canon ixus digital camera

Canon IXUS 970 IS Review
The Canon IXUS 970 IS is a 10 megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens. It has a metal body and is a step up in overall quality compared to most point and shoot digital cameras.

The Canon IXUS digital camera range has always been impressive when it comes to picture quality. Extra features such as image stabilisation have also become the norm. The IXUS 970 IS upholds the tradition of good picture quality, stylish design and impressive build quality. This model also has a slight increase in the length of the zoom lens over its predecessors. It also has a top quality LCD screen.

Outdoor 1 (Medium Zoom)
The most striking feature of this shot is the amount of detail you can see in the lighter areas of the photo. The resolution is outstanding. This helps to make the shots appear sharply focused. Some of that sharp focusing is lost at the edges of the shot and if I was being picky I would also say that in where the sun cannot quite reach the IXUS 970 IS is unable to match the definition managed by the Panasonic DMC FS5 I reviewed recently. These are minor points though and this is a good start.

Outdoor 2 (No Zoom)
With the lens zoomed right out my test shot is about average in terms of focusing. There is also a small amount of purple fringing showing on the boat towards the left hand side of the picture.

Outdoor 3 (Maximum Zoom)
This is the best outdoor shot. Again the definition in the shot is highly impressive. The IXUS 970 IS is certainly able to bring out more detail than I am used to seeing. I also like the brightness of the shot. It helps add more life to the picture.

Outdoor 4 (Building)
This is another sharp shot and highlights the fact you should be able to take good quality snapshots in most situations with this Canon digital cameras.

Outdoor Portrait
This is quite a natural looking portrait shot. You will find other brands such as Panasonic digital cameras produce more colour in this test shot on a regular basis than Canon digital cameras manage.

Indoor Portrait with Flash
This photo is near to perfection for an indoor shot with flash. The camera handles the amount of light output by the flash unit expertly. This leads to a photo where the lighting is just right, leaving the colours to stand out.

Indoor Portrait without Flash
I like this photo. Here the IXUS 970 IS has used the natural light available very well. Again there is an impressive level of detail in the shot.

Colours
produce more colour in this test shot on a regular basis than Canon digital cameras tend to be somewhere in the middle rank when it comes to colour strength. In most cases I think the combination of the brightness of the photos and the colours they use creates great photos.

Macro
I have mentioned in other reviews that a really good macro shot suggests a high quality lens. The macro shot produced by the IXUS 970 IS shows great clarity and plenty of details.

ISO 400 and ISO 1600
Increasing the ISO setting on any compact digital camera will lead to noise appearing in the picture. At ISO 400 noise is controlled quite well and is inline with levels produced by most digital cameras. By the time ISO 1600 is reached picture quality really has broken down.

Overall
Based on picture quality I would be happy to own this camera. The way the lighting and colours combine works really well.

Olympus Digital Cameras

Olympus E-3 Hands-On Preview

by Shawn Barnett

Look and feel. Aimed squarely at the Nikon D300 and Canon 40D, it's no surprise that the Olympus E-3 is big and teeming with buttons and controls. Its overall feel is very tight, solid, hefty, and well-thought-out. It is easily the finest experience I've had with an Olympus SLR, and probably the best Live View experience I've had with any SLR to date.

The Olympus E-3's large pentaprism protrudes proudly above its sloping shoulders, just a bit higher than its competitors. Inside is a real glass pentaprism that's bigger and brighter than any Olympus has offered on its Four-thirds cameras. Its 1.15x viewfinder is big and bright, appearing just slightly larger than the Canon 40D, despite the E-3's smaller sensor size.

The Olympus E-3's viewfinder status display runs along the bottom, not off to the right as on the E-410 and E-510. It's still a little tight to see all of the frame plus the status display with my glasses on, but there's a nice big rubber eyepiece protector to prevent my glasses from scratching.

The Olympus E-3's grip is very comfortable, shaped a little differently from the E-510, a little less aggressive on the forward curve, which gives the middle finger a more confident grip overall. It's also a little fatter and contoured, with a nice, tacky rubber surface for excellent traction.

Though it looks a little high in pictures, the Olympus E-3's shutter button is in just the right position when I grip the camera, with a nice finger well to guide me to the button. On the rear, the thumb grip is so comfortable it's easy to forget it's a grip at all. Function and AF-point selection buttons are nearby, but not easy to press accidentally.

Olympus has moved the Olympus E-3's Main Dial on the back relative to the more recent models, but this is indeed where it's located on the Olympus E-1, so they stuck with what upgrading E-1 owners will be used to. Also, both the E-410 and E-510 had no monochrome status display on the top deck, so there was room for a top-mounted Main Dial. The Olympus E-3's dial does not have as good a feel as the metallic dial on the E-510, but it does have good, firm detents. The same goes for the Sub-dial on the front of the Olympus E-3's grip.

Speaking of dials, there's no Mode Dial on the Olympus E-3, instead you press a button on the top deck, left of the pentaprism, and roll the Main or Sub-dial, while changes appear on the Status display.

The E-3's four-way navigator, which Olympus calls an Arrow pad, is well-positioned for easy access, and it's even angled a bit toward the right to accommodate the thumb's angle of attack. Other buttons on the back and top are clearly marked for easy comprehension. The Olympus E-3's rear LCD also serves as a Status display whose settings are accessible via a press of the center OK button.

The Olympus E-3's Power switch is located in a familiar place for Canon prosumer SLR owners, just off the lower right corner of the LCD display.

Opening the Olympus E-3's Card cover is awkward at first, but if you just rock the camera to the left and hold it in your left hand, a simple upward flip of the right thumb moves the release lever and the door pops open to reveal not only a CF card slot, but an xD-Picture Card slot as well.

Build. The Olympus E-3's body is a die-cast magnesium alloy whose two shells pretty well completely enclose the E-3 for a very solid feel. Olympus says they use a Thixomold process to make these shells, a method that promises greater durability, with less potential for bubbles or seams in the magnesium alloy shell structures. We don't know whether other manufacturers do the same, but this low-temperature technique is one of three major methods to cast this increasingly popular metal, and is supposed to give better crystalline structure to the material than the more common hot die-cast method.

Canon Rebel XT

Overview
Simple, Limitless Performance
For convenience, ease of use and no-compromise SLR performance, look no further than the EOS Digital Rebel XT. Featuring Canon's Digital Trinity - an 8.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor, Canon's own DIGIC II Image Processor and compatibility with over 50 EF Lenses - the new Digital Rebel XT has an all new lightweight and compact body, improved performance across the board and the easiest operation in its class, simplifying complex tasks and ensuring the perfect shot every time. With intuitive simplicity, powerful performance and unprecedented affordability, the Rebel XT is the EOS digital camera for everyone.

Features
High-performance digital SLR with 8.0 Megapixel CMOS Sensor and DIGIC II Image Processor
8.0 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
spacer
The EOS Digital Rebel XT features Canon's 8.0 Megapixel CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, which captures images of exceptional clarity and tonal range and offers the most pixels in its class. This APS-C size sensor (22.2 x 14.8mm) has the same 3:2 ratio as film cameras, creating an effective angle of view that is 1.6x the normal EF Lens focal length. Featuring an on-chip Noise Reduction Circuit with an expanded ISO range, the Digital Rebel XT's sensor offers professional sophistication in a consumer package.

Digic II Image Processor
The EOS Digital Rebel XT's sensor is driven by the DIGIC II Image Processor, which has been enhanced across the board with improvements in speed and image quality. Information captured by the sensor is processed and assembled into images of exceptional clarity and resolution. Consuming very little energy, DIGIC II works with the sensor to ensure natural colors, accurate white balance and speedy write times, letting you focus on taking pictures.


Specifications
Type
Digital AF/AE SLR
Recording Media
CF card Type I and II
Image Sensor Size
0.87 x 0.58 in./22.2 x 14.8mm
Compatible Lenses
Canon EF Lenses including EF-S Lenses (Focal length conversion factor: Equivalent to approx. 1.6x indicated focal length compared to 35mm format)
Lens Mount
Canon EF mount
Image Sensor
Type
High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate color CMOS sensor
Pixels
Approx. 8.0 Megapixels
Total Pixels
Approx. 8.2 Megapixels
Aspect Ratio
2:3 (Vertical:Horizontal)
Color Filter System
RGB primary color filter
Low-pass Filter
Fixed position in front of the image sensor
Recording System
Recording Format
Design rule for Camera File System 2.0
Image Type
JPEG, RAW (12bit)
Simultaneous Recording: Possible
File Size
JPEG: (1) Large/Fine: Approx. 3.3 MB (3456 x 2304), (2) Large/Normal: Approx. 1.7 MB (3456 x 2304), (3) Medium/Fine: Approx. 2.0 MB (2496 x 1664), (4) Medium/Normal Approx. 1.0 MB (2496 x 1664), (5) Small/Fine: Approx. 1.2 MB (1728 x 1152), (6) Small/Normal: Approx. 0.6 MB (1728 x 1152); RAW: Approx. 8.3 MB (3456 x 2304)
Folder Setting
Automatic setting
File Numbering
(1) Continuous numbering, (2) Auto reset

Standard parameters plus up to three custom processing parameter sets and monochrome can be set
Interface
USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
Image Processing
Type
Auto, Preset (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy/Twilight/Sunset, Tungsten light, White fluorescent light, Flash), Manual (Custom: read off photo quality gray card or white subject)
Viewfinder
Type
Eye-level SLR (with fixed pentamirror)
Coverage
Approx. 95% vertically and horizontally (against JPEG Large)
Magnification
0.8x (-1 diopter with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint
21mm
Built-in Dioptric Adjustment
-3.0 - +1.0 diopters
Focusing Screen
Fixed
Mirror
Quick-return half mirror (Transmittance: reflection ratio of 40:60, no mirror cut-off with lenses up to EF 600mm f/4)
Viewfinder Information
AF points, AE lock, FE lock, AEB in progress, Flash ready, Improper FE lock warning, High-speed Sync, Flash exposure compensation, Red-Eye reduction, Shutter speed, Bulb, FE lock, Processing data, Built-in flash recycling, Aperture, Exposure level display (Exposure compensation, Manual exposure level, AEB level, Flash exposure compensation, Red-Eye Reduction lamp on time display), Max burst during continuous shooting, AF/MF focus confirmation, CF card full, CF card error, no CF card
Depth-of-Field Preview
Enabled with depth-of-field preview button
Eyepiece Shutter
None (provided on strap)
Autofocus
Type
TTL-CT-SIR with AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF Points
7
Metering Range
EV 0.5 - 18 (at ISO 100)
Focusing Modes
One-Shot AF, Predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF (Automatically selects One-Shot AF or AI Servo AF selected according to shooting mode), Manual Focusing (MF)
AF Point Selection
Automatic selection, manual selection
Selected AF Point Display
Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist Beam
Intermittent firing of built-in flash, effective range: approx. 13.1 ft./4m at center, approx. 11.5 ft./3.5m at periphery
Exposure Control
Metering Modes
Max. aperture TTL metering with 35-zone SPC. (1) Evaluative metering, (2) Partial metering at center (approx. 9% of viewfinder), (3) Center-weighted average metering
Metering Range
EV 1-20 (at 68° F/20° C with 50mm f/1.4 lens at ISO 100)
Exposure Control
Program AE (shiftable), Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Automatic Depth-of Field AE, Full Auto, Programmed Image Control modes (Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off), E-TTL II Autoflash Program AE, and Manual
ISO Speed (Recommended Exposure Index)
Equivalent to ISO 100-1600
Exposure Compensation
Up to +/-2 stops in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments (1) Manual exposure compensation (2) AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing)
AE Lock
Auto: Operates in One-Shot AF mode evaluative metering when focus is achieved; Manual: Enabled with AE lock button (No AE lock in Basic Zone modes)
Shutter
Type
Vertical-travel, mechanical, focal-plane shutter with all speeds electronically-controlled
Shutter Speeds
1/4000 to 30 sec. in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments, bulb, X-Sync at 1/200 sec.
Shutter Release
Soft-touch electromagnetic release

Set with C. Fn-02
Self-timer
10-sec. delay
Remote Control
Remote control with RS-60E3 Terminal or Wireless remote controllers RC-1/RC-5
Built-in Flash
Type
Auto pop-up, retractable, built-in flash in the pentaprism
Guide Number
13 (at ISO 100 in meters)
Recycling Time
Approx. 3 sec.
Flash-ready Indicator
Flash-ready indicator lights on in viewfinder
Flash Coverage
Up to 17mm focal length (equivalent to 27mm in 35mm format)
External Speedlite
EOS Dedicated Speedlite
E-TTL II autoflash
Drive System
Drive Modes
(1) Single, (2) Continuous, (3) Self-timer/Remote Control
Continuous Shooting Speed
Approx. 3.0 fps (with Battery Pack NB-2LH, at Tv=1/250 sec. for all recording qualities)
Maximum Burst
14 shots (Large/Fine)
LCD Monitor
Type
TFT color LCD monitor
Monitor Size
1.8 inches
Dots
Approx. 115,000 pixels (Displayed pixels)
Coverage
Approx. 100% (for JPEG images)
Brightness Adjustment
5 levels (settable with menu's "LCD brightness")
Image Playback
Display Format
(1) Single image, (2) 9-image Index, (3) Magnified Zoom, (4) Auto Play, (5) Auto Play right after shooting
Highlight Warning
In the single image with information display mode, the highlighted portions containing no image information with blink
Image Protection and Erase
Protect
A single image can be protected or unprotected
Erase
A single image or all images stored in a CompactFlash card can be erased if they are unprotected
Menus
Menu Categories
(1) Shooting 1 [6 items], (2) Shooting 2 [7 items], (3) Playback [5 items], (4) Setup 1 [7 items], (5) Setup 2 [7 items]
LCD Monitor Language
Any of the following 15 languages can be selected: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Italian, Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Japanese
Firmware Update
Enabled by the user
Power Source
Battery
Battery Pack NB-2LH (x1)
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (WxHxD)
4.98 x 3.71 x 2.63 in./126.5 x 94.2 x 64mm
Weight
17.1 oz./485g
Operating Environment
Working Temperature Range
32-104° F/0-40° C
Working Humidity Range
85% or less

Fujifilm Digital camera

Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP Press Release

The 10-Megapixel FinePix Z33WP is available in three striking colors - green, pink and black - and is ready for any adventure including underwater activity up to approximately 10 feet (3M)! A 2.7″, 230,000 dots resolution LCD screen - the largest of any Z-series camera yet - and Fujinon 3x Optical Zoom lens allows for a clearer view of those not-to-be-missed moments on the beach, on the ski slopes, hiking in the mountains or boating at the lake. It’s also perfect for everyday activities in the rain, the pool or any other place you might think twice about taking a conventional digital camera.

Intelligent Scene Recognition

Adding ease to outdoor navigation, the FinePix Z33WP is equipped with a new SR Auto (Automatic Scene Recognition) mode that enables the camera to intelligently recognize six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the Z33WP will optimize the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease. In addition, Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilization is powered by high sensitivity for faster shutter and operational speeds to help reduce camera shake, keeping real life moments as true to form as possible.

Easy Sharing

The family-friendly Z33WP also features Fujifilm’s handy Blog Mode which allows for easier sharing with friends and family members. The Blog mode automatically resizes a photo to a standard 640×480 pixels (VGA) or 320×240 pixels (QVGA) image size and enables 12 in-camera editing features such as Zooming, Miniature effect, Illustration and Painting, cutting the need for extra time with home editing.

In addition to these innovations, the FinePix Z33WP is loaded with the following handy features:

- Face Detection Technology: Operating in tandem with automatic red-eye removal, the FinePix Z33WP identifies up to 10 human faces in a scene, and sets the correct focus and exposure, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame.

- Automatic Red Eye Removal accents the aforementioned features by lending an extra touch to that group shot. The Z33WP automatically checks for red eye and self-corrects it in each and every person in the photo, saving time on post-editing.

- Couple and Group Timer Modes: Working in conjunction with Face Detection technology, detects two faces in ‘Couple Timer Mode’ and up to four faces in ‘Group Timer Mode’ in a frame.

- One Touch MOVIE Button: Capture VGA quality movie clips at 30 frames per second with sound to capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime moments.

- Battery Life: The long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery (up to 200 shots) allows for extended use without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of the trip.

“With the success of the FinePix Z20fd for the Gen Y crowd, it is only a natural progression for Fujifilm to provide active, technology-savvy families with the unparalleled style and function that everyone demands in the 21st century,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “Today’s users not only want to experience everything life has to offer, but they also want their camera to be able to experience and capture it with them.”

The FinePix Z33WP will debut in late March at a retail price of $199.95.

Fuji Digital Camera

Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR Review

We have received a preproduction sample right before the official introduction of the Fujifilm F200 EXR. However, due to the non-final status of the model, it is not yet possible to bring you a full Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR review. The new Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR has the Super CCD EXR sensor onboard. Fuji's primary aim with the Super CCD image sensor is to improve the image quality, which depends on a number of things. High quality pictures in badly lit circumstances require a high light sensitivity, while contrast-rich subjects need a large dynamic range and, detailed pictures will obtain the best results with the availability of high resolution. In short, quite a challenge for Fujifilm!

The Fujifilm F200EXR has a housing that feels quite solid and a weight of 175 grams to offer the camera a stable hand-fit. There's no handgrip on the F200EXR and the front is fairly smooth. The flash is positioned next to the shutter release, which presents a risk of accidentally blocking the flash light with a finger. A small edge on the front underneath the flash would perhaps prevent this.

It takes approximately one or two seconds for the 5x zoom lens to take its position after turning the camera on. The large 3” inch monitor offers a clear reproduction, thanks to the soft colors used for the menu. The large screen also provides an excellent wide viewing angle from all sides. The multi-control button allows you to quickly navigate through all the setting possibilities, and the command dial on the back of the camera offers direct access to the main programs of the Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR, among which the EXR.

The EXR program offers access to all of the possibilities offered by the new image sensor. It is possible to use the sensor in various ways, and it allows the photographer to dedicate priorities to it. For instance, if the circumstances are ideal, the highest resolution of 12 Megapixels can be used.

And in case a high ISO setting is required, which should of course not affect the signal/noise ratio, the resolution will be halved and two pixels will be combined to obtain a larger photo diode. This adds positively to the pixel sensitivity without it causing more noticeable noise. Furthermore, a mode is available to obtain the widest dynamic range possible by taking two pictures, each of which will be made with 6 Megapixels of resolution.

When it comes to operation, the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR is straightforward. Despite the camera's popular design, a large amount of possibilities are available. Many automated functions and manual functions for the creative photographer through the P/M modes, at which the M mode offers the possibility to set the shutter speed as well as the aperture manually. The aperture range is slightly restricted and offers just minimum or maximum aperture. In addition, the Fujifilm F200EXR camera offers various preset scenes to obtain the best possible setting.

The Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR even includes some nostalgia. If you are familiar with a 35mm Fujifilm, you can continue this experience with the F200EXR. Specific features such as the Velvia, Provia and Astia are included in the menu, each of which offers the typical image of ancient times.

As for its video functions, Fujifilm have renewed hardly anything; if even anything at all. It's clear that photography is the first priority of the Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR, also when looking at the video resolution of 640 x 480 pixels.

Fujifililm seems to have bid farewell to the xD Picture card with the introduction of the new FinePix digital camera series. In addition to the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR, two other new FinePix cameras also feature an SD / SDHC card slot offering an optional memory capacity of 32GB at the maximum. Fujifilm makes a statement with this gesture, which is important in these turbulent times for the camera market. Question remains how long Olympus, Fujifilm's former companion of the xD card, will keep supporting this medium type. I can't image they will carry on forever. Unless there are other interests involved.

The new Fuji FinePix F200EXR is a typical compact camera of the Fujifilm brand. Fujifilm continues on the path they have walked on for the last decennium. The corporation continues to focus on image and quality while cameras such as the FinePix F200EXR, in combination with innovative sensor solutions, e.g. the Super CCD EXR, are able to continuously bring the compact camera to a higher level. The final test result will still take a while.

Casio Digital Camera

Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1

Casio Exilim Pro F1 an innovative Megazoom camera
We have to admit that Casio do not lack courage. Courage to be different and to introduce interesting innovations in a time where the competition is severe. Quite rightly do they deserve the receiving of awards from various international organizations such as the DIWA Innovation Award. The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 may be considered a camera that is able to build bridges between a camera and a camcorder, an astounding achievement. The difference with a digital Full HD camcorder is (still) obvious; nevertheless, the Casio F1 should be considered the first product with such a speedy sensor and processor. Hopefully, it is not the last and Casio will be challenged to further develop and improve things.

Image quality of the Casio Exilim Pro EX-F1
This brings us to the marginal comments we have on Casio's innovative product. In addition to the superb performance on speed and video capture, the Casio EXILIM Pro F1 is also used as photo camera. You'd think the 12x optical zoom lens, stabilization technique and 6 Megapixels of image resolution form a strong combination. However, Casio have to work on the quality of the lens and the signal / noise ratio, in our opinion.

Casio Exilim F1 shows chromatic aberration
The tests carried out in our DIWA Lab, and the additional sample pictures taken in practice, show a considerable suffering of chromatic aberration of the lens. This is rather conspicuous while the last generation of 12x zoom lenses shows improvements. Casio really dropped some stitches here and this should not be the case considering the substantial price tag dangling from this camera. The image resolution of 6 Megapixels raises hopes for the quality of the pixel. Or at least the expectations are higher than is the case with its congener equipped with 12-20x optical zoom lens and a resolution of at least 10 Megapixels. This makes it rather disappointing to find out that the signal / noise ratio is showing visible noise at a value of ISO 400. Even ISO 200 has difficulties keeping its channels clean. That's why we decide to leave ISO values higher than 400 for what they are. A real disappointment!

Casio Exilim F1 offers many setting possibilities
The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is obviously a Megazoom camera with potential. The many setting possibilities, the large optical range including the remarkable speed and video performances should in theory guarantee a powerful combination that successfully claims a new segment. It is sad having to conclude that part of this powerful combination delivers a no more than average performance, and that only the innovation as such stands strongly; High-Speed shooting and Full HD recording.

Casio Exilim F1 unique for High Speed photo- / video photography
Casio are true pioneers; constantly breaking new ground. The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is the first model equipped with a 60fps specification and Full HD mode. Presuming there is work being done to a higher resolution sensor with at least the same capacities, and hoping for the necessary improvements to the signal / noise ratios and the performance of the lens; we can only anxiously look forward to the next generation. It may be clear; if you’ve always wanted to shoot and film on High-Speed, you will have a unique and innovative product at your disposal with specifications that have become affordable. If we remove these unique specifications, what's left is an (expensive) Megazoom camera performing averagely.

Canon ELP Digital Camera

Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera

10MP, 3x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilizer, 3.0" LCD, Motion Detection 2554B001 Product Info

The Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera is a powerful Digital Camera with high-end features and an attractive sculptural design. The PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH Camera by Canon features impressive core technologies such as a 10.0 megapixel CCD, a 3x Optical Zoom, and an Optical Image Stabilizer. The Canon Power Shot SD 790 IS Digital Camera 's 10 MP CCD captures a fine level of detail and resolution for extraordinary flexibility in cropping and enlarging an image. The Canon Digital Camera 's 3x Optical Zoom can easily handle the challenges of everyday shooting. Canon 's exclusive Optical Image Stabilizer automatically detects and cancels camera shake, ensuring that images are crisp and blur-free thoughout the zoom range. Motion Detection and Face Detection Technology are also added to maximize quality and performance, allowing for greater freedom shooting an image. Canon 's Face Detection Technology ensures natural hues for both faces and background areas. This technology also detects and automatically removes red eye. Motion Detection Technology automatically senses subject movement and optimizes exposure control and ISO settings to keep faces and other subjects free of blur. Complementing the Camera 's high-end technology is its large 3.0 inch PureColor LCD II screen. This LCD produces a sharp and clear image, accurate color, and a wide viewing angle. The screen is highly durable and easy to see in any light with a scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coating. The Canon Power-Shot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera is controlled by a DIGIC III Image Processor that operates the camera at top efficiency and battery life, giving images superior quality. Equally attractive as the high-end specifications is the Canon Digital ELPH Camera 's sculptural design. The sculpted edges and futuristic flat buttons stand out in a crowd, and also improve handling and operability. The Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera is a stylish, high quality Digital Camera that performs just as well as it looks.

Features of Canon Power Shot SD 790IS Digital ELPH Camera 2554B001:

* Advanced 10.0 Megapixel Digital ELPH with 3x Optical Zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer.
* View your crisp clear images on a large 3.0-inch PureColor LCD II screen for bright, accurate color with great viewing from a wide range of angles.
* Improved Face Detection Technology sets the focus, exposure, flash and white balance automatically, allowing greater freedom of shooting.
* Stand out in a crowd with an edgy, stylish design combined with a cool new button configuration for great operability.
* Motion Detection Technology automatically detects subject movement and optimizes exposure control and ISO settings to reduce image blur.
* DIGIC III Image Processor for superior image quality and improved functionality.
* Print/Share Button for easy direct printing and downloading, plus ID Photo Print and Movie Print with select PIXMA Photo Printers and SELPHY Compact Photo Printers.

source:opticsplanet.net

SLR Digital Cameras

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III Digital SLR Camera Review

It is always exciting to hear that your most-used piece of photography kit is being replaced with a new and improved model - as was the case for me with the announcement of the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III. The 1Ds III is Canon's ultra-high-end DSLR, delivering top-of-the-line image quality from a top-of-the-line shooting system matched to a top-of-the-line physical structure.

If you read the Canon EOS 1D Mark III Review (Canon's other current-at-this-time 1-Series DSLR), you are going to think that much of the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III review sounds familiar. And for a good reason. These two redesigned-from-the-ground-up cameras are mostly identical with the exception of a few significant differences - including the sensor size/resolution (and associated parts including the viewfinder) and the max frame rate/buffer depth. Here is how they and the other current Canon DSLRs compare in these and other regards

Each of Canon's 1Ds bodies to date have been introduced with a new sensor having the highest resolution available at that time (the prior-model 1Ds Mark II is still the second highest resolution DSLR). And as usual, the new sensor gets a significant amount of the fanfare in this latest 1Ds iteration. No current DSLR compares to the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III in regards to its ultra high 21.1 megapixel full frame resolution.

Going from the 1Ds II's 16.6 MP to the 1Ds III's 21.1 MP sensor is not a huge resolution jump, but it makes a nice difference - more than I expected. I think the ISO 12233 resolution chart tool shows this difference the best. Here you can use the mouseover feature to compare the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III resolution with the ...

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II and the Canon EOS 5D using a Canon EF 200mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens *

* What you need to know about the above comparisons (aside from how to use the tool's mouse-over feature) ... Canon specifies the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III viewfinder as having an "approx." 100 percent horizontal and vertical view. In reality - and like the Canon EOS 1D Mark III, it is somewhat less than 100% (maybe 98%?) - this makes precisely framing a test chart hard as I must rely completely on the zoomed LCD review. But, the LCD does not show a 100% view of the final image - cutting about 5 pixels off each side. For most real world uses, these are non-issues for this camera, but for these comparisons, the 1Ds III has an approximately .4% disadvantage to the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II and the Canon EOS 5D (which also doesn't mean much in the real world). Full disclosure finished.

Another resolution comparison - use the mouseover feature on the links below the following image to compare the 1Ds III to the 1Ds II and 5D.

Expect the additional resolution to help most with the tiny details in your pictures - and with large prints or 100% zoom computer viewing. More headroom is available for cropping as well. If your subject does not have small details in it, the difference from 16.6 MP will not be as apparent.

Noise is a DSLR image attribute that gets a lot of attention. As pixel density on the sensor is increased and individual pixel size is decreased to accommodate this, there is less light reaching each pixel well. The result we often see with increased pixel density is increased high ISO noise in our images. In other words, without a technology improvement, the 1Ds III should produce noisier images than the 1Ds II. Thanks at least in part to an improved sensor design, increased noise is not the case in this comparison.

I shot a lot of comparisons between these two bodies (and the 5D with its much less-pixel-dense sensor). In the end, I could show you examples to make either of the two 1-series bodies appear to be slightly better than the other. If you plan for the 1Ds III and 1Ds II to have a similar amount of noise, you will not be disappointed. Up to and including ISO 400, they are about the same. Above ISO 400, the 1Ds III more frequently begins taking a very slight lead (less noise) and this lead increases to slight at ISO 3200. Of course, uprezzing the 1Ds II to the 1Ds III's pixel dimensions gives it a slightly increased disadvantage. Canon has always given us excellent low noise performance in their cameras - and unlike in the 1D II N to 1D III upgrade decision, noise performance is not a good reason alone to upgrade from the 1Ds II to the 1Ds III.

I mentioned that I compared the 1Ds III to the 5D, Canon's other current full frame DSLR, as well. With its larger individual pixel wells able to capture more light, it is expected that the 5D would be able to deliver better high ISO performance. Even with the disadvantage of being introduced over two years ago - a lifetime in digital SLR years - the 5D still turns in slightly better low noise performance at ISO 1600 and even slightly better performance at ISO 3200. Of course, as you can see with your own eyes in the above comparison links, the 5D does not come close to the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III in resolution. Uprezzing the 5D image to the pixel dimensions of the 1Ds III results in a softer image with similar amounts of noise.

Noise reduction anywhere in the imaging process can be used to virtually eliminate any amount of noise, but image detail is sacrificed in this process. I did all my testing with noise reduction off - you can turn it on in-camera or add it during post-processing for noise-reduce to your personal taste. I would rather have this option than to have the camera over-reduce noise and destroy image detail in the process.

You can compare the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III ISO noise at full stop settings from ISO 100 through 3200 by moving your mouse over the ISO labels. This composition shows several smooth color tones/shades including those that show noise most readily. These images were taken from a long distance (slight atmospheric distortion is visible) and sharpening was set to 1 (very low). Increasing the sharpness setting increases the visible noise in the higher ISO shots. Notice how the small rivets in the door remain very identifiable even at ISO 3200.

source:the-digital-picture.com

Nikon Coolpix Digital Camera

Nikon Coolpix S710 Reviews - great replacement of your DSLR

The Nikon Coolpix S710 is great camera that will make you stop using your DSLR. The S710 boasts of incredible collection of manual controls, 14.5-megapixel sensor, and a 28mm wide-angle lens. The digital camera is capable of capturing full resolution images with sensitivity of ISO 3,200 and 3-megapixel shots at ISO 12,800.

Measuring 3.6 inches wide, 2.3 inches high and 1 inch thick, the Coolpix S710 weighs just 6.5-ounces. The S710 boasts of an optically stabilized wide angle lens with focal range of 28-101mm. The overall design is pretty attractive and the camera is available in three color schemes- deep red, brilliant silver and graphite black.

Nikon S710 boasts of a 3-inch LCD screen but the large size of the screen resulted in the small space left for the camera controls. So, the camera controls are cramped into small space. Nikon has tried to make the controls easily accessible and minimize the accidental pressing of button. To serve this purpose, the controls are slightly raised above the surface of the camera. The camera controls include a directional pad/scroll wheel which acts as directional controls as well as allows you to access flash, timer, macro mode, and exposure compensation. The scroll wheel works with the virtual Mode dial and allows you to go through various menus and manipulate various settings which include setup menus, aperture settings, adjust ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, and skim through captured images in Playback mode.

The S710 provides options to choose from a number of modes which are present on many Nikon Coolpix P-series and dSLR models. These modes include aperture priority, Program, manual modes, and shutter-priority. The manual modes allow you to fiddle with settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO sensitivity. Other settings such as, white balance, color options, metering, auto focus, drive modes, and AF area modes can be adjusted through main menu.

The S710 boasts of 14-megapixel sensor and provides pretty decent performance. The S710 has 0.6 second shutter lag in bright conditions and 0.8 second in low light conditions. It takes a little longer to capture first shot from switch off with average time of 3.7 seconds and 4 seconds between two consecutive shots. If you use the flash, the S71o takes 4.1 seconds on an average to capture two consecutive shots. In the burst speed mode, the S710 can capture 1.1 frames per second. In movie capture mode, the S710 can record videos with resolution of 640×480 pixels.

source: technotalks.com

Nikon Coolpix Camera

Nikon Coolpix P80
10.1MP | 27-486mm (18X) ZOOM

The Coolpix P80 is Nikon's first attempt at a DSLR-like compact camera since the Coolpix 8800 back in 2004, since when the lenses have got a lot bigger, the cameras a lot smaller and - crucially - the prices a lot lower. The camera slots into the premium series of Nikon's Coolpix range (the 'P' denotes Professional, apparently), and offers the 18x zoom range that has very quickly gone from being unthinkable to almost an entry requirement for membership of this segment. Thankfully, it follows the competition by starting that enormous zoom range at a really useful 27mm and, with a relatively bright F2.8-4.5 maximum aperture range, it's still pretty useable at the long end of things. Overall there's little in the specifications to help distinguish it in this fiercely-fought market, but there's still the possibility that Nikon's processing and metering know-how will allow the P80 to stand out.

* 10.1 effective Megapixels
* 27-486mm equiv lens with 18x optical zoom
* 2.7 inch LCD with 230,000 dots resolution
* Electronic Viewfinder with 97% Field of View
* Optical Image Stabilizer
* ISO sensitivity up to 6400
* Face Detection AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting
* 11 scene modes including Sports Continuous Scene Mode
* Program, Shutter-Priority, Aperture-Priority and Manual Exposure Modes
* Expeed processing
* Optional accessories available
* Battery life: 250 shots

Overview

The P80 is a good looking little camera that, understandably for a manufacturer renowned for its DSLRs, resembles a DSLR very closely indeed. It's an almost all-black affair with just the outside lip of the lens featuring a subtle silver ring. The lens itself very closely resembles the 18x zooms fitted to the Fujifilm S8100, S8000 and Olympus SP 560-UZ, and we'd be surprised if the lenses didn't all come from the same factory. Unlike those cameras, however, the Nikon P80 uses a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (as do the Panasonic and Sony in this group); this helps keep the weight down but, in this instance, has a devastating impact on battery life.

It's a camera that fits in the hand well and certainly looks the part. That low-key black design with restrained silver flourishes looks smart and stylish in a low-key way. The P80 is the only camera in this test to feature a DSLR-like control dial, which helps to make it one of the easiest cameras to use in its manual and semi-manual modes. However, it retains the frustrating Coolpix quirk by which some menus can be navigated using the four-way controller or the dial but others respond only to the dial. The setup menu is accessed via the mode dial - a clever way of de-cluttering the main menu by removing the options you only change occasionally.

Image quality and performance

The Nikon P80 is by no means a sluggish camera, but in this comparison it is placed towards the slower end of the spectrum. Start-up is rather slow; it takes 3.3 sec before you can your first shot after switching the camera on. Shot-to-shot time is 2.6 sec, this increases to 2.9 sec with flash use and, due to the pre-flash, to 6.2 sec when anti-red-eye is activated as well. The shutter lag is very short though.

With approximately 0.6 sec at wide angle and almost 1.0 sec focus time at the tele end of the zoom the P80's AF can't keep up with the quickest competitors in this test. I can mostly find a lock in relatively low light levels but when it gets too dark it simply gives up. In review mode the speed of image browsing and magnification is about average. When you flick between images the camera shows a slightly pixilated preview before the high-res version is displayed.

The Nikon's metering is some of the best we've seen in this test, with it doing a good job of rendering the scenes accurately. This is fortunate since the small chip has fairly limited dynamic range, meaning that bright regions and features tend to be represented as featureless white. The P80 does about as well as can be expected in this respect, though the small sensors in this class of camera mean it there are limitations to what it can achieve. The fine detail rendition is aggressively smoothed-over by noise reduction at all ISO settings, meaning the images are not as sharp or detailed as those from a DSLR would be (the P80's sensor is less than a tenth the size of Nikon's consumer-level DSLRs). The only thing that detracts from images in a way that would be visible in prints is rather unreliable focusing at the long end of the zoom (this didn't seem to be a problem at shorter focal lengths).

The video capabilities of the P80, both in terms of specifications and output quality are fairly unexciting. It can record VGA movies at 30fps in the Motion JPEG format, taking up around 1.1MB/sec. The videos themselves are fairly smooth but not particularly detailed. The camera can only use its digital zoom while recording movies and is also limited to electronic image stabilization, which frankly isn't up to the job of stabilizing a 386mm equivalent lens.

Summary

Unlike its hugely successful digital SLR division, Nikon's Coolpix range has little to distinguish itself from the mass of competing models in the market, and seems to survive purely on the cachet that the Nikon brand carries in the photographic world. The P80 is a typical Coolpix: it offers much, looks pretty and boasts an enticing feature set, but ultimately falls down when you actually come to use it. As with the other 'mid ground' cameras in this group the P80 isn't a terrible camera, it's just not that good. It's slow, the focus at the long end of the zoom is unreliable, the image stabilization unimpressive and the output distinctly average.

The P80 does, of course, have a few saving graces: the presence of a control dial makes it work a lot more like an SLR, and it is capable of good results as long as you avoid the long end of the zoom and higher ISO settings, but ultimately that's not enough to lift it above the competition.

* We like: Solid feature set, small and lightweight body, control dial, excellent metering and appealing color

* We don't like: Unreliable focus at long end of zoom, poor battery life, slightly soft output, poor high ISO performance

source: dpreview.com

Finepix Digital Camera

FujiFilm Finepix A920 Digital Camera Review

The FinePix A920 is equipped with simple, user-friendly operation but enables an even greater variety of people to enjoy photography at the high resolution of 9 megapixels. With this amazing level of detail, photos print crisp and clear even in larger sizes or when cropped to show just one part of the image. The FinePix A920 also supports a 4x zoom, which lets users take great close-ups from far away. The Fujifilm Finepix A920 features high ISO setting up to 800, which offers clear, blur-free detail even in difficult shooting conditions such as indoor or moving subjects. In specific shooting situations, selectable scene positions help eliminate the annoying settings and give users great photos in even tricky situation.

The bright, 2.7-inch LCD displays an icon-based Graphic User Interface (GUI) that explains and confirms camera settings at a glance, letting users shoot with ease and confidence. When users switch shooting modes, scene positions or control settings, a brief explanation of the setting is momentarily displayed on the LCD screen, taking much of the guess work out of digital camera operation. Additionally, the camera sports a conveniently placed mode dial that provides easy access to the most commonly used shooting modes, including Auto, Picture Stabilization and Movie mode and allows one-touch access to other pre-programmed scene modes.

Finepix Camera

Fujifilm Releases FinePix J20 Entry-level Compact Camera

Fujifilm has released the FinePix J20 entry-level digital compact camera. This 10 megapixel camera with a 2.7 inch LCD and 3x Optical zoom has a compact 17.4mm body and includes features such as Auto Scene Recognition, Face Detection and 15 Scene Modes.

Fujifilm today announced a new entry-level compact cameras, succeeding the hugely popular FinePix J10 and J15. The FinePix J20 is the latest in the line-up and offers consumers an affordable, but highly-stylish compact camera with point-and-shoot appeal.

With a core specification of 10 Megapixels, a quality Fujinon 3x zoom, Scene Recognition AUTO (SR AUTO), Face Detection and Picture Stabilisation, the FinePix J20 will deliver great images time after time. The FinePix J20 has a 2.7” LCD, both with 230k dots, for crisp, bright images time after time.

Previously only featured on Fujifilm’s award-winning FinePix F60fd, both models feature SR AUTO technology, allowing users to get the best possible results from their camera. All users have to do is frame the shot and SR AUTO intelligently recognises the scene – Landscape, Night, Macro, Night Portrait, Portrait, Backlit Portrait – and selects the ideal setting. There’s also software-based Face Detection technology with auto red-eye removal which identifies faces and optimises focus and exposure to reveal perfect people pictures.

In addition, Picture Stabilisation increases the camera’s ISO setting and associated shutter speed, so that the shutter can open and close much more quickly, thereby freezing moving action without blur - perfect for school sports fields and action shots.

All this technology is packed in to a super-slim and super-stylish 17.4mm body. Its tiny size means you can easily slip it in to your pocket or bag so you’ll always have your camera with you wherever you go.

Features at a glance

* Small and stylish
* 10 Megapixels
* Fujinon 3x zoom lens
* Scene Recognition AUTO
* Picture Stabilisation
* Face Detection technology – software based
* 15 pre-programmed scene modes
* ISO up to 1600
* 2.7” LCD screen – FinePix J2

Availability & pricing
The FinePix J20 will be available from April. Pricing will be announced nearer to the date of the launch.

source: dpreview.com

Camera Digital Nikon SLR

Nikon D60 key features

* 10 megapixel DX format CCD (1.5x FOV crop)
* Nikon EXPEED processing 'concept' (as per D300, D3)
* 3D Color Matrix Metering II, 420 pixel sensor
* Multi-CAM530 three area AF sensor
* New Image sensor cleaning system
* Eye sensor (turns off LCD display)
* ISO sensitivity range 100 - 1600 plus HI 1 (3200 equiv.)
* 3.0 fps continuous shooting*, unlimited in JPEG
* No status LCD, LCD monitor based status / settings screens (now rotates)
* Help suggestions on LCD monitor (eg. scene too dark, try using flash)
* Large 2.5" 230,000 pixel LCD monitor
* Short shutter lag and viewfinder blackout
* Support for SDHC (SD cards over 2 GB in capacity)
* In-camera retouching
o Quick Retouch
o D-Lighting (shadow / highlight enhancement)
o Red-eye reduction
o Trimming
o Monochrome
o Filter effects
o Small picture
o Image overlay
o Raw processing
o Stop-motion movie
* USB 2.0 with PTP and Mass Storage device support
* Very compact, light body
* Improved menu user interface
* EN-EL9 Lithium-Ion battery (7.2V, 1000 mAh)
* New stabilized AF-S DX 18-55 mm kit lens

Differences compared to the D40X

* EXPEED processing
* Image sensor cleaning system with Airflow control system
* Automatically rotating user interface (for using camera vertically orientated)
* Stop motion movie function
* New stabilized kit lens (AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR)
* Eye sensor
* Electronic 'rangefinder' for manual focus
* Active D-Lighting with dedicated button
* In-camera Raw processing
* New JPEG retouch effects (Cross Star and Color Intensifier)

The D60 is the third incarnation of Nikon's compact, user-friendly entry-level SLR line that started back in 2006 with the D40 (which replaced the first Nikon 'starter' model, the D50). The original D40 was a hugely important camera for Nikon and can be given a lot of the credit for the resurgence in Nikon's fortunes at the volume end of the SLR market (which had been totally dominated by Canon since the launch of the EOS 300D / Digital Rebel). The D40's success (which continued long after the D40X made its swift appearance only 6 months later) isn't hard to explain; it was keenly priced, nicely designed and built and capable of excellent results. It was also a camera that proved cameras do not sell on megapixels alone (even at launch its 6MP resolution was far from 'class leading').

The D40X, which was positioned as a premium alternative to the D40 rather than its replacement, didn't mess around with the formula much at all; a new sensor with more (ten) megapixels and a lower base ISO, plus a slightly higher continuous shooting rate. The D60 is a direct replacement for the D40X (the D40 will stay around for a while as Nikon's budget option), and once again it's not a major upgrade; the sensor remains the same (though now has a dust reduction system) and the external design is almost identical. There's a few new features, including the same Expeed processing 'concept' seen in the D3 / D300, Active D-Lighting, an eye sensor (to control the screen display), and some tweaks to the interface, but perhaps the most significant change isn't to the camera at all; the move to an optically stabilized version of the kit lens.
Auto Focus only for AF-S or AF-I lenses

As with the D40 and D40X, the new D60 doesn't have an built-in focus drive motor which means it can auto focus only with lenses which have their own drive motor (AF-S and AF-I lenses). The lack of a drive motor can be seen by the missing mechanical focus drive pin on the lens mount (see images below). One of the D60's new features is an electronic rangefinder to help manual focus on non AF-S / AF-I lenses.

source: dpreview.com

Panasonic Digital Camera

Using The Panasonic Lumix Dmc Tz3k 7 2mp To Take Inventory Photos Of Your House

By Jacob Georgeson

Having an updated inventory of your house is important. For example in case of disaster or burglary insurance claims are much easier when you can write down exactly what was in the house and also provide visual proof for that list.

Taking inventory photos of your house using the Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3K 7 2MP for example is easy if you follow a few simple steps. The first thing to do is to write down the list of what is in your house and what you would like to take digital photos of. If you have a lot of stuff in your house you should also figure our a way to catalog the photos. You can for example sort the photos by the object alphabetic order or you could sort them by the room where the objects are. Another option is to sort them by object type, for example photos of all your books, all tables, all clothes and so on.

The next step would be to use your Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3K 7 2MP to take the inventory photos. There are basic rules you should follow when taking those photos in order to achieve a better catalog.

As always the simplest and most basic rule to follow is just basic good digital photography rule. Make sure that the lighting is good and the composition is good. Inventory photos are most likely indoor photos as lighting might be limited. It is always better to try and get natural daylight by for example opening windows. If not possible use flash when needed or slow photography by positioning the Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3K 7 2MP on a tripod.

Inventory photos are intended to document and emphasize specific objects. As such the background on which the objects photos are taken should be simple. The background should also have good contrast against the object. For example do not use a white background to take photos of white objects and do not use noisy and busy backgrounds at all.

Try to take photos of objects in their original place. This is especially important for future insurance claims as those photos look more authentic. If you have to move an object in order to take its photo then try to take two photos one of the misplaced object and one of the place where the object is usually placed.

If some objects are unique or have special details that are important then take zoom photos of those details. Remember that digital photos are literally free if you feel you need a few objects to document one objects then take and store those photos. For example when taking a photo of your television always take another photo that zooms into the sticker on the television detailing the exact television model.

Taking digital photos of some objects is not obvious. For example if you have receipts of products that you bought take photos of those receipts. Use good photography practices and zoom into the receipt. Having this photo next to the product photo will provide valuable information when needed in the future.

And last but not least always backup the inventory photos. It is better to have an extra copy of those photos outside of your home after all if there is a disaster you would not want to lose those photos too which might happen if they are placed in your house. Give a CD with a copy of your photos to a friend or someone else that you trust.

Nikon Digital Cameras

Nikon Digital Cameras D700 Review

Executive Summary about Nikon Digital Cameras by Mike Lowe

The D700 leans towards the higher end of the market, and - considering the full frame Nikon FX sensor - may well be the most viable pro-spec DSLR at a price point to undercut the bigger contenders.

Body
Nikon has been kicking up a storm of late with some exceptional DSLR cameras. The top-end pro spec Nikon D3, and mid-to-high-end prosumer Nikon D300 are both renowned for low-noise, high quality images that kick previous quality to the kerb (in DSLR terms at least) and positively shake a leg at it. Most notably the D700 has Nikon's full frame FX CMOS sensor - the very same 12.1 megapixel as found in the D3. Full-frame essentially means the sensor is the same size as a traditional frame of 35mm film. Attach a DX lens and this wont be possible - though, thankfully, the clever bods at Nikon have added an auto-crop mode that outputs 5 megapixel images.

Features & Operation
The Nikon D700 employs the much touted Multi-CAM3500FX system, which boasts 51 autofocus points in all. That may almost sound on the side of excessive, but the intelligent 3D tracking system can utilise these AF points to lock on and track a subject through the frame, ensuring sharp autofocus. The camera body itself is near identical to little brother Nikon D300, plumping for an 'environmentally sealed' (that's splash and dust proof to you and me) magnesium alloy body. If quality's your bag then there's nothing quite like having the option of shooting jpeg, NEF raw (or jpeg & raw simultaneously), or even TIFF straight to your compact flash card. Opting for a bunch of saleable features, the D700 also dabbles in the world of anti dust - employing a fairly standard sensor-shake system.

Picture Quality
Image quality, the D700 offers an unrivalled ISO range - when extended it spans from ISO 100 to a jaw dropping ISO 25,600. Nikon's EXPEED system - as found in all Nikon releases of late - also promises to optimize image quality, and is Nikon's assurance of optimum quality throughout.

Digital Camera Panasonic

Panasonic Unveils Hi-tech Digital Camera

Panasonic has launched DMC-LX3, the long-awaited addition to the popular Lumix LX series of high-end, compact digital still cameras.

Designed for easy, creative shooting, the new LX3 comes two years after its predecessor, the LX2, earned an enthusiastic following among both professional photographers and serious amateurs for its exquisite image rendering, superior operating ease, and unique triple-wide system comprising wide-angle lens, said an official.

“Simply put, the LX3 smashes all previous perceptions about the limitations of a digital compact camera, setting a lofty new standard in performance, quality and creative capabilities,” said Panasonic Marketing Middle East product manager Hitesh Ojha.

The stylish LX3 is packed with features that enhance photo-shooting fun, ease and creativity.
“The LX3 is the ideal model for both amateur photographers who want to start shooting at a higher level and professionals alike. Its full set of functions draws a distinct line between the LX3 and ordinary compact cameras; it stands alone as a compact camera whose image-creating capabilities rival even digital SLRs.”

It includes Panasonic’s IA (intelligent auto) mode, which makes it easy for anyone to take beautiful photos, that has been further enhanced with AF tracking.

The newly added AF Tracking function automatically tracks the subject once the AF has been set even if the subject moves around, making it easier to capture sharp, well-focused photos at decisive moments, said an official.

Source: TradeArabia News Service

Camera Digital Panasonic

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Reviews

Panasonic's Lumix DMC-G1 is the first camera to be based on the micro four thirds system, a joint initiative between Panasonic and Olympus.

Unlike any other digital camera that has come before, the G1 has been designed without the legacy of 35mm film in mind. It's an SLR in terms of looks and interchangeable lenses, but has been designed first and foremost as a purely digital camera.

There's the usual mode dial, which is surrounded by the power switch and the shooting burst rate switch. That said, there are a myriad of scene modes and preset functions to keep anyone busy, plus the usual manual/shutter/aperture/program priority modes.

Features
Sitting high on the feature list of the G1 is the 12-megapixel Live MOS sensor, which is the same size as used in other four thirds cameras (18x13.5mm). Due to the nature of the G1's construction, live view is always active on the camera; think of it as a trait carried over from compact digital cameras.

Next on the list is the rotating 3-inch LCD screen that can flip and rotate on an axis to sit facing inwards or outwards on the back of the camera, or face the body if you choose to use the viewfinder exclusively.

Panasonic has stated that as of this year there will be several more additions to the micro four thirds lenses, including a 20mm f/1.7, 14-140mm f/4-5.6 and 7-14mm f/4.

Adapters are also being made available that allow four thirds lenses to be mounted on the G1, though given the small stature of the camera, any lens not specifically designed for micro four thirds is likely to dwarf the unit. Also, autofocus will only work if the lens supports contrast AF.

Shot-to-shot time was similarly impressive; on the RAW+JPEG combination, we found there was about a one-second gap between pictures.

It may seem intuitive on a dSLR style camera to immediately head straight for the viewfinder, but the G1 has always-on live view which means that using the LCD screen to shoot is just as easy. Furthermore, the EVF may seem almost identical to shooting with an optical viewfinder in most situations, but in darker environments it struggled and a fair amount of noise was visible.

Source: cnet.com.au

Panasonic Camera

Panasonic DMC-FX150 Camera Review

Executive Summary about Panasonic Camera by. Mark Peters

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX150 does not mind a few extra Megapixels. We don't even find a resolution this high standard on most digital SLR cameras, exceptional!

Panasonic DMC-FX150 digital camera
In addition to the 14.7 Megapixels, Panasonic's famous image stabilizer has been integrated; MEGA O.I.S.

Panasonic LUMIX camera features
In addition, the compact Panasonic DMC-FX150 digital camera features many handy, fully automatic settings. Activating the auto mode (iA mode) lets the camera act fully by itself, however, Panasonic takes this one step further with the Intelligent Scene selector, at which the camera selects the correct preset scenes based on what the camera is actually detecting.

High resolution Panasonic Lumix FX150 digital camera
Now what is the surplus value of the high resolution on a compact camera such as the Panasonic LUMIX FX150? Take the new Panasonic LUMIX G1 for example, a system camera of the house, that offers a standard resolution of 12 Megapixels. What's left is a nicely designed compact camera with an extremely user-friendly operation.

Panasonic Lumix FX150 : easy and straightforward
I enjoyed working with the Panasonic LUMIX FX150 in practice. A camera to carry with you at all times.

ISO sensitivity of the Panasonic Lumix FX150
Technical tests show some points of improvement for the Panasonic FX150. The effective image stabilisation system helps the camera to shoot without having to use high ISO values in well-lit circumstances.

Panasonic DMC-FX150 a interesting Lumix camera
Panasonic proves with the LUMIX DMC-FX150 that they are able to deliver compact cameras in a wide array. Whether it's an absolute entry-level model, a high-end compact like the Panasonic LX3, a Megazoom or a high resolution FX150, the LUMIX series leaves nothing more to desire. There are more interesting LUMIX cameras with a better resolution/quality ratio and equipped with features just as smart.

Canon Digital EOS

Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR

Canon EOS 50D: Modes and features
As a replacement to the 40D, it's good to see a camera with some upgrades worth talking about. Changes available are the flash options, background, exposure, picture style, resolution, image quality and drive.

A vignette correction feature has been fitted which Canon have called Peripheral Illumination Correction. Noise can be generated by pixels heating up and if you're performing long exposures then this can become a problem. The picture styles can also be altered by registering on Canon's Image Gateway on their website.

To get your camera and chosen lens to perform to its optimum level, the Canon EOS 50D has an AF micro adjustment feature to calibrate lenses if they're having a problem with front and back focus.

As well as a higher resolution screen which is a carbon copy of the D300 and higher, the EOS 50D also has equivalent ISO settings available. The higher ISO settings are not defaulted to on such as you'd find on the Nikon models which sport a similar function.

Canon EOS 50D: Build quality
The Canon EOS 50D can bask in its own glory being being built from magnesium alloy. As with all Canon cameras, image stabilisation is in the lens and the 17-85mm f/4-5.6 comes with IS fitted. The kit lens is also the EF-S version and is noticeable by the white square indicating where the lens and body should align to fit together. This lens won't fit on a body that doesn't support EF-S fit but regular EF lenses will fit the EOS 50D.

Canon EOS 50D: Performance
The sensor is larger by 0.1mm which only serves to aid in the quest to abolish noise. The colour chart shows boosts to the primary colours and nicely settled earthy colours. I took two versions of the landscape image using the 50mm f/1.4 lens and one using the standard 17-85mm lens that comes in the kit. I originally took the shot just on the kit lens and thought it looked soft so took it with the 50mm lens too.

On the Canon EOS 50D, live view is activated by pressing the button to the left of the viewfinder with the camera screen icon above it. Three focusing modes are available in live view which are quick AF, live AF and face detection AF. Focusing is nice and fast thanks to the Ultra Sonic Motors (USM) fitted to the lens. The EOS 50D comes with four metering options of Evaluative, partial, spot and centre-weighted. Spot metering does the opposite of centre-weighted and takes a reading from the very centre of the image only using around 3.8% of the image. Evaluative metering is Canon's version of Nikon's Matrix or Minolta's Honeycomb metering.

Canon EOS 50D: Noise test
The Canon EOS 50D has 16 sensitivity settings before the two equivalent settings are added. I'm impressed with noise control at the low ISO ratings. ISO100 shows no noise at all in any area of the image, especially the black square which shows it up first. ISO6400 has coloured banding and white spots across the whole image although it's more prominent on the darker squares.
It's worth remembering that the two settings with the most problems aren't true ISO settings.

Canon EOS 50D: Plus points
-New DiG!C IV processor
-Good noise handling
-Nice colour rendition
-Nice new menu system
-Better screen
-Typical Canon ease of use

Canon EOS 50D: Minus points
-Bad fringing on supplied lens
-New CA mode for the ultra lazy (no I didn't use it)

source: ephotozine.com

Nikon Cameras

Nikon Professional Digital Camera

Executvie summary about Nikon Cameras by. Roland Jefferson

When it comes to professional-grade photography equipment, Nikon has been the top choice for many professional photographers. The choice of a Nikon professional digital camera

The first Nikon cameras, made during the early days of film photography, depended on optics from Zeiss, a German optical maker that produced some of the absolute best camera lenses. Around the middle of the 20th century, Zeiss-Nikon lenses were the standard for professional quality lenses throughout the world. Nikon’s reputation in the camera market quickly reached the top and their line of Nikon professional digital cameras is equally as good, if not better.

As market forces changed, Nikon also tries to give amateur photographers the opportunity to have the quality professional use in a Nikon professional digital camera.

Similar to the company’s Nikon professional digital camera less expensive units have made their way into the hands of serious amateurs and those that buy by brand name only. Nikon’s reputation as a top camera makers is unparalleled in the photography world.

The Nikon D80, at about $1,000 is not considered to be a Nikon professional digital camera, but shares many of the features. The Nikon professional digital camera D2X has more features than most amateurs will use in a lifetime.

You may want to read my other guide on camera digital canon