Category Archives: Press releases

Vision Research Advances the Boundaries On The World’s Fastest Ultrahigh-Speed Digital Camera

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The Phantom v2511 Increases Performance, Flexibility and Light Sensitivity with A Market-Leading 25,600 Frames-Per-Second at 1 Megapixel Resolution

07/09/2014

Vision Research, a leading manufacturer of digital high-speed imaging systems, has announced the release of the Phantom v2511, the most light sensitive, flexible and highest-performance ultrahigh-speed camera on the market.  The Phantom v2511 can capture up to 25,600 frames-per-second (fps) at full 1 megapixel resolution, making it the fastest member of the Phantom ultrahigh-speed digital camera line.  The v2511 also features improved sensitivity, providing better picture quality and more lighting flexibility.

“One of the challenges to capturing footage at ultrahigh speeds is ensuring adequate lighting.  At Vision Research, we are dedicated to helping our customers mitigate this challenge, and have developed our new proprietary sensor and supporting camera innovations to increase the ISO measurement of the v2511, while also increasing the camera speed,” comments Rick Robinson, Director of Marketing for Vision Research. “Vision Research takes pride in leading the high-speed industry with the world’s fastest cameras, and now better picture quality and the extra flexibility needed to make shooting in low-light and difficult-to-light scenarios less difficult.”

The new Phantom v2511 offers sensitivity as high as ISO 6400 (daylight illumination) for color images and ISO 32,000 for monochrome images. In addition to lessening the challenges of low-light scenarios, the improved ISO gives consumers the option to use a faster shutter speed, which can reduce motion blur and result in clearer images. Users also may find that they can now use lenses with smaller apertures, which are typically less expensive and easier to acquire.

Since the new Phantom v2511 is built on the same proven platform as the current Phantom ultrahigh-speed 1Mpx cameras, it is fully compatible with all current accessories and software options. This eliminates the additional expense of purchasing new accessories and requiring additional training time, which are both often synonymous with equipment upgrades.

As with all Phantom ultrahigh-speed cameras, the new Phantom v2511 sets the bar in camera connectivity. The camera back panel provides easy access to all camera connections and controls, including two HS-SDI ports and a 10GB Ethernet connection along with the standard 1GB Ethernet connection.

Phantom CineMag Workflow

The v2511 comes equipped with Vision Research’s breakthrough CineMag interface, which allows the user to save a high-speed shot from camera memory to non-volatile storage in a matter of seconds. With the ability to save 1GB/s of data to an attached CineMag, a 96GB shot can be saved in about 1.5 minutes.

Advanced Features

The new v2511 also has many advanced features that have become standard as a result of customer feedback, providing specific features that many scientists and researchers have asked for.  These features include an image-based auto-trigger that allows the camera to be triggered from the motion of the live images, making infrequent or unpredictable events easier to record on camera.

The v2511 also has an internal mechanical shutter that makes it easier to obtain a black reference for truer high-quality images.  If users are recording back-to-back, they will want to make use of the Multi-Cine option, which allows them to partition internal memory into segments and make shorter recordings without missing any action.

On the other hand, customers, who need to record many occurrences of an unpredictable event, can use the continuous recording feature.  This allows a recorded cine to automatically save to a disk drive on a connected PC and then re-arms the camera to catch the next occurrence.  If a customer is using the v2511 camera in a measurement application like Particle Image Velocimetry or Particle Tracking Velocimetry, it has extremely accurate timing with super-low straddle time of 500 ns.   It also operates in burst mode to capture images at precise moments, and allows a customer to turn off the fan to eliminate vibrations, which may interfere with some experiments.

The Phantom v2511 starts shipping in late August.  In addition, Vision Research operates AMEcare performance sites around the world for truly global service, training and support. For more information please visit: www.visionresearch.com/Service–Support/.

To find out the latest on Vision Research and its high-speed cameras, follow it on Twitter at @PhantomHiSpeed, LinkedIn at Vision Research, Facebook at “visionresearch” or keep up to date with the innovations on the Vision Research blog at www.visionresearch.com/blog

 

Eyefi Connected Now Available in More than 300 of the World’s Best Selling Digital Cameras

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Seamlessly transfer, organize, sync and share photos from smartphones, tablets and PC’s anytime, anywhere

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., June 24, 2014 — Eyefi (www.eyefi.com), the global leader in digital camera connectivity, today announced that more than 300 digital camera models now include Eyefi Connected functionality. In achieving this milestone Eyefi Connected is by far the most widely adopted technology for connecting digital cameras to a wireless SD card, providing customers with the easiest and most capable connectivity solution on the market.

Eyefi Connected firmware is embedded into cameras enabling them to instantly detect when an Eyefi SD card is inserted. This functionality allows the photographer to control the wireless features using the in-camera menu options to seamlessly transfer pictures to their smartphone, tablet or PC, wirelessly. Eyefi Connected cameras also include features such as the ability to power toggle the WiFi radio, select when photos transfer and advanced power management to maximize battery life.

Eyefi Connected has been adopted by virtually every digital camera manufacturer, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Casio, Ricoh, Pentax, JVC, Olympus and Panasonic – representing nearly 100 percent of all digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras sold in 2014.

“Our research shows that even with the explosive growth in mobile photography, many consumers still rely on digital cameras for important picture-taking occasions and special events,” said Alan Bullock, associate director of connected imaging trends at InfoTrends. “Eyefi brings WiFi connectivity to nearly any digital camera and with Eyefi Connected technology built-in to most cameras, Internet connectivity is a seamless part of the camera’s function.”

This achievement coincides with the one year anniversary of Eyefi Mobi – the company’s flagship product offering. In April, the company launched Eyefi Cloud, making Eyefi Mobi the world’s first WiFi SD card to automatically transfer photos from the camera to the cloud, making every picture instantly accessible, anytime, anywhere—to enjoy, curate and share securely and privately.

“Eyefi Connected is one of the most important benefits we offer our camera partners and consumers,” said Matt DiMaria, CEO of Eyefi. “When combined with Eyefi Mobi and Eyefi Cloud, photographers can enjoy the full power and quality of their digital cameras with the convenience of their smartphone, tablet or smart TV”.

About Eyefi

At Eyefi we are passionate about photography. We build products and services that help photographers experience the beauty and clarity of life’s moments anytime, anywhere. We are dedicated to creating products and services that enable consumers to enjoy a secure, magical experience beginning the moment they take a picture and extending to anywhere they wish those images to go. Our pioneering, patented, technology and products provide the only way to get high quality pictures from any digital camera to any Internet enabled display device, instantly. Eyefi products have transferred over 1 billion images from digital cameras to the Internet, mobile devices and PCs.

Eyefi’s headquarters is in Mountain View, California and our products are available throughout the world. Our investors include NTT Docomo, Opus Capital, Shasta Ventures and TransLink Capital. Eyefi was founded in 2005.

For more information about eyefi, please visit www.eyefi.com or @EyefiCard.

Media Contact:

Danielle Coe
SHIFT Communications for Eyefi
eyefi@shiftcomm.com
415.591.8448

The New LUMIX DMC-FZ1000 with a 1-inch, High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and 16x Optical Zoom for the Ultimate Picture Quality

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Press Release by: Panasonic USA

The New LUMIX DMC-FZ1000 with a 1-inch, High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and 16x Optical Zoom for the Ultimate Picture Quality

Featuring the World’s First 4K Video Recording Capability*

*For a digital compact camera as of June 12, 2014

NEWARK, NJ (June 12, 2014) – Panasonic is proud to introduce the new DMC-FZ1000 (FZ1000) that boasts a 1-inch, High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and 4K video recording capability as the latest member of the popular LUMIX FZ series. The FZ1000 will be available at www.shop.panasonic.com and valued channel partners.

A newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT 16x optical zoom lens is integrated that achieving high resolution edge to edge. It also produces stunningly beautiful defocus together with the large-sized MOS Sensor.

The 1-inch large 20.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor dramatically improves S/N (signal to noise) ratio, making it possible to capture a clear image with minimum noise even when it is shot at a high ISO. The Venus Engine is also newly developed to feature multiple noise reduction systems such as Multi Process NR, Random Filter and Aperture Filter, to achieve high color reproduction and high image quality with a natural look.

The FZ1000 incorporates 4K (QFHD 4K: 3840×2160, up to 30 fps in MP4) video recording capability for the first time with a digital compact camera*1. Panasonic is also proposing a new solution to capture 3840×2160 8-megapixel equivalent images from the 4K video footage which is normally difficult to photograph. Also, videos can be recorded in full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p in AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4 / H.264) format or MP4 at 60p. A powerful 16x optical zoom with 5-step speed control enables smooth zoom adjustment even while video recording. The 5-axis HYBRID O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer)+ with Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration.  Creative Video mode, High Speed video in full-HD at 120fps, Time Lapse Shot and Stop Motion Animation are all available for a variety of video effects..

The FZ1000 also features DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology, for its focusing accuracy and improved Light Speed AF of approx. 0.09 sec*2. Together with the quick start-up time of approx.0.66 sec, the DMC-FZ1000 never misses a  shooting opportunity.   High speed burst shooting can be shot at 12 fps in 20.1-megapixel full resolution. It also offers a max.1/4,000 (mechanical) and 1/16,000 (electronic) shutter speed.

The FZ1000 boasts a high-precision, high-speed OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) LVF (Live View Finder). With 0.39-inch 2,359k-dot high resolution in 4:3 aspect ratio, the new LVF boasts approx.1.88x / 0.7x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view. The 3.0-inch 921k-dot free-angle LCD with its wide-viewing angle rotates 180° to the side and tilts 270° up and down. Operability is also improved with a newly added zoom lever, zoom ring and drive mode dial for more intuitive operation.  For more creative freedom, Creative Control, Creative Panorama and Photo Style are available.

The FZ1000 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with a simple operation. The FZ1000 also comes with a 3.5mm jack for an external microphone connection. In addition, RAW data can be processed in camera.

*1As of June 12, 2014

*2*Based on the CIPA standard, when using Live View Finder.

1. Bright Leica DC Lens 25-400mm F2.8-4.0

Panasonic newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens system (F2.8-F4.0) with 16x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 25-400mm). Comprised of 15 elements in 11 groups, including 4 ED lenses and 5 aspherical lenses with 8 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit achieves high MTF value.

2. Large 1-inch 20.1MP MOS Sensor for Amazing Defocus Control

The DMC-FZ1000 incorporates a 1-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor with 20.1-megapixel high resolution. The new 1-inch sensor is 4x larger than conventional 1/2.3-inch sensor in size. This new large MOS Sensor improves S/N ratio, resulting in dramatic reduction of noise even when shooting at ISO 12,800.

The Venus Engine image processor was developed for DMC-FZ1000 to dramatically boost its performance with a new quad-core CPU providing high speed signal processing required for rich 4K video recording . The advanced Multi-process NR (Noise Reduction) applies effective noise reduction and detail processing according to each component frequency. Plus, newly added Random Filter granulates chromatic noise to be blended into the image even more naturally.

 3. The World’s First Digital Compact Camera Recording High Quality Video in 4K

The LUMIX FZ1000 is not only for capturing still images but also high quality video in 4K. It features outstanding 4K video recording capability (QFHD 4K: 3840×2160, up to 30 fps (NTSC) / in MP4*1. Users can enjoy recording video in ultra high definition and even grab an 8-megapixel frame as still image. After recording video in 4K, users can cut out a single frame to choose the best still image in rich resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels.  The FZ1000 should be used with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3).  The UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) guarantees a constant minimum write speed of 30MB/s to respond to market needs for 4K video.

*1 4K video can be recorded up to 29 minutes 59second. Use SDXC/SDHC Memory Card compatible with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) when using high bitrate video recording mode of 100 Mbps or greater.

4. Super-fast LUMIX DFD Focusing Technology

For even faster response and higher mobility, the FZ1000 newly integrates a dedicated motor into the focus system to achieve extremely fast focusing. In addition, the Light Speed AF is further enhanced with an adoption of DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology which even shortens the time to set focus. It calculates the distance to the subject by evaluating 2 images with different sharpness level while consulting the data of optical characteristics of the current lens in a moment. As a result, the DMC-FZ1000 achieves ultra high speed AF of approx.0.09 sec*2 at wide end and even approx.0.17 sec at tele-end.*3 Together with the quick start-up of approx.0.66 sec and short release time lag, the DMC-FZ1000 never lets photographers miss fleeting shooting opportunities.

*2*Based on the CIPA standard, when using Live View Finder.

*3Panasonic in-house examination (infinity to 2m shooting time lag)

5. Integrated Smartphone/Tablet Wi-Fi® for Remote Imaging Control

The FZ1000 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology camera to offer more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing. With the Panasonic “Image App”, remote shooting of both stills and video is possible by using the smartphone/tablet for a remote shutter with a monitor. You can release the shutter, zoom, focus and set shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation with a smartphone / tablet.

6. Other Features

 3cm Macro Shooting

Stunning macro shots can be shot with minimum focusing distance of 3cm.

 Highlight/Shadow Control

The Live View function is also advanced digitally making it possible to adjust highlight / shadow separately with the front/rear dial. 3 patterns of settings can be customized in addition to 3 patterns of preset.

 RAW data development in Camera

The FZ1000 is capable of processing RAW images in camera.

 Level Gauge

The DMC-FZ1000 is equipped with Level Gauge to detect the horizontal / vertical angle of view.

iA+ (Intelligent Auto Plus) Mode for Photo and Video

For beginners, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode supports taking beautiful pictures with a variety of shooting-assist functions including AF Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition, Intelligent ISO Control and Food Recognition.

Optional Accessories

A GN58 powerful External Flash (DMW-FL580L) is newly added to the LUMIX optional accessories which allow high speed charging of approx.1.7 sec. Not only wireless control but also LED video light functions are available. The Stereo / Shotgun Microphone (DMW-MS2) which enables stereo/shotgun switch. The 62mm diameter of ND Filter (DMW-LND62), PL Filter (DMW-LPL62) and MC Protector (DMW-LMCH62) are also offered for more creative freedom.

•The “AVCHD” is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.

• “AVCHD Progressive”, “AVCHD”, the “AVCHD Progressive” Logo and the “AVCHD” Logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.

•Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google Inc.

• IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.

•All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective corporations.

•This unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only use SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. You cannot use SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC/SDXC Memory Card on another device, be sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)

•SDHC Memory Cards and SDXC Memory Cards can be used only in equipment that is compatible with their respective formats.

  • If the computer being used does not support SDXC Memory Cards, a message prompting you to format may appear. (Doing so will cause recorded images to be erased so do not choose to format.) If the card is not recognized, please refer to the below support site.

http://panasonic.net/avc/sdcard/information/SDXC.html[Open New Window]

•Some accessories are not available in some countries.

•The use of recorded or printed materials that are protected by copyright for any purpose other than personal enjoyment is prohibited, as it would infringe upon the rights of the copyright holder.

•Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

To learn more about Panasonic’s line of LUMIX Digital Cameras and other consumer electronic products please visit www.shop.panasonic.com and www.lumixlounge.com.  You can also follow Panasonic on Twitter (@PanasonicUSA) and Facebook.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

Based in Newark, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. The Company’s portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray Disc players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness, Personal Care and Beauty products.

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Editorial Contacts

Dan Unger (Media Relations)         201-392-4571     dan.unger@us.panasonic.com

Alyssa Hershfield (Cohn & Wolfe)  212-798-9527     alyssa.hershfield@cohnwolfe.com

The Nikon Photo Contest, 2014-2015: Call for Entries

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Put your lens on the world

By: Nikon. June 12, 2014 (http://www.nikon.com)

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce that entries for the Nikon Photo Contest 2014-2015 will be accepted between September 15 and December 15, 2014.

Nikon Photo Contest (NPC) is one of the world’s most prestigious international photo contests. Held since 1969, the goal behind the contest is to provide an opportunity for photographers around the world to communicate and to enrich photographic culture for professionals and amateurs alike. The name of the contest was changed to “Nikon Photo Contest” the last time it was held (34th time), and with 99,339 entries—the largest number of entries in the history of the contest—from 153 countries and regions around the world judged by a globally diverse panel of 17 judges, Nikon Photo Contest is a truly international contest.

Full press release at the source>

Canon Broadens Its Imaging Lineup with Two New EF Ultra Wide-Angle Zoom Lenses and White EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera

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High Performance Lenses Offer Optical Image Stabilizer and a Refined Compact Design; Lightweight EOS Rebel SL1 SLR Kit in White Available Soon

Canon EOS SL1 White

Canon EOS SL1 White

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 13, 2014 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce two new wide-angle lenses and a new white color model of the EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR camera, just in time for summer. The introduction of the new Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM and the EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM wide-angle zoom lenses provides Canon digital SLR camera users with the ability to capture stunning photographs and videos of spacious landscapes and many other iconic scenes. The EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM lens is the first L-series wide-angle zoom lens equipped with image stabilization, providing professional photographers with expanded creative options, especially in low light. The EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM wide-angle lens is an affordable option for entry-level DSLR users looking to enhance their images and videos with unique and creative perspectives.

Since its introduction in March 2013, the EOS Rebel SL1, the world’s smallest and lightest digital SLR camerai, has provided photographers of all levels with a high-performance digital SLR in a small, compact camera body. The new white EOS Rebel SL1 Camera Kit is complemented by a matching white EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and offers a stylish alternative for photographers who like to stand out from the crowd.

“Having just reached a milestone of producing 100 million EF lenses, Canon is dedicated more than ever before to its heritage of creating outstanding optics for photographers of all levels,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “The EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM and EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM ultra-wide zoom lenses, when paired with Canon EOS Digital SLR cameras, are powerful tools that can enhance any photographer’s creativity. And new to the U.S. market, the white EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR camera with its companion white lens, provides users with high-quality images in a small, compact body that is easy to bring along on all their summer adventures.”

EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM

Fully compatible with all EOS Digital SLR cameras including full-frame models like the EOS 5D Mark III and EOS 6D Digital SLR cameras, the compact and lightweight EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM ultra wide-angle zoom lens offers high image quality and an Optical Image Stabilizer (IS) for shake correction up to four shutter speed stepsii, making handheld shooting possible in dimly lit scenes where camera shake can occur. In addition, an intelligent CPU in the lens automatically selects the optimal IS mode by recognizing differences between normal handheld shots and panning. This technological advancement supports a greater range of creative expression for photographers in otherwise difficult shooting situations, such as dark indoor scenes where flash photography is prohibited, or in places where a tripod cannot be used, or when shooting at low ISO speeds.

The EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM ultra wide-angle zoom lens features newly developed, high quality Canon optics that incorporate three GMo (Glass-Molded) aspheric lens elements, including a large-diameter aspheric lens, which help improve image quality by correcting aberrations. Two additional UD lens elements help reduce chromatic aberration from edge to edge throughout the entire zoom range for excellent image quality with high resolution and contrast. The lens also features enhanced fluorine lens coatings on the front and rear lens surfaces to repel dust particles and help ensure superb color balance while minimizing ghosting. The inner focusing and ring USM offer silent, fast and accurate autofocusing. Full-time manual focus adjustment is available in autofocus (AF) mode. A nine-blade circular aperture creates beautiful, soft backgrounds. A new compact four-group zoom system provides a minimum focusing distance of 0.28m/11 inches throughout the zoom range and a maximum magnification of 0.23x at the telephoto end for outstanding performance.

EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Created to be a great companion lens for the Canon EOS 70D, EOS Rebel T5i, EOS Rebel SL1 and other EOS Digital SLR cameras with APS-C size image sensors, the EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM lens expands Canon’s line of Stepping Motor (STM) lenses. For entry-level users, this affordable wide-angle lens offers the ability to shoot creative, high-quality images and video in tight indoor locations such as a cozy corner table in a restaurant or unique vacation photos where the subject is close up, yet the surrounding area can still fill the frame.

The EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM ultra wide-angle zoom lens features a compact and lightweight design with an Optical Image Stabilizer for shake correction up to four shutter speed stepsiii, enabling handheld shooting in low light. The lens’ stepping motor and newly designed focus mechanism are ideal for Canon EOS Movie Servo AF (available on EOS 70D, EOS Rebel T5i and EOS Rebel SL1 cameras) to provide smooth, quiet and continuous autofocusing during video shooting, as well as when taking photos.

The EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM ultra-wide zoom lens features one UD lens element to help reduce chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range for excellent image quality with high resolution and contrast. It also features enhanced multi-layer lens coatings to help ensure superb color balance while minimizing ghosting and flare, while a seven-blade circular aperture creates beautiful, soft backgrounds.

Compared to the EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM wide-angle lens, the EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM ultra wide-angle zoom lens is nearly 20% smaller and 38% lighter. When combined with a compact digital SLR, such as the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 camera, the smaller size makes it very convenient to carry with the camera when traveling. The compact four-group zoom optical system provides a maximum magnification of 0.15x at the telephoto end. The wide-angle zoom range of the new EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is a perfect complement to the currently available EF-S 18-55mm IS and EF-S 55-250mm IS STM zoom lenses.

New Lens Availability

The Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM and the EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM ultra-wide zoom lenses are scheduled to be available in June for estimated retail prices of $1,199.00 and $299.99, respectively. For more information about Canon EF Lenses visit: www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/ef_lens_lineup.

White EOS Rebel SL1 Kit with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens Availability

The Canon EOS Rebel SL1 and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens kit in white is scheduled to be available at the end of June for an estimated retail price of $749.99. For more information about the white Canon EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR Camera kit and the full list of product specifications, visit www.usa.canon.com/eos.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $36 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2013† and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2014. In 2013, Canon U.S.A. has received the PCMag.com Readers’ Choice Award for Service and Reliability in the digital camera and printer categories for the tenth consecutive year, and for camcorders for the past three years. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss and follow us on Twitter @CanonUSA.

For media inquiries, please contact pr@cusa.canon.com.

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† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

i Among digital SLR cameras which use APS-C size equivalent sensors. As of March 1, 2014, based on Canon’s research.

ii Based on CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards. Testing performed using EOS-1D X digital SLR camera at focal length of 35mm

iii Based on CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards. Testing performed using the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera at a focal length of 18mm (29mm in 35mm equivalence).

Canon Achieves A World First As Production Of EF Interchangeable Lenses Surpasses 100 Million Mark

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MELVILLE, N.Y., April 30, 2014 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc., is celebrating an impressive lens-manufacturing milestone with production on April 22, 2014 of the Company’s 100-millionth EF-series interchangeable lens for EOS cameras*-an EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X.

Canon EF Lens-Series Line up

Canon EF Lens-Series Line up

Canon 100 Million EF Lenses Commemorative Logo

Canon 100 Million EF Lenses Comm. Logo

Production of interchangeable EF lenses for the Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras began in 1987 at the Company’s Utsunomiya Plant and now includes manufacturing bases at Canon Inc., Taiwan; Canon Opto (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.; and Oita Canon Inc. in southern Japan. In May 2013, EF lens production surpassed the 90-million-unit mark and now, approximately eleven months later, Canon is commemorating its first-in-the-world1 achievement of having manufactured 100 million interchangeable lenses.

Canon’s proprietary EF lenses, launched in March 1987 along with the EOS SLR camera system, have continued to evolve since their introduction, leading the industry through the incorporation of a wide range of innovative technologies, including world’s firsts2 such as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, and a multi-layered diffractive optical (DO) element. In May 2013, aiming to further expand the realm of photographic expression, the Company introduced the EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X, the world’s first3 super-telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4X extender allowing for a continuous zoom range from 200mm to 560mm (f/5.6).

In recent years, in addition to updating such models as super-telephoto lenses ideal for sports and nature photography along with zoom lenses that offer a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range, Canon has launched multiple entry-level interchangeable lenses equipped with stepping motor (STM) technology that help deliver smooth and quiet autofocus performance during video recording. As a result, the Company’s extensive EF lens-series lineup currently comprises a total of 89 models.4 To further enhance its lens offerings, Canon has expanded the optical technologies incorporated in its EF lenses into new categories, launching EF Cinema Lenses for digital cinematography in January 2012.

Furthermore, during the 11-year period from 2003 to 2013, Canon maintained the No. 1 share worldwide within the interchangeable-lens digital camera market and, in February 2014, marked another manufacturing milestone as combined production of its film and digital EOS-series interchangeable-lens cameras surpassed the 70-million-unit mark.

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

For more information on this milestone, please visit: http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/standard_display/lens_ef100mill_miscpage

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $36 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2013† and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2014. In 2013, Canon U.S.A. has received the PCMag.com Readers’ Choice Award for Service and Reliability in the digital camera and printer categories for the tenth consecutive year, and for camcorders for the past three years. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss and follow us on Twitter @CanonUSA.

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* Refers to EF Lenses, EF-S Lenses and Cinema Lenses produced worldwide from 1987 to First Half of 2014.

1Among interchangeable lenses as of April 21, 2014. Based on a Canon survey.

2Among interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras, based on a Canon survey.

3Among interchangeable lenses for interchangeable lens cameras (SLR cameras, compact-system cameras), based on a Canon survey.

4Including two EF lens extenders and three models available outside of Japan. As of April 30, 2014.