New Samsung makes light of weighty problem

Posted on May 8, 2014 by admin

By: Charles Wright. May 7th 2014. (http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au)

It’s been more than a decade since we last invested in a camera – a Canon EOS 10D DSLR (digital single lens reflex). Until we spent a couple of days in Hobart among a group of journalists evaluating Samsung’s new NX30 last month, we had no idea what we’d been missing out on.

Fitted with its 18-75mm L Series lens – a beautiful piece of glass – the Canon 10D weighs just over 2.2kg. Carry that around your neck every day for a couple of weeks, as we did during one trip to Paris, and you begin to wonder whether you really do want to keep a photographic record of your travels.

As it happens, that’s precisely what happened to us. After Paris, we rarely took the 10D out of its bag.

The NX30 has introduced us to a much more bearable lightness of being and, happily, that has rekindled our interest in photography.

Full article at the source>

Why Buy a Digital Camera When You Can Rent?

Posted on April 22, 2014 by admin

By: Lauren Goode. April 21, 2014 (http://recode.net)

It’s a well-reported trend: The digital camera market is getting hit hard by smartphones.

And yet, after looking at another set of dim, noisy smartphone photos from a wedding reception last weekend, I can’t help but think there are still situations in which a digital camera — or at the least, a more powerful sensor — is a good thing.

It’s those scenarios that Lumoid wants to capitalize on. Lumoid is a new camera-rental company that’s targeting wedding-goers, new parents, vacationers and photo hobbyists. Its prices range from $5 to $25 per day per item, except for accessories, which are listed for purchase.

Full article at the source>

Canon celebrates production of 250 million digital cameras

Posted on March 28, 2014 by admin

TOKYO, Japan, March 27, 2014—Canon Inc. today celebrated a camera-manufacturing milestone as combined production of the Company’s compact digital and interchangeable-lens digital cameras surpassed 250 million units on January 31, 2014

The EOS 70D, featuring
innovative autofocus technology

Canon Powershot G1 X Mark II Digital Camera

The PowerShot G1 X Mark II,
targeting the highest levels
of imaging performance

Canon, a company that has continuously produced cameras since its founding in 1937, began producing and marketing digital cameras in the mid 1990s. In 1995, when film cameras were still the norm, Canon launched its first digital camera, the professional-model EOS DCS 3* digital SLR camera.

At the time, compact cameras were leading the digital shift within the camera industry. In 1996, Canon announced its market entry with the introduction of the PowerShot 600, the Company’s first compact digital camera. In 2000, amid the market’s rapid growth, Canon launched the IXY DIGITAL (PowerShot S100 or DIGITAL IXUS in markets outside of Japan), featuring a ground-breaking compact, stylish body design that set the trend for compact digital cameras.

Subsequent models released by the Company reflected the diverse evolution of compact digital cameras with models becoming increasingly compact and lightweight, achieving higher sensitivity, incorporating more enhanced automatic functions, and realizing greater network connectivity. This evolution fueled robust growth as Canon’s cumulative production of compact digital cameras surpassed the 100-million-unit mark in 2008, and broke through the 200-million-unit threshold in December 2013. Aiming to further extend its production volume, in 2014 Canon launched a new lineup of compact digital cameras that let users enjoy high value-added photography, including the PowerShot G1 X Mark II, designed to deliver the highest levels of imaging performance, and the new-concept-model PowerShot N100.

As for interchangeable-lens digital cameras, while the market in the mid 1990s had consisted primarily of professional models, with the start of the 2000s, the segment rapidly took off. In 2000, Canon launched the EOS D30, developed as a “next-generation standard digital SLR camera” to satisfy the needs of a wide user base, from advanced photo enthusiasts to professional users. In 2003, Canon again led the market with the introduction of the entry-level-model EOS Kiss Digital (EOS Digital Rebel or EOS 300D), which set the stage for dramatic expansion of the market.

Since that time, Canon has successively launched innovative products that capitalize on the Company’s strengths in CMOS sensors, image processors and EF lenses, such as the professional-model EOS-1 series and EOS 5D series targeting advanced-amateur users, as well as the compact-camera-system EOS M series. As a result, in 2005, production of Canon interchangeable-lens digital cameras reached 25 million units and, in February 2014, surpassed 50 million units. Among the new products worthy of note that contributed to the realization of this milestone were the EOS 70D, featuring innovative Dual Pixel CMOS AF autofocus technology, and the entry-level EOS Kiss X7 (EOS Rebel SL1 or EOS 100D), which combines a ground-breaking compact, lightweight body design with advanced basic performance.

Canon will continue to refine its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable cameras and lenses that cater to the varying needs of photographers—from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals—while contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.

* The EOS DCS 3, jointly developed by Canon and Eastman Kodak, was also sold under the Kodak brand.

FUJIFILM Launches Powerful Entry-Level X-A1 Compact Camera for Consumers — Available for Pre-Order at Adorama

Posted on September 17, 2013 by admin

New X-A1 features an ultra-modern, easy-to-operate camera design as well as 16.3 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and Robust EXR Processor II for exceptional picture quality and outstanding ergonomics.

New York, NY (PRWEB.com) September 17, 2013

Fujifilm X-A1 Digital Camera

FUJIFILM today announced the launch of the X-A1 Compact System Camera (CSC), a new entry-level model within the FUJIFILM premium X-Series camera line. Available for pre-order from leading camera and electronics retailer Adorama (http://www.adorama.com/results/Fuji-X-A1) for a starting price of 599.00 USD, the ultra-light X-A1 CSC gives consumers an affordable entry point into FUJIFILM’s X-Series line of digital cameras. In addition to the outstanding image quality thanks to the large 16.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, the X-A1 also features well-placed operational buttons and dials, a high definition 3” tilting LCD screen, and wireless image transfer capabilities for easy operation and quick photo sharing.

Customers can order the new X-A1 in either indigo blue or black and will receive their camera with the FUJINON XC16-50mm (35mm equivalent to 24-76mm) F3.5-5.6 OIS zoom lens. A versatile lens that is ideal for a wide range of photographic subjects, the XC16-50mm lens consists of 12 all-glass elements in 10 groups including 3 aspherical elements and 1 ED element. The lens also features seven round-edged aperture blades, which offer 17 stops in 1/3 EV increments for precise aperture control.

Also announced and available starting in November, the all-new FUJINON XC50-230mm (35mm equivalent to 76-350mm) F4.5-6.7 OIS lens adds even more versatility to the X-Series line of compact system cameras by offering an expanded zoom range that delivers consistently outstanding optical performance throughout. The XC50-230mm uses optical image stabilization to ensure superb performance and effectively reduces blur when shooting at longer focal lengths and in low light. The new lens is available at 399.00 USD in either black or silver.

FUJIFILM X-A1 CSC Feature Highlights

Large 16.3 Megapixel APS-C sensor and EXR Processor II
The FUJIFILM X-A1 uses an APS-C sensor and powerful EXR Processor II that captures rich tones, breathtaking dynamic range and stunning low-light images using its extended ISO range of up to 25600. With the X-A1, users can set the sensor sensitivity from ISO 200 to as high as ISO6400 in 1/3 step increments, to obtain remarkably clear images even when shooting indoors and at night.

Together with the EXR Processor II, the X-A1 also gives customers fantastic speed with a start-up time of 0.5 seconds in Quick Start Mode, a shutter time lag of 0.05 seconds and a maximum burst speed of 5.6 frames per second.

Compact performance and advanced features
The X-A1 body weighs just 11.6oz and is about a third of the size of a traditional DSLR body. With a slim profile of 1.3” at its trimmest point, the X-A1 enjoys a highly portable form factor.

The X-A1 also features a 3” tilting high-resolution LCD screen with 920,000 dots for easy image viewing and framing at various angles. The 3” LCD monitor tilts at variable vertical angles, facilitating both low-angle and high-angle shots, on or off a tripod.

The X-A1 uses a built-in high-precision flash and Super Intelligent Flash technology that uses scene recognition and automatically controls flash strength to reduce highlight clipping.

Easy Image Transfer with WiFi® button
The X-A1 includes a WiFi button that lets users transfer high-quality photos and movies to social media sites for easy sharing from the camera to smartphones, tablets and computers.

To connect the X-A1 to a smartphone or tablet, users can download the free FUJIFILM Camera Application to their iPhone™ / iPad™ or Android™ smartphone or tablet device to transfer up to 30 pictures at a time from the X-A1. The app also lets users download movies, expanding the range of options available for enjoying pictures taken with the camera.

Intuitive design and easy operation
The X-A1 has its key operation buttons and dials positioned on the right side of the camera’s rear panel for easy use and quick picture taking. The Mode Dial for selecting the optimum setting for each scene gives access to the Advanced SR Auto function, which automatically recognizes each scene and selects the best settings for sharp and clear images.

The Advanced Filter function and Film Simulation modes give users a range of creative filters and film effects to apply and achieve unique and artistic looks.

One of the first retailers to get a sneak preview of this brand-new camera, Adorama’s team of experts has developed a review article, available now at the Adorama Learning Center (http://www.adorama.com/alc/0014312/blogarticle/Fujifilm-X-A1-Entry-Level-MILC-First-Look).

Pricing and Availability
The FUJIFILM X-A1 CSC kit with XC16-50mm (24-76mm) F3.5-5.6 OIS lens, and separately, the XC50-230mm lens, are both available for pre-order at Adorama (http://www.adorama.com/results/Fuji-X-A1). Orders are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Credit cards are not charged until the X-A1 is shipped.

ABOUT ADORAMA

ADORAMA: More Than a Camera Store
Adorama is more than a camera store – it’s one of the world’s largest photography, video, imaging and electronics retailers. Serving customers for more than 30 years, Adorama has grown from its flagship NYC store to include the leading online destination for photography, imaging and consumer electronics. Adorama’s vast product offerings encompass home entertainment, mobile computing, and professional video and audio, while its services include an in-house photo lab, AdoramaPix, pro equipment rental at Adorama Rental Company, and the award-winning Adorama Learning Center, which offers free education for photographers in video channels such as the popular Adorama TV.

Adorama is listed as Forbes.com’s “Best of the Web” and in the Internet Retailers Top 100, and is the official Photo and Electronics Retailer of the NY Giants.

Visit ADORAMA at http://www.adorama.com.

Review: Sony RX1

Posted on April 19, 2013 by admin

by Abram Goglanian on 04/18/2013 (http://www.thephoblographer.com)

Sony’s RX1 is the first of a new breed of compact camera; the very first compact digital camera with a full-frame 24×36 sensor. I had the opportunity to spend a few weeks with this digital pioneer and the following consists of my thoughts and experiences.

Sony RX1Digital Camera

Full Article>

Panasonic’s New Digital Camera Offers NFC and Wi-Fi Along with a Removable Lens

Posted on April 13, 2013 by admin

12. Apr, 2013 by Steve in Digital Cameras (http://digital-cameras-planet.com)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 Digital Camera

This week Panasonic introduced the world to its most compact LUMIX G series interchangeable lens camera with the introduction of the 16 megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6. The new compact mirrorless camera has highlighted features that include Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) support that’s integrated with the newly popular NFC (Near Field Communication) technology which you can find in many of the new smartphones being sold today.

According to Panasonic the new GF6 camera will use both Wi-Fi and NFC to allow users to wirelessly share photos as well as capture images with the GF6 remotely using devices like smartphones or tablets. In recent years noticeable number of new digital cameras have been released with the built-in ability to wirelessly send photos captured with digital cameras to computers or other Wi-Fi enabled devices, the GF6 is the first mirrorless interchangeable lens camera to have both Wi-Fi and NFC support built-in.

With the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 consumers will be able to leverage the Wi-Fi and NFC technologies in the following ways:

Panasonic’s Instant Transfer function – GF6 owners will be able to wirelessly send photos captured with their new cameras to paired smartphones or tablets the instant they release the shutter button.
Remote capture – With Wi-Fi and NFC working together Panasonic assures their new GF6 will be able to be used remotely by smartphone or tablets that support the two technologies (most do). With this feature you can use your smartphone/tablet as a viewfinder (with up to 30 fps picture performance) and snap pictures or start recording video without having to touch the shutter button on your camera. Range and performance for the remote capture function depends on the quality of the wireless network the paired devices are using.
Send photos and video to your home computer – GF6 owners aren’t limited to only using the cameras wireless file transfer functions with smartphones and tablets, files can also be sent to desktops and laptops over Wi-Fi. Users of the GF6 will need a wireless router setup and have software installed on their computers as well to make everything possible.
Send photos wirelessly to synced social networks like Facebook™, Flickr™, Picasa™, Twitter™ or YouTube™ with the web-based Panasonic service LUMIX CLUB.
Wirelessly display images on a HDTV that’s connected to a DLNA receiver box with the GF6′s built-in Wi-Fi Direct technology. DLNA is wireless content streaming technology that allows Wi-Fi Direct capable devices to wirelessly stream photos and videos onto a TV that’s connected to a DLNA receiver or has one built-in.