Nikon Coolpix L2, L3 and L4
Tokyo — Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX L2, COOLPIX L3 and COOLPIX L4 entry-level digital compact cameras.
The trio combines an array of high-quality components including a 3x Zoom-Nikkor lens and a bright 2.0-inch LCD screen with in-camera image-improvement features, housed in lightweight, compact yet elegantly finished bodies.
All three cameras boast powerful 3x Zoom-Nikkor lenses with a focal range equivalent to that of a 38-116mm (114mm for the COOLPIX L4) (35mm equivalent), providing the freedom to zoom in for tight personal portraits, or out to capture expansive outdoor scenes.
The CCD delivers higher performance within tighter dimensions, greatly adding to the cameras’ compact form and portability while offering generous effective megapixel values of 6.0 for the COOLPIX L2, 5.1 for the COOLPIX L3, and 4.0 for the COOLPIX L4, ensuring the refined image clarity that users have come to expect from other members of the COOLPIX family.
All three latest L series models also feature a bright, easy-to-view 2.0-inch LCD that’s now even easier to operate with new icons and function selections as well as a new colour scheme that is easier on the eye.
The specific design aspects of the COOLPIX L2, L3 and L4 make it streamlined and comfortable to hold, with a smooth, elegant finish that suggests a much higher level of sophistication. The curved grip contributes both to the cameras’ design elegance and their shooting stability.
The strikingly compact dimensions and light camera weight make the L2, L3 and L4 ideal for taking anywhere the user may go, reinforced by the convenience of AA-size battery compatibility. One of the most widely available battery sizes in the world - in alkaline, lithium, rechargeable or other forms - AA compatibility allows near-ubiquitous use anywhere in the world.
In common with the entire current COOLPIX digital camera range, these three latest additions feature a number of Nikon inspired capabilities that give the user the power to automatically improve recorded images in-camera. Available in playback mode, for example, the D-Lighting function selects and creates a copy of images with excessive backlight or insufficient flash illumination, adding light and detail wherever needed while keeping other areas as they were.
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Nikon Coolpix P3 and P4
Nikon Corporation has further expanded its family of compact digital cameras with the introduction of the COOLPIX P3 and COOLPIX P4 models. Both combine an exceptional 8.1 megapixels of resolution with an array of advanced features, marking a leap forward in picture-taking enjoyment.
The COOLPIX P3 and P4 feature a 1/1.8-inch CCD and, because they offer 8.1 effective megapixels of image resolution, both cameras deliver outstanding imaging power that’s not only enough to show beautiful skin texture and capture the myriad colours of the human eye. It also means shots stay breathtakingly clear even when significantly enlarged.
Both models incorporate a high-quality 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor lens with a focal range equivalent to that of a 36-126mm lens in 35mm format. This provides ample opportunity to zoom in for close compositions, zoom right out to capture breathtaking scenery and even enjoy macro shooting from as close as 4cm.
Perhaps the most exciting element of the COOLPIX P3 and P4, however, is the inclusion of Nikon’s innovative VR (Vibration Reduction) capability. Originally developed for Nikon SLRs, lens shift VR capability is available in two modes that compensate for camera movement to realize a shooting experience akin to shooting at shutter speeds three stops faster.
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Canon EOS 30D
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 21 February, 2006: Canon today announces the EOS 30D, replacing the award winning EOS 20D. Retaining the 5fps, 8.2 Megapixel performance of its predecessor, the upgraded camera enjoys a larger, wider viewing angle 2.5” LCD, extended 100,000 shutter cycle durability, spot metering, and a variety of refinements designed to enhance the photographic experience. Targeted at an increasingly discerning population of serious creative photographers, the EOS 30D replaces a camera that already claims a significant share of the Western Europe D-SLR market, which grew by 120% in the last 12 months*1.
EOS 30D body only €1,399
EOS 30D and EF-S 18-55mm lens €1,499
The EOS 30D features
- 8.2 Megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor
- 5 fps and 30 large JPEG frame burst
- 2.5”, 230K pixel, 170º wide viewing angle LCD screen
- Picture Style image processing parameters
- Spot metering and High Precision 9-point AF system
- DIGIC II image processor with 0.15 sec start-up time
- Digital Photo Professional RAW processing software
- 100,000 cycle shutter durability and rugged magnesium alloy body
- Simultaneous RAW and JPEG recording
- Wide 100-3200 ISO range
- E-TTL II Flash
- PictBridge compatibility
- Complete compatibility with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX-series Speedlites
- USB 2.0 Hi-Speed and Video Out connectivity
“A rapidly expanding population of serious and semi-commercial creative photographers is helping drive EOS growth,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “As well as putting many high-end pro features into their hands, the EOS 30D becomes a launching pad into the world’s most comprehensive interchangeable lens system and huge range of flash units and accessories.”
Improved performance
Many improvements over the EOS 20D are made in response to EOS 20D owner feedback. Along with the larger screen, improved durability and 3.5% area spot metering, these include Canon’s Picture Style pre-sets, Canon’s in-camera image processing standard. Picture Styles can be likened to selectable film types for different photographic expression (see appendix ‘Technologies Explained’). Frame rate is selectable between 5 and 3fps and photographers are given finer control over exposure, with ISO settings now adjustable by 1/3 stop increments rather than whole stops. A Print/Share button is included and the camera features new advanced PictBridge functionality . The maximum number of images in a folder is increased from 100 to 9,999, while the in-built flash has been upgraded to match the 100,000 shutter cycle durability, an increasingly important feature in the digital age.
Speed and image quality
The EOS 30D features Canon’s award winning CMOS sensor technology, with large 6.4µm2 pixels for wide dynamic range with low noise. Any remaining fixed pattern and random noise is dealt with by on-chip noise elimination circuitry. A low-pass filter in front of the sensor reduces false colour and moiré effects, while an infrared filter suppresses red fringing caused by sensor reflections and fog. The camera features Canon’s DIGIC II processor now found across the digital EOS range. DIGIC II maximises speed and image quality by processing uncompromisingly complex colour rendition algorithms, clearing the buffer at high speed. (For more on CMOS and DIGIC II, see appendix ‘Technologies Explained).
EOS: The system
One of the EOS 30D’s greatest advantages is the EOS system: compatibility with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses, EX-series Speedlites and EOS accessories such as the Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E1. The EOS 30D’s EF-S lens mount allows connection to Canon’s range of lighter and wider angle lenses, including the new wide aperture EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM standard zoom lens. Indicative of Canon’s commitment to lens development is the release today of the exceptionally fast EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM, for low light and extremely narrow depth of field photography. For high-speed processing of lossless RAW images and complete capture-to-print workflow management, the EOS 30D also comes with Canon’s latest Digital Photo Professional software (see appendix ‘Technologies Explained).
Battery grip
To extend the EOS 30D’s 750 shot *2 battery life and increase handling options, the camera is compatible with the BG-E2 battery grip. The BG-E2 takes two Lithium-Ion battery packs for up to 2,200 *3 frames or six AA batteries *4 in the supplied BGM-E2 battery magazine. For easy vertical shooting, the BG-E2 provides additional shutter release, main dial, AE lock/FE lock and AF point selection controls.
EOS Range
Canon’s current EOS range now includes:
EOS-1Ds Mark II - 16.7 Megapixels, 4 fps
EOS-1D Mark II N - 8.2 Megapixels, 8.5 fps
EOS 5D - 12.8 Megapixels, 3 fps
EOS 30D - 8.2 Megapixels, 5fps
EOS 350D - 8.0 Megapixels, 3fps
Software
As well as the latest Digital Photo Professional RAW image processing software, the EOS 30D comes with Canon EOS Solution Disk, containing the new EOS Utility (integrating remote capture software), plus the latest versions of ZoomBrowser/ImageBrowser and PhotoStitch.
The EOS 30D includes membership of Canon’s online photo album, CANON iMAGE GATEWAY with 100MB of space for image uploads and photo sharing *5.
*1 GfK, EU11, 12 months until Nov 05, year on year
*2 According to tests carried out under CIPA industry standard test conditions
*3 When shooting at 20° without flash
*4 Shooting capacity with AA batteries is lower when compared with the Battery Pack BP-511A. See specifications for battery type compatibility
*5 CANON iMAGE GATEWAY is not available in all European countries, please see www.cig.canon-europe.com for available countries
Canon PowerShot S3 IS
My PowerShot S1 IS, feels a little older now. Thankfully, the leap from the S2 to the S3 was not as drastic as the leap from the S1 to the S2, so for those of you that have the S2, this is not the time where you have to upgrade.
Canon recently announces the release of the 12x optical zoom PowerShot S3 IS. Successor to the popular PowerShot S2 IS, the latest addition to the PowerShot S-series incorporates a 6.0 Megapixel CCD sensor, Canon’s renowned optical Image Stabilizer technology and video functionality rivalling that of dedicated digital video camcorders. Sporting a striking new finish in gunmetal grey, the compact PowerShot S3 IS answers the demands of advanced photographers with several improvements over its predecessor, including an increased sensitivity range of ISO 80 to ISO 800, a larger 2.0″ vari-angle LCD screen, widescreen (16:9) recording, new movie features and an additional Sports mode.
The PowerShot S3 IS features:
- 12x optical zoom lens with USM and UD lens element
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- 6.0 Megapixel CCD
- Larger size 2.0” Vari-angle LCD
- 30fps VGA movies with stereo sound and Photo in Movie feature
- DIGIC II, iSAPS and Flexizone AF/AE for fast, precise results and 2.3 fps continuous shooting performance
- 20 shooting modes and My Colors photo effects
- High ISO Auto and ISO 800 for low light flexibility
- Widescreen (16:9) recording
The PowerShot S3 IS caters for serious photo enthusiasts seeking extended zooming flexibility and fully featured movie recording in a versatile compact digital stills camera.
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Nikon Coolpix S5 and S6
Nikon Corporation is delighted to announce two exciting new cameras – the COOLPIX S5 and S6. The stylish models have been built with the sharing and enjoyment of digital photography in mind, combining high-quality imaging performance with a striking wave-surface design, the ability to improve images in-camera, outstandingly large LCDs and a powerful new Pictmotion function that allows users to create entertaining in-camera shows.
The brand new Pictmotion function lets users create much more than just a slideshow – indeed it enables a radically new form of in-camera entertainment. This allows users to select favourite images and movie files, pick a style, and then select a music file from one of the five pre-installed files in the camera - or even add their own music via PictureProject for Windows only - to suit the show. Pictmotion then automatically analyses all these elements to produce highly entertaining shows that are coupled with pace and transition selected to match the chosen music and style.
These shows can then be played back anywhere, anytime on the ample-sized LCD monitors (COOLPIX S5: 2.5-inch; S6: 3.0-inch), and because each of these monitors offers a surprisingly wide viewing angle of 170° (both horizontal and vertical), such in-camera entertainment can be enjoyed by everyone at the same time. Both cameras also feature Auto Image Rotation, which detects pictures that have been taken with the camera held vertically, automatically rotating them to suit in-camera LCD playback.
With the COOLPIX S5 and S6, image quality is a top priority: both cameras offer a 1/2.5-inch CCD and 6.0 effective megapixel resolution to produce images that stay sharp even when significantly enlarged. They also feature a high-quality 3x Zoom-Nikkor ED lens with a range of 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) that gives the photographer the flexibility to zoom out for beautiful landscapes, zoom in for tightly-composed portraits, and enjoy macro photography from as close as 4cm.
Both the COOLPIX S5 and S6 have been specially designed to be visually appealing as well as easy to use. The eye-catching wave-surface designs are more than just about great styling - their thin, compact dimensions and form make the COOLPIX S5 and S6 really comfortable to hold.
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Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z60
FEBRUARY 21 2006, LONDON, UK–CASIO ELECTRONICS CO. LTD., in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announced the release of a new addition to its stylish and high-resolution EXILIM ZOOM digital camera series. The simple to use EX-Z60 offers 6.0 megapixel images and a 3x optical zoom packed into a slim body enhanced by rounded edges. The camera features a large, easy-to-see 2.5” LCD monitor as well as the Anti Shake DSP, which along with the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions considerably reduces the incidence of blurred images due to moving subjects or shaky hands, ensuring that beautiful images can be created and enjoyed by anyone. The EX-Z60 comes with many other convenient and user-friendly features, including Easy Mode, a simplified camera menu that facilitates effortless picture taking.
The EXILIM line is a culmination of CASIO’s core technologies of miniaturization and digital technology resulting in a smaller, higher resolution camera. EXILIM has led the current digital camera trend of stylish, compact and fast action functions. The EX-Z60 is the latest in CASIO’s pursuit of a digital camera that is both high tech and hassle-free, bringing the fun and enjoyment of digital photography to everyone.
In addition to its compact and stylish design, a noteworthy EX-Z60 function includes Revive Shot, which refreshes faded colours of old photos by bringing them back to life in digital format, automatically adjusts for obliquity even when photos are shot while still in the album. The Rapid Flash function enables three consecutive, high-speed flash photos in only one second, ensuring that no special moments are missed. The Easy Mode setting provides a simplified, easy to understand, andconvenient version of the settings menu and camera interface, designed especially for first time users but also helpful to those who prefer a basic camera settings interface as well. The BEST SHOT button enables convenient, one-touch access to 33 scenarios chosen from an image menu and providing the user with a wide range of camera settings for taking hassle-free photos every time.
The new EX-Z60 is a stylish and easy to use digital camera that takes high quality images and comes loaded with the latest features and functions. CASIO continues to bring the fun and versatility of digital photography to users everywhere.
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Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z850
UK–CASIO ELECTRONICS CO. LTD., in conjunction with its parent company CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. announces the release of the latest addition to its EXILIM ZOOM digital camera series with the stylish, compact, and high-resolution EX-Z850. Offering high quality 8.1 megapixel photos, the EX-Z850 includes a 3x optical zoom, and offers both manual aperture and shutter speed priority AE options for advanced users who prefer to create customized images. The impressive 2.5” Super Bright LCD generates approximately 1,200 cd/m2 of luminescent output, making the monitor even easier to view when outdoors.
The EX-Z850 includes the latest version of the EXILIM Engine, featuring the Anti Shake DSP which considerably reduces the incidence of blurred images due to shaky hands or moving subjects, so you only have to worry about which shots to take, not how they will come out. In response to user’s high demand, the EX-Z850’s Super Life Battery supports 440 shots per charge*, providing convenient, long-lasting usability.
Notable new features on the EX-Z850 include flash functions for a variety of settings and situations, including; Rapid Flash, which enables three flash photos in only one second to completely capture a given moment; Soft Flash, which prevents overexposure of subjects photographed up close; and High Power Flash, which ensures that subjects are properly illuminated even when photographed as far away as approximately 12.1 metres. The EX-Z850 also includes Revive Shot, which refreshes faded colours of old photos by bringing them back to life in digital format, automatically adjusts for obliquity even when photos are shot while still in the album.
The EX-Z850 represents the latest technology and functions the EXILIM digital camera line has to offer. Easy to use automatically or customizable to user specifications, this camera offers the stunningly high quality images and versatility that comes only from CASIO.
*according to CIPA standards
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Canon PowerShots A420, A430 and A530
Canon today announces the release of three fun, easy and affordable cameras – the PowerShot A420, PowerShot A430 and PowerShot A530. The new additions to the popular PowerShot A-series range offer consumers an outstanding combination of easy-to-use features, solid construction and excellent image quality at an entry-level price.
Key features
- PowerShot A420 – Ultimate ease of use and affordability with a 4.0 Megapixel CCD, 3.2x optical zoom (approx. 11x combined), 15 shooting modes, VGA movies and 5-point AiAF auto focus.
- PowerShot A430 – Available in four fun colours with a 4.0 Megapixel CCD, 4.0x optical zoom (approx 14x combined), 15 shooting modes, VGA movies with sound, AV out and flexible 9-point AiAF focusing.
- PowerShot A530 – Offering impressive performance with a 5.0 Megapixel CCD, 4x optical zoom (approx. 16x combined), 17 shooting modes, VGA movies with sound, 9-point AiAF and ISO 800 for improved low-light flexibility.
All three cameras incorporate Canon’s acclaimed DIGIC II processor and iSAPS technology for rapid processing speeds, highly responsive controls and superb image quality.
Sitting just below the PowerShot A540 – also released today – in the PowerShot A-series range, the cameras will appeal to first time digital camera buyers as well as experienced photographers looking for a second take-anywhere camera.
“Since the launch of the PowerShot A5 in 1998, the A-series has helped millions of European consumers switch to digital,” explains Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “With these new additions to the range, Canon is making high quality digital photography more accessible than ever before.”
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Canon Powershots A700 and A540
Canon today releases two new PowerShot cameras that combine ease of use with creative flexibility – the PowerShot A700 and PowerShot A540. The 6.0 Megapixel PowerShot A700 defines a new level of performance for the A-series range with a 6x optical zoom lens featuring a real-image optical viewfinder. The PowerShot A540 delivers 6.0 Megapixel resolution and a high performance 4x optical zoom lens. Both cameras feature an extensive range of creative shooting modes and are compatible with optional converter lenses for extended versatility.
The PowerShot A700 and PowerShot A540 pack a vast array of additional high-end features into a remarkably compact space, including:
- Canon’s DIGIC II image processor and iSAPS technology for fast, superb results
- Accurate focusing with FlexiZone AF/AE1 (PowerShot A700) and 9-point AiAF1
- ISO 800 shooting
- Widescreen (16:9) stills recording
- 30fps VGA movie recording
- 2.5″ LCD with Night Display and Grid Line Display
With its powerful optical performance and rich feature set, the PowerShot A700 is the new flagship of the A-series range. The versatile PowerShot A540 is the replacement to last year’s popular PowerShot A520.
“The PowerShot A-series range stands for performance, ease of use and affordability,” explains Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “By broadening the range with these fully featured cameras, Canon is putting advanced photography into the hands of the mainstream consumer.”
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Canon PowerShot SD600 and SD630
Canon today announces the release of two new jewels in the Digital IXUS crown – the Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65. The two cameras continue the IXUS tradition of fusing cutting-edge technologies and superb build quality with compelling camera design.
Featuring a high resolution 2.5″ LCD screen, the steel-bodied Digital IXUS 60 draws on original IXUS designer Yasushi Shiotani’s ‘box and circle’ concept to achieve a look of classic elegance. The innovative Digital IXUS 65 sports a massive 3.0″ LCD, unique Touch Control Dial and a two-tone finish in brushed silver and ebony black.
Both cameras incorporate leading edge features into ultra slim bodies, including:
- 6.0 Megapixel resolution
- 3x optical zoom 35–105mm (35mm equivalent) with UA lens
- DIGIC II, iSAPS and 9-point AiAF for fast, sharp results
- 16 shooting modes
- My Colors in-camera photo effects
- 30fps VGA movie clips with sound
- High ISO Auto and ISO 800 for flash-free indoor shooting
- Widescreen (16:9) still image recording
The Digital IXUS 60 and Digital IXUS 65 sit above the Digital IXUS 55 in the IXUS range and will appeal to style-conscious consumers seeking large displays, advanced functionality and great image quality in a compact and elegant camera.
“These new additions to the Digital IXUS range exemplify everything IXUS stands for – leading design, innovative technologies and outstanding performance,” said Mogens Jensen Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe.
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