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Panasonic have finally entered the super-telephoto fray with the launch of the exciting new Lumix S 100-500mm F5-7.1 O.I.S. full-frame lens. Is this the ultimate telephoto zoom lens that L-mount camera users have been waiting for? Find out now in our in-depth review complete with full-size sample images.
We're bringing you this in-depth Panasonic Lumix S1 II vs S1 IIE head-to-head comparison to explain the differences and help you choose between these two mirrorless cameras.
We're bringing you this in-depth Panasonic Lumix S1 IIE vs S5 II head-to-head comparison to explain the differences and help you choose between these two mirrorless cameras.
The Lumix S1 IIE is a brand new mid-range hybrid camera that can shoot 24 megapixel photos at 30fps and record C4K/4K 60p video with no crop. Read our full Panasonic S1 IIE review complete with sample photos and videos...
The Z5 II is an attractively priced mirrorless camera that inherits a lot of technology from much further up the Nikon food chain. Is this the best entry-level full-frame camera on the block? Find out now by reading our Z5II review, complete with sample images and videos...
Panasonic are back with a bang with the launch of their enticing new full-frame flagship camera, the Lumix S1R II. Find out why you should seriously consider this all-singing, all-dancing 8K/30p / 44 megapixel hybrid all-rounder in our S1RII review, complete with full-size sample images and videos...
The Fujifilm X-T50 is a cheaper alternative to the popular X-T5 that promises to deliver the same image quality in a smaller, lighter body. Can it follow in the successful footsteps of its big brother? Find out now by reading our full Fuji XT50 review...
A detailed head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic Lumix S1R II vs Canon EOS R5 Mark II mirrorless cameras.
A detailed head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic Lumix S1R II vs Panasonic Lumix S1R mirrorless cameras.
The OM-3 is a new mirrorless camera that combines a gorgeous retro design with the best specs that OM System have to offer. We take an in-depth look at what this new Micro Four Thirds camera is all about in our OM System OM-3 review...
The brand new Lumix S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 is the World's smallest and lightest zoom for full-frame mirrorless cameras that is well-suited to both stills and video. Find out if you should buy one by reading our in-depth Panasonic 18-40mm review...
Have you always wanted a wide-ranging standard zoom with a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture? Then Sigma may well have the answer for you in the shape of the brand new 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN Art. Read our in-depth review to find out more about this completely unique lens...
The Nikon Z6 III is a new enthusiast full-frame hybrid mirrorless camera with a revolutionary partially stacked sensor and an amazing electronic viewfinder. Is this the best all-round prosumer mirrorless camera on the market? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z6 II review, complete with full size sample photos and videos...
The Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art II is a new premium general-purpose zoom lens for Panasonic/Leica L-mount and Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. Read our in-depth Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art II review to find out if it can out-perform its main rivals from Sony and Tamron...
The brand new Panasonic Lumix GH7 and 2022's GH6 look very similar, so which of these hybrid video and stills mirrorless cameras is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic Lumix GH7 versus the GH6.
We've kicked off our Panasonic Lumix S9 review with sample JPEG and RAW images, product shots and more...
The brand new Panasonic Lumix S9 and 2023's S5 II model have very similar specifications, so which full-frame sensor mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic Lumix S9 versus the S5 II.
The Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN Art is a very fast standard prime lens for Sony, Leica, Panasonic and Sigma full-frame mirrorless cameras. Retailing for £1300 / $1400, read our Sigma 50mm F1.2 review to find out if it's the ultimate "fast fifty" lens...
The Lumix S 28-200 mm F4-7.1 MACRO O.I.S. is a new all-in-one wide-tele zoom lens with macro capabilities for the Panasonic, Sigma and Leica L-mount mirrorless camera system. Read our in-depth Panasonic 28-200mm review with full-size sample images now to find out what this versatile lens is capable of...
The Panasonic Lumix S 100mm F2.8 is an incredibly small and lightweight 1x / 1:1 macro lens for L-mount cameras. Priced at £999 / €1099, can this prime lens offer great image quality, enough features and portability all at the same time? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S 100mm F2.8 Macro review, complete with full-size sample photos...
The ZV-E1 is Sony's first vlogging camera to feature a 35mm full-frame sensor, offering 4K/120p recording, 12 megapixel stills, and AI-based autofocusing and stabilisation modes. Is the the ultimate camera for for videos and vlogs? Find out now in our in-depth Sony ZV-E1 review...
The Lumix G9 II is the most capable Micro Four Thirds camera that Panasonic have ever released, but does that mean that you should rush out and buy one? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix G9 II review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The brand new Panasonic Lumix G9 II Micro Four Thirds camera and the 35mm full-frame Lumix S5 II look very similar, but how exactly do the they differ and ultimately which one should you buy? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic G9 II versus the Panasonic S5 II.
The brand new Panasonic Lumix G9 II is similarly priced to the popular Lumix GH6, but how exactly do the they differ and ultimately which one should you buy? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic G9 II versus the Panasonic GH6.
The brand new Panasonic Lumix G9 II replaces the 6-year-old Lumix G9, but what exactly has changed, is it really worth upgrading and ultimately which one should you buy? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic G9 II versus the Panasonic G9.
The Sony A7C II is the second version of a 35mm full-frame camera that's amazingly almost the same size and weight as a smaller APS-C sensor camera. Find out if they've perfected the recipe by reading our Sony A7C II review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The new Canon EOS R8 full-frame mirrorless camera integrates the image quality and autofocusing from the more expensive EOS R6 Mark II with the smaller, lighter and simpler body of the cheaper EOS RP. Is the resulting camera a resounding success or a terrible mish-mash? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon EOS R8 review...
Finally! The new Lumix S5 II is the first ever Panasonic camera to have a phase hybrid detection AF system, answering the critics of its contrast-based DFD system. But does this powerful hybrid photo and video camera have what it takes to beat its main rivals? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S5 II review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
The Lumix S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO is a new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens with macro capabilities for the Panasonic, Sigma and Leica L-mount mirrorless camera system. Read our in-depth Panasonic 14-28mm review with full-size sample images now to find out what this mid-price lens is capable of...
The brand new Panasonic Lumix S5II and the previous S5 camera are very similar in appearance, so which full-frame mirrorless camera is right for you? We take a closer look in our head-to-head comparison of the Panasonic Lumix S5II versus the Panasonic Lumix S5.
The Lumix S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO (S-R1428) is a compact, budget-friendly ultra wide-angle L-Mount zoom lens with half-size macro capability.
This new lens will be available from February 2023 priced at €999 / £879.99.
The Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX and LUMIX S5II are mirrorless cameras with a newly developed Hybrid Phase Detection AF system, enhanced Active I.S. and a 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.
The LUMIX S5IIX will be available from June 2023 priced at €2,499 / £2,299 / $2,199 RRP, while the LUMIX S5II will be available from January 2023 priced at €2,199 / £1,999 / $1,999 RRP.
Ahead of our full review, here are some full-size sample photos taken with the Panasonic Lumix S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO zoom lens, mounted on the equally new Lumix S5II mirrorless camera.
Ahead of our full review, here are some full-size sample JPEG and RAW photos taken with the Panasonic Lumix S5II mirrorless camera. The Lumix S5 II is a mirrorless camera with a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor, brand new phase-detection autofocus system, and up to 6K/30p video recording.
Ahead of our full review, do you want to see exactly what the new Panasonic Lumix S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO lens for full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras looks like in the flesh?
We were given a sneak peek of the Lumix 14-28mm ahead of its launch today.
Check out our hands-on gallery of photos of this impressive new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens.
Ahead of our full review, do you want to see exactly what the new Panasonic Lumix S5II full-frame sensor mirrorless camera looks like in the flesh?
We were given a sneak peek of the Panasonic S5 II ahead of its launch today.
Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of this exciting new mirrorless camera.
The new OM-1 flagship is both the last ever Olympus camera and the first ever OM System camera. Confused? Well no need to worry, as we take an in-depth look at what this new Micro Four Thirds flagship has to offer in our OM System OM-1 review, complete with full-size sample photos and videos...
The much anticipated Panasonic GH6 is finally here! But what does this new flagship camera offer, and can it really improve on the best-selling GH5? We find out in our review of the Panasonic Lumix GH6 mirrorless camera, complete with sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The new Sony Alpha A7 IV is a new 33 megapixel, 4K/60p video, 10fps burst shooting, cutting-edge auto-focusing hybrid full-frame mirrorless model that pulls no punches in its bid to be the only camera that you need. Find out why we think this is one of the best all-round cameras of 2021 by reading our in-depth Sony A7 IV review...
The Panasonic Lumix S 50mm F1.8 is the second in a series of five new F1.8 lenses for the Panasonic, Sigma and Leica "L-mount" full-frame mirrorless camera system. Priced at £429.99 / $499.99, can this standard prime lens lens offer both quality and affordability at the same time? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S 50mm F1.8 review, complete with full-size sample photos.
The Panasonic Lumix S 24mm F1.8 is the third in a series of five new F1.8 lenses for the Panasonic, Sigma and Leica "L-mount" full-frame mirrorless camera system. Priced at £799.99 / $899.99, can this new wide-angle prime lens lens offer both quality and affordability at the same time? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S 24mm F1.8 review, complete with full-size sample photos.
The much anticipated Panasonic GH6 may be on the near-horizon, but the brand new GH5 Mark II is here right now. What does the new version offer, and can it really improve on the best-selling original? We find out in our review of the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II mirrorless camera, complete with sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
Panasonic has just announced a new lightweight 50mm F1.8 lens for its LUMIX S Series range of full-frame mirrorless cameras.
The new LUMIX S 50mm F1.8 will be available by the end of June 2021 priced at £429 in the UK.
The Sigma fp L is a 61 megapixel, 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera that shoots 4K/30p video. It's aimed at both demanding film-makers and stills photographers alike, but can this 2021 update of the original fp model really satisfy the needs of both types of user? Find out out now by reading our in-depth Sigma fp L review, complete with full-size sample JPEG and Raw images and videos.
Panasonic has just announced new firmware updates for the S1, S1H, S1R, S5 and BGH1 mirrorless cameras. The 24 megapixel S1 gets the biggest update, with 5.9K/C4K and 4K60/50p 4:2:0 10bit internal video recording all added, while the S1H gains 5.9K Blackmagic RAW recording capabilities.
Panasonic have unveiled a new telephoto zoom lens for the L-Mount system of full-frame mirrorless cameras.
Key features include a rounded aperture with 11-bladed iris diaphragm, dual image stabiliser worth up to 5.5-stops, and a rugged dust/splash-resistant design.
The 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 MACRO O.I.S. has a minimum focusing distance of 0.54m and a maximum magnification of 0.5x for half-size macro capabilities.
The Lumix S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 will be available from the beginning of May at RRP £1259.99 / $1,247.99.
The Leica SL2-S is an impeccably built full-frame mirrorless camera, offering a 24.6 megapixel BSI sensor, DCI 4K/60p video recording, 25fps burst shooting, a class-leading EVF, IBIS worth 5.5 stops, ISO 100,000 and dual UHS-II SD memory card slots. Read our in-depth Leica SL2S review to find out what this £3,975 / $4,895 camera is capable of...
The Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera is an evolutionary upgrade of the original Z6, principally improving the autofocusing, buffer and video and adding a second memory card slot. Is this enough to compete with its main rivals? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z6 II review, complete with full size sample photos and videos...
The Panasonic Lumix S 85mm F1.8 is the first in a series of five new F1.8 lenses for the Panasonic, Sigma and Leica "L-mount" full-frame mirrorless camera system. Priced at £599.99 / $599.99, can this new prime portrait lens lens offer both quality and affordability at the same time? Find out now by reading our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S 85mm F1.8 review, complete with full-size sample photos.
Panasonic has just announced the release of major firmware update programs for its LUMIX S and G Series cameras.
With the S1R firmware update, 5K video-output recorded internally in 4:2:0 10bit will become available.
The improved auto-focus from the recently released Lumix S5 will be rolled out for the S1, S1R and S1H.
The S1 will get firmware update 2.0 in the first half of 2021, which will include V-Log recording, 5.9K/C4K and 4K60/50p 4:2:0 10bit internal video recording, and 5.9K/4K/Anamorphic (4:3) 3.5K 12-bit RAW video data recording over HDMI on an Atomos Ninja V.
The Panasonic S5 is a brand new hybrid full-frame mirrorless camera that's equally as capable at shooting both stills and video. In an ever more crowded market, does the Lumix S5 offer enough to stand out against the likes of the Sony A7 III, Canon EOS R and Nikon Z6? Read our in-depth review of the Panasonic S5 to find out, complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
Ahead of our full review, here are some full-size 24-megapixel JPEG and Raw sample images and 4K videos taken with the brand new Panasonic S5 mirrorless camera.
Sony are attempting to turn the camera world on its head by creating a new 35mm full-frame camera that's the same size and weight as one with a smaller APS-C sensor. Have they succeeded with the new Sony A7C, and is it a great camera in its own right? Find out now by reading our Sony A7C review complete with full-size sample photos and videos.
Panasonic have announced new firmware update programs for the Lumix S1, S1H and S1R cameras by the end of 2020.
The new firmware will enable the Panasonic S1R to record 5K video, and bring the enhanced AF technology and performance of the new Lumix S5 to the Panasonic S1, Panasonic S1H and the S1R.
The new Panasonic S5 mirrorless camera is smaller and lighter than the popular GH5, but with a full-frame sensor rather than a much smaller Micro Four Thirds one!
It even has exactly the same 24.2 megapixel sensor as the much more expensive S1H model.
The Lumix S5 offers 4K 60p 4:2:0 internal video recording (with small crop), making it the only sub-£2000 camera to offer this.
Internal 10-bit video is available with a 30 minute time limit, tested at 40-degrees (almost double the temperature of some rivals).
You can then re-record for another 30 mins straight-away, and so on. In 8-bit, there is no recording time limit at all.
The full V-Log profile is pre-installed on the Panasonic S5 – it's not the light version or a paid upgrade – offering 14-stops of dynamic range.
You can switch between NTSC/PAL modes at any time without having to reformat the memory card or power down the camera.
The Panasonic Lumix S5 still uses contrast-based auto-focusing with DFD technology, but Panasonic claim that a brand new algorithm means that Face/Eye/Head AF is greatly improved.
There's no All-Intra codec – LongGOP instead - and the S5 uses a Micro HDMI port rather than a standard one.
Anamorphic 4K is included, as is automatic dual native ISO (you can't manually turn this feature on and off though). 4:3 Anamorphic mode is recorded in super-35mm crop mode.
There's a free-angle LCD screen on the back, 6.5 stops of in-body image stabilisation, and dual SD card slots
The Panasonic S5 can shoot 96 megapixel jpegs or raw files in the clever hi-resolution mode.
There are now 7 different 4K 10-bit cameras in Panasonic's extensive line-up. The S1H actually outsold the Panasonic S1 in 2019, despite only selling for 6 months rather than 12.
The Sony A7III, Canon EOS R and Nikon Z5 are the S5's main rivals.
The Panasonic Lumix S5 is priced at £1799 body only or £1999 with the 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens, and it will ship mid-end September 2020.
In addition, Panasonic have unveiled a new firmware roadmap for the end-2020.
There's also an updated lens roadmap with an 85mm F1.8 lens due to be shipped by November and costing less than $1000. 24mm, 35mm and 50mm F1.8 lenses are the other new additions, along with a 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 telephoto zoom.
Panasonic have just announced the LUMIX S5, a new full-frame mirrorless camera.
Other than the model name, sensor size and official launch date (2nd September 2020), Panasonic haven't released any further details about the new addition to their full-frame lineup.
The Panasonic S5 will join the current S1, S1R and S1H models.
The Metz mecalight S500 BC is a stylish, compact and powerful LED video light, the size of a smartphone, enclosed in a high-quality aluminium housing.
The The Metz mecalight S500 BC retails for £119.99 and is available now.
Capture One has significantly expanded its Fujifilm camera support, with full Fujifilm RAW file and basic tethered support for select cameras. Future development will integrate Fujifilm Film Simulations with Capture One and provide enhanced tethered support for select professional Fujifilm cameras.
Capture One Express Fujifilm is free for all Fujifilm camera owners.
Capture One Pro Fujifilm is priced at $159 for 12 months pre-paid; $16/month for monthly subscription; and $23/month for a three-month subscription.
NiSi has announced the launch of a dedicated premium filter kit solution for photographers using the forthcoming Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM Art lens.
The NiSi S5 is a new 150mm Filter Holder for ultra wide angle lenses. Initially available for two wide-angle lenses, the Tamron 15-30 f/2.8 and the Nikon 14-24 f/2.8, the NiSi S5 allows the simultaneous use of two filters, with an integrated rotating polarizing filter.
Both of these camcorders shoot 4K video, but which is the better buy? Find out the key differences between the Sony FS5 and the Sony FS7 by reading our handy guide.
The KeyMission 170 is Nikon's first attempt at an action camera, featuring 4K video recording and a 170-degree lens. Can it compete with the similarly priced GoPro Hero 5? Find out by reading our Nikon KeyMission 170 review.
Pinout is a smart, versatile gadget which allows you to control your Nikon DSLR via a smartphone. It supports GPS, timer control, multi-camera control, time-lapse, HDR, bulb ramping, sensor-based functions and more. Three different kits are available ranging in price from $34.99 to $128.99.
Canon Japan has posted 4 high-resoultion sample images shot with the new Canon EOS 1300D digital SLR camera. Captured with a variety of lenses including the Canon EF-S10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM, EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II, EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III and EF50mm f/1.8 STM, these Canon 1300D samples were all taken at the camera's base sensitivity setting of ISO 100/21°.
Website: Canon Japan
The Galaxy S6 is Samsung's flagship smartphone, offering photographers a 16 megapixel sensor, a 28mm f/1.9 lens with optical image stabilisation, and UHD movie recording. Can the Samsung Galaxy S6 replace a compact camera? Find out by reading our in-depth Samsung Galaxy S6 review...
The LG4 is a smartphone that focuses on image quality, with a 16 megapixel sensor and f/1.8 lens onboard, along with Raw format support and even a manual shooting mode. Is this the smartphone that every photographer has been waiting for? Read our LG4 review to find out...
Datacolor today released Spyder5STUDIO, the next generation of its colour calibration solution suite designed to colour manage digital photo workflows. Designed for photographers who demand the highest level of control and accuracy, the new Datacolor Spyder5STUDIO includes the new Spyder5ELITE colorimeter, the SpyderCUBE and Datacolor's SpyderPRINT spectrocolorimeter. Combined, these tools enable photographers to capture consistent colour temperature and contrast from scene to camera and monitor-to-monitor, as well as quality printing results. The new Spyder5STUDIO is now available for £325.
Samsung have announced the industry’s first 1μm-pixel-based 16 megapixel CMOS sensor designed for use in mobile devices. The S5K3P3 imager takes advantage of Samsung’s ISOCELL technology to deliver image quality that is on a par with sensors featuring slightly larger, 1.2μm photosites. The new sensor reduces the camera module’s overall height by 20 percent, offering designers the ability to develop thinner-than-ever smartphones and tablets. Samsung’s new S5K3P3 image sensor is available today to original equipment manufacturers.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ10 is a brand new travel-zoom compact camera for 2015. The stylish Panasonic SZ10 offers 16 megapixels, a 12x zoom lens (24-288mm), a 3 inch LCD tilting screen for easier selfies, built-in wi-fi connectivity, and 720p HD movies. Read our expert Panasonic DMC-SZ10 review now...
The new Canon IXUS 165 is a stylish, slim and affordable point-and-shoot compact camera. Stand-out features include a 20 megapixel sensor, an 8x 28-224mm zoom lens, and a metal body, all for around £130. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 165 review now...
Is it a camera? Is it a smartphone? No, it's the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1, which is bravely offering both in one device. Can the Panasonic CM1 replace a high-end camera and a premium smartphone? Read our Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 review now to find out...
Born out of a successful Kickstarter campaign, the Lomo Instant is the most advanced instant camera on the planet. Using the widely available Fujifilm Instax Mini film, the Lomo Instant offers advanced features like manual aperture control, a built-in flash, and a bulb mode for long exposures. Read our Lomo Instant review now...
DxO has released DxO OpticsPro v10.2, DxO FilmPack v5.1 and DxO ViewPoint v2.5.2. The updates add support for the Sony A7 II, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100, the Pentax K-S1, and the Samsung Galaxy S5. The DxO Optics Modules database benefits form the addition of 291 new camera/lens combinations. DxO OpticsPro v10.2, DxO FilmPack v5.1 and DxO ViewPoint v2.5.2 are now available in the DxO online store.
Ahead of our full review, here are 33 sample images taken with the Leica D-Lux (Typ 109) premium compact camera. The Leica D-Lux (Typ 109) is a serious compact camera with a large 4/3rds sensor, fast lens, 4K video recording and an electronic viewfinder.
The Lytro Illum is a new light field camera aimed at professional photographers. Boldly billed as "a new medium capable of capturing visual experiences in their purest form", is it worth adding the Lytro Illum to your kitbag? Read our Lytro Illum review to find out...
The LG G3 is a 13 megapixel smartphone with a revolutionary Laser Auto Focus that can take photos in a fraction of the time required by other phone cameras. Read our LG G3 review, complete with full-size sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The Sony Xperia Z3 is a new flagship waterproof smartphone that features a lot of cutting-edge camera technologies. The Xperia Z3 has a 20 megapixel sensor, 25mm fixed lens with fast f/2 aperture, 4K and 1080p video, sweep panoramas, a range of picture effects and Timeshift burst shooting. Read our in-depth Sony Xperia Z3 review now...
The Apple iPhone 6 Plus is the largest ever version of the most popular flagship smartphones of all time. Find out what it has to offer photographers by reading our Apple iPhone 6 Plus review, complete with full-size sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The Samsung Galaxy K Zoom is Samsung's latest attempt to fuse together a 10x compact camera with a smartphone. Can the Samsung Galaxy K Zoom really replace a standalone camera and smartphone? Read our Samsung Galaxy K Zoom review now to find out...
The new Kodak PixPro SP360 is an actioncam with a difference - it can capture a complete 360-degree view of the world. Is the Kodak PixPro SP360 worth considering alongside, or even instead of, the mighty GoPro? Read our in-depth Kodak PixPro SP360 review to find out...
Joby have released a brand new ‘supersized’ version of its GripTight system, designed for use with larger smartphones/phablets. The new GripTight XL will securely hold devices from 69-99mm inches in width including the iPhone 6 Plus, Samsung Galaxy S5, Samsung Galaxy Note 4 and Xperia Z3. Supporting a maximum load of 325g, the Joby GripTight XL weighs a mere 20g and sells for £15.
The Sony Xperia Z2 is a waterproof smartphone that features a lot of cutting-edge camera technologies. The Xperia Z2 has a 20 megapixel sensor, 27mm fixed lens with fast f/2 aperture, 4K and 1080p video, sweep panoramas, a range of picture effects and Timeshift burst shooting. Read our in-depth Sony Xperia Z2 review now...
The Sony ILCE-QX1 is a completely new type of device that converts your smartphone into an interchangeable lens camera. The Sony QX1 is a smart lens device that features a 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, Sony e-mount, RAW support, full 1080p video recording, and built-in wi-fi and NFC connectivity. Priced at around £249 / $398, read our Sony ILCE-QX1 review to find out if it's what every smartphone owner is looking for...
Samsung Electronics has revealed more technical details about its new 28 megapixel (MP) APS-C BSI CMOS image sensor for digital cameras. The S5KVB2 is designed into Samsung’s new compact system camera, the NX1, and will be showcased alongside the camera at Photokina 2014. The S5KVB2 is the industry’s first APS-C sensor to adopt back-side illuminated (BSI) pixel technology.
Olloclip has introduced 4-in-1 photo lenses for the Samsung Galaxy S5 and S4. Each of these quick-connect conversion lenses offers fisheye, wide-angle, and two macro optics in a single package. With the fisheye and wide-angle lenses adjacent to each other, selecting a lens is as simple as shifting the desired lens over the device’s camera. The macro lenses are cleverly revealed by unscrewing either the fisheye or wide-angle lens. The olloclip 4-IN-1 lens retails for £59.99.
The Canon IXUS 145 (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 135) is a stylish and affordable point-and-shoot compact camera. Stand-out features include a 16 megapixel sensor, 8x wide-angle zoom lens and a metal body. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 145 review now...
The Nikon Coolpix S5300 is a stylish and fully-featured compact camera. The S5300 offers 16 megapixels, an 8x zoom with 25mm wide-angle setting, built-in wi-fi connectivity, 1080p HD movies and a 3 inch LCD screen. Read our expert review of the Nikon Coolpix S5300 to find out if it's a bargain or not...
The Canon IXUS 155 is a new stylish and affordable point-and-shoot compact camera. Stand-out features include a 20 megapixel sensor, 10x 24-240mm zoom lens, and a metal body, all for just £110. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 155 review now...
The Samsung Galaxy S5 is the latest edition of one of the most popular flagship smartphones of all time. Find out what it has to offer photographers by reading our Samsung Galaxy S5 review, complete with full-size sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
The new Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 is half travel-zoom camera, half smartphone. Using the latest Android 4.3 operating system, the Galaxy Camera 2 also offers wi-fi and NFC connectivity along with a 16 megapixel sensor and 21x zoom lens. Read our Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 review, complete with full-size sample images and video...
Ahead of our full review, here are 25 JPEG images and a 4K movie taken with the Samsung Galaxy S5 cameraphone. The Samsung Galaxy S5 has a 16 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, 5.1-inch Full HD Super AMOLED display and a Power LED Flash.
The Canon IXUS 150 (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 140 IS) is a stylish and affordable point-and-shoot compact camera. Stand-out features include a 16 megapixel sensor, 8x wide-angle zoom image stabilized lens and a metal body. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 150 review now...
Samsung today announced the fifth generation of the Galaxy S series, the Galaxy S5, which boasts a 16-megapixel camera, 0.3-second autofocus, HDR exposure blending, software-based selective focus capability, 4K Ultra HD video capture and a 5.1" Full HD super-AMOLED display. The water- and dust-resistant Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphone is expected to hit the market in April 2014.
Cinemartin has released version 3.X of its Cinec video converter / encoder for Windows. Adding support for Cineform, Sony XAVC, XAVC-S and RED files (.r3d) as well as 4K Ultra HD videos created with Snapdragon 800 powered mobile devices; Cinec 3.X comes with a number of new features such sd Motion Picture Adjustments, Dual Preview Monitor and the ability to create transparent videos with the new Quicktime Animation preset. The software is available in Standard, Pro and Gold versions, priced at €99, €199 and €799 respectively.
The FinePix F900EXR is the range-topping camera from Fujifilm, sporting a 20x lens with a versatile focal range of 25-500mm. The 16 megapixel F900 EXR also features fast phase-detection autofocusing, wireless image transfer, GPS support, full 1080p movies, a high-contrast 3 inch LCD screen and 8fps continuous shooting. Read our in-depth Fujifilm FinePix F900EXR review now...
Nikon has expanded its Coolpix S range of slimline digital compact cameras with two Wi-Fi enabled 16-megapixel models. The Nikon Coolpix S6800 (£199.99 / €249.00 / $219.95, above) offers 12x optical zoom courtesy of a 25-300mm equivalent lens, and can take up to seven full-resolution photos in less than a second thanks to its 8.4fps continuous shooting speed. The Nikon Coolpix S5300 (£169.99 / €209.00 / $179.95) has a 25-200mm equivalent lens and offers 32 filter effects. Both cameras can record Full HD videos and both offer easy image sharing over Wi-Fi.
Ahead of our full review, here are 35 sample JPEG photos taken with the new Sony Xperia Z1 smartphone. The Sony Xperia Z1 has a 1/2.3-type 20.7-megapixel Exmor RS sensor, fast f/2.0 lens, a 5-inch TFT screen, and 3x clear image zoom.
Samsung Electronics announced its new advanced pixel technology for CMOS image sensors. The ISOCELL technology is claimed to "substantially increase" light sensitivity and to effectively control the absorption of electrons, resulting in higher colour fidelity even in poor light. The company argues that while back-side illumination - introduced a few years ago - did improve the light absorption of each pixel, "BSI technology also faced limitations in improving image quality as pixel sizes continued to decrease." Samsung's patent-pending ISOCELL technology forms a physical barrier between neighboring pixels – isolating the pixel. This isolation enables more photons to be collected from the micro-lens and absorbed into the correct pixel’s photodiode minimising undesired electrical crosstalk between pixels – by as much as 30% compared to BSI sensors - and allowing expanded full well capacity, leading to greater dynamic range. The first Samsung image sensor to adopt this new technology, the S5K4H5YB 8-megapixel imager, is currently sampling to mobile device manufacturers with mass production scheduled for Q4 2013.
The Samsung ST150F compact camera offers a wide-angle 5x zoom lens, 16.2 megapixel sensor, 720p video recording, 3 inch LCD screen and built-in wi-fi, all for less than £100 / $150. Read our in-depth Samsung ST150F review to find out if it's worth the modest asking price....
The Samsung DV150F compact camera features a 2.7-inch LCD on the front, useful for composing self-portraits, and a wide range of wi-fi connectivity options. The 16 megapixel Samsung DV150F also features a 25mm wide-angle 5x zoom lens, 720p HD video, and a multitude of special effects modes, all for just £99.99 / $149.99. Read our in-depth Samsung DV150F review now...
Nikon has issued firmware updates for a number of its Coolpix digital compact cameras. Firmware version 1.1 for the Nikon Coolpix L28, S3400, S3500, S4400 and S6400, version 1.2 for the Nikon Coolpix S4300 and version 1.3 for the Coolpix S9300 all fix a bug that, in some rare cases, prevented the camera from turning on, or prevented operation. Firmware version 1.1 for the Coolpix S5200 and S6500 (pictured) additionally improve the functionality of the Wireless Camera Utility.
Website: Nikon Support & Downloads
The Samsung WB30F is a new travel-zoom camera that won't break the bank. The WB30F offers a wide-angle 10x zoom lens, 16.2 megapixel sensor, 720p video recording, 3 inch LCD screen and built-in wi-fi. Read our in-depth Samsung WB30F review to find out if it's worth the modest asking price....
The Nikon Coolpix S5200 is a stylish and fully-featured new point-and-shoot camera. The S5200 offers a compact body, 16 megapixels, a 6x zoom with 28mm wide-angle setting, built-in wi-fi connectivity, 1080p HD movies and a 3 inch LCD screen. Read our expert review of the Nikon Coolpix S5200 to find out if it's a bargain or not...
The Sony Xperia Z is a brand new smartphone that offers a lot of technologies from Sony's CyberShot camera range. The Xperia Z has a 13 megapixel sensor, 28mm fixed lens with fast f/2.2 aperture, 1080p video, sweep panoramas, a range of picture effects and 10fps burst shooting. Read our Sony Xperia Z review to find out if it really can replace a compact camera...
The Canon IXUS 140 (also known as the PowerShot ELPH 130 IS) is a stylish new point-and-shoot compact camera that won't break the bank. Stand-out features include a 16 megapixel sensor, built-in wi-fi connectivity, a 3 inch LCD screen, 8x wide-angle zoom lens and a metal body. Read our in-depth Canon IXUS 140 review to find out if it offers a winning combination of style and substance...
Nikon has expanded its Coolpix S line-up with three new cameras. The new models include the 18.1-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S9500 (£299.99 / €359.00 / $349.95, pictured) with Wi-Fi, 22x optical zoom, 3.0-inch OLED display and built-in GPS; the similarly Wi-Fi enabled, 16-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5200 (£179.99 / €215.00 / $179.95) with 6x optical zoom and a 3-inch LCD screen; and the 18.1-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S9400 (£249.99 / €299) with 18x optical zoom and a 3-inch OLED panel (but no built-in wireless connectivity). All models feature back-illuminated CMOS image sensors, lens-shift vibration reduction and Full HD movie recording. All three cameras will become available on 21st February.
The Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM is a moderate wide-angle lens in the full-frame format, or a fast standard prime when mounted on an APS-C body. The 35mm f/1.4 features 13 optical elements in seven groups with one aspherical lens element and a HSM focusing system which provides quiet, smooth and fast autofocus with full-time manual focus override. Retailing for £799 / $899, read our expert Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG HSM review to find out if it's a worthy alternative to the Canon, Nikon and Sony equivalents.
Samsung today unveiled its new high-speed, 1/3.2-inch, 8-megapixel CMOS imager, the S5K3H7, utilising advanced 1.4-micron back-side illuminated (BSI) pixel technology. The Samsung S5K3H7 supports a frame rate of 30fps at full resolution and 1080p Full HD video recording. The new sensor also provides 720p HD video recording at 120fps and VGA movies at 240fps for slow-motion playback, and allows still photography with practically no shutter lag. Mass production is expected to start next month.
Sony unveiled four new compact cameras at CES today. The 16-megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W630 (pictured) features a Carl Zeiss branded, 25-125mm equivalent zoom lens with enhanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation. The 14-megapixel DSC-W620 also offers 5x optical zoom, but without the Zeiss branding and the optical stabiliser. The W610 also has a 14-megapixel sensor but comes with a Sony branded 4x zoom lens, while the Sony DSC-S5000 is an AA-powered compact with 14 megapixels of resolution and 5x optical zoom. Sony’s Sweep Panorama mode is available on all models to capture an all-round view of landscapes, city scenes and more. The Cyber-shot W630, W620 and S5000 also add four Picture Effect modes - Pop Colour, Toy Camera, Partial Colour and Sof High-key - for easy in-camera creation of “artistic” images. All four new cameras come with PlayMemories Home software pre-installed. The Sony Cyber-shot W630, W620, W610 and S5000 will be available from February.
Want to see exactly what the new Panasonic SZ7, S5, FS45 compact cameras look like in the flesh?
Then check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of Panasonic’s new compact cameras.
The “simple, smart and stylish” Panasonic S5 is a 16.1-megapixel compact camera with a 28-112mm equivalent zoom lens, optical image stabilisation and “Sonic Speed AF”. Comprising 6 elements in 5 groups, including 3 aspherical lens elements with 5 aspherical surfaces, the lens is claimed to deliver “exceptional optical performance”. Also on board is Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto) mode which features Intelligent Scene Selector and Face Detection technologies. In addition to capturing 16-megapixel stills, the Panasonic DMC-S5 can also record 720p HD movies, and includes the Lumix Image Uploader utility that offers an easy way to share photos and videos via Facebook and YouTube.
Phase One today released Version 1.1 of Media Pro. a professional digital visual assets managing application for Mac and Windows. This update fixes a number of bugs, features faster importing / media rendering and improved Capture One integration, and adds support for a number of camera raw formats when using the Capture One renderer. Media Pro is available now via download for $199 / €139 through Phase One’s Online Store.
At the Samsung Mobile Solutions Forum held in Taiwan, Samsung announced its new, fast 1/2.3-inch 16-megapixel CMOS image sensor. Featuring backside illumination technology and a 1.34-micrometre pixel pitch, the Samsung S5K2P1 sensor is designed for high-performance, advanced smartphones as well as digital still cameras and camcorders. The new imager supports native 16:9-format video at up to 8.3Mp resolution at 60 frames per second and maximum 16-megapixel-resolution for stills at up to 30 frames per second. Mass production is scheduled to start in November.
According to two recent reports by Reuters, both Canon and Fujifilm are considering to enter the highly competitive but potentially lucrative compact system camera (CSC) market. Fujifilm - for whom a move like this would also mean a re-entry into the interchangeable-lens camera market at large, which it practically left more than two years ago with the discontinuance of the Fujifilm S5 Pro DSLR - also said it planned to attain the third position in the digital camera market by 2014. Canon’s Masaya Maeda has been quoted as saying that they are “considering the technical aspects” of launching a mirrorless system. He also added that Canon’s camera production has now returned to the level where it had been before the March earthquake forced it to halt manufacturing at its Kyushu plants.
Source: Reuters
Canon considering compact mirrorless camera
Fujifilm aims to be world No. 3 in cameras
The Nikon Coolpix S3100 is a budget digicam with a sense of style thanks to its all-metal body and wide variety of colours. Costing just £130 / $140, the S3100 ticks all the right boxes - 14 megapixels, 5x wide-angle lens, 2.7 inch screen, range of do-it-all auto modes - at a price that won't break the bank. Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix S3100 review complete with sample images, video and more to find out if this is the right point-and-shoot camera for you.
Samsung has announced its new 12-megapixel CMOS imager based on a back side illuminated (BSI) pixel architecture. The new chip is designed to address an 8.5mm x 8.5mm auto focus camera module with a height dimension of 6.0mm for slim mobile phones. The tiny 1/3.2” sensor supports 12-megapixel full-resolution images at 30fps, and 1080p Full HD video at 60fps, as well as 720p at 90fps and VGA movies at 120fps for slow-motion playback. Samples of the 12Mp imager are available to smartphone manufacturers now with mass production scheduled in the third quarter of this year.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T99 is a good-looking 14 megapixel compact camera with a large 3 inch touchscreen LCD and a wide-angle 4x zoom lens. It's also competitively priced too, currently on sale for around £200 / $229.99. Read our expert Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T99 review to find out if it's worth considering...
Boldly promoted as an alternative to a DSLR, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5 is a new mid-range compact camera with a wealth of advanced features. A fast f/2.4 lens, sensible 12 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, and Superior Auto and Background Defocus modes supposedly produce DSLR picture quality, while Sony have also included Full HD movie recording and even 3D via the Sweep Panorama mode. Priced at around £225 / $300, read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5 review to find out if it lives up to its full promise.
There are literally hundred of compact cameras on the market, making it extremely difficult for a new model to get noticed. The Pentax RS1000 tackles this problem in a rather unique way - the front can be customised with an image, instantly transforming the RS1000 from just another compact to your own personalised camera. Find out if this is enough to stand-out by reading our Pentax Optio RS1000 review.
DxO Optics Pro v6.5.1 adds support for the Nikon D7000 and Sony A390 and 120 new DxO Optics modules. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since June 1st, 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.5. DxO Optics Pro v6.5.1 for Windows and Mac, Standard and Elite editions, is now available at a significant 30 percent holiday season discount until December 25, 2010.
The Samsung PL90 is a budget digital camera with a unique twist - it has a built-in USB connector that allows quick and easy transfer of your photos to a computer. The 12 megapixel PL90 also offers a 4x wide-angle zoom lens, 2.7 inch LCD screen and VGA video recording. Read our in-depth Samsung PL90 review complete with sample images and video.
We've selected our top picks for this year's Holiday season, all the way from the cheapest digital compact up to the most expensive DSLR and everything in between. So no matter what your budget, make sure that you consult the Photography Blog Holiday Gift Guide for 2010 before splashing out your hard-earned cash.
The Nikon Coolpix S5100 is a stylish new budget point-and-shoot camera. The S5100 offers a compact body, 12 megapixels, a 5x zoom with 28mm wide-angle setting, 720p HD movies and a 2.7 inch LCD screen. Read our expert review of the Nikon Coolpix S5100.
Photokina is over for another 2 years, so we’ve looked back at some of the most notable products we have seen at the world’s biggest photography show.
The Nikon Coolpix S3000 is a budget digicam with a sense of style thanks to its all-metal body that's available in a wide variety of colours. Costing just £110 / $150, the S3000 ticks all the right boxes - 12 megapixels, 4x wide-angle lens, 2.7 inch screen, range of do-it-all auto modes - at a price that won't break the bank. Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix S3000 review complete with sample images, video and more to find out if this is the right point-and-shoot camera for you.
Want to see exactly what the new Nikon Coolpix S1100pj and S5100 cameras look like in the flesh?
Here are some hands-on product shots of the Nikon Coolpix S1100pj and S5100 - click through to view the gallery.
Featuring fast start-up and minimal shutter lag, the Nikon Coolpix S5100 is a 12.2-megapixel digital compact camera with 5x optical zoom with Vibration Reduction (VR). Other functions include one-touch HD video recording (720p at 30fps), a new flash control system plus motion and tripod detection. The latter of these technologies detects handheld or tripod shooting and automatically selects the ideal exposure, ISO sensitivity and shutter speed in order to reduce image blur. Available in October priced at $179.95 / €159.00, the Nikon Coolpix S5100 comes with 18 scene modes, Scene Auto Selector, Subject Tracking and Nikon’s Smart Portrait System on board.
DxO Labs have launched DxO Optics Pro 6.2 for Windows and Mac, which supports Canon 550D and Sony Alpha DSLR-A450 in both its Standard and Elite editions, and the Canon 1D Mark IV and Nikon D3s in its Elite edition. In addition, 85 new DxO optical modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, supporting the following cameras: Canon 350D, 400D, 450D, 500D, 550D, 20D, 30D, 40D, 7D,1D Mark III, 1D Mark IV; Fuji S5 Pro; Nikon D3000, D40X, D50, D60, D90, D700, D3, D3s; Pentax K200D, K-7; and Sony A450. This brings the number of lens-camera combinations supported by DxO Optics Pro to 2000. The DxO Optics Pro 6.2 Standard edition costs £85, while the Elite edition is £179. These discounted prices are valid until 15 June 2010. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro 5 or 6 after 1 June 2009 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 6.2.
DxO Labs have announced the addition of 70 new lens & camera combinations to its library of DxO Optics Modules for its DxO Optics Pro automatic image enhancement software. This new release brings the total number of available DxO Optics Modules to over 1900. DxO Optics Pro 6.1.2 for Windows is available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers priced at $169 / €149 / £99 (Standard Edition) and $299 / €299 / £199 (Elite Edition). DxO Optics Pro 6 for Mac is scheduled for release in May 2010 and will be available as a free upgrade to customers who have purchased version 5 or higher after June 1, 2009.
Website: 70 New DxO Optics Correction Modules
DxO Labs have posted detailed raw-based sensor data for the Pentax K-x digital SLR camera, which achieved the best result of any Pentax camera tested so far. With a DxOMark Sensor score of 71.9, almost the same as the Nikon D5000, the Pentax K-x finished on 19th place. Especially spectacular is the Pentax K-x’s performance in terms of dynamic range, where it is bested only by the Nikon D3X, the Fujifilm S3/S5 Pro (both built for maximum dynamic range) and medium-format backs.
Western Digital has introduced its new My Passport AV portable media drives, designed specifically for video storage and playback. With their small footprint, the My Passport AV portable media drives fit neatly in a home entertainment centre. The included stand and extra long cable makes it easy to position the drive neatly in entertainment centres, maximising the airflow and minimising heat around the drive.Operating seamlessly with the Direct Copy feature offered in Sony’s new Handycams, the new My Passport AV portable media drives feature a 2-year limited warranty and are available now at select retail stores and WD’s online store. MSRP for the My Passport AV portable media drive with 320 GB is $109.99.
The British government has launched a photo / essay contest as part of its Science: [So what? So everything] campaign. The Science: [So what? So everything] campaign is looking for real life images and stories to illustrate how medical science has touched your life by bringing you or a loved one a better quality of life. Your photo could show what improved health has allowed you to achieve, that would previously have been impossible, or how it has given you or a loved one a new start in life. The first prize is a Canon EOS 500D with 18-55 IS and EF-S55 250 IS lenses, worth £1,149.95, and a photography course.
Website: Science: [So what? So everything]
Bibble has released an update to Bibble 5 Pro. Version 5.0.2 adds support for the Leica M8, M9, X1 and Digital Module R, the Ricoh GX100, GX200, GR Digital II, GR Digital III and GXR, the Sony A230, A380 and A500, and a hsot of older Canon digital cameras, including the D30, D60, G2, G3, G5, G6, S40, S45, S50, S60, S70, Pro 1 and SX1 models. Soft Proofing, a feature that allows you to quickly visualise how your images will appear once printed using your printer’s colour profiles, has also been added.
Website: Bibble Download Centre
DxO Labs today released DxO Optics Pro v6.1.2 for Windows that adds raw support for the Pentax K-7 and the Sony A500 & A550 DSLRs as well as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and GH1 cameras. This release also improves stability and removes a colour cast at very high ISO for Nikon and Pentax cameras. Furthermore, 81 new DxO Optics Modules are now available to DxO Optics Pro users, covering the Canon 7D, 20D, 30D, 40D, 50D, REBEL XTi/400D, DIGITAL REBEL XSi/450D and REBEL T1i/500D; Fuji S5; Nikon D200, D300, D300s, D50, D3000, D5000 and D80; Panasonic LX3 and GH1; Pentax K-7; and Sony A230, A330, A500 and A550. DxO Optics Pro v6.1.2 for Windows, both Standard ($169/€149/£99) and Elite ($299/€299/£199) editions, is immediately available from both DxO Labs’ e-store and selected resellers. DxO Optics Pro 6 for Mac is scheduled for release during the first quarter of 2010 and will be available as a free upgrade to customers who have purchased version 5 or higher after June 1, 2009.
Website: DxO Labs
Looking for your first DSLR, but put off by the expense, bulk, poor live view and need to change lenses? Then Fujifilm may have the answer in the shape of the new FinePix S200EXR, a bridge-style camera designed to replicate the DSLR experience in a more affordable and compact package. Fujifilm have also included their revolutionary EXR image technology, which should make the S200 EXR a real alternative to both entry-level DSLRs and other super-zoom compacts. Mark Goldstein finds out if the Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR lives up to its considerable promise...
Tired of seeing the world in plain old two dimensions? Then Fujifilm have the answer - enter stage left the World's first 3D camera that doesn't require those dorky glasses, the Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W1. This remarkable device uses two lenses, two image sensors and a special LCD screen to create an utterly convincing stereoscopic 3D photograph. And the W1 also doubles up as a perfectly functional 2D point and shoot camera too. Mark Goldstein catches a glimpse of the future as he reviews the Fujifilm W1...
DxO Labs have announced the immediate availability of version 5.3.5 of its DxO Optics Pro software, which adds support to the new Sony A850. Another feature is better noise control for images taken at high ISO with the Sony Alpha 900. Plus, there are 85 new DxO Optics Modules that cover fisheye lenses, wide-angles, and prime lenses as well as many zooms such as the 15x Tamron AF18-270mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC LD Aspherical (IF) Macro - a lens type for which DxO Optic Pro’s optical corrections are particularly efficient along its entire focal range, the company says. DxO Optics Pro v5.3.5 and upgrades are available immediately for Mac and Windows platforms from the DxO Labs e store (www.dxo.com) and from quality resellers. All customers who purchased DxO Optics Pro since August 1, 2007 are entitled to a free upgrade to version 5.3.5.
Nikon have released a new version of Nikon Transfer, a download utility which allows images to be simultaneously downloaded to two locations. Version 1.5.0 of Nikon Transfer adds support for the new Nikon D300s, D3000, Coolpix S570, S640, S70, and S1000pj digital cameras and implements the modifications listed below.
Website: Nikon Transfer 1.5.0
Nikon have released a new version of its Nikon ViewNX software, which adds support for the new Nikon D3000, D300s, S70, S570, S640 and S1000pj digital cameras, and includes a number of improvements and bug fixes too. In version 1.4.0 of Nikon ViewNX, a ‘Send notification mail to my address (Email ID)’ checkbox has been added to the Share Settings dialogue displayed with the my Picturetown upload function, ‘New Album’ is now displayed in the ‘Subject (Required)’ text box in the Share Settings dialogue, support for A2+ sized prints has been added and a number of other issues have been resolved.
Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.4.0
In addition to the innovative Nikon S1000pj and the ultra-fast Nikon S640, Nikon has also introduced the “elegantly simple” Nikon Coolpix S570, intended for the fashion-conscious photographer. With the Nikon S570, the keyword is ease-of-use. Intelligent scene mode selection, face detection, smile recognition, a “blink-proof technology” and a Skin Softening function are all on board to help “even those with no photography experience” capture pleasing photos. Like the other two Coolpix models announced today, this camera also boasts a 12-megpixel imager, a 2.7-inch rear screen and a 5x zoom lens (though apparently without lens-based vibration reduction). The Nikon S570 will be availablein September 2009, for $199.95 MSRP.
The Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR is a new super-zoom digital camera with a 14.3x, 30.5mm-436mm zoom lens. Successor to the FinePix S100FS, the 12 megapixel Fujifilm S200EXR is aimed at top-end camera enthusiasts looking for excellent picture quality without the hassle, bulk and expense of a D-SLR system. Fujifilm’s EXR technology, introduced earlier this year on the FinePix F200EXR, offers three shooting modes - HR (High Resolution) mode, SN (High Sensitivity and Low Noise) mode and DR (Wide Dynamic Range) mode, plus EXR Auto which automatically switches the sensor to HR, SN or DR mode depending on the lighting conditions. The FinePix F70EXR also offers the new Pro Focus Mode which combines two or three burst shots together to create a crisp shot of the subject against a defocused background and foreground. Pro Low-light Mode the S200 EXR will take bursts of four high sensitivity images using Pixel Fusion Technology to create one image with extremely low noise. New to the FinePix S200EXR is the ability to shoot both a RAW and JPEG shot simultaneously. The Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR will debut in August 2009 at a retail price of $599.95.
The Casio EX-Z1 (also known as the Casio EX-S5) is a budget point and shoot camera that's super-slim, light-weight and good to look at. Primarily aimed at the beginner, but also making a good pocket camera for the more experienced user, the 10 megapixel Casio Z1 features a 2.7 inch screen, 3x zoom lens and a wealth of auto and scene modes. Competitively priced at just £149.99 / $159.99, is the Casio EX-Z1 a wise investment? Read our expert review to find out...
Eye-Fi Inc. today unveiled the Eye-Fi Pro, a new wireless SDHC memory card for digital cameras that allows professionals and photo enthusiasts to automatically upload images straight from their camera to their computer and the Web. The Eye-Fi Pro also allows users to create an ad hoc connection through their computer or other mobile device to wirelessly upload media files while away from a wireless router. Like the Eye-Fi Explore Video, the new Eye-Fi Pro will automatically upload images and videos direct to more than 25 online photo and video sharing sites. It also lets users upload away from home at more than 10,000 Wayport and open hotspots, and will automatically geotag photos with information about where the images were taken. The Eye-Fi Pro is now available at Amazon.com and www.eye.fi for an MSRP of $149.
Forget the new car, holiday or house extension - a mere £5499.99 / €7728.00 / $7999.95 will buy you the shiny new Nikon D3x. This 24.6 megapixel camera is the highest-resolution DSLR on the market, bettering the Sony A900 and Canon EOS 5D Mark II. As well as it's headline-grabbing megapixel count, the D3x also boasts a 51-point auto-focus system, 920,000-dot 3-inch LCD screen, 50-6400 ISO range and 16-bit image processing. Gavin Stoker discovers if the Nikon D3x really is the best ever DSLR...
DxO Optics Pro 5.3.2 adds support for the Canon 5D Mark II and the Canon G10, along with 32 new DxO Optics correction modules. In addition, this new version includes various improvements, including installation of the plug-in version for Adobe Photoshop CS4. DxO Optics Pro v5.3.2 and upgrades are available immediately for Mac and Windows platforms.
The Casio EX-S5 is a new compact camera designed to be both sleek and sturdy. The 10 megapixel EX S5 has a control panel, frame, and rear casing in contrasting colors, and a widescreen 2.7 inch LCD monitor. Available in March 2009, the Casio EX-S5 will cost $179.99 in blue, black gold, silver, pink and purple.
Fujifilm have released a new firmware update for the FinePix S5 Pro DSLR camera. Version 1.12 incorporates the following issue.
An issue that, in some rare case, the camera may be frozen when PC controlling software (included in “Hyper Utility?HS-V3”) is used, has been resolved.
Website: Fujifilm S5 Pro Firmware Updates
DxO Optics Pro v5.3 is a major new release of the automatic image quality enhancement solution for digital SLR and compact camera users. DxO Optics Pro 5.3 adds more RAW support, 64-bit Windows compatibility, support for Adobe Lightroom 2, and new DxO Optics Correction Modules. “The noise removal technology for RAW images featured in DxO Optics Pro 5.3 opens up exciting options to photographers providing them with up to a 2-stop gain at photo capture, as if digital grain never really existed,” says Cyrille de La Chesnais, director of the photography business at DxO Labs. “This translates into a dramatic increase in capture flexibility.”
Fujifilm have unveiled Super CCD EXR, a new ‘three-in-one’ sensor for high resolution, high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. Fujfilm’s ultimate aim is to “produce a sensor that works as close to that of the human eye as possible.” The Super CCD EXR sensor attempts to achieve this by using a new arrangement of the mosaic colour filter, with two side-by-side, same-coloured pixels taken together as a single pixel (so-called Pixel Fusion Technology). The Super CCD EXR sensor capture two images of the same scene, one taken at high sensitivity and the other at low sensitivity, and then merges the two images to generate a photo that has excellent depth and range (Dual Capture Technology). Finally, the structure of the new Super CCD EXR exploits all the pixels in the layer beneath the new colour filter matrix and takes advantage of the optimised signal processing of the new RP processor to create an image with the highest possible resolution quality (Fine Capture Technology). The first camera with the new sensor is likely to be a “premium compact” model and be available early next year.
Canon have unveiled two new super-zoom cameras, the PowerShot SX1 IS and PowerShot SX10 IS. Jointly replacing the PowerShot S5 IS, both the SX1 and SX10 feature a 20x wide-angle zoom lens, with USM and VCM for fast, silent, zooming, and an optical Image Stabilizer. The Canon SX1 IS excitingly features a CMOS sensor which allows it to shoot full-resolution JPEGs at speeds of up to 4fps and full HD movie capture. Both models also have Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor and full manual control over both aperture and shutter speed. The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS will be available from December priced at £519.99 / €679.99, and the Canon PowerShot SX10 IS is priced at £359.99 / €469.99. In the US the Canon SX1 IS will be available in April for $599.99.
Update: We now have some exclusive shots of the Canon PowerShot SX10 IS from the UK press launch.
Canon has just shipped its 100 millionth digital compact camera. Beginning with the PowerShot 600 in 1996, Canon has delivered a total of 106 models Compact digital camera models. “We are delighted to reach such a landmark number in camera production,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “Canon pledges to continue searching for new technologies, and new designs, that let everyone capture their most precious moments.” To mark this milestone, a special colour variation model will be launched in the near future.
The Nikon S710, S610C, S610 and S560 are four new additions to the now extensive Coolpix range of compact camera. The S710 offers 14.5 megapixels, 12 fps shooting, 3.6x optical zoom and a sensitivity range up to ISO 12800. The S610 and S610C feature the world’s fastest start-up time in their class, 10 megapixel sensors and a 4x wide-angle zoom (the S610C also offers wireless LAN connectivity). The S560 is the world’s smallest camera in its class, with 10 megapixels, a 5x zoom lens and advanced features such as Smile Mode. The Nikon The S710 will cost €329 / £299.99 / $379.95, available mid-September. The Nikon S610C and S610 will cost €319 / £249.99 / $329.95 and €299 / £249.99 / $279.95 respectively and be available in September. The Nikon S560 will retail for €249 / £179.99 / $249.95, available at the end of August.
Extend your Nikon DSLR shutter control up to 300ft with the Twin-1 R4 remote kit from Seculine. The new Twin-1 R4 wireless remote control can trigger your shutter from up to 300ft (100m) away from the camera. It can also operate a delayed shutter release and fire your camera in Bulb mode. The Twin-1 R4 for Nikon is compatible with Nikon cameras with a built in Electronic shutter release port and costs £39.99 in the UK.
Fujifilm have reduced the price of the FinePix S5 Pro DSLR camera to just £499. First launched at Focus on Imaging in 2007 for £999.99, Fujifilm are now running a special summer promotion on the S5 Pro. Awarded the EISA European Advanced Camera of the Year 2007-2008, the FinePix S5 Pro is a benchmark DSLR camera, offering a wealth of features. Visit your local dealer to find out more about the Fujifilm S5 Pro promotion.
17 college students from around the USA have been chosen as winners in the first MyShot08 photo contest. Entrants were challenged to create innovative and aesthetically striking photo specialty products using web-based templates in three categories: photo books, greeting cards and calendars. Contest judges reviewed more than 200 submissions. Jenee’ Jones, a junior photography major at Virginia Commonwealth University, won “best of show” honors and will receive a prize package that includes a trip to a photo shoot with lead contest judge and professional photographer George Kamper.
Nikon have released a new version of ViewNX, a file browser which ensures quick access to images for instant viewing. Version 1.1.0 of Nikon ViewNX includes support for Windows Vista SP1 and Mac OS Leopard. Also configuration of the Navigation Palette has been changed to consist of Folders, Metadata, and Quick Adjustment palettes.
Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.1.0 (Windows)
Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.1.0 (MAC)
Fantasea’s FS-51 underwater housing is compatible with the new Nikon Coolpix S52 and S52c digital cameras. The FS-51 Housing is depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, has a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen, built-in flash diffuser and a 41mm lens port. As with all other Fantasea Camera Housings, in the event of accidental water leakage, the Coolpix camera inside is insured. The Fantasea FS-51 housing costs $245.
DSLR Remote Pro v1.7 for controlling Canon EOS cameras and PSRemote v1.6 for controlling Canon PowerShot cameras are now available. Both applications feature Photo booth mode, which allows sitters to see themselves pose in front of the camera. Support for the Canon EOS 450D/Rebel XSi, including remote live view display with auto-focus, has been added to DSLR Remote Pro v1.7. DSLR Remote Pro costs US $95 and costs PSRemote 1.6 costs US $49.
Nikon have released a new version of ViewNX, a file browser which ensures quick access to images for instant viewing. Version 1.0.4 of Nikon ViewNX includes support for RAW images captured with the D3 and the Vignette Control option has been added.
Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.0.4 (Windows)
Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.0.4 (MAC)
Nikon is introducing the latest version of my Picturetown, a smart and state-of-the-art photo sharing and storage service. New features include the ability to upload RAW (NEF) files viewable as JPEGs, a new rating system, and full-screen slideshows. My Picturetown’s new features will launch end of April 2008. Two gigabytes of storage will be free with the option to purchase up to 200GB through a my Picturetown Gold Account.
The Nikon S52c and S52 are new 9 megapixel digital cameras with 3x zoom lenses and lens-shift image stabilisation. Both the S52c and S52 feature an elegant wave-surface design, EXPEED image processing engine, and 3 inch LCD monitor. The Nikon S52c model additionally offers Wi-Fi connectivity. “The COOLPIX S52 offers a unique combination of style and technology. We have ensured that the high exterior quality of these cameras matches the advanced innovations inside. We expect that the choice of colours will suit men and women alike, and are confident that those looking for advanced features will love the S52c’s WI-FI connectivity.” commented Kazuhiro Okano, Assistant Manager Consumer Products, at Nikon Europe. The Nikon S52c will be available in May for $249.95, and the Nikon S52 will be available from 25th April for $279.95.
TrustedReviews have reviewed the Fujifilm S5800, an 8 megapixel digital camera with a 10x, 38mm to 380mm zoom lens.
“Like the S5700 before it, the FinePix S5800 offers more photographic control than anything else at the price. Excellent ergonomics, good build quality and good performance belie its low cost. It would make an ideal camera for anyone on a tight budget who wants to learn more about creative photography. The lack of image stabilisation is a disadvantage, but not a crippling one, however it’s definitely not worth binning your S5700 to upgrade.”
Imaging Resource have reviewed the Nikon S510, the world’s smallest digital camera with optical vibration reduction.
“With one of those classic compact camera designs married to a very well organized menu system, it’s easy to make friends with the Coolpix S510. While test images were soft and exhibited some highlight flaring, they also showed very little chromatic aberration. And our gallery shots, sharp if not the sharpest we’ve seen, had natural color and control of highlight detail. It’s a fun take-anywhere camera that requires almost no thought to enjoy, but you should think twice if you expect to enlarge your images bigger than 8x10.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Nikon S510 Review
DCResource have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S51 camera, which features a distinctive wave-surface design and a 8.1 megapixel sensor.
“The Nikon Coolpix S51 is a fairly average ultra-compact camera that doesn’t particularly stand out in any one area. The biggest thing going for it is probably in the value department. For under $200, you get an 8 Megapixel camera, 3X zoom, image stabilization, and a huge LCD. Photo quality is decent, though there’s certainly room for improvement. My biggest issues with the S51 relate to performance: it’s sluggish in almost every area, and battery life is the worst in its class. I’m not a huge fan of its ergonomics, either. The Coolpix S51 is worth a look, but I’d recommend spending a little more on a better performing camera instead.”
CameraLabs have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The PowerShot S5 IS is certainly a powerful super-zoom camera with some neat features. The 12x range gives you decent coverage, the stabilisation is effective, the flip-out screen allows for unusual angles, the movie options are some of the best around on a still camera, and the literal icing on the cake is the hotshoe, supporting external flashguns.”
Work side by side with a renowned photographer at a Miami photo shoot and receive a camera valued at $3,000 in the MyShot08 photo contest. Open to all U.S. registered college students, MyShot08 aims to find the best images in three digital printing applications – personalized photo books, greeting cards or calendars. “The contest is giving young people a way to liberate their digital images from their computers and cell phones and make printed products that capture their personalized memories,” said Quincy Allen, president, Xerox Production Systems Group. “We are hoping to open the eyes of talented college photographers about how easy and fun it is to create these kinds of specialty products.” All entries need to be submitted by March 31, 2008.
The Nikon Coolpix S550 is a new 10 megapixel compact camera with 5x zoom lens. It features two new modes that enhance portrait photography, Smile Mode and Blink Warning. “We are excited to enhance the consumers’ photography experience by incorporating Smile Mode and Blink Warning into the new Nikon S550,” says Bill Giordano, General Manager, Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon Inc. “With these two features, it will be easier than ever to take perfect portraits of friends and family.” The Nikon Coolpix S550 will be available in plum, cool blue and graphite black for £199.99 / €292.00 / $229.95, available February 2008.
The new Nikon Coolpix S520 is a slim, ergonomic camera with a a streamlined profile. The Nikon S520 features 8 megapixels, 3x zoom lens, Optical Vibration Reduction, and an aluminum body. “The COOLPIX S520 is a solid contribution to the COOLPIX Style Series line, and we hope that its slim and stunning design, color options, unique technology, and powerful capabilities continue to appeal to the street-savvy trendsetters at which the Style Series is aimed.” said Bill Giordano, General Manager, Marketing, COOLPIX for Nikon Inc. The Nikon Coolpix S520 will be available in March 2008 in plum and graphite black for $229.95.
The new Fujifilm FinePix S100FS is what the company describe as “its most advanced DSLR-styled camera to date”. With an 11 megapixel sensor, 2.5” tiltable LCD and 14.3x, 28mm-400mm Fujinon manual zoom lens, the Fujifilm S100FS attempts to offer the manual controls and functionality of a true DSLR camera. Film simulation modes and settings that expand the camera’s dynamic range have filtered down from the FinePix S5 Pro DSLR camera. The Fujifilm FinePix S100FS will be available from UK retailers in March 2008, pricing to be announced nearer to the date of the launch.
The new Fujifilm FinePix F100fd is billed as the ultimate ‘F Series’ digital camera. With a 12 megapixel, 8th Generation Super CCD sensor, 5x wide angle optical zoom lens (28-140mm), and a 2.7 inch LCD screen, the Fujifilm F100fd replaces the F50fd as the top of the range model. Other standout features include new expanded dynamic range capture functionality, Face Detection 3.0 and ISO settings of up to an unprecedented ISO 12800. The Fujifilm FinePix F100fd will be available from UK retailers in March 2008, pricing will be announced nearer to the date of the launch.
London-based photographer Cat Vinton has become the first female overall winner of the international Travel Photographer of the Year competition. Cat’s beautiful panoramic images of the snowy Norwegian landscape and evocative shots of a Nomadic family won her the opportunity to photograph the Dalai Lama in India. Amateur and professional photographers from 51 countries competed for the £50,000+ prize package. The winning images can be seen at www.tpoty.com, and will be on display at the Exposure Gallery in London.
DSLR Remote Pro Multi-Camera and PSRemote Multi-Camera are new software applications from Breeze Systems that allow you to control up to 25 Canon cameras remotely from a single computer. DSLR Remote Pro Multi-Camera supports the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III, 1D Mark III, 40D, 30D and 400D/Digital Rebel XTi. All the cameras can be fired from the PC, in which case there is a delay of approximately 1/6 sec between each camera firing, or they can be fired simultaneously by wiring together the cameras’ remote release connections. DSLR Remote Pro Multi-Camera costs US $95 x the number of cameras supported. PSRemote Multi-Camera allows multiple Canon PowerShot SX100 IS, S5 IS, A640, G7 or G9 cameras to be controlled from a single PC. PSRemote Multi-Camera costs $49 x the number of cameras supported.
Laptop Magazine have compared three new superzoom cameras, including the new Canon S5 IS (pictured).
“Being a spectator can be hard work, just ask Cynthia Hyunh. Exhausted from running up and down the sidelines to get shots of her eight-year old, Brian, she needed a high-zoom camera to capture sharp, stable pictures from afar. We gave her three popular cameras—the Canon Powershot S5 IS, the Kodak Z812 IS, and the Olympus SP-560 UZ—to take to Brian’s championship game, and asked her to tell us which ones could keep up with her son.”
Website: Laptop Magazine - Super-Zoom Cameras for Soccer Moms
The Canon Powershot SX100 IS ultra-zoom compact camera went relatively unnoticed amongst the vast number of new products that Canon recently announced as part of their Autumn 2007 lineup. The first model in a brand new series of cameras, the Canon SX100 IS is intended to bridge the price gap between the cheaper Powershot A-series cameras and the more expensive Powershot S5 IS. The Canon Powershot SX100 IS relies on AA batteries, just like the A-series, and has an 8 megapixel sensor and optically stablised 10x zoom lens, just like the S5 IS. Canon are targeting the family market who want a compact camera that covers all eventualities, so does the SX100 IS deliver the goods? Read our in-depth review to find out.
Website: Canon Powershot SX100 IS Review
CNET have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S51C camera, which features a distinctive wave-surface design, 8.1 megapixel sensor and wireless connectivity.
“To Nikon’s credit, the S51c’s wireless functioned flawlessly when I used it with my wireless router at home. Set up was simple, and fairly quick, on the camera. After I sent my first picture e-mail, I got an e-mail from my Picturetown that prompted me to complete my registration at Nikon’s Web site, where I input the camera’s access key (found in the wireless portion of the setup menu) and I was ready to go.”
Website: CNET - Nikon Coolpix S51C Review
You can claim up to £50 (€75) off any digital picture frame when buying a Nikon COOLPIX camera over £100 (€150). There is no restriction on the make or model of digi-frame but to take advantage of the offer, customers must purchase the digi-frame and camera in the same store, in the same transaction. The offer will run from 1st November - 31st December 2007. Claims will be accepted until 31st Jan 2008.
Imaging Resource have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The Canon S5 IS has all the components to attract both experienced shooters who want control over their images and novices who want to hone their digital photography skills, most notably a well-rounded, advanced feature set with a respectable number of bells and whistles, a long zoom, and effective optical image stabilization. The Canon S5 IS is one of the better megazooms on the market, but image quality issues may take it down a notch.”
The Fantasea FS-51 underwater housing is fully compatible with the Nikon Coolpix S50, S50c, S51 and S51c cameras. Depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, this housing also features Fantasea’s latest design and improved construction. The FS-51 housing has a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen, and built-in flash diffuser and a 41mm lens port. The suggested retail price of the Fantasea FS-51 housing is US $245.
CNET have reviewed the new Canon SX100, the first camera in the new SX series, offering a 10x zoom, image stabilized lens and 8 megapixel resolution.
“What the camera sacrifices in speed, however, it makes up for in photo quality. Perhaps it’s just the result of an extra few months of tweaking since the S5 shipped, but the SX100’s photo quality, especially at higher ISO sensitivity settings, clearly improves upon its siblings. At ISO 800, for example, there’s far less of a mottled look in the SX100’s shots, but with no increased loss of detail. The new lens has better distortion characteristics—less distortion and more symmetry—and photos look sharp without looking oversharpened.”
The Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro camera is now available at the reduced price of $1,699.95, along with a a free Power Grip and Pantone Huey Pro. Available only through authorized Fujifilm dealers, the “Get a Grip” promotion represents a total savings of $480. “With this new promotion, we’re happy to make it easier for those photographers who have been waiting for the opportunity to get the S5 Pro,” says Darin Pepple, consumer and professional marketing manager with Fujifilm’s Electronic Imaging Division. “And the new Power Grip provides a useful, proven tool for the professional photographer.”
Fujifilm’s “Capture to Print Solutions” seminars for professional photographers show how Fujifilm’s FinePix S5 Pro DSLR can be usedfor school, portrait, sports and wedding photography. Held in five cities across the United States, the seminar series will kick off on Monday, November 5th in Orlando. The half-day “Capture to Print Solutions” seminars are completely free to attend.
In a Nikon sponsored white paper from research company IDC, Nikon has been named as the worldwide leader in regards to Wi-Fi integration. The IDC report states “To date, Nikon is the only digital camera manufacturer to consistently and fully embrace wireless photography. IDC predicts that other top vendors will seek to catch up and embrace wireless photography as well, spurring industry-wide adoption.” 60 percent of respondents said that they would be somewhat or much more likely to consider one camera over another if it included wireless connectivity, and that they would pay up to $86 more for a camera with this ability.
So is this true? Would you choose a camera because it had built-in Wi-fi connectivity, and pay more for it? The market as a whole seems to believe nthat you won’t, as Nikon are one of the few manufacturers to really support Wi-Fi - but what do you think?
Fantasea have introduced an underwater housing, the FS-500, for the Nikon Coolpix S510 compact camera. Depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet, the FS-500 housing has a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen, and built-in diffuser. The FS-500 housing protects the Coolpix S510 camera from water, sand, dust, and other damaging elements. The retail price of the FS-500 underwater housing for the Nikon Coolpix S510 is US $200.
Steves Digicams has just reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“The Super CCD SR incorporates both large, high-sensitivity S-pixels and smaller R-pixels for expanded dynamic range. By combining information from both of these sensor elements, the Super CCD SR is able to deliver an expanded dynamic range along with high sensitivity. Now, you may ask yourself based on the description of the CCD (twelve million paired photodiodes - 6.17 million ‘S’ photodiodes with 6.17 million smaller ‘R’ photodiodes) is this really a 12 megapixel camera? Good question. Although the file sizes are larger than 6 megapixel, the greatest achievement in this technology is the expanded dynamic range evident in the images.”
Website: Steves Digicams - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
TrustedReviews have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“As you’d expect from one of Canon’s flagship models, performance is exceptional. The camera starts up in just over one second and shuts down again almost as quickly. In single shot mode it can take a photo roughly every 1.6 seconds, which is about as fast as you can press the shutter button, while in continuous mode it can shoot at approximately one frame every 0.6 seconds, and can apparently keep that up until the memory card is full. Focusing is incredibly fast, in fact in good light it’s virtually instant and amazingly reliable.”
The Canon PowerShot S5 IS is Canon’s top-of-the-range ultra-zoom compact camera, with an image-stabilized 12x optical zoom lens offering a focal range of 36-432mm, fast aperture range of f/2.7 – f/3.5 and an Ultrasonic Motor for silent auto-focusing. With an external flash hot shoe for use with selected Canon EX Speedlites, chunky hand grip and mode wheel, the S5 IS is very much styled like an entry-level DSLR camera. The 8 megapixel Canon S5 IS also benefits from a versatile 2.5 inch vari-angle LCD screen, Canon’s DIGIC III processor (as used in their range of DSLRs), Face Detection AF/AE/FE and ISO speeds up to a maximum of 1600. There’s a choice of 22 shooting modes, including Manual mode for creative control, and a 0cm Super Macro mode for extreme close-ups! With a recommended price of over £400, the Canon PowerShot S5 IS is competing directly with a lot of budget SLRs, as well as cheaper high-end bridge cameras, so does it offer enough to compete? Gavin Stoker finds out…
Website: Canon PowerShot S5 IS Review
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The S5’s $499 price tag is steep and hard to justify when the competition is offering more features. In addition, the S5 doesn’t perform as well as it should. Granted, its colors are beautifully accurate, but its dynamic range and noise levels are subpar, even when compared to less expensive compact digital cameras.”
Imaging Resource have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S50c camera, which offers offer 7.2 megapixels, a 3x zoom lens (38-114mm), Vibration Reduction, Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting, plus a 3 inch wide-angle LCD monitor and Wi-Fi connectivity.
“While the Nikon S50c has an attractive design with some intriguing bells and whistles that are more than gimmicks, I was disappointed with both how the camera performed and the quality of the images it captured. On the bright side, the Nikon S50c has a VR lens, D-Lighting, and In-Camera Red-Eye Fix: all automatically activated with Face Priority autofocus in Portrait mode. But a WiFi-enabled digicam should be able transmit wirelessly to a computer just like it does via USB connection. The Nikon S50c’s failure to transmit images to your own computer is a big step backwards.”
Nikon has partnered with T-Mobile USA to provide Coolpix S51c customers with a six month subscription to T-Mobile’s HotSpot Wi-Fi service for digital cameras. With nearly 8,500 T-Mobile HotSpot locations available in the USA, owner’s can use Nikon’s new “my Picturetown” sharing and setorage service from nearly anywhere. “Nikon’s all-new ‘my Picturetown’ service allows S51c users to email their images to family and friends across the globe or upload them to Nikon’s photo archiving service. The partnership with T-Mobile USA provides customers with the opportunity to share their images easily and seamlessly from a variety of locations.” said Bill Giordano, General Manager, Marketing, COOLPIX, Nikon Inc. This special offer expires on August 31, 2008.
ACDSee Pro 2 features next-generation workflow management and RAW processing functionality. The upgrade was developed with input from more than 2,500 photographers worldwide. “The ability to work directly with our customers has allowed us to develop a product release that will bring unprecedented efficiency to the photographic community, freeing them to focus on what they do best—producing quality images.” said Mark Franklin, executive vice president of ACD Systems. ACDSee Pro 2 is available now for $129.99. Current ACDSee customers are eligible for a 30-percent customer discount.
TrustedReviews have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S50c camera, which offers offer 7.2 megapixels, a 3x zoom lens (38-114mm), Vibration Reduction, Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting, plus a 3 inch wide-angle LCD monitor and Wi-Fi connectivity.
“Image quality was average at best, with image noise visible on shots even at the minimum of 100 ISO, and visible compression artefacts in pictures even at the maximum quality setting. While exposure was generally accurate, colour reproduction was a bit under-saturated and generally lacked contrast. The overall level of detail was also quite low for a 7MP camera, but while the lens wasn’t the sharpest Nikkor glass I’ve ever seen, it was at least consistent, providing reasonable sharpness from edge to edge, albeit with a lot of barrel distortion at the wide-angle end.”
The Nikon S510 is the world’s smallest digital camera with optical vibration reduction. Featuring Nikon’s innovative EXPEED digital image processing concept, the S510 has a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), light sensitivity up to ISO 2000 and a stainless steel body. The Nikon S510 is priced at £199.99/ €300, available in September.
The Nikon S51C and Nikon S51 both feature a distinctive wave-surface design and 8.1 megapixel sensors. Both cameras have a 3x zoom lens (38-114mm) with optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction). The Nikon S51C additionally offers built-in Wi-Fi support. The Nikon S51C and Nikon S51 will cost £229.99 and £199.99 respectively and be available in September.
Thom Hogan has reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“The one thing that Fujifilm does talk about a lot in its marketing materials for the S5 Pro is how much better the noise tendencies are. I have good news and bad news on that front. The good news is that, as I’ll report later, the noise levels in the S5 Pro are reasonably well controlled. The bad news is that it comes as a result of the RP Processor Pro imaging ASIC’s noise reduction routines. Noise reduction applied downstream from the sensor (in the imaging ASIC or in raw conversion software) always tends to take away detail as it does its job.”
Website: Thom Hogan - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
The Fujifilm S5 Pro has been voted European Advanced Camera of the Year 2007-2008. The special qualities of Fujifilm’s Super CCD SR Pro Sensor provide the wide dynamic range, low image noise and contrast control that make this camera stand out from the general DSLR market.” commented the EISA panel.
Buy an S5 Pro Body Only Kit and get HyperUtility HS-V3 and Pantone Huey Pro completely free. This special rebate offer is worth $240 and valid in the USA. All required documentation must be received within 30 days after your purchase - full details of how to apply after the jump.
The new Fantasea Line FS-500 and FS-200 underwater housings for the Nikon Coolpix S500 and S200 camera are depth rated to 60 meters/200 feet. The FS-500 and FS-200 housings feature a double O-ring seal on all controls, anti-glare hood over LCD screen, and built-in diffuser. In the event of accidental water leakage, the camera is insured. The suggested retail price of the FS-500 and FS-200 is US $200.00 each.
Megapixel.net have reviewed the Fujifilm S700 digital camera, which features 7 megapixels, a 10x optical zoom, 2.5 inch LCD plus electronic viewfinder, ISO 1600 and Picture Stabilization mode.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S700/S5700 is a very good camera that easily produces excellent images. If its flash is no better than most compacts, its image quality outdoors is one of the best we have seen recently. This said, could the FinePix S700 be even better? Yes, it would be even better if it also offered an effective optical stabilizer. But even as is, this camera should garner a wide following.”
Website: Megapixel.net - Fujifilm S700 Review
Luminous Landscape have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The sensor is a 1/2.5” which translates to 5.76 x 4.29 mm. The ISO (gain) settings range from 80 to an ambitious 1600. As the following images indicate, (taken at 1/125s, f/5.6 and 14.5 mm) you should not expect to obtain reasonable-sized prints or do a lot of cropping with anything above ISO 200 – and maybe even that’s a little optimistic. I leave the camera set at ISO 80 so I don’t have to think about it. This is where the 3-stop image stabilization saves the day.”
PopPhoto have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The Canon PowerShot S5 IS feels good in the hand, whether shooting with the EVF or using the LCD viewfinder. For long-reach photography, we strongly recommend using the EVF and a two-handed grip to ensure stability, even with Optical Image Stabilization activated. We were able to achieve acceptably sharp images at full telephoto just over three full stops below the reciprocal focal length when shooting in this style—1/50 second on a 435mm lens.”
DPReview have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“Canon took an already great camera and gave it a better screen, better viewfinder and a flash hot shoe, and made it a bit prettier to boot. They then put inside it a sensor that is noisier than its predecessor, meaning that - for the most part - the resolution increase simply isn’t reflected in the output.”
Steves Digicams have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The S5’s image quality results were pleasing, both indoors and out. The majority of our outdoors sample images were sharp thanks to the accurate AF system and high-quality Canon lens, and exposure and color saturation are also very nice. You can also adjust the degree of sharpness, contrast, saturation, and color using the Custom My Colors function. Image noise is a very important factor when choosing a Prosumer model like this, where is it likely that you are going to be using higher sensitivity settings. I feel noise levels are very low at sensitivity settings of ISO 80 and 100, becoming more noticeable in shadow areas at ISO 200 - 400. “
Megapixel.net have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The Canon PowerShot S5 IS is a camera designed for advanced amateurs, and some time is required to tame it and obtain the highest image quality. Nevertheless, it would appear that the 8-megapixel resolution seems to be at the limit of what the lens can support, and with wide angle shots it is not unusual for images to require some post capture sharpening. Similarly, noise is a factor and the S5 IS produces its highest image quality if sensitivity is kept to a maximum of 200 ISO.”
The Fujifilm S5800 is an 8 megapixel digital camera with a 10x, 38mm to 380mm zoom lens. Other features of the S5800 include ISO 1600 sensitivity, Picture Stabilization and 2.5 inch LCD screen with a Wide View filter. The Fujifilm S5800 will be available from October 2007.
The FujiFilm S5 Pro is a very specific DSLR camera targeted squarely at wedding, portrait and studio photographers. The S5 Pro offers an expanded dynamic range of up to 400% via the double pixel technology (6.17 million S-pixels and 6.17 million R-pixels) of the camera’s Super CCD SR Pro sensor. A fastest ISO sensitivity of 3200, three new Film Simulation Modes for varying skin tones. and Face Detection are also available. The Fujifilm S5 Pro is based on the Nikon D200 and inherits almost all of that DSLR’s feature set. Does the FujiFilm S5 Pro have what it takes to compete against the likes of the Nikon D200 and Canon EOS 30D? Gavin Stoker finds out.
Website: FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Fujifilm’s Hyper-Utility Software HS-V3 Ver.1.1b has just been released for Windows and Mac OS X.
The update supports the following.
PC SHOOTING FUNCTION can be used with the FinePix S5 Pro when the [FUNCTION LOCK] of the camera is ON. To use this function you need update the firmware of the FinePix S5 Pro to version 1.08 or later. FinePix S5 Pro Firmware Update Ver.1.08 is already available from our service and support section of www.fujifilmusa.com
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S500, a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button.
“The Nikon Coolpix S500 retails for $299 which is right in the range of where it should be as a slim and sturdy point-and-shoot digital camera. This model was released alongside the Nikon S200, which was targeted to be the more budget-oriented camera. It costs $50 less and its features are worth at least that much less. Between the two cameras, I’d still go for the S500 mostly because of the optical image stabilization and much better LCD resolution. However, don’t expect too much in terms of image quality from the S500; noise levels up to ISO 800 are acceptable, but the S500’s dynamic range, color accuracy, and video performance are disappointing.”
The Fujifilm IS Pro is a new infrared DSLR camera based on the S5 Pro model. The IS Pro records light from the ultraviolet (UV), visible and infrared (IR) portion of the spectrum (approx. 380nm - 1000nm). There are several system packages available for the Fujifilm IS Pro digital SLR, ranging in price from $2599.95 body only to $4999 for a kit including a Zeiss 50mm Macro lens. The Fujifilm IS Pro is currently only available in the USA.
Nikon are offering a £50 cashback in the UK and €75 in Eire on the Coolpix S500, a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button. The offer is valid for purchases made between 13th July and 30th July 2007. Closing date for application is 31st August 2007.
DCResource have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“The PowerShot S5’s image quality is some of the best you’ll find on an ultra zoom. The camera takes well-exposed, colorful photos with just the right amount of sharpness. At lower ISO settings, images have an almost D-SLR-like “smooth” appearance to them. Noise doesn’t become a problem until ISO 400 in good light, and ISO 200 in low light. ISO 800 is usable (in good light) if you use noise reduction software, but you might as well forget about using ISO 1600.”
DIWA member LetsGoDigital have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S500, a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button.
“The Nikon Coolpix S500 has pleased me in practice. The camera is extremely users friendly and gives a fine end result. In regards to comfort and user friendliness the Nikon S500 does not seem to need many improvements. Of course, there is always room for improvement in regards to quality. I would like to see improvement in the noise values and I hope that Nikon does not let themselves be tempted by only looking for the larger ISO values.”
DIWA member Photoxels have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S500, a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button.
“I really enjoyed using the Nikon Coolpix S500. It’s compact enough to carry in my trousers pocket, always available for a quick shot. The controls are very intuitive and I personally find the Rotary multi selector to be fun to use. Though it is a point-and-shoot digital camera, I find the manual options (preset WB, Area AF, ISO, exposure compensation) enough to allow me to adjust the exposure to obtain correctly exposed pictures.”
DPReview have reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“One thing is certain: the S5 Pro is a huge improvement on its predecessor - it’s a far, far better camera and it produces better, cleaner output with fewer artefacts and slightly better detail. Everything from metering to focus to noise reduction to the interface and speed of operation has improved significantly.”
Website: DPReview - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
FujiFilm have released a new firmware update, v1.08, for the S5 Pro DSLR.
The firmware (Ver.1.06 to Ver.1.08) update incorporates the following issues.
When MB-D200 Multi-Power Battery Pack (introduced by Nikon) is used with S5Pro, sometimes the camera may be stopped suddenly (e.g. freeze) due to the contact failure between FinePix S5 Pro and MB-D200.
Cf. Contact failure is not occurred regularly. Even with contact failure in a short period FinePix S5 Pro will be frozen in some case.
For removing the trouble, new FinePix S5 Pro firmware has been established.
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 1.1 is now available as a free upgrade for existing users. New features in Lightroom 1.1 include support for Windows Vista, improved noise reduction and sharpening and support for 13 new digital camera RAW files. Photoshop Lightroom costs US $299.
PCMag have just reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S50c camera, which offers offer 7.2 megapixels, a 3x zoom lens (38-114mm), Vibration Reduction, Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting, plus a 3 inch wide-angle LCD monitor and Wi-Fi connectivity.
“Nikon continues taking the lead in wireless digital cameras, but these cameras are still a bit tricky to use. A number of things keep the Nikon Coolpix S50c from receiving top honors. First, I found significant shutter lag, mainly due to the delayed flash effect in its auto setting, and there are other annoying performance issues. Second, the Coolpix’s fancy wireless features still proved to be way too confusing to use, at least at first.”
Website: PCMag - Nikon Coolpix S50c Review
The Mac OS X 10.4.10 update adds RAW image decoding support for 8 cameras, including the Canon EOS 1D Mk III. The full list is Panasonic DMC-LX1, Panasonic DMC-LX2, Leica M8, Leica D-LUX 2, Leica D-LUX 3, Fuji S5 Pro, Nikon D40x, and Canon EOS 1D Mk III. Mac OS X 10.4.10 also resolves an issue in which some DNG images may appear tinted or distorted. Visit the following link for a full list of improvements and installation instructions.
Website: Mac OS X 10.4.10 Update
Megapixel.net have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S500, a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button.
“Set to 7M*, the Coolpix S500 yields very good images, especially when photos are captured outdoors and with good light, the images showing good sharpness and excellent colour rendition. And, for a modestly higher price than the S200, the S500 offers a true image stabilization system, and an excellent monitor, both of which represent valuable assets when taking photos. “
CNET have reviewed the new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera, which features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor.
“Canon has had to keep each sensor size to 1/2.5-inch; unfortunately, the weaknesses of the lens/sensor combo either becomes more evident as resolutions climb, or we’re just tired of seeing the same old problems. For the S5 IS, that means asymmetrical vertical distortion on the left side accompanied by ever-present aberration in the form of cyan and magenta fringing—not just at high-contrast edges, where we expect it, but at medium-contrast boundaries as well.”
CNET have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S500, a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button.
“Nikon really shows off its style with its Coolpix S500, a sleek, compact camera that feels every bit as good as it looks. This little shooter has some of the nicest design points we’ve seen in a small shooter, plus a few handy features normally seen on higher-end cameras. Unfortunately, looks and tricks aren’t everything, and the S500 simply doesn’t live up to its potential.”
Bibble 4.9.8 adds support for the Canon 1D Mark III, Fujifilm S5 Pro, Nikon D40x, Olympus E-510, E-410, and SP500 UZ and Panasonic FZ8 cameras, plus tethered shooting support for newer Canon cameras and the Fuji S5. Bibble is available in both “Pro” ($129.95) and “Lite” ($69.95) versions for Windows, Macintosh (PPC/Intel as a Universal Binary) and Linux.
CNET have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix L12, a 7.1 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, Face-priority AF, D-Lighting and Red-Eye Fix, and a 2.5 inch LCD monitor.
“Despite its otherwise unimpressive attributes, the L12 boasts two high-end features we were surprised to see in a budget camera. Nikon’s optical Vibration Reduction shifts the camera’s 35mm-to-105mm equivalent lens to help reduce shake. Face-priority autofocus identifies subjects’ faces and adjusts camera settings to best capture them. Both of these features are usually found on higher-end cameras like Nikon’s Coolpix S500, and it’s good to see them appear on a $200 shooter.”
Website: CNET - Nikon Coolpix L12 Review
DIWA member LetsGoDigital have reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“I’m less enthusiastic about the S5Pro’s menu structure, because of the two buttons to survey the menu, and the menu itself. I need to search too much. I know that it just takes getting used to, but still, in my opinion it can be a lot better. I’m also not very enthusiastic about the face detection. It’s fun, but it doesn’t work as well as I’d hoped, and to be honest, I don’t see what its use is.”
Website: LetsGoDigital - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Adobe have released Camera Raw 4.1 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the following cameras has been added in this update:
Canon EOS-1D Mark III, Fuji FinePix S5 Pro, Nikon D40x, Olympus E-410, Olympus SP-550 UZ, Sigma SD14, Phase One H 20, Phase One H 25, Phase One P 20, Phase One P 21, Phase One P 25, Phase One P 30, Phase One P 45
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 4.1 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 4.1 (MAC)
DxO Optics Pro v4.2 now supports the Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro, S3 Pro and Pentax K10D DSLR cameras. “With their addition to our library of correction modules, DxO Optics Pro remains an undisputed leader in automatic image enhancement for digital photographers,” says Luc Marin, vice president of the DxO Labs Photography Business unit. DxO Optics Pro software improves the image quality of DSLR cameras and advanced digicams.
A montage of the London Eye has been created using the photographs from a recent British Airways London Eye competition. The montage will be on display at the British Airways London Eye ticket office, inside County Hall. “Seeing the London Eye through the lens of someone else’s camera creates an even stronger admiration for one of our most popular attractions. I strongly urge the public and photography community to make a trip to the British Airways London Eye ticket office to see this creative montage of images.” commented Adrian Clarke, Director of Photo of Fujifilm UK Ltd.
Entries are now open for the 2007 international Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) competition, with over £50,000 worth of prizes on offer. TPOTY 2007 will be judged by a panel comprising expert photographers, image buyers, magazine editors and imaging experts. Entries for the competition are now open and close on September 19th.
The new Transcend 4GB 150X SDHC memory card features high data transfer speeds of 15MB/s. Transcend produces its SDHC Class 6 150X cards using original NAND Flash chips and quality components to ensure that your flash card keeps your data secure longer. The card supports Error Correction Code (ECC) to detect and correct errors and there is a mechanical write protection switch to help prevent accidental deletion.
The new Canon S5 IS ultra-zoom compact camera features a 12x optical zoom lens equivalent to 36-432mm, optical image stabilizer and 8 megapixel sensor. The Canon S5 replaces the S3 model, adding face detection technology, flash hot shoe compatible with some Canon EX Speedlite external flashes, and an increased sensitivity range of ISO 80-1600. The Canon S5 IS will be available from early June, priced at £409 / €601 RRP inc. VAT.
You can now test-drive a Beta version of ACDSee Pro 2.0, which is scheduled for release in the Autumn. ACDSee Pro 2.0 Beta is compatible with Windows Vista and is available free for download at http://www.acdseepro.com . “Our software development starts and ends with the needs of today’s photographers,” said Mark Franklin, executive vice president of ACD Systems. “It’s very important to us to invite feedback at this crucial stage, especially as an increasing number of photographers demand a high level of control in RAW processing.” Beta testers and users of the previous version will receive a 30 percent discount.
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro is Fujifilm’s latest attempt at the perfect camera for wedding photographers. It has a new version of the company’s extended-range SR sensor, with new adjustments meant specifically to handle facial highlights and white clothing (wedding dresses). The S5’s strong dynamic range and pleasing color are its unique selling points. Really, they are the sum total of its unique propositions of any kind, given that the Fujifilm sensor and image process rig are dropped into an otherwise unchanged Nikon D200.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Phase One have released version 3.7.7 of Capture One PRO, which adds camera support for the Leica DIGILUX 3, Fuji S5, Nikon D40, Pentax K10D, Pentax K100D and Olympus E-400
Website: Capture One PRO 3.7.7 (Windows)
Website: Capture One PRO 3.7.7 (Mac)
TrustedReviews have reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“So does it work? Does the S5 Pro actually produce better colour and tonal range than an equivalent SLR with a conventional CCD? The short answer is yes, but at a price. I found that in exact comparison shots with the Nikon D40x which I still have, and with my own Sony A100, the S5 produced roughly two stops of extra dynamic range, with enhanced shadow detail and highlights.”
Website: TrustedReviews - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
FujiFilm have released a new firmware update, v1.06, for the S5 Pro DSLR.
The firmware update v1.06 incorporates the following issues.
1. Upgrade of Barcode-reading function
•[BCD (Barcode) MULTI READ] function is added in [IMAGE COMMENT] menu.
If this function is selected, the characters (in the EXIF tag) will not be overwritten but added continuously at each barcode reading. In this case, the user comment already typed in will be erased.
2. Upgrade of [FUNCTION LOCK] function
The following four functions are added in [SELECTED FUNCTION] menu for [FUNCTION LOCK].
•NOISE REDUCTION
•MAINTENANCE
•DATE/TIME
•FILE TAG OPTIONS
ePhotoZine have reviewed the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“The auto-focus is perhaps the weakest element of the S5, as it isn’t super-quick, but only wildlife photographers are going to find it a problem. A related features is the Live view on the LCD - this is something few DSLRs offer. Unfortunately, while it works in colour, it only operates with the camera in manual focus mode. And then it only stays on for 30secs while you are busy fiddling with the focus.”
Website: ePhotoZine - FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
Website: Read our FujiFilm S5 Pro Review
The Transcend 8GB SDHC Class 6 memory card features high data transfer speed and best price-to-performance value. It supports Error Correcting Code (ECC) to detect and correct errors and has a mechanical write protection switch to prevent accidental deletion of data. Pricing and availability to be confirmed.
FujiFilm have released a new firmware update, v1.04, for the S5 Pro DSLR.
The firmware update v1.04 incorporates the following issues.
1. Better white balance when setting FLASH-mode for the WHITE BLANCE.
2. Better white balance when setting AUTO-mode for the WHITE BLANCE and using Nikon non-CPU lenses.
*It requires to set the maximum aperture according to the FinePix S5 Pro Owener’s Manual(p.121-p.124).
PMA 2007: ExpressDigital Darkroom 8.8 includes connected pro services, enhanced template making elements, and new retouch tools. Darkroom Version 8.8 is expected to ship at the end of March 2007.
Nikon were one of the few major camera manufacturer’s exhibiting at Focus (Canon, Samsung, Pentax, Casio, Kodak, Olympus, Sony and Panasonic were all notable by their absence). Consequently it was difficult to actually get to the Nikon stand, as people crowded round watching and waiting for the free seminar series. Nikon announced their new Coolpix range nearly a week ago and only had a few prototype samples on show, including the P5000 performance model, which looked nice and was a lot smaller than I’d expected.
Fujifilm were the other big camera name at Focus. They were showing the S5700 / S700 camera that was announced last week (although not the A900 or A820). It was next to the older S5600 model and was noticeably smaller and lighter, yet still retaining a 10x zoom lens and with a much larger LCD screen. The other highlights were the F40d and Z5 (first announced at CES in early January). Fujifilm were also keen to point out that a growing number of models had the new dual xD / SD memory card slot, citing demand from repeat buyers with a vested interest in SD cards as the principal reason. Finally, the new S5 Pro DSLR has already crept onto the store shelves, with retailer Jacobs offering it for a show special of £999 body only.
PMA 2007: The Fujifilm S700 digital camera features 7 megapixels, a 10x optical zoom, 2.5 inch LCD plus electronic viewfinder, ISO 1600 and Picture Stabilization mode. The Fujifilm S700 also features a versatile xD/SD memory card slot. The Fujifilm S700 will be available in March 2007 for $249.95 US. In the UK, the Fujifilm S5700 (note the name change) will be available from April 2007 priced at £199.00.
PMA 2007: The Nikon Coolpix S50c and Nikon Coolpix S50 digital cameras both offer 7.2 megapixels, a 3x zoom lens (38-114mm), Vibration Reduction to help combat camera shake, Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting, plus a 3 inch wide-angle LCD monitor. The Nikon S50c differs from the S50 because of its Wi-Fi capabilities. The Nikon S50c is exclusive to Amazon, and the Nikon S50 to to DSG International PLC in the UK, availability to be confirmed. Prices in the US are $299.95 for the S50 and $349.95 for the S50c.
PMA 2007: The Nikon Coolpix S500 is a 7.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens (35-105mm), Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake, ISO 2000 capability, 2.5 inch monitor and One-touch portrait button. The Nikon S500 will cost £249.99 / €369 / $299.95 and be available at the end of March.
Adobe have released Camera Raw 3.7 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the Nikon D40 and Pentax K10D DSLR cameras has been added in this update.
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.7 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.7 (MAC)
DIWA member LetsGoDigital have a preview of the upcoming FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“As well as enlarging the buffer, several other functions and components of the Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro have been made faster. It is now possible to get a reproduction of a picture more or less immediately via the Quick Review setting and there is practically no pause between pressing in the Play button and seeing the picture. The possibility of deleting this picture directly in the preview mode is also very handy. One new feature is the face detection button which gives you a 100% zoom reproduction of the picture immediately. This part is incredibly handy and helps quickly when making portraits or photos that include people. The detection system works quickly and faultlessly and can detect a maximum of ten different faces!”
Website: LetsGoDigital - FujiFilm S5 Preview
ThinkCamera have an exclusive hands-on preview of the upcoming FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR camera.
“I was just cruising through the menus when I spotted an entry called “live view”. This works in either colour or black and white (you choose) and lets you preview the scene on the LCD. You can also magnify part of the display for critical manual focus.”
Website: ThinkCamera - FujiFilm S5 Preview
Imaging Resource have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S9, which offers 6 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and a 3x zoom lens.
“The Nikon Coolpix S9 keeps the attractive ultraslim design of the S-series while shaving off a fraction of an inch in length to make it 3.6 x 2.3 x 0.8 inches (91 x 58 x 20 mm). As I said in my review of the Nikon Coolpix S5, I like the flowing “wave-like” design of these latest S-series cameras because along with being wafer thin, the slight curve in the camera’s beautiful silver chassis to accommodate the folded 3x zoom, makes it easier to hold. The Nikon S9 is also slightly lighter than the S5 at just 4.6 ounces (133 grams) with the proprietary lithium battery and SD Card installed. Because the camera uses folded optics, the lens does not extend even when zoomed out to 3x, which maintains its slender profile.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Nikon Coolpix S9 Review
Website: Read our Nikon Coolpix S9 Review
Fujifilm USA Press Release
Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro Introduced to Market - Full Specifications, Availability and Pricing Also Determined
VALHALLA, N.Y.—FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced the full specifications, availability and retail price for the highly anticipated FinePix S5 Pro. Announced in development at Photokina 2006, the FinePix S5 Pro is scheduled for nationwide market availability February 2007 at a price of $1,999. Confirming Fujifilm’s commitment to professional photographers, the FinePix S5 Pro carries a number of features that appeal to wedding, portrait and studio photographers. One is an expanded dynamic range from the double pixel technology (6.17 million S-pixels and 6.17 million R-pixels) of the camera’s Super CCD SR Pro sensor that is approximately 400% wider than that of a CCD working on a single-pixel design. In addition, the FinePix S5 Pro goes a step further by coupling the new Super CCD SR Pro sensor with Fujifilm’s new RP Processor Pro for smoother tonality from brightest light to the darkest shadows. An ISO equivalent sensitivity of 3200 is also available on the FinePix S5 Pro, thanks to the RP Processor Pro technology.
DigitalCameraInfo have just reviewed the 10.2 megapixel Sony A100 DSLR camera.
“Our final take on the D-R system is this: it’s a very good convenience feature, because it allows users to reap one advantage of shooting RAW, without having to shoot RAW. It’s not equivalent to the extended dynamic range available from cameras like the Fujifilm FinePix S3 or S5, however. Those cameras deliver more realistic dynamic range in their expanded modes, and the Sony alpha A100 does not.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Sony A100 Review
Website: Read our Sony A100 Review
ACD Systems Press Release
ACDSee Pro Photo Manager Gives Professional Photographers Total Control Over Their Workflow with public beta RAW Format Support.
Victoria, British Columbia – November 2, 2006 – ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX: ASA), today announced a public beta software release which updates ACDSee® Pro Photo Manager, adding support for the newest RAW formats. Developed specifically for the professional photographer, ACDSee Pro will be showcased from November 2-4 at PhotoPlus Expo, Booth #1212, in New York. ACDSee Pro delivers advanced functionality designed to streamline the workflow of professional photographers, while incorporating the speed and organizing capabilities synonymous with ACDSee software solutions. “Once again, our commitment to working closely with professional photographers yields support for the newest digital cameras”, said Doug Vandekerkhove, CEO of ACD Systems.
ATP Press Release
Sunnyvale, CA (October 23, 2006) – ATP Electronics® Inc., the industry leading manufacturer of flash media storage products, announced the release of a Class 6 ProMax® SD High Capacity (SDHCTM) 4GB memory card. This SDHC card, strictly following SD Association (SDA) v2.00 specifications, has passed rigorous testings for Class 6 certification at a recent SDA interoperability session performed by major camera manufacturers, such as Panasonic, Canon, Nikon and Casio. The Class 6 ProMax SDHC 4GB card maximizes the performances of newest models of high megapixel digital cameras such as Canon IXY 1000, PowerShot G7, A630/640, Panasonic DMC/SDR/DMR series, Nikon CoolPix S5, S6, D80 and Casio Exilim Z and S series digital cameras.
Fujifilm have announced the development of the FujiFilm S5 Pro digital SLR, slated for early 2007 introduction. Looking like it’s based on the Nikon D200 body, the FujiFilm S5 Pro features the same Super CCD SR double pixel sensor as the older S3 Pro.
Fujifilm USA Press Release
Valhalla, NY, September 25, 2006 - Confirming the company’s commitment to professional photographers, Fujifilm today announced the development of the much anticipated Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro digital SLR camera. The new Fujifilm S5 Pro is further affirmation of Fujifilm’s goal to achieve professional D-SLR image quality consistent with Fujifilm’s professional film heritage. The Fujifilm S5 Pro carries a number of features that made its predecessor, the FinePix S3 Pro, so popular with wedding, portrait and studio photographers. One is increased dynamic range from the Super CCD SR double pixel technology (6.17 million S-pixels and 6.17 million R-pixels). The new Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro continues this tradition of expanded dynamic range and goes a step further by coupling the new Super CCD SR Pro sensor with Fujifilm’s new RP (Real Photo) Processor Pro for even more outstanding, film-like results. Moreover, the Fujifilm S5 Pro will house the two technologies in a fully digital and durable metal alloy body frame. This opens the door for Fujifilm’s digital imaging technologies to expand into other applications such as outdoor and high endurance commercial photography.
Photokina Update: We now have some product photos live from Photokina 2006 - just click the link below to view them.
Casio have released a new firmware version (v1.03) for the Casio EX-S500, which adds SDHC memory card format support.
Website: Casio EX-S500 v1.03 Firmware Update
Nikon UK Press Release
Opodo Reflections and Nikon reveal new trends in travel photography
Thursday September 7, 2006 - The Feb launch of Opodo Reflections, in association with Nikon, to celebrate and reward budding photographers has brought to light some beautiful travel images from all over the world. Proof that more and more everyday holidaymakers are turning their hands to professional photography with the help of today’s digital camera technology. On the back of this, a recent survey of customers from the Opodo database* has revealed some significant and exciting changes in today’s travel photography trends…
Fujifilm UK Press Release
EISA votes Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom European Zoom Camera of 2006-2007 - Powerful mini-SLR style camera honoured by celebrated awards association
Fujifilm today announces that its acclaimed FinePix S5600 Zoom digital camera has been named ‘European Zoom Camera 2006-2007’ at this year’s prestigious European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) awards. The FinePix S5600 Zoom is the third generation of Fujifilm’s powerful mini-SLR style cameras with long zoom lens. It features a fast 10x optical zoom with fixed lens housing, and covers all settings from wide angle to telephoto. This gives the photographer optical power without the bulkiness and heavy body of larger cameras.
The new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S500 digital camera is so entry-level that Sony didn’t even bother to announce it properly. Expected to ship on or before August 4th, 2006 for $179.95, available to pre-order now on SonyStyle.
A remarkable combination of value, simplicity and performance make the Sony® Cyber-shot® DSC-S500 a perfect choice for first-time digital photographers. The DSC-S500 combines 6.0 megapixel resolution with a quality 3X optical zoom lens design, terrific wide-angle shooting capability, 25 MB Internal Memory for capturing shots in-camera, and a bright 2.4” LCD screen that allows you to check your shots and share results immediately.
Imaging Resource have just reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“While, in all honesty, I had been getting a bit bored with the recent crop of slim cameras, the wave design of the new Nikon S5 and S6, made me sit up and take notice. With dimensions of approximately 3.7 x 2.3 x 0.8 inches, a weight of 5.3 ounces (with battery and SD card), and a smooth metallic surface that’s cool to the touch, the S5 is a camera you can put in your pocket and truly forget about until you’re ready to shoot.”
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S6, a 6 megapixel, 3x optical zoom len, 3 inch LCD digital camera.
“The slim and sexy Nikon Coolpix S6 was announced in February, along with its compatriot, the S5. Both cameras share similar specs, like 6 megapixels on a 1/2.5-inch CCD and a 3x optical zoom lens, with the main difference being the wireless capability on the flagship S6. The WiFi enabled digital camera allows users to send photos and videos to profiled computers and printers without a USB cable in sight. Still, the camera comes with plenty of wires in the package.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Nikon Coolpix S6 Review
Fujifilm USA has announced a $100 price drop for the FinePix S5200, which is now available for $299. The FinePix S5200 is an excellent choice for photographers looking to make their first venture into the world of SLR-styled cameras. The camera has a 10x optical zoom lens, a five MegaPixel Super CCD HR sensor and full-resolution ISO sensitivities as high as 1600.
CNET have just reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“Nikon’s Coolpix S5 is a slim, attractive 6-megapixel shirt-pocket camera that hits all the right design notes. Its 2.5-inch LCD screen, satin silver finish, and internally zooming 3X optical lens (35mm-to-105mm equivalent) will be a hit with style-conscious snapshooters, and its scrolling click wheel gives users an easy, MP3 player-like interface. The quick-shooting camera boasts very good build quality, color rendition, and sharpness, but some minor image flaws may disappoint eagle-eyed photographers. A simple feature set and basic shooting options will serve casual snapshooters, but they probably won’t satisfy enthusiasts who like to tinker with settings.”
Website: CNET - Nikon Coolpix S5 Review
TrustedReviews have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom (also known as the S5200 in the US), a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology.
“Despite having a 10x zoom lens, the S5600 has no image stabilization. What it does have however is the ability to shoot at high ISO settings with very little image noise. Fujifilm is so far the only company to really crack the image noise problem at higher ISO speeds, and with its relatively fast F3.2-3.5 lens the S5600 can produce good results at shutter speeds around 2-3 stops higher than other comparable cameras under the same lighting conditions. Since most IS systems only offer the same 2-3 stop advantage the S5600 does just as well without one, which helps to keep the price down.”
Website: TrustedReviews - Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom Review
DCViews have just reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“The Nikon ED f/3.0-5.4 35-105mm optical zoom lens produces sharp results in the centre of the image throughout its range, but there is some notable vignetting in the extreme corners of the pictures. Also we noted that corners were definitely lacking in sharpness. The latter would not be too obvious in most day to day photo situations but vignetting will be clearly visible in images with uniform colours, such as the blossom image you can see here. There is no evidence of purple fringing in extreme contrast situations. A fair amount of barrel distortion is visible at wide angle, which slowly changes into some pincushioning when you zoom in. The amount of barrel distortion seems to be a bit more than what we have come to expect in cameras of this class.”
Website: DCViews - Nikon Coolpix S5 Review
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.”
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
DIWA member and Steves Digicams have reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“I was disappointed with one aspect of the lens, however; it has a fixed aperture. The lens does include an electronically-controlled neutral-density filter that reduces the available light to an effective f/8 from f/3 at wide angle, but that step is sometimes too great, causing the exposure system to select it in combination with a slow shutter speed, sometimes resulting in images blurred by camera shake even in bright sunlight. The lens also exhibits a bit of vignetting, or light fall-off at the corners.”
TrustedReviews have just reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“Like all Nikon compacts the build quality is exemplary. The finish is protected by a scratch-resistant lacquer, and the LCD also has a scratch-resistant acrylic outer layer, so the camera should survive an accidental in-pocket encounter with you car keys without too much damage. For its size the S5 feels surprisingly substantial, and it has a feeling of real quality about it. As well it might, because with a list price of £299.99 and a street price of around £235 it is well above the average for a camera in this class. With cameras such as the smaller and lighter Casio EX-Z60, Sony DSC-W50 or Pentax Optio S6 available for under £200 the Coolpix S5 needs to be something special if it’s going to compete. The Nikon brand name alone, unimpeachably reputable though it may be, simply isn’t enough these days.”
Nikon Press Release
Nikon at the “Japan Design - Good Design Award 50 Years exhibition,” held in Milan to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Good Design Awards
April 4, 2006 - Nikon is pleased to announce that it will be displaying products from April 5 through 10, 2006 at the Japan Design - Good Design Award 50 Years exhibition held in Milan, Italy. This exhibition is sponsored by the Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization to celebrate the 50th year since the founding of the Good Design Awards (G-Mark). 20 Japanese companies will demonstrate the history and potential of the designs of Japan that have led the world through innovation.
As one of the companies that have received Good Design Awards, Nikon will display a lineup including three concept camera models, the Nikon F which was created with the cooperation of the late graphic designer Yusaku Kamekura, the F6 and D2H SLR cameras featuring a red triangular motif suggested by industrial designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the F3 SLR camera custom-made for NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), binoculars, and eyeglass frames, all clearly epitomizing the three key words of Nikon design: Reliability, Innovation, and Elegance.
Fujifilm USA are offering $100 off the Fujifilm FinePix S9000, a 9 megapixel digital camera with a 28-300mm lens with twist-barrel zoom control (also known as the S9500), and $50 off the Fujifilm FinePix S5200.
Website: Fujifilm Rebates
DIWA member and Polish website Fotopolis have reviewed the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
Website: Fotopolis - Nikon Coolpix S5 Review
ePhotoZine have the first online review of the new 6 megapixel Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera.
“ISO50 and 100 both produce clean results, with ISO200 being slightly noisier, but still very usable. At ISO400 the noise level increases dramatically, but it retains a random, film-like pattern which is still suitable for printing up to around 7x5 inches. Compact digital cameras have been steadily improving there ability to shoot at high ISO settings, many have sensitivity settings up to ISO1600 now. For this camera to be so noisy at its maximum ISO400 setting is a disappointment. I expected better from a newly released camera.”
Website: ePhotoZine - Nikon Coolpix S5 Review
Imaging Resource have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom (also known as the S5200 in the US), a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology.
“Fujifilm’s greatest success has been in creating good-quality midrange cameras that sell at very competitive prices, and the new Fuji S5200 aims to continue that success. A couple of years ago, Fuji introduced long-zoom digicams at affordable price levels with their FinePix 2800 and 3800 models. Now, the Fuji S5200 advances the cause even further, with a 5.1-megapixel CCD (up from the S5100’s 4.0-Mp CCD), a 10x optical zoom lens, and a host of exposure modes and features. While it still sports a fully automatic mode, the Fuji FinePix S5200 goes beyond basic “point & shoot” capability with Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, and Manual modes, as well as a few Scene modes. The Fuji S5200 offers very long-zoom capability and greater exposure control at a surprisingly affordable price.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom Review
Both models will be available in the UK from April 2006 with a guide price of £149.99. A flash diffuser, strap, silicon paste as well as an anti-condensation kit is included in every package.
Casio Europe Press Release
Norderstedt, March 2006 - The Great Barrier Reef on the east coast of Australia is one of the most exciting natural settings on earth. The world’s biggest coral reef offers diving-fans the most beautiful impressions of tropical underwater worlds and is perfect for photography. In order to be able to record these and other moments in pictures and enjoy them again and again, CASIO has designed the two new underwater housings EWC-60 and EWC-70. Both are compatible with each of the two EXILIM digital camera models from the current and new line-up.
Kodak Press Release
Nikon, Olympus, Pentax Debut IMAGELINK System-Enabled Cameras at PMA - Acceptance of Printing Standard Will Benefit Millions of Consumers Worldwide
ROCHESTER, NY, February 22—Nikon, Olympus and Pentax introduced five digital cameras designed to connect to Kodak’s EASYSHARE printer dock via the IMAGELINK system standard at the Photo Marketing Association International Convention and Trade Show this week. The IMAGELINK print system, introduced by Kodak and a consortium of leading digital camera manufacturers at Photokina in September 2004, is a standard that allows pictures taken with a digital camera to be printed directly on the KODAK EASYSHARE printer dock. The dock enables consumers to print outstanding quality snapshots at the press of a button without connecting to a computer—a task that many consumers find complicated and time consuming.
PMA 2006: The Nikon Coolpix S5 and Nikon Coolpix S6 are announced. 6 megapixels, 3x optical zoom lens, 2.5 inch and 3 inch LCDs respectively. Coolpix S5 available end of February for £299.99 / €369. Coolpix S6 available mid March for £349.99 / €459.
Nikon Press Release
Two exciting digital compacts packing new photo-sharing entertainment into attractive wave-surface designs.
TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the Nikon Coolpix S5 and Nikon Coolpix S6. Two exciting new cameras built for the sharing of digital photographic enjoyment, the Nikon S5 and Nikon S6 combine high-quality imaging performance with impressive wave-surface design, enable images to be improved in-camera, feature outstandingly large LCDs and introduce the powerful Pictmotion function that allows users to create entertaining in-camera shows. With the COOLPIX S5 and S6, image quality is also pleasingly high. Both cameras offer a 1/2.5-inch CCD and 6.0 effective megapixel resolution to produce images that stay sharp even when significantly enlarged. The Nikon Coolpix S5 and Nikon Coolpix S6 also each feature a superior quality 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the freedom to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm.
PMA 2006: Nikon Pictmotion in-camera slideshow functionality is introduced in the new Coolpix S5 and S6 cameras.
Nikon Press Release
So much more than a slideshow, Pictmotion blends images, movies, music and visual styles to produce entertaining in-camera shows.
Tokyo – Nikon Corporation is proud to announce Pictmotion – a unique new feature that makes it easy to share the joy of photography in a more entertaining, more advanced manner. Presently available with the newly released COOLPIX S5 and S6, this in-camera capability enables recorded image and movie files to be combined with music and visual styles to produce intuitive in-camera shows that take the fun of digital photography much further. Containing patented technologies provided by muvee Technologies Pte. Ltd., Pictmotion empowers the COOLPIX S5 and S6 with an embedded muvee-making function similar to the muvee feature previously available with Nikon PictureProject software – automatically analyzing selected images, movies, styles, music and settings to produce creative, compelling slideshow productions that are easy to make and exciting to show. And because the software is already in the camera, users can make and view their Pictmotion productions on the go, save them to memory, and enjoy playing them back again and again anywhere – without the need for a PC.
DigiCamReview have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology (also known as the S5200 in the US).
“Image quality is good, the images have good colour, with good saturation, contrast, and detail, with low noise. Image quality problems were higher than average purple fringing, and slightly soft images (although sharpness can be increased in-camera). The camera did a good job focusing even in low light thanks to the focus-assist lamp. I did not notice vignetting in photos, nor did I notice barrel or pincushion distortion. There is a good range of image sizes, and a good choice of compression options. The macro mode is good, and provides good detail and colour. Auto white balance and metering seemed to be good the majority of the time. Red-eye was not a problem. The movie mode is good, providing 640x480 and 30 frames per second with sound.”
Adobe have officially released Camera Raw 3.3 for both Windows and Mac platforms. Support for the following cameras has been added in this update.
Canon EOS 5D, Canon EOS 1D Mark II N, Canon EOS 20Da
Kodak EasyShare P850, Kodak EasyShare P880
Fujifilm FinePix E900, Fujifilm FinePix S5200/5600, Fujifilm FinePix S9000/9500
Mamiya ZD
Nikon D200
Olympus E-500, Olympus SP-310, Olympus SP-350, Olympus SP-500UZ
Pentax *ist DL, Pentax *ist DS2
Sony DSC-R1
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 (Windows)
Website: Adobe Camera Raw 3.3 (Mac)
PCMagazine have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology (also known as the S5200 in the US).
“With the auto setting, our daylight shots showed little noise. Images exhibited very nice exposure (although some highlights were blown out), excellent color matching, and just the right amount of color saturation. There was some fringing, but not much. We noticed fringing more in our real-world testing. Images of tree branches or leaves against a bright blue sky had areas of strong purple fringing.”
The 8 megapixel Samsung Digimax S800, 6 megapixel Samsung Digimax S600 and 5 megapixel Samsung Digimax S500 point and shoot digital cameras are announced today. All three models offer a 2.4 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The S800, S600 and S500 are expected to hit the market in early 2006.
Samsung UK Press Release
Introducing the “S” Series of Point & Shoot cameras.
‘S’ series point and shoot digital cameras to be launched
- 5, 6, and 8 megapixels, all with 3x optical zoom
- Easy and quick operation
- Ergonomic design with camera grip
- Large and Vivid TFT LCD (2.4 inch)
Microsoft Press Release
Microsoft RAW Image Thumbnailer and Viewer for Windows XP Version 1.0 (Build 50)
The Microsoft RAW Image Thumbnailer and Viewer provides the ability to view, organize, and print photos captured in RAW image formats from supported Canon and Nikon digital cameras.
The updated version of the software adds support for the Canon EOS 5D, Nikon D50, and other recent camera models from Canon and Nikon (see list of new supported camera models below). In addition, a new Save As button has been added to the toolbar, allowing users to conveniently save either an embedded preview or processed RAW image to disk as a JPEG or TIFF file.
CNET have published their review of the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S45 compact digicam.
“The 4-megapixel sibling of Pentax’s 5-megapixel Optio S55, the Pentax Optio S45 offers the same ultracompact body, large LCD, 3X optical zoom, and streamlined feature set as its predecessor. It also has a number of helpful and fun features that aren’t as easy to find as they could be, so you’ll need to read the manual to acquaint yourself with everything this camera can do. But for out-of-the-box use, the Optio S45 is snapshot simple.”
Website: CNET - Pentax Optio S45 Review
CNET have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology (also known as the S5200 in the US).
“The 5.1-megapixel Fujifilm FinePix S5200 is a well-designed, well-built camera with very good image quality and performance. While smaller than any digital SLR, it’s not the kind of camera you thoughtlessly toss into your purse or jacket pocket. But those shooters willing to tote it around will enjoy the benefits of a high-quality 10X zoom lens (38mm to 380mm in 35mm-camera terms), a comfortable, well-balanced body that fits nicely in the hands, and a high-speed sensor that provides usable natural and low-light images at sensitivities up to ISO 1,600.”
Pocket-Lint have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology.
“Image quality. The S5600 easily lives up to the standards set by its forbears with sharp colourful images. A vivid ‘Chrome’ setting allows for extra saturation of shots (there’s a black and white mode too and I’ve included a shot in that mode in this test for you too), ideal for vivid greens and reds. Noise is well controlled as we’ve discussed but highlights become lost quickly if there’s a bright background in a scene for example. All almost identical problems I found with the 5500. Over processing for noise is an issue on this model however, but shooting RAW allows you to control this with even more precision.”
DigitalCameraInfo have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology. The Fujifilm S5600 has an ISO range of 64 to 1600 and boasts a 10x optical zoom lens.
“The SLR-like Fujifilm FinePix S5200 is a 5.1 megapixel (effective) 10x ultra zoom camera with the typical priorities of a long zoom Fuji: it lacks optical image stabilization, but attempts to compensate with extended ISO settings up to 1600 and a pretty wide maximum aperture to allow fast shutter speeds, minimizing the need for image stabilization. Its images are captured with a 1/2.5” CCD and will appear on a 1.8” LCD monitor, as will its 640 x 480 or 320 x 240 video clips in AVI (Motion JPEG) format. The S5200 is a light, compact camera that offers manual control options, high sensitivity settings and a long telephoto lens to a range of consumers at a list price of $399.95 – going as low as $320 online. “
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom Review
The Norwegian website Akam.no have published a review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology. The Fujifilm S5600 has an ISO range of 64 to 1600 and boasts a 10x optical zoom lens.
Here are the stand-out news stories from the last 7 days:
New Cameras
Mustek GSmart-S50
Rollei dp6500
Rollei da5324
New Accessories
Dell 964 All-In-One Printer
Kingston 15-In-1 Hi-Speed Reader
Lexmark X8350 Office All-in-One Plus Photo
Sigma APO 135-400mm F4.5-5.6 DG
New Software
RawShooter Color Engine
Other Headlines
See the Nikon D200 First in the UK
Focus on Imaging 2006
Record Profits for Nikon
Mustek Press Release
Mustek Redefines Digital Camera Price-to-Performance Ratio With 5.0 Megapixel GSmart-S50
(IRVINE, CA, November 16, 2005) Mustek today announced its latest innovation in digital photography with the launch of the GSmart-S50, a new benchmark for value in entry-level digital cameras. With an MSRP of only $130.95 (U.S.), the pocket-sized GSmart-S50 is sure to be a hit with budget-conscious consumers who can now digitally capture every magic moment with photos that they’ll cherish for years to come.
Highlighted by a 3.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, the GSmart-S50 delivers the equivalent resolution of a 5.0 megapixel camera by using built-in hardware interpolation that increases the number of pixels saved for higher quality prints at larger sizes. In fine mode, the GSmart-S50 captures vibrant, brilliant color JPEG images at 2592 x 1944 resolution. Other resolutions are High (2000 x 1500) and Standard (1000 x 750). Photos are easily transferred to a Windows PC (2000/ME/XP or later) via the included docking station or USB cable for color prints up to 8” x 10” size, image archiving, e-mailing to family and friends, or uploading to a website.
Photoxels have published the first online review of the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology. The Fujifilm S5600 has an ISO range of 64 to 1600 and boasts a 10x optical zoom lens.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S5200 is easily one of the best looking long zoom digital cameras around. Pick it up and your fingers wrap comfortably around the adequately large handgrip, with your index finger naturally poised over the shutter release button, and the thumb over the zoom lever. It comes in a mostly black (with silver accents) solidly built plastic composite body. Startup time is fast at around 1 sec. and there is no practical shutter lag. Autofocus is fast and precise.”
Website: Photoxels - Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom Review
DigitalCameraReview have reviewed the Pentax OptioS5z, which has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor.
“The complex lens design results in some minor but noticeable loss of sharpness at longer shooting distances and corners that are a bit soft throughout the zoom’s range. Barrel distortion (straight lines bow out from the center) is moderate and pincushion distortion (straight lines bow in toward the center) is about average. Chromatic aberration (purple fringing) is well controlled but visible in high contrast color transition areas. Optical performance was better than expected (I expected to see some vignetting and maybe even a little coma) but the zoom’s performance is actually quite good (for such a tiny and complex optic). The S5z’s Macro performance is exceptional, especially so for an ultra compact digicam.”
Website: DigitalCameraReview - Pentax OptioS5z Review
Fujifilm UK Press Release
As the clocks go back this Sunday (01:00 GMT), Fujifilm would like to draw attention to a depressing trend. Just like their human owners, many digital cameras are dreading the absence of daylight and the long winter nights.
With most digital cameras depending on abundant light to take a decent photo, 15 hours of daily darkness mean they can get into trouble early in the evening - relying on a battery-hungry flash, or producing the blurry, shaky results we know so well. Until now…
Kyocera Japan have issued a service advisory for their Finecam S5R, Finecam S5,Finecam S3L and Contax TVS DIGITAL digital cameras for the same CCD problem that has plagued almost every digital camera manufacturer recently. I’m not sure how likely it is that owners of those cameras will actually be able to get them repaired, as they are now all effectively obsolete outside of Japan.
Website: Kyocera Japan CCD Advisory
CNET have reviewed the Pentax OptioS55, a 5 megapixel camera with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens.
“The Pentax Optio S55 produces satisfying, good-quality, but not wonderful output. A number of flaws emerged in our test shots. They were usually minor and not enough to ruin the photo, but they were noticeable nonetheless. First of all, the Optio S55 is prone to slight underexposure and barrel distortion at the zoom’s wide setting, as well as minor purple fringing in areas of strong contrast. Photos appear soft, on average, at the camera’s default sharpness setting.”
Website: CNET - Pentax OptioS55 Review
Norwegian website Akam.no have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
Website: Akam.no - Casio EX-S500 Review
TrustedReviews have reviewed the Pentax OptioS55, a 5 megapixel camera with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens.
“The control layout is simple enough, but this is not a simple camera, and I would certainly not recommend it for a first time user. My parents, both in their 70s, took the S55 on holiday to Italy to get me some good test shots. My father is a keen amateur photographer and owns a couple of nice film SLRs, but he had never used a digital camera before. I attempted to explain the S55’s multiple modes and options to him, but after going over it twice I still don’t think he’d really grasped it. I can’t say I blame him though because to be honest even I found it confusing and difficult to understand.”
Website: TrustedReviews - Pentax OptioS55 Review
Hungarian website Index Digicam have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
Website: Index Digicam - Casio EX-S500 Review
DesignTechnica have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
“I also noticed the camera did a very uneven job with auto focus, something that should be a non-issue in this day and age. As I took snaps, I would review them on the LCD screen, zooming in to see if the focus was sharp. In many instances, it wasn’t. I changed from multipoint to spot focus and back but it really didn’t help. As noted, the LCD is very grainy compared to other slim digicams out there including the recently reviewed Canon Digital ELPHs. Fearing my eyesight was going bad, I checked the image quality on my monitor at home and the focus was still uneven. Some shots were excellent while others went into the Delete bin. The same held true for images in shadows, fluffy kitties and my usual list of subjects. This was very disappointing.”
Website: DesignTechnica - Casio EX-S500 Review
DigiCamReview have reviewed both the Pentax Optio S55 and S45, 5 and 4 megapixel cameras respectively with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens.
“Image quality is good, the images have saturated colour, good contrast and good detail - however there is some purple fringing, and some images were quite soft. Images tend to come out of the camera looking very good. The camera did a good job focusing the majority of the time, only slightly struggling in low light. Noise was well controlled and low upto ISO200 but at ISO400 resulted in slight loss of detail. I did not notice vignetting in photos.”
Website: DigiCamReview - Pentax Optio S55 / S45 Review
Casio have released a new firmware version (v1.02) for the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
Improvements Provided by This Update
V1.01-V1.02
- Fixed a problem that sometimes made it impossible to achieve the desired results at shutter speeds slower than one second.
Website: Download the Casio EX-S500 Firmware Update
DIWA member Steves Digicams have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
“Casio has joined the exclusive 1-megapixel per ounce club with its Exilim EX-S500, supplying 5-megapixels of resolution in a package weighing only 4 1/2 ounces, including battery, SD memory card and wrist strap. Just as remarkable, Casio squeezed a 2.2-inch LCD monitor and a 3x optical zoom lens into the EX-S500’s credit card-sized, stylish and durable metal body. The EX-S500’s Automatic and Best Shot scene modes will help beginners capture pleasing snapshots, but the camera lacks the manual, aperture-priority and shutter-priority exposure modes demanded by experienced photographers.”
Website: Steves Digicams - Casio EX-S500 Review
DigitalCameraInfo have also reviewed the Pentax OptioS5z, which has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor.
“The Pentax S5z surprised us with its substandard color performance, earning just a 3.73 overall color score. Many colors produced by the camera were extremely under-saturated, resulting in a dull overall color pallet, while others stayed completely from their intended hue. Cooler tones, namely tones in the blue and green channels, were grossly inaccurate, and some orange tones shifted colors to near white (#16 and green #11). While many compact digital cameras earn low scores on color accuracy tests, none we’ve tested so far have strayed so significantly from the ideal tones. The S5z, like many compact cameras, will consistently produce images with inaccurate color tones; however, the problem is severe enough on the S5z to render many of the produced images unusable.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Pentax OptioS5z Review
CNET take a look at the new Pentax OptioS5z, which has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor.
” Pentax seems to be taking the penta in its name to heart these days. With no fewer than six 5-megapixel models on the market, the company contributes even more than most manufacturers to this burgeoning group of digital cameras. The lead entry is the Pentax Optio S5z, a pocket-size camera offering a 3X optical zoom, high-resolution movies, and a large LCD. The Pentax’s feature set goes a step beyond point-and-shoot but lacks the manual exposure controls that would take the Optio S5z to the next level.”
Website: CNET - Pentax OptioS5z Review
TrustedReviews take a look at the new Pentax OptioS5z, which has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor.
“In terms of picture quality the S5z is a solid performer, although it does have a few minor problems. Exposure, focusing and colour reproduction are first-rate, and noise control is especially good. As with the S5n there is no visible noise at 80 or 100 ISO, and only a little at 200 ISO. Some noise is creeping into the shadows at 400 ISO, but images are still completely useable.”
Website: TrustedReviews - Pentax OptioS5z Review
DigitalCameraReview have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
“The Casio Exilim EX-S500 is the latest ultra-compact from Casio. It’s a stylish little camera that comes in gray, white, and orange. The EX-S500 is a 5 megapixel camera, with 3x optical zoom, 2.2 inch LCD, Anti Shake DSP, and 30 Best Shot settings. If you’re looking for an ultra-compact with some great features, the Casio Exilim EX-S500 is a good option. While not at the top of the class in image quality, it’s images are still good and will satisfy most users.”
Website: DigitalCameraReview - Casio EX-S500 Review
Casio have released a new firmware version (v1.01) for the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
Improvements Provided by This Update
V1.00-V1.01
• Fixed a problem that caused the wrong white balance setting to be registered when saving a user setup.
• Fixes a problem that caused occasional distortion in the upper part of a snapshot recorded during movie recording.
Website: Download the Casio EX-S500 Firmware Update
DCResource have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
“I was disappointed with the majority of the real world photos that I took with the EX-S500. While they’re well exposed, with accurate color and low purple fringing levels, they have major noise and softness problems. Noise levels are above average in the entire photo, while the softness is mostly around the edges of the frame. While some photos were alright, the vast majority turned out poorly. Check out the photo gallery for plenty of examples.”
Website: DCResource - Casio EX-S500 Review
DigitalCameraInfo have reviewed the Pentax OptioS55, a 5 megapixel camera with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens.
“The Optio S55 is very easy to use in its automated mode, and generally produces its best results in Auto-select mode. On the other hand, it’s difficult to exert much manual control over exposure or focus, so attaining any degree of precision can be frustrating. There is no print or share button included on the Optio S55 body, as many similarly priced cameras tend to include due to the target audience and intended users of compact cameras within this price range. While there is a text magnification option available within the camera’s menu, once enlarged, all other settings dropped off the screen making it mildly difficult to scroll through and utilize. The lack of endurance or reasonable use of battery life was also enough of a problem to make the camera more difficult to use. The camera is not difficult for any level user to adapt to; however, if ease of use and simplicity is a priority, there are far more straightforward cameras out there within this price range.”
Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Pentax OptioS55 Review
CNET have published their review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
“The latest in Casio’s slim-jim line of card cameras, the 5-megapixel Exilim EX-S500 offers a 3X optical zoom and a number of features missing in its predecessor, the S100. They include a burst mode, MPEG-4 video capture, and the ever-important AF illuminator, rounding out this pocket camera’s generous feature set. Its photo quality doesn’t distinguish it, but if you’re not too picky about that, it’s definitely worth a look.”
Website: CNET - Casio EX-S500 Review
Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom is announced today. The Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom is a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with Fujifilm’s new 5th Generation Super CCD HR sensor with Real Photo Technology. The Fujifilm S5600 has an ISO range of 64 to 1600 and boasts a 10x optical zoom lens. The FinePix S5600 Zoom will be available from UK retailers in September 2005, price to be announced. This camera is known as the Fujifilm FinePix S5200 Zoom in the USA.
Fujifilm UK Press Release
Fujifilm FinePix S5600 Zoom: evolution of a bestseller
Powerful zoom camera improves on successful Fujifilm formula with Anti-Blur Mode and lightning fast response times
Fujifilm today announces the launch of the FinePix S5600 Zoom, the third generation of its powerful, mini SLR-style digital cameras with long zoom lens. Packed with features, including 10x optical zoom and Anti-Blur Mode, the FinePix S5600 Zoom is an impressive reworking of its popular predecessors.
Simple Star Press Release
PhotoShow Lets PENTAX Customers Make Fun, Multimedia Photo and Video Clip Albums in as Little as Five Clicks
SAN FRANCISCO , July 6, 2005 – Simple Star, the leading developer of easy-to-use consumer photo software, announced today that PENTAX will bundle Simple Star’s PhotoShow software suite into its new line of PENTAX Optio digital cameras.
With PhotoShow, people simply plug their cameras or insert media cards into their computers - PhotoShow automatically opens and imports the photos and can automatically create a multimedia album containing digital photos and video clips, titles, music and other fun features in as little as five mouse clicks. Users can then select from more than 300 songs that come with PhotoShow Deluxe, import their own .mp3’s, change transitions, drop in clip art, add captions and titles, and more.
PCMagazine have published the first online review of the Casio EX-S500, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen.
“With its super-slim body, light weight, versatility, and excellent picture quality, the 5-megapixel Casio Exilim EX-S500 is a camera you can carry everywhere. What’s more, the hot colors and “electrical coating” ensure you’ll take it out of your pocket as often as possible to show it off (and maybe shoot some photos, too). It doesn’t dethrone our Editors’ Choice, the 4-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital Elph, but it certainly comes close.”
Website: PCMagazine - Casio EX-S500 Review
Casio Exilim EX-S500 is announced today. The Casio EX-S500 is a 5 megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom and a 2.2 inch LCD screen. The thin and compact Casio EX-S500 also offers an anti-shake system, 33 different ‘BESTSHOT’ scenes and can record up to an hour’s worth of movies. The Casio Exilim EX-S500 will cost £299 and is available in July in silver or white.
Casio UK Press Release
Tell your story with the Casiology inspired EX-S500
The slim and stylish new CASIO EXILIM CARD EX-S500 with 5 megapixels and high quality movie function
London, 9th June 2005 - Those clever CASIOLOGISTS have once again been working hard to bring the world what is perhaps the coolest, most stylish digital camera ever released. The CASIO EXILIM CARD EX-S500 is so small and stylish that it will quickly become a part of your life you just can’t live without.
Pentax OptioS5z is introduced today by Pentax UK. The Optio S5z (pictured) has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor. The Optio S5z features Pentax’s Sliding Lens system to help make it extremely compact and light. The PENTAX Optio S5z will be available in the UK in July for £249.99.
Pentax UK Press Release
An Evolving Classic – Introducing the Pentax OptioS5z
The latest addition to the award winning OptioS family, the OptioS5z boasts the style and function of its predecessors, but with an enlarged 2.5-inch LCD screen
Pentax is delighted to introduce the new OptioS5z — a stylish, compact and lightweight digital camera combining an easy-to-view 2.5-inch LCD monitor with 3X optical zoom and the power of 5.0 effective megapixels. Developed in line with the qualities benchmarked by its predecessors, the OptioS5z combines style, function and ease of use, all contained within an ultra-compact and portable frame.
Pentax OptioS45 and Pentax OptioS55 are introduced today by Pentax UK. The Optio S55 is a 5 megapixel camera with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The Optio S55 features a Help mode that displays function explanations. The Optio S45 has 4 megapixels, a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The Optio S55 will cost £229.99 in the UK and be available in June. The Optio S55 will cost £169.99 in the UK and be available in June/July.
Pentax UK Press Release
Digital photography just got even easier
Pentax introduces two entry-level compact digital cameras
Pentax is delighted to announce the launch of two entry-level digital compact cameras, the OptioS45 and the OptioS55. Both feature a large, easy-to-view LCD monitor, making composition simple. Each offers all-round functionality that will appeal to any user, regardless of their experience or budget. The cameras also feature 3x optical zoom and 12 picture modes to ensure all picture environments can be supported.
Pentax Optio S5z, Pentax Optio S55 and Pentax Optio S45 are announced today by Pentax USA.
The Optio S5z (pictured) has a 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor. The Optio S5z features Pentax’s Sliding Lens system to help make it extremely compact and light. The PENTAX Optio S5z will be available for under $350 US.
The Optio S55 is also a 5 megapixel camera with a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The Optio S55 features a Help mode that displays function explanations and will be available for under $300 US.
The Optio S45 has 4 megapixels, a 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The Optio S45 will be available for under $230 US. PhotoShow Express software ships with all 3 models.
Pentax USA Press Release
Golden, Colorado (May 10, 2005)…PENTAX Imaging Company has announced three new digital camera additions to its popular Optio digital camera lines. The PENTAX Optio S5z, the Optio S55 and the Optio S45 as well as the manufacturer’s sixth DA lens will ship to dealers in June 2005.
Globetechnology have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S50 compact digital camera. Thanks to Sanj for letting me know.
“As 5MP cameras go, this one is really nothing to write home about. I was amazed at how often, particularly indoors, I ended up with slightly blurry shots. This isn’t helped by the lack of an Auto-Focus assist light. There was no problem recognizing who the subjects were but the details expected from a 5MP, or even a 3MP for that matter, just weren’t there.”
Website: Globetechnology - Pentax Optio S50 Review
The Fujifilm FinePix S5500 Zoom is the successor to the 3 megapixel Fujifilm FinePix S5000 Zoom that I reviewed back in June 2004. The Fujifilm S5500 looks very much like a traditional SLR camera in terms of styling and has a massive 10x optical zoom which is equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera. The Fujifilm S5500 has a number of improvements when compared to its predecessor, including a 4 megapixel sensor, histogram playback, custom white balance control, 100% frame coverage and higher quality video mode. Have Fujifilm added enough improvements to the S5500 Zoom so that it can still remain competitive today? Find out in my review.
Website: Fujifilm Finepix S5500 Review
DIWA member and Czech website FotoAparat.cz have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
Website: FotoAparat.cz - FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom Review
TrustedReviews have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
“When it comes to the design, you’ll either love it or hate it. The S5500 looks a lot bigger in publicity photos than it does in real life. When you get it out of the box, the first impression is just how tiny the thing is. It looks like a camera version of those Micro Machine toy cars that were popular a few years ago, as though full-size features like the handgrip and lens had somehow been grafted onto a half-scale model of an SLR. However once you get over the initial fit of giggles and actually pick the thing up you’ll discover that it feels a lot bigger than it looks.”
Website: TrustedReviews - FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom Review
Sanyo Xacti VPC-S5 is announced. The Sanyo VPC-S5 has 5.1 megapixels, 1.8 inch LCD screen and a 2.8 optical zoom lens from Olympus. The originally recorded 5.1 megapixels can be converted to the equivalent of 10 megapixels on the Sanyo Xacti VPC-S5. USB-connectivity to a PictBridge-compatible printer and a variety of automatic modes are also offered by the VPC-S5. Price and availability to be announced.
Website: Sanyo Xacti VPC-S5
Samsung Press Release
HANNOVER, Germany—(BUSINESS WIRE)—March 11, 2005—Samsung Electronics today held its European unveiling of a breathtaking array of new information, display, and telecommunications products at CeBIT 2005. The world’s largest PDP, LCD and DLP TVs are just the astounding range of technologies on display, highlighting Samsung’s 2005 portfolio of design-led, innovative products.
Samsung will be showcasing 30 innovative products and live demonstrations of DVB-H, S-DMB and T-DMB. Of the 30 phones that are being displayed, 20 new products, including the SGH-Z700 3 megapixel 3G phone, will be unveiled exclusively during CeBIT. After introducing three new 3G phones at 3 GSM World Congress in Cannes this past February, Samsung will expand its 3G portfolio with the introductions of three new 3G phones at CeBIT.
CNET have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S50 compact digital camera.
“Yet another entry into the increasingly crowded field of 5-megapixel snapshot cameras, the Pentax Optio S50 boasts more features than such form-over-function offerings as the Canon SD20 but lags slightly behind Pentax’s own S5i for versatility. Overall, the Optio S50 is a decent entry-level digital camera whose affordable price and strong image quality fail to offset some serious performance issues.”
Website: CNET - Pentax Optio S50 Review
DigiCamReview have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS range, the 5.0 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America), which was announced at the start of February 2004.
“he design is good, I especially like the zoom control. The camera is very small, and very pocketable; the camera is quite stylish as well. The 1.5” screen updates smoothly and has accurate colour making it easier to view and compose your pictures. The camera is easy to use, the menu system is fairly easy to use and there are is a good layout of buttons and controls. There is a good choice of features and options, such as 9-area focus, manual white balance, high-speed continous shooting with faslh - although there are no scene mode, and no live histogram. The camera speed is good, with a okay switch on time, okay focusing time, and okay shutter response - the speed can be increased by activating the quick shot mode.”
Website: DigiCamReview - Canon Digital Ixus 500 Review
Slovenian website Slo-Foto.net have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i. With 5.0 effective megapixels and a 3X optical zoom lens, the Optio S5i features a stylish design in an ultra-compact, lightweight digital camera.
Website: Slo-Foto.net - Pentax Optio S5i Review
Pentax OptioS5n unveiled by Pentax UK. The OptioS5n is a stylish and compact 5 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical zoom lens and 2 inch LCD screen. The Optio S5n will cost £249.99 and be available in March.
Pentax Press Release
The PENTAX OptioS5n — a Stylish Digital Camera Combining a 2.0-inch LCD monitor, Ultra-compact Dimensions, High Performance and Exceptional Ease of Use
PENTAX introduces the new OptioS5n — a stylish and compact digital camera with ultra-compact, lightweight appeal. What’s more, it also offers the power of 5.0 effective megapixels and a 3X optical zoom lens incorporating PENTAX’s unique Sliding Lens System. Developed in line with the OptioS series concept of being “stylish and ultra-compact to enable it to be worn like an accessory”, there’s so much more to the OptioS5n than its stylish, elegant appearance. Indeed with an easy-to-see 2.0-inch large LCD monitor, a useful Mode Palette function that simplifies shooting and playback and the advantage of MPEG-4 file format for high-quality, extended duration movies, the OptioS5n is every bit as versatile as it is attractive.
PCMagazine have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S5100 is almost identical to last year’s FinePix S5000, the main difference being that Fuji’s proprietary 3.1-megapixel SuperCCD HR image sensor has been replaced with a conventional 4MP CCD. The result is a very fast shooter that takes very good pictures. If it had built-in antishake technology, it would be a serious contender for Editors’ Choice among superzooms. As it is, if money’s tight, this is a very good choice in the category.”
Website: PCMagazine - FujiFilm FinePix S5100 Review
PCMagazine have just reviewed the new 4 megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 digital camera.
“With its big f/2.8 to f/4.5, 5.83-mm to 69.9-mm (35-mm to 420-mm, 35-mm equivalent) 12X optical zoom lens, antishake technology, futuristic looks, and nice handling characteristics, the 4-megapixel Konica Minolta DiMage Z3 provides good bang for the buck. Speed and image quality, however, don’t quite equal those of the top performers. If money is a factor, we’d recommend the FujiFilm FinePix S5100; if you can pay a little more, consider one of our Editors’ Choices in this class, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ15.”
Website: PCMagazine - Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 Review
Sanyo Xacti DSC-S5 has been introduced today by Sanyo Japan. The Xacti DSC-S5 is a 5 megapixel digicam with the same 1/2.5” sensor size as the previous DSC-S4 and DSC-S3 models that were announced in 2004. Launched on February 15th in Japan, the DSC-S5 will cost ¥35,000 (around $330).
Website: Sanyo Japan - Sanyo Xacti DSC-S5
Spanish website Quesabesde have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i. With 5.0 effective megapixels and a 3X optical zoom lens, the Optio S5i features a stylish design in an ultra-compact, lightweight digital camera
Website: Quesabesde - Pentax Optio S5i Review
Spanish website Quesabesde have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
Website: Quesabesde - FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom Review
The DIWA member and Slovenian website e-fotografija have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
Website: e-fotografija - FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom Review
DPReview have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
“When we reviewed the S5500/5100’s predecessor a year ago, Phil commented ‘Throughout my time with the S5000 I was left wondering what would have been like had Fujifilm used a standard four or five megapixel CCD’. Well now we know; a lot better. All the positive attributes of the S5000, from the good design and handling to the impressive zoom range and wealth of photographic controls are now married to a sensor capable of doing them justice. And the result is a camera that offers an compelling option for those wanting a big-zoom camera on a tight budget.”
Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. Press Release
Fujifilm Drives Consumer Capture, Store, Print and Share Solutions; Under the Banner of `Fujifilm Means Digital,’ Fujifilm Showcases a Spectrum of Consumer Digital Technologies at CES 2005
VALHALLA, N.Y.—(Business Wire)—Jan. 3, 2005 Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging and information solutions, is showcasing its full spectrum of consumer digital technologies at the 2005 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) (booth #12606) - reinforcing its ongoing commitment to bringing digital technology solutions that help consumers quickly and easily capture, store, print and share pictures and data.
From digital cameras with advanced image sensor technology, to new environmentally friendly optical disc storage media, to photo printing solutions that offer consumers the flexibility of printing at home, from home or at retail, Fujifilm’s digital technology solutions let consumers conveniently capture, store, print and share.
The Spanish website Quesabesde have published their review of the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S50 compact digital camera.
Website: Quesabesde - Pentax Optio S50 Review
The Hungarian website Index Digicam have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
CNET have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S5100 replaces the S5000, which we praised for its features and form factor but criticized for subpar image quality and shortcomings in its design. The new model offers the same 10X zoom lens and a handful of feature and performance improvements, although some design drawbacks remain. The biggest change is the sensor; the previous model’s 3-megapixel SuperCCD HR has been replaced with a conventional 4-megapixel CCD, and image quality is much improved. “
Website: CNET - FujiFilm FinePix S5100 Review
DPReview have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i.
“In an ever-growing sub-compact market the Optio S5i has much to recommend it; it’s probably the lightest - and one of the smallest - in its class, has fast focus, no discernible shutter lag, lots of useful features and is a real joy to use. It’s also very well priced for a 5MP compact. On the downside the image quality is good, but not great, the low light focus is a little hit and miss (though better than you’d expect given the lack of an illuminator) and the LCD can be difficult to see in dim conditions. That all said, my only serious problem with the Option S5i was the poor shot-to-shot performance and unimpressive burst mode.”
Website: DPReview - Pentax Optio S5i Review
The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i.
Imaging Resource have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i.
“Overall, the Optio S5i is amazingly full-featured for a subcompact model, delivering good (although slightly understated) color and tone in an incredibly tiny package. If you’re looking for an ultra-compact camera with a full feature set, the Optio S5i is hard to beat. The camera’s 5.0-megapixel CCD produces very high resolution images, and the camera offers a wide range of preset shooting modes and exposure control options to suit a range of user levels. Excellent for travel and as a “take anywhere” camera, the Pentax Optio S5i arguably packs more photographic capability per cubic inch than anything else on the market.”
DigitalCameraInfo have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.
“Loyal Fujifilm consumers would probably find this camera to be simple to use. However, I test and review cameras of all brands, and when compared to other digital cameras, the FinePix S5100 rates low for ease of use. Setup is difficult to learn and tedious to execute. I will admit that, once I had read the manual and knew where to put my fingers, the camera was much easier to use, but still not as easy as a point-and-shoot should be. Shooting in automatic mode was by far the easiest and most simplified means available on the camera. Changing manual settings such as the aperture or exposure became frustrating when I had to hold buttons down while scrolling with the four-way controller. Some buttons are smaller than they should be, and some buttons seem illogically placed.”
Fotodiip have just reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i.
“In my humble opinion advantage of 5 MP-s over 4 is not sufficient enough to tolerate slow write times. I don’t need 4 frames per second shooting speeds but I do want decent frame to frame speed. When I have to lower resolution and/or quality setting then is there really a point in putting more into the camera in the first place? Maybe I’m barking up the wrong tree and I should get a different camera because it’s not possible to get this size/speed combination at this point of time at all…”
Website: Fotodiip - Pentax Optio S5i 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 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.”
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 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
DCResource have just reviewed the new slimline 5 megapixel Casio EXILIM Card EX-Z55 digital camera.
“Overall, the Casio Exilim EX-Z55 is a good “go-anywhere” point-and-shoot camera that holds up well against the likes of the Canon PowerShot SD300, Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX7, and the Sony DSC-T1. While I haven’t tested it yet, the Pentax Optio S5i shares the lens and many of the internals of the Z55. The camera does its best work outdoors, where it takes very nice photos, save for some blurriness around the edges of the frame. Indoors you’ll be frustrated with an LCD that only “gains up” in a few of the scene modes (most of which aren’t appropriate for indoor flash shots), poor low light focusing, redeye, and a fairly weak flash. But for a compact camera for vacation photos the Z55 fits the bill.”
DCResource have just reviewed the 3 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPH (also known as the IXUS 30).
“Overall the PowerShot SD200 is a very ultra-compact point-and-shoot camera. Photo quality is very good, though the occasional dark or blurry corner and purple fringing are a step down from the old S410/S500. Still, this camera will do a great job for its target audience: namely, web photos and smaller-sized prints. The SD200 features a stylish, ultra-thin metal body that will go anywhere. It’s well-built for the most part, save for the incredibly cheap plastic door over the memory card / battery compartment on the bottom of the camera.”
Website: DCResource - Canon PowerShot SD200 Digital ELPH Review
The Czech website Digineff have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
Steves Digicams have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S50 compact digital camera.
“The ergonomics of the S50 are surprisingly good considering its diminutive size; the buttons are well placed and functional, and menu screens are legible and logically organized. The menu system has a nice feature for those who have difficulty reading its small font size, the ability to enlarge the font by touching the telephoto zoom control. The only issue I had with the camera’s controls was a very sensitive shutter button. When shooting outdoors the LCD, with its brightness adjustment, is quite usable even in bright sunlight. Whether you’re shooting in low-ambient light or capturing night scenes, the LCD “gains up” or amplifies the live image, helping you compose the shot.”
The Norwegian website Akamera.no have published their review of the FujiFilm FinePix S5500 Zoom digital camera (also known as the S5100 in the USA), which has a 10x optical zoom and 4 megapixel resolution and is the successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom.
Canon USA Press Release 01/11/04
COMPLETE THE PLAY FOR GREAT IMAGES WITH CANON’S CONNECT AND SCORE REBATE PROMOTION
Consumers Can Score A Visa Gift Card Worth Up To $100 In Value When They Purchase Select Canon Digital Cameras or Camcorders with the Select Photo Printer
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Nov. 1, 2004 - At the Super Bowl or high school playoffs, catching the photo of the game winning touchdown is a moment that deserves a fine print to share with friends and family. This football season consumers can connect their favorite Canon digital cameras or MiniDV camcorders to Canon’s popular photo printers, and score great photographs while qualifying for valuable rebates up to $100.
Canon, an official sponsor of the NFL is the only manufacturer that can supply a complete digital imaging solution that includes digital SLR, digital compact cameras, camcorders and photo printers. Canon is supporting this consumer promotion with an NFL themed advertising campaign that features five-second spots added to Canon’s existing television advertising as well as one-quarter page ads featuring the Connect and Score promotion.
The Hungarian website Index Digicam have published what I think is the first review on the web of the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S50 compact digital camera.
Pentax have released a new version of firmware for the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i. Version 1.00 has the following changes:
Corrected the day/month reversed display error in English mode.
*The version number for this new firmware remain the same as 1.00
DCResource have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.
“Overall the image quality on the S5100 was good and quite an improvement over the S5000. Images are still a little noisier than I’d like to see, but the noise will disappear if you downsize or print the images at a reasonable size. Color and exposure were both good, and images were fairly sharp. Fuji has done a good job minimizing purple fringing on this ultra zoom camera.”
Steves Digicams have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i.
“Ergonomics were average. It seems Pentax has not heard our cries about the Power button on past “S” series models. With the camera being so small, I found myself turning it Off when trying to snap a picture. This was very aggravating. Another issue was the left and right “Custom Function” buttons. Though they can be very useful, there needs to be an off setting when you are not planing on using them. I found myself accidently changing exposure compensation countless times.”
CNET have reviewed the 5 megapixel Pentax Optio S5i.
“Although definitely targeting snapshooters who are looking for an ultracompact and stylish camera, the Optio S5i also offers enough features to please those who will want to tweak their photos as their skills grow. Pentax couples an array of fun features with the image quality you’d expect from a 5-megapixel shooter.”
Website: CNET - Pentax Optio S5i Review
Digital Camera Magazine have published their review of the Canon PowerShot S60, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a wide-angle 28mm-100mm lens and a new thin body.
“The S50’s sleek, metal construction was one of its most endearing features. From the lighter-feeling sliding lens cover, through the grained plastic body panels, to the cheap-feeling controls, this new model is much more plasticky. It’s not bad in absolute terms - many others are the same - but it feels like a step back from previous Canon build standards.”
Website: Digital Camera Magazine - Canon PowerShot S60 Review
Steves Digicams have just reviewed the 4 megapixel FujiFilm FinePix S5100 digital compact camera.
“The FinePix S5100 is Fuji’s 2004 upgrade the the S5000 we tested in 2003. It shares the same fairly compact body and versatile 10x Fujinon optical zoom lens, but the imager has been upgraded to 4-megapixels and its shooting performance improved. Absent, however, is the S5000’s Super CCD HR imager, and the interpolation it used to double its native resolution; the S5100’s 4-megapixel resolution is the native mode of its imager. With a range of exposure modes from automatic to manual, and many steps between, this camera can be changed from a simple point-n-shoot your children will enjoy to a photographic tool that will satisfy the creative urges of the enthusiast.”
Extensis Inc. Press Release 27/09/04
Free filter powered by Bibble Labs enables professional photographers to read Raw data from image files of leading digital SLR cameras.
Photokina, Cologne, Germany - September 27, 2004 - Extensis Inc. today announced an update to its Pro Photo Raw Image Filter for Portfolio 7. The updated filter will be a free upgrade for registered owners of Extensis’ digital asset management (DAM) solution for organizing digital photos, illustrations, page layouts and presentations.
With the Pro Photo Raw Image Filter, Portfolio generates high-quality thumbnails and previews from the unprocessed raw image files created by professional digital cameras from Nikon, Olympus, Kodak, Canon, Fuji, Konica-Minolta, Pentax and Imacon. With the Pro Photo Raw Image Filter, Portfolio 7 can extract EXIF metadata and IPTC from the Raw files, create thumbnails for displaying the images in catalogs, and generate high-resolution JPEG previews on the fly for detailed viewing, printing, slideshows and QuickTime movies.
“There have been rapid developments in the digital camera industry since we released our first Raw camera support for Portfolio last year,” said Dan Harlacher, Extensis Portfolio product manager. “With this update, professional photographers now have the Raw camera support they demand for keeping pace with the new camera developments without losing the ability to preview, keyword, organize and sort thousands of images within Portfolio without getting bogged down in a lengthy conversion process.”
Breeze Systems Press Release 20/09/04
BreezeBrowser v2.10 adds raw conversion for Canon EOS-1D Mark II, PowerShot Pro1 and S60 for US $49.95
20 September 2004: Breeze Systems today announced BreezeBrowser v2.10, latest release of its raw conversion, browsing and web page generation software. This release allows Canon EOS-1D Mark II, PowerShot Pro1 and S60 owners to use BreezeBrowser for raw conversion.
The ability to view, rename and copy Raw+JPEG images is also extended to Canon EOS 1D Mark II, Canon EOS 20D, Nikon D70 and Nikon D2H users in this release.
BreezeBrowser v2.10 supports high quality conversion of raw files from the following Canon EOS cameras: 1D Mark II, 1Ds, 1D, 10D, 300D/Digital Rebel, D60 and D30 and the following Canon Powershot cameras: G5, G3, G2, G1, Pro1, Pro90IS, S60, S50, S45, S40 and S30.
BreezeBrowser is Windows based software developed and sold by Breeze Systems Ltd. Other products include Downloader Pro, DSLR Remote Pro and PSRemote. Breeze Systems’ customers include Getty Images, Reuters and many world class photographers. BreezeBrowser is available from www.breezesys.com for US $49.94 or US $64.90 bundled with Downloader Pro v1.4. The price includes one year’s free upgrades from the date of purchase.
Breeze Systems Limited is based in Hampshire, UK and has been providing innovative IT solutions since 1994. Many thousands of customers worldwide rely on BreezeBrowser.
First announced back in February (and now already superceded by the Optio S50) the Spanish website quesabesde.com have posted their review of the Pentax Optio S40, a 4 megapixel, 3X zoom digital camera sporting a sleek aluminum design.
Pentax USA Press Release 24/08/04
BIG STYLE IN A SMALL DIGITAL CAMERA
GOLDEN, Colorado (August 24, 2004)...PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the new Optio S5i. With 5.0 effective megapixels and a 3X optical zoom lens, the Optio S5i features a stylish design in an ultra-compact, lightweight digital camera. Following in the footsteps of the popular Optio S, the stylish Optio S5i features the highest megapixel count in this ultra-compact series.
The Optio S5i is a perfect digital camera for action photographers. The Optio S5i features a new Sport mode that sets the camera for shutter speed-priority to enable spur of the moment shooting while Pan focusing mode ensures optimal focusing from close range to infinity. Both modes help offer optimal results for capturing fleeting action shots. For additional user confidence, the Optio S5i battery charger stand is capable of simultaneously charging one rechargeable Lithium-ion battery housed inside the camera as well as a spare battery. The Optio S5i is equipped with 10MB of internal memory and is compatible with SD memory cards.
PENTAX will unveil the Optio S5i and other new and exciting digital products on September 20 at the PEPCOM Holiday Spectacular in New York City.
Canon UK Press Release 19/08/04
New look PowerShot packs 7.1 Megapixels
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, today announces the 7.1 Megapixel digital still compact PowerShot S70. Incorporating the same rich feature set as the 5.0 Megapixel PowerShot S60, the new S70 is distinguished by a stylish two-tone dark metallic and black body. New UA lens materials allow for a reduction in lens size, enabling an elegantly sleek body shape despite the lens’ impressive 28-100mm focal length and 4cm macro specification.
The extensive list of high-end and semi-professional features include simultaneous RAW and JPEG file recording, 15 sec to 1/2000 sec shutter speeds, AF and AE lock, manual focusing and an intervalometer for automatic time-lapse photography. Optional accessories include a wireless controller, 2x tele-converter and a 40m depth waterproof case. Also included is a pre-set white balance mode for underwater photography, Print/Share button and the latest PowerShot S-series user-interface for fast, simple and intuitive navigation.
Pentax USA Press Release 16/08/04
HIGH QUALITY DIGITAL EASIER THAN EVER IN OPTIO S50
NEW PENTAX OPTIO S50 OFFERS HIGH QUALITY DIGITAL WITH FIVE MEGAPIXELS
GOLDEN, Colorado (August 16, 2004)...PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the new PENTAX ptio S50 digital camera with a 5.0 effective megapixel CCD and a 3X optical zoom lens. A successor to the popular Optio S40, the PENTAX Optio S50 offers an easy-to-use help function menu to help guide digital newcomers through the camera?s array of digital features.
With the superior imaging capability of 5.0 effective megapixels and a generous 1.8 inch LCD monitor, the Optio S50 is equipped with a handy mode dial that allows users to select one of nine modes with a simple turn. Two AA batteries power the Optio S50 making it a perfect travel choice. Other easy-to-use features include 13 shooting modes to match any scene at hand and a menu display enlargement function. The Optio S50 also is PictBridge compatible to allow direct printing to compatible printers.
While positioned as a perfect choice for new digital users, the Optio S50 offers uncompromised image quality. The camera incorporates an smc PENTAX lens that delivers crystal clear images, a high-resolution CCD with 5.36 total megapixels, and a 12-bit A/D converter that achieves smooth reproduction for gradations.
The Slovenian website eFotoGrafija have published a joint review of the 5 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America) and the 4 megapixel Digital Ixus 430 (known as the Powershot S430 in North America) , which were both announced at the start of February.
Fujifilm UK Press Release 28/07/04
Fujifilm’s FinePix S5500 Zoom: get ready for a closer examination
Introducing the FinePix S5500 Zoom with 10x optical zoom and four megapixel resolution; successor to the popular FinePix S5000 Zoom
Fujifilm today announces the FinePix S5500 Zoom, a digital camera that combines impressive focal strength with increased sensor resolution.
Building on the success of the best-selling FinePix S5000 Zoom, the S5500 Zoom maintains the SLR-inspired design and incredible 10x optical zoom Fujinon lens of its predecessor, the equivalent of 37-370 mm on a 35 mm camera. It also adds an extra megapixel of effective resolution, perfect for extracting additional detail from distant shots.
Whilst retaining the ergonomic design and layout of the FinePix S5000 Zoom, the S5500 Zoom also adds full VGA 30fps movie recording, custom white balance control, histogram playback and 100% frame coverage in the LCD and electronic viewfinder.
Photographers will find this an ideal camera to have at hand at any sporting event thanks to 10x optical zoom and continuous shooting mode. For example, any football fan wanting to capture some fast-moving action from the stands can simply switch modes to ensure they get their shot. This versatile camera is also perfect for travellers ? for example, those going on safari, where they are unable to (or may not wish to!) get too close to the subject.
Bytesector have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.
“The ELPH series of cameras are all fairly small units that fit easily in any pocket when turned off. The power button is well recessed, so it is very unlikely that it will accidentally turn itself on. The matte silver finish looks good, but can be scratched if the camera is not taken care of. A case is highly recommended. The camera is easy to hold, and like all cameras, is made for right handed people. There are well placed grips for your hands, and controls are easy to reach, and manipulate.”
CNET have reviewed the Kyocera FineCam S5R, which is basically the same as the older S5 model but with added high-speed, full-memory consecutive shooting at approximately 3 frames per second.
“Unfortunately, the S5R’s photos look subpar. Its white balance is generally acceptable, though in auto mode, it couldn’t handle our indoor lighting test. Exposure and dynamic range were also pretty good. But excessive postprocessing artifacts make the photos look noisy and fuzzy. All in all, camera shoppers could probably do better for the money. “
Website: CNET - Kyocera Finecam S5R Review
DCResource have published their review of the new 5 megapixel Nikon Coolpix 5200 compact digital camera.
“While not the best camera in its class, the Coolpix 5200 is a good point-and-shoot camera for those who need a lot of resolution. Its biggest weaknesses are the soft and somewhat noisy images as well as the lack of manual controls (then again, my favorite cameras, the Canon S500 and Sony W1 don’t really have them either). The image softness is really only an issue for large prints or on-screen viewing, though.”
digitalreview.ca has published a comparitive review of the 5 megapixel Canon Powershot S500 and Nikon Coolpix 5200 digital compact cameras.
“With respect to comparing the sharpness from the Coolpix 5200 with the Canon S500, we have noticed a few discussions where some users feel that the Canon S500 renders sharper image quality straight out of the box. Although this might seem to be the case, especially if only viewing the images on a monitor, the reason is mainly due to the difference in the amount of in-camera processing that is applied by each camera.”
Website: digitalreview.ca - Canon Powershot S500 versus Nikon Coolpix 5200
Imaging Resource have published their review of the Canon PowerShot S60, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a wide-angle 28mm-100mm lens and a new thin body.
“Last year’s PowerShot S45 and S50 impressed me as well-built cameras with excellent image quality and rich feature sets. This year’s S60 model constitutes a significant upgrade to the S50, with a wider-angle zoom lens and improved control layout. As always though, image quality is the real test, and fortunately the S60 does very well in that department as well. Image noise on the S60 seems slightly higher across the board than on the S50, but it’s kept pretty well in check for ISOs of 200 and below, to the point that most users won’t notice it.”
HardwareZone have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS range, the 5.0 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America), which was announced at the start of February.
“In terms of image quality, barrel distortion was visible at wideangle, though it lessened considerably as we zoomed to telephoto. Slight pincushion was observed at the telephoto end too. Vignetting was also visible at wideangle (36mm and f2.8). However, there is not much to fault in its white balance performance. Other than the expected orange cast under tungsten lighting when we used the automatic white balance setting, the rest were pretty much spot-on. A white or gray card can also be used for a custom white balance setting. Its macro performance was great too, offering very decent area coverage. Skintones were rendered beautifully; even when flash is used at close distances, though the colors may be a tad rich or saturated at times.”
The Fuji FinePix S5000 Zoom looks very much like a traditional SLR camera in terms of styling, but it is actually more like a compact camera in size and weight. Despite its diminutive dimensions, the Fuji FinePix S5000 Zoom has a massive 10x optical zoom which is equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera. It also features Fuji’s new 4th Generation Super CCD HR sensor and can record images in RAW mode as well as the JPEG file format. And all of this is available for just over ?200! So is the FinePix S5000 Zoom a bit of a bargain? Find out in my review.
Website: Fuji FinePix S5000 Review
DCMAG.co.uk have just published their review of the 3 megapixel Kyocera FineCam S3R.
“The S5R was amongst the first of Kyocera’s range of compacts to feature the powerful RTUNE chip. This technology is now finding its way into more mainstream and accordingly affordable cameras. With the RTune processor at its heart, the Finecam S3R has an excellent turn of speed and a minimal three second start up time. With the appropriate memory ? 16Mb is included in the bundle ? the S3R can capture three shots a second continuously. Should you wish to take video clips rather than a succession of stills, the S3R can record 640x480 AVI files at thirty frames per second, again only limited by the confines of the storage.”
Imaging Resource have posted their review of the new 5 megapixel Sony DSC-W1 digital compact camera.
“Functionally, the Sony DSC-W1 is nearly a dead ringer for the slightly more compact DSC-P100, offering nearly the same functions in a differently-shaped and slightly larger body, with a larger 2.5 inch LCD. It competes with models like Canon’s PowerShot S500 in the “subcompact” digicam category, and should be a strong player there, with its excellent mix of features, functions, small size, and image quality.”
The Spanish website quesabesde.com have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America), which was announced at the start of February.
The Norwegian website DigIT have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America), which was announced at the start of February.
Imaging Resource have published a preview of the Canon PowerShot S60, a 5 megapixel digital camera with a wide-angle 28mm-100mm lens and a new thin body.
“Last year’s PowerShot S45 and S50 impressed me as well-built cameras with excellent image quality and rich feature sets. This year’s S60 model constitutes a significant upgrade to the S50, with a wider-angle zoom lens and improved control layout. Image quality will be the real issue though, given the new lens technology that Canon is using in the S60. With so many variables involved (a whole new lens design with thinner elements, high-index optical glass, and a new aspheric lens-molding technology), the result could be a camera with better, worse, or similar image quality to the earlier units. What I saw in the prototype unit was encouraging, but I’m refraining from making any final evaluation until I can put a production model through the wringer.”
Imaging Resource have reviewed the 4.0 megapixel Canon Powershot S410 (known as the Digital IXUS 430 outside North America).
“Image Noise: Noticeable even at ISO 50, but probably not objectionable for most users until ISO 400. With higher CCD resolutions, the pixels are getting smaller, and so image noise is becoming more apparent than in earlier generations of cameras. The S410 exemplifies this trend, in that there is slight but visible image noise, even in its ISO 50 images. For most users though, the results at ISO 50 and 100 will likely be OK, 200 marginal, and only ISO 400 really objectionable. Also, as you’d expect due to its slightly larger pixels, the S410 shows slightly less noise than its higher-resolution sibling, the S500.”
Imaging Resource have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.
“The quality and versatility of the ELPH series has impressed me from the start, and the 5.0-megapixel S500 doesn’t disappoint. The camera’s tiny size makes it a travel worthy companion, and the range of features give the camera an edge over many point-and-shoot style digicams in the marketplace.”
DCResource have posted their review of the new 5 megapixel Sony DSC-W1 digital compact camera.
“While not as small as its main competitor (the Canon PowerShot S500), the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W1 is a very impressive compact digital camera. It packs a 5 Megapixel CCD, 3X optical zoom lens, and large 2.5” LCD into a stylish, all-metal body.”
Website: DCResource - Sony DSC-W1 Review
The first ever PhotographyBLOG Portfolio has been submitted by roadbuilder49.
“The theme of my submission is winter. The images are all taken along the Idaho side of Hells Canyon with digital cameras while snowmobiling.
I am a Civil Engineer and have been into digital photography for about 3 years. My current cameras are a Canon S50 and a Nikon 4500.”
Website: Portfolios: roadbuilder49
The Hungarian website Index Digicam have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Digital Ixus 500 (known as the Powershot S500 in North America), which was announced at the start of February.
CNET have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.
“With the PowerShot S500, Canon brings its time-tested Digital Elph to the ranks of 5-megapixel, 3X-zoom digital cameras. This latest model has its older siblings’ sleek, pocket-size chassis and snapshooter ease of use, both of which we still like very much, but the previous Digital Elphs offered slightly better photo quality, and the competition has pulled ahead in terms of features and performance. As a result, the PowerShot S500 ends up being a decent but not outstanding snapshot camera.”
Website: CNET - Canon Powershot S500 Review
Photoxels have just reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.
“The Canon PowerShot S500 Digital Elph is an ultra compact digital camera that gives consistently excellent quality images. It continues Canon’s successful line of Digital Elphs with a stylish, well-designed and solidly constructed take anywhere camera.
If you are a looking for a strictly point-and-shoot ultra compact digital camera with excellent image quality, then you should look seriously at the Canon PowerShot S500 Digital Elph.”
Steves Digicams have also reviewed the new flagship model of the Canon Digital IXUS fleet, the 5.0 megapixel Powershot S500 (known as the Digital IXUS 500 outside North America), which was announced at the start of February.
“The camera’s auto focus system is as robust as its image processing and is enhanced by a focus assist lamp that insures proper focus lock even in total darkness. The auto focus employs a very accurate 9-point AF system that does its job quickly, even when the subject is not in the center of the frame. If the LCD is on you’ll see which of the nine AF points were used for the focus lock. The Macro mode has excellent coverage from six inches to about two and a half feet and controls the flash perfectly even at the closest range.”
“Breeze Systems Press Release”
Breeze Systems’ PSRemote Supports the new Canon PowerShot Pro1, A75, S500, S410 and SD110 Cameras
5th March, 2004: Breeze Systems today announced Breeze PSRemote Version 1.2 software supports Canon?s new PowerShot Pro1 camera, as well as the PowerShot A75, S500, S410 and SD110 announced by Canon at PMA in February.
Chris Breeze explained, “PSRemote has been designed to learn the settings of PowerShot cameras when the camera is first connected. This usually enables the program to support new PowerShot models without modification.”
In an attenpt to catch up with all of the latest reviews that have been posted on various websites during the last week, here in no particular order is a handy list…
Steves Digicams
Olympus D-565 Zoom
Gateway DC-T50
Popular Photography Magazine
Nikon D2H
HP Photosmart 7960 Printer
Photoxels
Kodak Easyshare DX6490
Photoworld.de (German)
Canon PowerShot A80
Photographic Magazine
Minolta DiMAGE A1
Pentax *ist D
Index Digicam (Hungarian)
Panasonic SV-AS10
Nikon Coolpix 3700
ePhotoZine
Apacer Disc Steno CP-200
e-Fotografija (Slovenian)
Olympus Camedia C-8080 Wide Zoom
Canon PowerShot s1
Fujifilm S7000
DPReview
Canon EOS 300D
Digital Photography Now
Olympus Camedia C-8080 Wide Zoom
Digital Outback Photo
Nikon Coolpix 8700
Digital Camera Resource
Canon PowerShot S410 / S500 Digital ELPH
Adobe Press Release 12/02/04
SAN JOSE, Calif.—(Business Wire)—Feb. 12, 2004 Updated Camera Raw Plug-in Adds Support for Broad Range of New Digital Cameras from Fujifilm, Kodak, Leaf, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony
Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced a new Camera Raw plug-in for Photoshop(R) CS, extending raw file support to 14 additional digital camera models. Available as a free download from Adobe’s Web site, the plug-in builds on the raw file functionality integrated in Photoshop CS, adding new support for digital cameras from leading manufacturers such as, Fujifilm, Kodak, Leaf, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax and Sony.
The Norwgian digital camera website Digit.no has posted its review of the Fuji Finepix S5000. This mid-range digital camera looks like a traditional SLR (but isn’t) and has a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
Website: Digit.no - Fuji FinePix S5000 Review
Canon Focuses on Imaging Innovation, Long-Term Leadership and a Future That Anticipates, Meets, and Exceeds Customers’ Needs
LAS VEGAS—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Feb. 9, 2004—Canon U.S.A.: Canon Raises Analog and Digital Imaging Standards Spanning Professional Product Sophistication to Point-and-Shoot Simplicity, Image Capture to Output and Photos to Video
Canon expands its commanding presence in the imaging industry with the rollout of nearly two-dozen new consumer products at the 2004 Photo Marketing Association exhibit Feb. 12 - 15. Building on the company’s recently announced record results for 2003, Canon’s big picture for 2004 features a battery of new imaging products designed to fit pro photographers’ needs and consumers’ lifestyles.
“Canon is proudly in the position of imaging industry leadership thanks to the foresight, creativity and talents of our engineers and designers who consistently find new ways to improve technology for real world applications,” said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ - News). “It is our goal - our unwavering ethic - to provide our customers with products that raise their expectations of what is possible and then deliver on and even surpass those expectations.”
Kyocera have just announced a 3 megapixel version of their FineCam S5R digital camera. The FineCam S3R is basically the same as the S5R, but has 3 as opposed to 5 megapixels. Click the link below for the full press release and specifications (found via DigIT.no)
Website: Kyocera Japan Press Release
LetsGoDigital’s recent review of the Fuji FinePix S5000 is now available in English. This is a mid-range digital camera looks like a traditional SLR (but isn’t) and has a 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
“The Fujifilm FinePix S5000 is a fine camera to work with. The compact SRL like model of the camera fits perfectly in one?s hand. The buttons are directly accessible; in fact the camera can be controlled by only 3 fingers. The thumb from the right hand can easily control the control centre at the back of the camera while the forefinger can react quickly to take a picture. The forefinger of the left hand doesn?t have to stay watching unemployed; it can operate the built-in flash or the focus function. The amount of buttons is kept limited while the functionality stayed the same. The zoom button might seem small, but in practice it turns out to function quick and to the point.”
LetsGoDigital have reviewed the Fuji FinePix F700, which has a 6.2-megapixel Super CCD SR and is supposed to capture more detail in the shadow and highlight areas of an image than Fuji cameras have previously captured.
“The compact design of the FinePix F700 and the nice aluminium workmanship give the FinePix F700 a quality appearance. The camera offers convenience and user friendliness as well as many settings for the photographer. This new model is available on the Dutch market since a few months, so it is time to try out this FinePix F700 in the field. Read about our experiences with this camera in the following review.”
Website: LetsGoDigital - Fuji FinePix F700 Review
Website: Read my review of the Fuji FinePix F700
LetsGoDigital have also published reviews in Dutch of the Fujifilm Finepix S5000 and Sony CyberShot P-8 digital cameras.
Steves Digicams have reviewed the Kyocera FineCam S5R, which is basically the same as the older S5 model but with added high-speed, full-memory consecutive shooting at approximately 3 frames per second.
“The 5-Megapixel Kyocera Finecam S5R is well-equipped with features that will amaze the beginner and please the advanced user. The “R” in the S5R stands for Rapid and that’s just what it is when shooting in the Continuous mode. The stylish stainless steel body is about the same height and width as a credit card. It’s durability will allow it to survive most bumps and bruises. You will enjoy taking this camera everywhere as it fits easily in a pocket or purse and can be ready in a second to take great pictures.”
Photoxels has posted a review of the Fuji FinePix S5000, a mid-range digital camera looks like a traditional SLR (but isn’t) and has a 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
“Most people considering the Fujifilm FinePix S5000 are probably attracted to its 10x optical zoom. The reach of that long zoom is just incredible and, once you use it, you might find it quite hard to go back to regular 3x or 4x zoom. A tripod (or monopod) is recommended over 6x zoom.”
CNET has posted its review of the Fuji FinePix S5000, a mid-range digital camera looks like a traditional SLR (but isn’t) and has a 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
“If you’re looking for a megazoom digicam, Fujifilm’s 3-megapixel FinePix S5000 seems like an enticing proposition at first. It combines a 10X zoom lens with a compact body, decent overall performance, plenty of advanced features, and an affordable price. When you dig under the surface, however, you find some design drawbacks and disappointing image quality. In the end, the S5000 isn’t so attractive.”
Website: CNET - Fuji FinePix S5000 Review
After Photoworld.de’s recent review of the Fuji FinePix S5000 a couple of days ago, another German digital camera website, digitalkamera.de, has posted its review of the S5000. This mid-range digital camera looks like a traditional SLR (but isn’t) and has a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
The German website Photoworld.de has reviewed the Fuji FinePix S5000, which uses Fuji’s 4th Generation Super CCD HR and sports a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
Imaging Resource have just reviewed the Fuji FinePix S5000, which uses Fuji’s 4th Generation Super CCD HR and sports a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
“Fuji’s FinePix S5000 offers a 10x optical zoom lens, great color, exceptional battery life, and an interesting continuous-shooting mode that’s a great feature for sports and other action photography. A solid entry, but facing stiff competition in an increasingly crowded field. (Long-zoom digicams.) Definitely worth a look though…”
Canon yesterday released a new firmware update (Ver. 2.0.0.0) for the following digital cameras:
- PowerShot S400 DIGITAL ELPH
- DIGITAL IXUS 400
- PowerShot G5
- PowerShot S50
- PowerShot A70
- PowerShot A60
- PowerShot A300
The firmware update will make your camera PictBridge compliant if it is not already compliant. PictBridge is a new industry standard for direct printing that allows you to print images without using a computer by directly connecting digital cameras and digital camcorders to a printer, regardless of the devices’ brand and model.
Website: Canon Firmware Updates
DPReview have today reviewed the Fuji FinePix S5000, which uses Fuji’s 4th Generation Super CCD HR and sports a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera.
“The S5000 is a photographers camera, it is design to look and feel like a compact SLR with its deep hand grip, wide lens barrel, large eyepiece and rubberized body coating it appeals to the professional photographer element in all of us. In addition the camera will certainly be smaller and lighter than you expect, with its weight primarily in the palm of your hand (the four AA batteries) the camera also has good balance.”
Website: DPReview - Fuji FinePix S5000 Review
The people running the Slovenian digital photography website e-Fotografija must spend most of their waking hours testing cameras, as yesterday they published their review of the Fuji FinePix S5000. The S5000 uses Fuji’s 4th Generation Super CCD HR and sports a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera. Again e-Fotografija have posted quite a few sample images with 100% crops so that you can see the detail that the camera is recording.
Website: e-Fotografija - Fuji FinePix S5000
Steve’s Digicams have reviewed the new FinePix S5000 from Fuji, which has a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera. The S5000 is styled after and handles like a SLR camera and offers a full range of exposure control including Automatic, Program AE, Shutter speed and Aperture priority, Manual and pre-programmed scene modes. The Fuji FinePix S5000 costs $499.95 and will be available in stores this month.
“We were mostly pleased with our outdoor test shots. Images were sharp, well-exposed and richly saturated. Fuji uses more JPEG compression than other similar resolution cameras, the file sizes for most of our samples were under a megabyte. Most cameras give you a choice of both the image size and quality, the S5000 offers only a resolution setting, I prefer being in control of both of these parameters.”
Digital Camera Resource are the first website to review the new FinePix S5000 from Fuji, which has a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera. The Fuji FinePix S5000 costs $499.95 and will be available in stores this month.
“Although the Fuji FinePix S5000 has a very exciting design and good feature set, but I think it’s a little disappointing in photo quality when compared to the latest offerings from HP, Olympus, and Toshiba. The 3.2 Megapixel SuperCCD HR sensor takes good shots at its native resolution, and so-so shots at the 6M interpolated size. Noise levels are above-average at 3M, and noticeably higher at 6M.”
Imaging Resource have today posted some side by side examples of shots taken with the Fuji FinePix S5000 and FinePix F700. The F700 uses Fuji’s new “SR” technology SuperCCD sensor, which pairs high and low-sensitivity photodetectors in each pixel. According to Fuji, the F700 will allow you to “capture pictures as real as life, approaching that of film for the first time…ensuring a dynamic range that is four times that of previous Super CCDs”. Imaging Resource is the first website that I know of to put this bold claim to the test, and their preliminary results certainly seem to back it up:
“As it happened, I had both a Fuji S5000 and the F700 in-house at the same time, so I shot the same subject with the two cameras just a few minutes apart. The results are impressive, nicely validating the rationale behind Fuji’s SR technology. While the S5000 quickly lost all detail in the highlights (as do most, if not all, digicams on this shot), the F700 retained a surprising amount of detail in Marti’s shirt. What I hadn’t expected, but that should have been perfectly obvious, is that the F700 had much more exposure latitude than the S5000 or other digicams I’ve shot this with. The extended tonal range means that I could get acceptable-looking images over a much broader range of exposures than is normally the case.”
Website: Imaging Resource - Fuji’s SR sensor technology - side by side results
Kyocera have announced an updated version of their FineCam S5 digital camera. The FineCam S5R is basically the same as the S5 but it “provides high-speed, full-memory consecutive shooting at approximately 3 frames per second, and features high image quality thanks to the new image processor, RTUNE.”
“High-Speed, High-Quality Photography Thanks to the New Image Processor, RTUNE
The world’s fastest full-memory consecutive shooting*1
The Finecam S5R provides the combined features of full-memory successive shooting at approximately 3 frames/second and the high pixel value of 5 million effective pixels. Furthermore, the liquid crystal monitor follows to display images in real time during consecutive shooting, so you can take photographs naturally.
*1) Compared to other compact digital cameras as of July 1, 2003
* Full-memory consecutive shooting means shooting successively until the full capacity of the memory card is used. It is available when using an SD memory card with a recording speed of at least 10MB per second for high-speed recording.”
Website: DCViews
Website: DPReview
Photoxels have also just reviewed the 5 megapixel Canon PowerShot S50, an updated version of the 4 megapixel S45.
“Overall, I enjoyed using the S50. Even after two weeks of use, there are still features of this camera I haven’t tried yet. The Canon PowerShot S50 is a digital camera a beginner amateur photographer will enjoy growing into. For serious amateur photographers, the Canon PowerShot S50 provides all the exposure control they need for quality creative photography.”
DPReview have today published their review of the 5 megapixel Canon PowerShot S50, an updated version of the 4 megapixel S45.
“While it’s true that the S50 carries all of the excellent features, control and image processing from the S45 it can’t be said that the lens is as good a match for the sensor as it was with the four megapixel unit. This is clearly visible in the strong chromatic aberrations which can occur (this is the same thing we experienced with the G5).”
Perhaps the most exciting addition to the Fuji line-up is the FinePix S5000. It uses Fuji’s 4th Generation Super CCD HR and sports a massive 10X optical zoom that is equivalent to equivalent to 37-370mm on a 35mm camera! The S5000 looks very much like an SLR camera, and according to Fuji it is “like an SLR’s little brother - with all the enthusiast attitude, but less of the cost and complexity”.
“The FinePix S5000 offers point-and-shoot simplicity combined with advanced exposure control. It offers a super long 10X optical zoom [37-370mm, f2.8-f8(W)/f3.2-f9(T)], and uses Fujifilm’s new 4th Generation Super CCD HR with 3.1 million effective pixels and 6.0 million recorded pixels. The S5000 features continuous auto focusing and a low light focus assist lamp. You can record digital movies with sound at QVGA resolution (30fps). An 110,000 pixel electronic viewfinder provides you with a through-the-lens preview of the scene.”
The Fuji FinePix S5000 will cost $499.95 and will be available in August.
Fuji have already posted 3 sample images taken with the S5000 at a speed of ISO 200.
Website: FujiFilm
Website: FinePix S5000 Specification
The Fuji FinePix website is currently running a Macromedia Flash-based teaser on its website for a new digital camera, which will be officially announced on the 29th July (found via DPReview. The filename of the Flash movie is s5000.swf, which may be giving the game away about the actual name of the camera.
Imaging Resource were the first website to provide details about this new camera here. Apparently the new “will have a 3.1 megapixel SuperCCD HR CCD imager giving a final image size of just under 6 megapixel interpolated (2816 x 2120 pixels). It will have an electronic viewfinder, 10x optical zoom lens, 2.2x digital zoom, xD-Picture Card storage, power from 4 AA batteries, and will finally have the ability to shoot images in RAW mode.”
Imaging Resource have reported today that Fuji may be releasing two additional new cameras, the 53000 and 57000, details of which have been found on various Fuji websites.
The new July 2003 issue of megapixel.net, the “Monthly Digital Still Camera Web Magazine”, features new reviews of these cameras:
- Canon PowerShot S50
- Canon S400/IXUS 400
- Fuji FinePix F410
- Olympus Stylus 400
- Sony DSC-V1
and this printer:
- Canon i850 Bubble Jet Printer
and a look at the Four Thirds standard for digital cameras.
Website: megapixel.net
Imaging Resource have posted a Quick Review of the Kyocera Finecam S5, a 5-megapixel digital camera with an RRP of $599.95.
“Although only slightly larger than the S4, the S5 is still quite tiny and pocket-friendly with a low-profile front panel that slips in and out of pockets without snagging. The camera fits easily into one hand, and comes with a wrist strap to keep it securely in-hand. The matte-finish, silver body is metal with black, plastic accents, and is fairly lightweight. Exposure control is mainly automatic, although a handful of manual settings are available, with a fair amount of external controls as well. The S5’s five-megapixel CCD delivers high resolution images, which yield 8x10 and 11x14 prints with good detail.”
DCResource has reviewed the Contax Tvs Digital “boutique camera”. Available in silver or black, at $895 the 5-megapixel camera is aimed at the more expensive end of the market.
“The Contax TVS Digital is a nice camera that would be a whole lot nicer if it was about $300 less in price. With a price of $899, you’re paying a big premium for the Contax name on the front of the camera, which is evident when you see how many features this camera shares with the $599 Finecam S5. The fact that Contax charges $100 more for a black-colored body doesn’t help matters.”
Website: DCResource - Contax Tvs Review
Here’s yet another review for you to read today…DCResource has taken a look at the Minolta Dimage F300, a 5-megapixel digital compact that retails for $599.
“The Minolta DiMAGE F300 is another one of those cameras that I like, but at the same time don’t think is the best of the pack (I’d give that award to the Canon PowerShot S50). The F300 offers full manual controls, sharp, well-exposed images, an above average movie mode, and a unique tracking autofocus system. I really like having an LCD info display as well. Negatives include higher-than-average noise in images, a very slow moving lens, shutter lag, and the lack of an AF illuminator. The bundle could be better, too. Don’t write off the F300—it’s definitely worth your consideration if you’re in the market for a small 5 Megapixel camera.”
Website: DCResource - Minolta F300 Review
Steve’s Digicams has reviewed the following 4 digital compact cameras during the last few days:
Canon has launched its pan-European iMAGE GATEWAY portal, designed to create a whole new digital photo experience. It enables users to create and share a global online photo album and download images, text and sounds to personalise their camera.
Here are a few extracts from the press release:
?Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is expanding the creative possibilities of the digital world with the launch of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY (www.cig.canon-europe.com), an innovative new online imaging and photography portal for Canon digital camera users.
This unique portal introduces Canon customers to new and exciting ways to create, share and enjoy photographs online with friends and family across the world. It enables them to enhance their own digital photography experience by personalising their cameras with downloadable images, texts and sounds.
The CANON iMAGE GATEWAY is currently available to owners of nine Canon digital cameras, the PowerShot G3, PowerShot S45, Digital IXUS v3, PowerShot A70, PowerShot A60, Digital IXUS 400, PowerShot A300, PowerShot S50 and EOS 10D. Future plans to add product groups such as digital video camcorders, and Bubble Jet printers will enable users to print quality photos at home straight from the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY.?
Website: Canon - Image Gateway
At the same time as the EOS 10D, Canon are also announcing no fewer than 5 other digital cameras! I’ll try to get pictures as soon as possible…
“Canon has launched a high specification 5 megapixel camera to head the ?S? range of PowerShot models - the new PowerShot S50. Fitted with a 3x f/2.8-4.9 optical zoom, covering focal lengths of 35-105mm, the S50 offers a wide range of photographic controls, presented in an easy access format, that will meet the needs of even experienced photographers.”
The PowerShot S50 will be available from 3 March 2003 for around ?549 RRP inc VAT.
“Canon is pleased to introduce its new flagship Digital IXUS camera, the Digital IXUS 400. The smallest 4 Megapixel 3x zoom compact in Canon’s range, this model continues the IXUS tradition of stunning design and outstanding build quality.”
The Digital IXUS 400 will be available from March 2003 for around ?449 RRP inc VAT.
“Canon is pleased to announce the launch of two new PowerShot digital cameras that offer users an advanced level of control over their photography. The 2.0 megapixel Canon PowerShot A60 and the 3.2 megapixel PowerShot A70 are ideal for home and family users who expect versatility, excellent image quality and high-specification from their digital camera at an affordable price. The new models will replace the Canon PowerShot A30 and A40 in the PowerShot line-up.”
The PowerShot A60 and A70 will be available from March 2003 for around ?229 and ?299 RRP inc VAT, respectively.
“Canon is pleased to announce the launch of the PowerShot A300 - an entry-level, digital compact camera that offers high resolution and advanced features to the first time digital camera buyer.”
The PowerShot A300 will be available from March 2003 for around ?199 RRP inc VAT.
UPDATE: 17:00 PM It looks like Walmart have pulled the plug on their Canon A70/S50 pages, as these links no longer work! Did they post these cameras without Canon’s permission? Will the A70/S50 ever see the light of day? Was it complete hoax?
Could this be the first wave of a flood of new products from Canon? The US retailer Walmart is currently listing 2 new digital Canon Powershots (currently “out of stock”).
The S50 is a 5 megapixel compact, featuring a 3x optical zoom lens, movie recording capability, 12 shooting modes including aperture or shutter speed priority, night scene and movie, and 9-point auto focus.
The listed RRP at Walmart is $597.67.
Website: Canon Powershot S50
The A70 is a 3.2 megapixel compact, featuring a 3x optical zoom lens, movie recording capability, 12 shooting modes including aperture or shutter speed priority, night scene and movie, and 5-point auto focus.
The listed RRP at Walmart is $298.46.
Website: Canon Powershot A70