Five Cyber-shots debut including 50x zoom Sony HX400V, the RX10 alternative for the budget-minded

By: Mike Tomkins February 11, 2014 (http://www.imaging-resource.com)

Sony has just lanched five new Cyber-shot camera models for the CP+ tradeshow in Japan. The Sony HX400V ultrazoom is the most fully-featured, while the Sony H400 and Sony H300 pare down on features and cost. The Sony WX350 puts a big lens in a pocket camera, and the Sony W800 focuses on photographers for whom a bank balance is the big decider.

Let’s start with the most interesting of the group. Did you feel a tingling in your wallet when Sony announced its RX10 large-sensor, long-zoom camera, but you just couldn’t justify the cost? If so, the company’s hoping you’ll be willing to forgo the lustworthy sensor and lens pairing of that camera, in favor of the just-announced HX400 ultrazoom. With similarly SLR-like styling, the 20.4-megapixel Sony HX400V is aimed at photographers who’re still looking for a reasonably sophisticated feature set, but who don’t want the bulk and complexity of interchangeable lenses or the cost and relatively more limited zoom range of the enthusiast-friendly flagship.

Full article and pictures at the source>

New Olympus® SP-100 Is a Super Zoom with an Eagle’s Eye for capturing distant action

NEW OLYMPUS® SP-100 IS A SUPER-ZOOM WITH AN EAGLE’S EYE FOR CAPTURING DISTANT ACTION

The SP-100 Is the First Camera with a Built-In Dot-Sight* for Easy Framing, Electronic Viewfinder, Improved Grip and Refined Controls for Outstanding Telephoto Results

Olympus SP-100 Ultra Zoom Camera

Olympus SP-100 Ultra Zoom Camera

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., January 29, 2014 — Olympus introduces a breakthrough in its Ultra Zoom camera line-up with the new STYLUS® SP-100, the world’s first-ever camera with a built-in dot-sight*, enabling you to easily track moving subjects, like a soccer game or a flying bird. This technology will allow you to record smoother videos and will help you to not lose sight of your subject. Once the subject is still, then you can frame and shoot. The dot-sight combines with the SP-100’s newly developed 24-1200mm** 50x optical Ultra Zoom lens, or 2400mm 100x Super Resolution zoom, for capturing detailed shots of moving, distant subjects.

The SP-100’s dot-sight is mounted just above the built-in high-resolution, 920,000-dot, bright LCD Electronic View Finder and helps the user keep the subject in the frame by offering a wide-angle view of the scene on its semitransparent mirror. The dot-sight stows away for portability and pops up immediately to easily track any subject without the need to adjust the zoom, so the shooter never has to miss another image by having to retrace and compose. Olympus carefully designed the location of the EVF and the shape of the eyepiece for minimal contact between the photographer’s face and the camera body, giving even greater ease of shooting.

The high-performance optics combine with a 16-Megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a next-generation TruePic VII processor to get the very best out of every shot, regardless of lighting conditions or subject movement. The SP-100’s powerful lens shift image stabilization mechanism significantly reduces camera shake even at the highest zoom. Image stabilization is also effective in the Super Macro function when approaching subjects as close as 1 centimeter, even with the 50x optical zoom.

A new focus-limit button lets users focus only in a set range when turned on, and focus only in the distance when set to off. The SP-100 is also equipped with an AF lock feature and manual focusing. A full range of shooting manual modes (P/A/S/M) is also available for customization of exposure parameters like ISO, shutter speed and aperture via the sub dial. The deep grip provides optimal handling during shooting, while the quick-response, single-finger-operation control dial optimizes fast shooting when using the high-resolution electronic viewfinder. The camera includes an additional zoom lever on the left side of the lens, enabling users to hold the camera securely like a DSLR for left-thumb operation of the zoom while operating the shutter button with the right index finger.

The SP-100 captures video with natural motion in smooth 60p recording at 60 frames per second in full HD (1080) and high-speed recording (HS120fps with resolution of 640×480, or HS240fps with 320×240). The Multi-Motion Movie image stabilization compensates for blurring that occurs when shooting video while walking or panning across a scene.

Users can add additional creative expression through eleven available Art Filters that can also be used when shooting Full HD movies. The optional Toshiba FlashAir™ card connects the camera to a Wi-Fi-enabled smartphone or PC to easily import, view and share images.

* As of Janaury 29, 2014
**35mm equivalent

U.S. Pricing and Availability
The Olympus STYLUS SP-100 will be available in March, 2014.
Estimated Street Price:
$399.99 (Available in Black)

To find out more about the SP-100, and for a complete list of specifications, visit the Olympus website at:http://www.getolympus.com/us/en/digitalcameras/long-zoom/sp-100.html.

Journalists interested in more information about the Olympus SP-100, review unit and high-resolution images should contact Elin Boman, Mullen, at eboman@mullen.com, or Jennifer Colucci, Olympus Imaging America Inc., at Jennifer.Colucci@Olympus.com, or visit http://asset.olympusamerica.com/login/.

ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a leading provider of digital imaging and audio technology solutions, noted for their precision optics and ground-breaking technologies.

For more than 90 years, Olympus has innovated and developed best-in-class products that expand the boundaries of product design and functionality, empowering consumers and professionals alike to capture their stories. These include:

For more information about Olympus and their award-winning products, please visit www.getolympus.com or connect with us and other fans like you through our social and photographic communities: @getolympus on FacebookTwitterYouTubePinterest,Instagram and Flickr, as well as at www.penready.com.

Specifications and design are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

All trademarks and registered trademarks listed herein are the property of their respective holders, in the U.S. and/or other countries.

©2014 Olympus Imaging America Inc

Samsung reveals Galaxy Camera 2 ahead of CES 2014

By Lexy Savvides   |   January 3, 2014 (http://www.cnet.com.au/)

The first model is the successor to the Galaxy Camera, an Android-powered hybrid that merges the photo-taking prowess of a traditional camera with the connectivity of a smartphone. Called the Galaxy Camera 2, the new model has the same 21x zoom lens and 16-megapixel sensor as its predeecessor, though it comes with a faster 1.6GHz processor and 2GB of RAM.

On top of this, the camera runs Android Jellybean 4.3 and comes with NFC for easier pairing with other connected devices. Like the earlier model, the new version has a 4.8-inch touchscreen at the back for composing, reviewing, sharing and editing photos. A microphone and headphone jack make it convenient for use as a media player or Skype-ready handset, though you can’t make actual phone calls from the camera.

Also announced was the NX30, an update to its NX range of interchangeable lens cameras. It comes with an electronic viewfinder, 20.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, dual image stabilisation for video recording and a very useful feature of being able to output a clean HDMI feed.

Full article and picture at the source>

Pinhole, Printed – a 3D printed pinhole camera

A Kickstarter Project by: by Clint O’Connor

Pinhole – a 3D printed camera. Get one or print your own – either way, take magical photographs from a new, yet old perspective.

 

Sellout!

For 3D printing enthusiasts, the files and kits are available, or you can get photos or just back my project.  It may only be a dollar, but every backer is an additional encouragement to continue my work.

For photography enthusiasts, I have sold out of the Flyers that I’m making for Kickstarter (see Update #7).

Do keep an eye on the pledges, though. Occasionally someone cancels and you might get lucky.

If you’ve missed the Kickstarter cameras and want one, contact me throughwww.pinholeprinted.com on the Contact form and let me know if you want a Flyer or Clipper (panoramic).  I will get back to you about printing some more after the Kickstarter rewards have shipped.

All Stretch Goals Hit!

Funded in 13.5 hours – that is awesome for a photography project! We have also hit all the stretch goals.

Link to Kickstarter Project Page>

Nikon Announces the Revolutionary Retro Style DSLR Df Camera with Special Edition AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.8G Lens—Now Available for Pre-Order at B&H Photo Video

The Nikon Df is designed exclusively for taking still photos, enabling high reliability, advanced functions and elegant camera control in Nikons thinnest, lightest FX-format DSLR. Dedicated mechanical dials for shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, exposure compensation, exposure mode and release mode all help to focus on what matters—achieving creative vision.

 

NYC, NY (PRWEB) November 05, 2013

The new Nikon Df is a thrilling FX-format DSLR with a unique mechanical operation system and classic styling, along with Nikon’s flagship digital camera technology. A perfect blend of classic and modern, the Nikon Df offers a more personal shooting style that will inspire a new relationship with the camera—which one may have known and lost over the years—and reawaken the joy for taking photos.

The Nikon Df DSLR features an FX-format 16.2MP CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 3 image processor. The Df has an expanded sensitivity of ISO 50-204800, 5.5 fps continuous shooting, and a 39-point AF system with nine cross-type points. Dedicated exposure control dials along the magnesium-alloy body enable intuitive handling, the pentaprism viewfinder and 3.2″ 921k-dot LCD avail a choice of means for monitoring, and a metering coupling lever permits the use of both AI (Aperture Index) and non-AI lenses. This means that in addition to supporting current AF-S, AF-D, and AF NIKKOR lenses, past manual focus, non-AI lenses can also be used without any modification.

The Nikon Df is designed exclusively for taking still photos, enabling high reliability, advanced functions and elegant camera control in Nikons thinnest, lightest FX-format DSLR. Dedicated mechanical dials for shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, exposure compensation, exposure mode and release mode all help to focus on what matters—achieving creative vision.

Full press release, photos and video at source>

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

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 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.