News

Saturday, December 4, 2004

Canon PowerShot S1Photoxels 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.

“The Canon PowerShot S1 IS is our recommended digital camera for someone starting in photography and desiring a full featured and affordable ultra zoom model.

Not only does the Canon S1 continue the PowerShot S series tradition of high-quality and easy-to-use digital cameras, it also incorporates some high-end features usually found only in more expensive prosumer models.”

Website: Photoxels - Canon PowerShot S1 IS Review

Photoxels 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. “The Canon PowerShot S1 IS is our recommended digital camera for someone starting in photography and desiring a full featured…

Panasonic  DMC-FZ20The Hungarian website Index Digicam have posted their review of the new Panasonic DMC-FZ20 digital camera, which has a 12x optical zoom lens from Leica.

Website: Index Digicam - Panasonic DMC-FZ20 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Panasonic DMC-FZ20

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have posted their review of the new Panasonic DMC-FZ20 digital camera, which has a 12x optical zoom lens from Leica. Website: Index Digicam - Panasonic DMC-FZ20 Review Check the Latest Prices for the Panasonic DMC-FZ20

Epson Stylus Pro 4000Digital Outback Photo have started a diary-like review of the Epson Stylus Pro 4000 inkjet printer.

“The 2200 is gone, because I see no benefit to having both the 2200 and the 4000. Don’t get me wrong. I have no qualms with the 2200. It is a great printer in its own right. However, in my situation the 2200 and the 4000 serve the same purpose. They both have dual matte & glossy blacks and they both can print 12 inches wide but the prize goes to the 4000 because it can use 220ml cartridges and print up to 17” wide, not to say anything about its much higher speed and it’s industrial quality built.”

Digital Outback Photo - Epson 4000 Experience Diary

Digital Outback Photo have started a diary-like review of the Epson Stylus Pro 4000 inkjet printer. “The 2200 is gone, because I see no benefit to having both the 2200 and the 4000. Don’t get me wrong. I have no qualms with the 2200. It is a great printer in…

FujiFilm FinePix S5100Imaging Resource have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.

“The previous Fuji FinePix 2800 and 3800 Zoom cameras were exceptional values for the money, and the updated Fuji FinePix S5100 offers the same great value with the addition of a 4.0-megapixel CCD and a longer 10x zoom lens. The S5100’s higher resolution is a welcome improvement, providing great image quality for a budget-priced digital camera, and its 10x optical zoom is excellent for distant subjects. Its color is more accurate than that of most consumer digicams, although that means it’s less saturated on bright colors than most consumer cameras. My only real complaint about its images is that they tend to be a little contrasty.”

Website: Imaging Resource - FujiFilm FinePix S5100 Review

Imaging Resource have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera. “The previous Fuji FinePix 2800 and 3800 Zoom cameras were exceptional values for the money, and the updated Fuji FinePix S5100 offers the same great value with the addition of a 4.0-megapixel CCD and a longer…

FujiFilm FinePix E550 ZoomDigitalCameraInfo have just posted their review of the 6 megapixel Fuji FinePix E550.

“The Fuji FinePix E550 received an overall color score of 7.49, indicating strong color accuracy and naturalistic representation of tones. As you can see in the chart above, few of the produced tones are “spot on,” however, most do not stray too significantly from their ideal. The E550 earned an 8.01 overall mean color error score, which is very high. This score reflects the averaged variance from each tone and indicates the overall accuracy of the camera. The camera’s accurate representation of color is facilitated by minimal over-saturation of hues, an element of great exaggeration on many digital cameras. The subtle shades produced by the FinePix E550 result in a realistic overall representation of scene and naturalistic portrayal of color.”

Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Fuji FinePix E550 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Fuji FinePix E550

DigitalCameraInfo have just posted their review of the 6 megapixel Fuji FinePix E550. “The Fuji FinePix E550 received an overall color score of 7.49, indicating strong color accuracy and naturalistic representation of tones. As you can see in the chart above, few of the produced tones are “spot on,” however…

Pentax Optio S40First announced back in February (and now already superceded by the Optio S50), CNET have posted their review of the Pentax Optio S40, a 4 megapixel, 3X zoom digital camera sporting a sleek aluminum design.

“Flexible automatic-exposure options, easy manual focus, and histogram-assisted exposure adjustments will please snapshooters who want to fine-tune pictures on the fly, but the Pentax Optio S40 lacks the manual controls enthusiasts look for. This ultracompact, 4-megapixel Pentax loses points for its average image quality and performance, but its biggest shortcomings are found in optical and LCD viewfinders that give you the worst of both worlds.”

Website: CNET - Pentax Optio S40 Review

First announced back in February (and now already superceded by the Optio S50), CNET have posted their review of the Pentax Optio S40, a 4 megapixel, 3X zoom digital camera sporting a sleek aluminum design. “Flexible automatic-exposure options, easy manual focus, and histogram-assisted exposure adjustments will please snapshooters who want…

Olympus C-70 ZOOMCNET have published their review of the 7 megapixel Olympus C-70 Zoom (called the Olympus C-7000 Zoom in the USA).

“Packed with more than three-quarters of a million pixels per ounce, this Olympus C-7000Z is typical of the breed of compact alternatives to a digital SLR or an EVF-equipped camera. Full manual controls; your choice of JPEG, TIFF, or raw file formats; versatile movie features; and a 5X zoom lens that takes you out to 190mm (35mm equivalent) as well as focuses to less than one inch in macro mode are among this camera’s more interesting assets. The only extras a serious photographer could wish for would be support for add-on lenses and an external flash connection; this camera is otherwise ready for just about anything you can throw at it.”

Website: CNET - Olympus C-70 Zoom Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus C-70 Zoom

CNET have published their review of the 7 megapixel Olympus C-70 Zoom (called the Olympus C-7000 Zoom in the USA). “Packed with more than three-quarters of a million pixels per ounce, this Olympus C-7000Z is typical of the breed of compact alternatives to a digital SLR or an EVF-equipped camera…

Friday, December 3, 2004

BibbleBibble Labs Press Release 02/12/04

Bibble Labs announces competitive upgrade program for C1 users.

Discounted price upgrade to Bibble 4.1 with Canon EOS 1ds Mark 2 Support and Hihglight recovery.

Austin Texas (December 2nd, 2004) - Bibble Labs today announced the availability of limited time special upgrade pricing for existing licensees of Phase One’s C1 product who wish to acquire the latest version of Bibble Pro 4.1

Through December 20th, 2004 existing C1 users will be able to purchase Bibble Pro 4.1 for the special price of $99 by providing qualifying proof of purchase for any version of C1. For more details on the program, please visit us on the web at http://www.bibblelabs.com/c1.html.

Bibble Labs Press Release 02/12/04 Bibble Labs announces competitive upgrade program for C1 users. Discounted price upgrade to Bibble 4.1 with Canon EOS 1ds Mark 2 Support and Hihglight recovery. Austin Texas (December 2nd, 2004) - Bibble Labs today announced the availability of limited time special upgrade pricing for existing…

Canon CanoScan 9950FPhoto-i have solved their recent problems and completed their interactive, diary-like review of the new high-end Canon CanoScan 9950F flatbed scanner.

“For 35mm film scanning the 9950F is a pace nearer, but still not there. The scans were far too soft. However, with careful use of Unsharp Masking in Photoshop (or Elements) good quality scans can be achieved. If you only intend printing 6x4, A4 or A3 prints, then the quality will be more than sufficient. For high quality magazine standard scanning you are still going to have to look elsewhere. With medium and large format film, this scanner produced outstanding quality, I would not have any second thoughts about using this scanner for my professional work flow (I stopped using film four years ago).”

Website: Photo-i - Canon CanoScan 9950F Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Canon CanoScan 9950F

Photo-i have solved their recent problems and completed their interactive, diary-like review of the new high-end Canon CanoScan 9950F flatbed scanner. “For 35mm film scanning the 9950F is a pace nearer, but still not there. The scans were far too soft. However, with careful use of Unsharp Masking in Photoshop…

Pentax Optio XThe Hungarian website Index Digicam have just reviewed the 5 megapixel, twistable Pentax Optio X.

Website: Index Digicam - Pentax Optio X Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Pentax Optio X

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just reviewed the 5 megapixel, twistable Pentax Optio X. Website: Index Digicam - Pentax Optio X Review Check the Latest Prices for the Pentax Optio X

Konica Minolta Dynax 7DThe Slovenian website e-fotografija have posted a review of the Konica Minolta 7D DSLR, with lots of sample images to look at if your Slovenian is a bit rusty.

Website: e-fotografija - Konica Minolta 7D Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta Dynax 7D

The Slovenian website e-fotografija have posted a review of the Konica Minolta 7D DSLR, with lots of sample images to look at if your Slovenian is a bit rusty. Website: e-fotografija - Konica Minolta 7D Review Check the Latest Prices for the Konica Minolta Dynax 7D

FujiFilm FinePix F810 ZoomThe Norwegian website Akamera.no have published a review of the 6 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix F810 Zoom.

Website: Akamera.no - FujiFilm FinePix F810 Zoom Review

Website: Read my Fujifilm Finepix F810 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the FujiFilm FinePix F810 Zoom

The Norwegian website Akamera.no have published a review of the 6 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix F810 Zoom. Website: Akamera.no - FujiFilm FinePix F810 Zoom Review Website: Read my Fujifilm Finepix F810 Review Check the Latest Prices for the FujiFilm FinePix F810 Zoom

Thursday, December 2, 2004

HP Photosmart M407HP’s new range of digital cameras was announced at the end of August 2004. Whilst the more sophisticated and expensive R-series models (R707, 607 and 507) have generated quite a lot of media interest, the cheaper M-series cameras seem to have been largely ignored, at least online anyway, as this is one of the first reviews of the M407 published on the Internet. The M407 is a 4 megapixel camera with a 3x optical zoom, 1.8 inch LCD screen and the usual HP emphasis on ease-of-use. With a street price of around ?140/$180, does the M407 have what it takes to survive in the cut-throat world of the entry-level digicam? Read my exclusive review to find out.

Website: HP Photosmart M407 Review

Check the Latest Prices for the HP Photosmart M407

HP’s new range of digital cameras was announced at the end of August 2004. Whilst the more sophisticated and expensive R-series models (R707, 607 and 507) have generated quite a lot of media interest, the cheaper M-series cameras seem to have been largely ignored, at least online anyway, as this…

SandiskSandisk Press Release 02/12/04

Music, Memories and Mobility: New SanDisk Gadgets Make Great Gifts for Non-Geeks

SUNNYVALE, Calif.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Dec. 2, 2004—With Prices At $10 to $200, There’s Something For Every Budget, From Shoot & Store Flash Cards and Card Readers to MP3 Music Players  

When shopping for the holidays, think digital. Keep in mind that great things come in small packages, and this year SanDisk(R) Corporation (Nasdaq:SNDK) has plenty of electronic delights to brighten up the gift-giving season.

The world’s original inventor and largest manufacturer of flash memory cards for digital cameras and other portable devices has some of the coolest stuff this side of the North Pole. SanDisk is offering a bagful of goodies that just about anyone can enjoy—from new ultra-compact flash MP3 music players to a viewer that can show digital snapshots on virtually any TV set. And for budget-minded shoppers, SanDisk has stocking-stuffers that cost as little as $9.99 for Shoot & Store(TM) flash memory cards that work in most popular digital cameras and can be purchased at supermarkets and drug stores.

SanDisk products are available worldwide at the more than 93,000 retail outlets, including electronics and photography stores.

Sandisk Press Release 02/12/04 Music, Memories and Mobility: New SanDisk Gadgets Make Great Gifts for Non-Geeks SUNNYVALE, Calif.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Dec. 2, 2004—With Prices At $10 to $200, There’s Something For Every Budget, From Shoot & Store Flash Cards and Card Readers to MP3 Music Players When shopping for the holidays, think…

I couldn’t resist blogging about this, ermm, article about blogs, even though it has nothing to do with photography. Apparently “blog” was the most looked-up term on the Merriam-Webster website during 2004.

“Merriam-Webster said “blog” was the word that people have asked to be defined or explained most often over the last 12 months.

The word will now appear in the 2005 version of Merriam-Webster’s printed dictionary.”

Website: BBC News - ‘Blog’ picked as word of the year

I couldn’t resist blogging about this, ermm, article about blogs, even though it has nothing to do with photography. Apparently “blog” was the most looked-up term on the Merriam-Webster website during 2004. “Merriam-Webster said “blog” was the word that people have asked to be defined or explained most often over…

There’s another techy article over at Photo.net - this time all about a camera that takes images that look like line drawings!

“The multi-flash camera captures real life images and renders them in a non-photorealistic line-form. Ramesh Raskar describes this process as computational photography. Raskar modestly insists that while “it’s something you can’t do with film, it certainly is not a replacement for photography, or Photoshop for that matter”. Non-photorealistic imaging is an easy way to convey ideas/images and has myriad applications for technical and medical imaging.”

Website: Photo.net - Non-photorealistic Camera

There’s another techy article over at Photo.net - this time all about a camera that takes images that look like line drawings! “The multi-flash camera captures real life images and renders them in a non-photorealistic line-form. Ramesh Raskar describes this process as computational photography. Raskar modestly insists that while “it’s…

The Register website has a short but interesting article about liquid lens technology from French start-up company Varioptic.

“The lens has a simple structure: two liquids, of equal density, sandwiched between two windows in a conical vessel. One liquid is water, which is conductive. The other, oil, acts as a lid, allowing the engineers to work with a fixed volume of water, and provides a measure of stability for the optical axis. The interface between the oil and water will change shape depending on the voltage applied across the conical structure. At zero volts, the surface is flat, but at 40 volts, the surface of the oil is highly convex, Paillard said.”

Website: The Register - Liquid lenses for camera phones

The Register website has a short but interesting article about liquid lens technology from French start-up company Varioptic. “The lens has a simple structure: two liquids, of equal density, sandwiched between two windows in a conical vessel. One liquid is water, which is conductive. The other, oil, acts as a…

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLRMichael Reichmann over at the Luminous Landscape website has published his thoughts on the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR and the Phase One P25 digital back.

“OK. Let’s cut to the chase. Which is the better camera system - the Canon 1Ds Mark II, or the Phase One P25 on a medium format camera like the Contax 645?

Once again, I’m afraid that I’ll have to disappoint. There’s no absolute winner. Each one has its strengths and weaknessess, and based on this, as I’ve detailed above, if you’re lucky enough to be able to afford one or the other, you’ll have to make your own decision based on your particular photographic needs.

If you’re looking for the finest absolute image quality then the P25 gets the nod. There are more pixels, the photosites are bigger, and therefore the images are a bit crisper and capable of being printed larger. There is a bit more dynamic range, and at low ISOs the shadows have more detail and “depth”.”

Website: Luminous Landscape - Canon 1Ds MKII Vs. Phase One P25

Michael Reichmann over at the Luminous Landscape website has published his thoughts on the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Digital SLR and the Phase One P25 digital back. “OK. Let’s cut to the chase. Which is the better camera system - the Canon 1Ds Mark II, or the Phase One P2…

Pentax Optio750ZThe Hungarian website Index Digicam have reviewed the 7 megapixel Pentax Optio750Z.

Website: Index Digicam - Pentax Optio750Z Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Pentax Optio750Z

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have reviewed the 7 megapixel Pentax Optio750Z. Website: Index Digicam - Pentax Optio750Z Review Check the Latest Prices for the Pentax Optio750Z

Olympus C-770 Ultra ZoomThe Hungarian website Index Digicam have published their review of the 4-megapixel Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom digital camera.

Website: Index Digicam - Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom Review

Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have published their review of the 4-megapixel Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom digital camera. Website: Index Digicam - Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom Review Check the Latest Prices for the Olympus C-770 Ultra Zoom