions for sharing on DVD, tape, the Internet or mobile devices. “With version 10, VideoStudio hasn’t changed so much as it has grown,” said Mark Wurdemann, European Marketing Manager, Ulead. “Users new to video editing will find the software easier than ever. Advanced users can now take advantage of multiple overlay tracks, and complete support for high-definition video.”
Ulead Press Release New consumer video editing packages offer enhanced ease of use, expanded creative options and full high-definition support. UK April 21st, 2006 – Ulead Systems Inc., a 17-year industry leader in video, image and DVD software, today announced VideoStudio® 10 and VideoStudio® 10 Plus, the newest versions of…
Epson Press Release
The Technical Imaging Press Association (TIPA) has awarded Epson three awards in its annual review of the best products in the digital photo imaging arena.
April 2006 - Epson, leader in digital imaging technology, has been presented with three of the most prestigious TIPA Awards 2006. The Epson Perfection V750 Pro scanner has been voted as the “Best Flatbed Photo Scanner in Europe 2006”, the Epson Stylus Photo RX640 as the “Best A4 Multifunction Photo Printer in Europe 2006” and Epson UltraChrome K3 ink as the “Best Printing Technology in Europe 2006”. TIPA currently has 31 member magazines, making it the largest and most influential photo and imaging press association in Europe. Widely regarded as experts, the editors of the magazines test the photo and imaging products and then meet once a year to judge the best in Europe.
Epson Press Release The Technical Imaging Press Association (TIPA) has awarded Epson three awards in its annual review of the best products in the digital photo imaging arena. April 2006 - Epson, leader in digital imaging technology, has been presented with three of the most prestigious TIPA Awards 2006. The…
Photodoto.com is a new photography tutorial site that aims to be a resource for learning how to make better pictures with tips and techniques for beginners to advanced amateurs. To celebrate their opening, Photodoto are running a photography contest through May 5 and giving away some great prizes, including a Canon SD450 5MP Digital Elph camera.
Website: Photodoto.com Competition
Photodoto.com is a new photography tutorial site that aims to be a resource for learning how to make better pictures with tips and techniques for beginners to advanced amateurs. To celebrate their opening, Photodoto are running a photography contest through May 5 and giving away some great prizes, including a…
DigitalCameraReview have published the first online review of the Pentax Optio W10, a 6 megapixel camera with 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5 inch LCD and a waterproof body.
“The speed of the camera operation was good—not the fastest, but not the slowest. Start up time was about two seconds and shutter lag was minimal when the camera has achieved auto focus/auto exposure lock (about average for this class of camera). Shutter lag for a full press of the shutter was significant, especially when the flash needs to fire. You should get in the practice of doing the partial shutter press anyway—you will have a better idea of what your camera is going to focus on and can correct it if it’s not right. Cycle time was also average and can be adjusted to some extent by changing the review time via the camera menu.”
DigitalCameraReview have published the first online review of the Pentax Optio W10, a 6 megapixel camera with 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5 inch LCD and a waterproof body. “The speed of the camera operation was good—not the fastest, but not the slowest. Start up time was about two seconds and…
DigiCamReview have just reviewed the new 5 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS2 digicam.
“The camera’s 2” screen was good despite it’s low resolution of 86,000 pixels, it appeared to have very good dynamic range in both photo mode and playback mode - the screen was clear, bright, with saturated and accurate colours. The camera features a “High Angle” button that helps you view the image on the screen if you are holding the camera above you, this works surprisingly well. The camera is pocketable and fairly compact, but not ultra-compact. The camera is quite stylish with a silver plastic body. “
Website: DigiCamReview - Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS2 Review
DigiCamReview have just reviewed the new 5 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS2 digicam. “The camera’s 2” screen was good despite it’s low resolution of 86,000 pixels, it appeared to have very good dynamic range in both photo mode and playback mode - the screen was clear, bright, with saturated and accurate…
CNET have reviewed the new Canon PowerShot A430, which offers 4 megapixels, ISO 800, 2.5 inch LCD and a 4x optical zoom lens.
“Image quality is decent on the A430, but colors tend to run oversaturated and cool; using the manual white balance yields the most neutral result. There’s a fair amount of fringing, and noise is a nuisance on this camera, with speckles appearing in shots taken at sensitivities as low as ISO 200. The noise tends to be even enough to pass off as artsy film grain, but it’s still irritating at higher ISO settings.”
Website: CNET - Canon PowerShot A430 Review
CNET have reviewed the new Canon PowerShot A430, which offers 4 megapixels, ISO 800, 2.5 inch LCD and a 4x optical zoom lens. “Image quality is decent on the A430, but colors tend to run oversaturated and cool; using the manual white balance yields the most neutral result. There’s a…
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new Samsung GX-1S digital SLR, a 6 megapixel digital camera that uses the Pentax lens mount.
“As far as we can tell, with the logos covered, the GX-1S and the Pentax *ist DS are virtually the same camera. Spokespeople for Samsung at the Photo Marketing Association convention this February, in fact, said that the GX 1L is a Pentax with their logo on it; Pentax had no comment. We haven’t examined an *ist DS, but as far as specifications are concerned, the 2 cameras are a lot alike.”
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new Samsung GX-1S digital SLR, a 6 megapixel digital camera that uses the Pentax lens mount. “As far as we can tell, with the logos covered, the GX-1S and the Pentax *ist DS are virtually the same camera. Spokespeople for Samsung at the Photo Marketing Association…