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News

Researchers unveil ‘bug-eye’ digital camera

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May 2, 2013. By: Laura Hopperton (http://www.newelectronics.co.uk)

A digital camera that functions like an insect’s eye has been unveiled by an interdisciplinary team of researchers.

The device exploits large arrays of tiny focusing lenses and miniaturised detectors in hemispherical layouts, just like the eyes of arthropods.

Its creators say it offers a nearly infinite depth of field, and believe it could be used in surveillance devices and tools for endoscopy.

“A critical feature of our fly’s eye cameras is that they incorporate integrated microlenses, photodetectors and electronics on hemispherically curved surfaces,” explained Jianliang Xiao, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at University of Colorado Boulder.

“To realise this, we used soft, rubbery optics bonded to detectors/electronics in mesh layouts that can be stretched and deformed, reversibly and without damage.”

Full article at source>

FujiFilm FinePix JZ700: 8x Zoom in 18.6mm* metallic thin body with 1080p Full HD movie, High Speed continuous shooting and Low light Performance thanks to CMOS sensor

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April 26, 2013

FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Shigehiro Nakajima) is delighted to introduce new addition to the JZ long zoom compact camera range, the FinePix JZ700, which is ideal all-round-stylish camera especially with fast response concept. This camera model has superb 8x FUJINON lens in stylish body offering a focal length of 24mm** wide-angle to 192mm** telephoto, with Optical Image Stabilization to compensate camera shake and subject blurring, perfect for when the zoom is extended to the full 8x capability. Thanks to CMOS sensor, the camera can capture details perfectly, even in the most challenging shooting conditions, such as low light scenes. Full 1080p HD movies (30fps), can be captured and photographs can be taken at frame rates up to 8.0 frames/sec.*** (max. 8 frames) in continuous shooting mode. This camera has fantastic “Advanced Filter” for added creative expression, and USB charge is available.

1. Optical excellence with powerful zoom

At the very core of this model is some of the most advanced image taking technology around. This model has a powerful 8x FUJINON lens offering a focal length of 24mm** wide-angle to 192mm** telephoto. The FinePix JZ700 has moved on from a CCD sensor (in previous JZ models), to a powerful CMOS sensor. The 1/2.3-inch, 14 million pixels CMOS sensor has the ability to capture details perfectly, even in the most challenging shooting conditions, such as low light scenes.
FUJINON lenses are world renowned for their optical excellence. The FinePix JZ700 employs Optical Image Stabilization to compensate for camera shake and subject blurring, perfect for when the zoom is extended to the full 8x capability. Fujifilm’s exclusive high resolution technology ensures stunning, clear results at 16x Intelligent Digital Zoom.

2. Bursting into action

Recording pictures and movies on the go isn’t always an easy option for photographers, yet with the FinePix JZ700 it is very straightforward. Photographs can be taken at frame rates of up to 8.0fps*** at full resolution (max. 8 frames), with interval shooting reduced to as little as 0.9 seconds***, which means even fast action sports shots can be captured on these models.

3. Beautiful design and easy operability

The FinePix JZ700 is designed for the ultimate ease-of-use, but that doesn’t mean that style has been compromised in anyway. Its thin body is only 18.6mm* deep, so it’s easy to slip this into jean pockets and handbags, without taking up any room at all. Its stylish snapper benefits from easy to read, bright LCD’s for trouble-free preview and playback of images. The FinePix JZ700 has a slightly smaller 2.7-inch/230K-dot LCD screen, and can preview images with crystal clear clarity.
A new simple button layout helps make navigation on the back of the camera effortless. And charging your camera just got easier too, you now don’t have to remove the lithium-ion battery to charge it, you just plug in the USB charger and it will charge in-camera. So much simpler.

Full article at source>

Pentax Ricoh imaging defines the advanced compact segment with the introduction of the Ricoh GR Camera

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April 16th, 2013 (http://www.pentaximaging.com)

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Denver, CO (April 16, 2013) — PENTAX RICOH IMAGING AMERICAS CORPORATION today announced the RICOH GR, an ideal blend of image quality, camera size and price; setting a new benchmark for the advanced compact camera category. The new RICOH GR camera features an APS-C-sized CMOS image sensor delivering shallow depth of field, exceptional low-light performance and a wide dynamic range for remarkable images across a wide variety of shooting styles.

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Remaining true to the heritage of the multi- award-winning RICOH GR Digital series the new Ricoh GR camera combines compact size with outstanding performance.  Featuring a 16 megapixel, APS-C-sized CMOS sensor, no low-pass filter and a completely redesigned optical path the GR is built for superb image performance.  The newly developed and optimized18.3mm (28mm in 35mm format) F2.8 lens compactly provides high-resolution, wide-angle images with stunning edge-to-edge sharpness all while minimizing chromatic aberration and distortion.  The camera’s category-leading, nine-blade aperture diaphragm produces a rounded bokeh effect across a wide range of apertures.

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Advanced capabilities of the sensor and lens are supported by a newly developed GR ENGINE V imaging processor which optimizes high-sensitivity shooting to ISO 25600 minimizing noise, producing accurate, color-rich images. Finally, a newly designed lens driving mechanism and optimized AF algorithm combined with faster data readout speeds from the image sensor provide a high-speed auto focus system that can focus on a subject in a mere two-tenths (0.2) of a second. A super quick start-up time of approximately one second ensures photographers are guaranteed a speedy capture ready camera in even the most fleeting scenarios; making the RICOH GR the ideal companion camera at a fraction of the size of a DSLR.

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

Ricoh GR Digital Camera

“The introduction of the RICOH GR marks a new standard of confidence in the compact camera segment,” said Jim Malcolm, Executive Vice President, PENTAX RICOH IMAGING AMERICA. “The RICOH GR camera’s unparalleled set of robust features and hardware completely redefines what can be expected from a compact camera.”

In keeping with its advanced functionality the GR also offers a range of helpful features common to DSLRs like in-body RAW-data development and a dedicated depth of field preview button to aid in accurate image framing and quick inspection of focus prior to capturing an image. Additionally, the GR boasts full 1080p HD video recording capabilities replete with continual AF during video capture creating sharply-focused, high-quality video output.

Full Article>

Lots to like at Leica store for camera connoisseurs

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April 3, 2013 posted By Admin (http://www.downtownexpress.com)

BY BOB KRASNER | Did you hear the one about the $8,000 digital camera that only shoots in black and white? Funny, right? Leica, the revered camera manufacturer, doesn’t think so. Their M Monochrom is one of the more intriguing items in their new Soho location, which is filled with compelling merchandise for both pro and amateur shutterbugs.

The store recently opened at 460 West Broadway, between Houston and Prince Sts. It’s a collaboration between the 150-year-old manufacturer and Elliot Kurland, a Leica enthusiast and former proprietor of Kurland Photo. While the brand name instantly conjures up images of film cameras for photographers of a certain age, the company has jumped almost completely into the digital market. Although they still sell two models which use that archaic format, their focus on digital is both a leap into the modern age and a nod to the past, using classic designs to house a contemporary format.

The store’s minimalistic design space is filled not just with cameras, but books, magazines, accessories and a photo gallery. The place’s rear is designed to convert into a classroom as well. Customers are encouraged to test drive the wide variety of models available, and the extremely knowledgeable staff is more than willing to educate the consumer. Even the guy who came in and asked, “How is a Leica different from my iPhone?” got a straight answer.

Full Article>

Link to the recently opened Miami Leica Store

PENTAX MX-1 HIGH-END DIGITAL COMPACT WINS PRESTIGIOUS 2013 DESIGN AWARD

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MX-1 Receives Highly-Coveted Product Design Award at Germany’s Red Dot Design Awards

Denver, CO (March, 21 2013) — PENTAX RICOH IMAGING AMERICAS CORPORATION is pleased to announce that its MX-1 high-end digital compact has been awarded the esteemed red dot Product Design 2013 award.

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Pentax MX-1 high-end digital compact camera

Sponsored by the Nordrhein Westfalen Design Center in Germany, the red dot design awards are one of the world’s most prestigious design honors. Marking the largest number of entries to date, the 2013 red dot design committee, comprised of 37 design experts from 24 different countries, evaluated over 4,600 products on nine criteria, including; degree of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability and ecological compatibility.

Harkening back to the original PENTAX MX film camera, the classically crafted body of the MX-1 is a unique addition to the digital camera space. Its retro design features deluxe accents and luxurious details that resonate with the design community as well as photo enthusiasts.  The versatile appeal of the MX-1 is a testament to its thoughtful design process as well as its meticulously engineered photographic capabilities.

“No detail on the MX-1 was overlooked,” said John Carlson, Sr. Marketing Manager, PENTAX. “Its craft design and vintage lines are accented by genuine brass paneling that will develop a beautiful patina as it is used. Additions like metal strap lugs and aluminum lens ring add to its luxurious styling and provide the consumer with a product whose design is eclipsed only by its capabilities.”

The MX-1 features a 4X optical zoom lens offering a large maximum aperture of F1.8 to 2.5, producing sharp and crisp images in a variety of settings. Additionally, the MX-1 is equipped with a versatile and highly-useable zoom range 28mm wide-angle to 112 telephoto (in the 35mm format) and a 1/1.7 inch, 12.0 effective megapixel backlit CMOS sensor rendering impressive low-light performance.

To learn more about the MX-1 visit: http://www.pentaximaging.com/digital-camera/MX-1_Black.

About the red dot design award
The red dot design award, whose origins reach back to the 1950s, is carried out in three disciplines: the “red dot award: product design”, the “red dot award: communication design” and the “red dot award: design concept”. In 2012, more than 1,800 companies from about 60 countries handed in 4,515 products. The award – the red dot – has established itself internationally as one of the most appreciated quality seals for outstanding designs. For further information please visit: www.red-dot.de/press.

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Canon’s New PowerShot SX280 HS Digital Camera Offers A Super 20x Optical Zoom, Wireless Connectivity and GPS Technology

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Highlighted Features Include a New DIGIC 6 Processor With Impressive Low-Light Performance, Shooting Speed of up to14 Frames-Per-Second and Enhanced Image Quality

MELVILLE, N.Y., March 21, 2013 – Combining portability with high-quality image technology, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the new PowerShot SX280 HS Digital Camera with built-in Wi-Fi® technology and an impressive 20x Optical Zoom lens. Amazingly compact, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera is the first Canon camera to feature Canon’s DIGIC 6 Image Processor, the most advanced processor to date, delivering incredible detail and fast continuous shooting performance.

“Canon recognizes the importance of capturing the highest quality images possible and sharing them instantly and easily,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “The PowerShot SX280 HS Digital Camera with its impressive features provides users the resources to shoot in almost any situation and the creative tools to help capture their vision.”

Share Great Images Wirelessly

The PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera’s Wi-Fi® connectivity offers users connectivity options to share their beautiful images. With the download of the free Canon CameraWindow app1 from an Android TM or IOS® store, users can connect to both iOS® or AndroidTM smartphones and tablets2 to wirelessly transfer photos and videos from their camera to their device. This camera also has the ability to connect directly to social networking sites and to Canon’s iMAGE GATEWAY3, making photos easily accessible and ready to share. In addition, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera has the ability to connect wirelessly to computers, select PowerShot wireless cameras, and wireless PictBridge4 compatible printers, such as the PIXMA MG6320 and MG5420 Wireless Photo All-In-One printer models.

Powerful and Versatile 20x Optical Zoom Lens

Providing users the ability to capture images with stunning quality, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera features a 25mm wide angle lens and impressive 20x optical zoom (up to 500mm) providing versatility in a pocket-sized camera. At wide angle, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera is ideal for capturing lasting memories of family and friends at get-togethers as well as stunning landscapes. The lens’ super telephoto reach allows photographers to bring subjects in close and is perfect for capturing images at sporting events, distant nature scenes and wildlife in their natural habitat.

Exceptional Images and Fast Performance

The PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera is packed with a variety of impressive imaging features that help ensure moments are preserved in stunning quality. In conjunction with the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera’s 12.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor, the DIGIC 6 Image Processor creates the Canon HS SYSTEM. This system is responsible for the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera’s improved low-light performance up to ISO 6400, with minimal noise and maximum detail.

In addition, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera features advancements in Canon’s Auto Focus (AF) system with improved AF times and reduced lag over previous SX-series models. The responsive high-speed AF helps users to capture great shots as they happen, with reduced lag time. Adding to the camera’s diverse feature-set is High-Speed Burst HQ which allows for continuous, fast-action, high-resolution shots at up to 14fps. With incredible zoom capabilities, fast and responsive AF, stunning resolution and easy-to-use features, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera is the perfect camera for vacationing or capturing a morning soccer game.

Further advancements attributed to DIGIC 6 Image Processor can be experienced in movie mode, which records in MP4 format. For added flexibility, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera allows you to shoot video in a selectable frame rate of up to 60 fps or up to 30 fps resulting in smooth and rich 1080p Full HD video. Users will also notice improved image stabilization with Dynamic IS, which detects and can compensate for tilt and parallel movement (shift blur) to help create improved video clarity.

Simplicity and Convenience

The PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera offers a variety of easy-to-use features that help take the guesswork out of capturing captivating, imaginative photos. With Smart AUTO, the camera identifies an ideal image setting by intelligently selecting from one of 58 pre-defined modes. To combat blurry images, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera utilizes its Intelligent IS system, which draws from six different stabilization modes to choose the best IS for the current shooting condition. The Intelligent IS system, combined with Smart AUTO creates the camera’s Hybrid AUTO mode which helps create a beautiful and steady HD video clip (up to approximately 4 seconds) in Movie Digest mode every time a user shoots a still image while the Movie Digest mode is activated.

Adding to the camera’s diverse feature set, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera is also equipped with a built-in GPS receiver5, and when activated, data is recorded along with each image. Users can easily access the location where their photos were taken without depending on their often vague post-vacation memory. The built-in GPS receiver not only records the exact location of the shot, but users can create a visual log of their journeys on a map using the bundled Canon software.

To further help ensure that an image is never missed, the PowerShot SX280 HS digital camera comes equipped with ECO mode to assist with battery conservation. ECO Mode manages the 3.0 inch, 461k LCD screen brightness and turns off when the camera is inactive. ECO Mode can be activated for easy power preservation when an additional battery is out of reach or the moment is too exciting to put the camera down.

Pricing and Availability

The PowerShot SX280 HS Digital Camera is expected to ship in April in two modern colors: black and red, at an estimated retail price of $329.99.

For more information about the new Canon PowerShot cameras, visit www.usa.canon.com/powershot