Sony Announces Two Bloggie Touch Pocket Camcorders

September 1st, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News

Sony has announced two new additions to their pocket camcorder lineup—the sleek-looking MHS-TS20 and MHS-TS10 Bloggie Touch cameras. The Bloggie Touch camcorders offer full 1920×1080 high definition MP4 video recording, 12.8MP photos and a 3-inch capacitive touch screen. The Bloggie Touch cameras also come with an Exmor CMOS sensor and an F2.8 wide angle lens. The MHS-TS20 and MHS-TS10 offer 8GB and 4GB of embedded memory, which amounts to about four hours of high definition movie recording. They will be available for $200 (8GB) and $180 (4GB) in October. More images and info from Sony below.

Read the rest of this entry »

Canon Announces EOS 60D D-SLR

August 26th, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News

Canon has just announced the brand new EOS 60D—an 18MP D-SLR with in-camera RAW processing and full HD video. The 60D comes with a 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen; a new multi-control dial, which streamlines the layout and navigation of controls; and “for the first time ever in an EOS camera, the EOS 60D features in-camera processing of RAW image files, new reduced resolution image copies, and post-processing creative image filters for exceptional flexibility in digital image rendering.” The new 60D also comes with creative image filters, which they’ve pulled over from the PoweserShot line, to make the bridge D-SLR more attractive to photographers who maybe haven’t made the foray into the digital SLR world before. The EOS 60D will be available for $1,099.00 (or in a kit version with Canon’s EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens for $1,399.00) toward the end of September. More info and images from Canon below.

Read the rest of this entry »

Sony HDR-CX350V Full HD Flash Memory Camcorder Review

August 23rd, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Camera Reviews, Sony HDR-CX350V Camcorder

Sony HDR-CX350V Full HD Flash Memory Camcorder
Text and Images by Tony Gomez

Earlier this year Sony introduced an entirely new line of High Definition HandyCam camcorders. Depending on the model, these new camcorders use hard disk, internal memory, or removable flash memory—or a combination thereof. I recently tested one of the best of these new models, the HDR-CX350V, which is a 32GB internal/removable flash memory model that shoots 1920 x 1080 Full HD video and sells for $799.99 (MSRP).

Features

The HDR-CX350 is quite small, due to the flash memory feature. It’s only 2-1/8” D x 2-5/8” H x 5” L, and weighs a very comfortable 11 ounces. But don’t let its small size fool you. Packed inside is a powerhouse of features:  Full 1920 x 1080/60i HD video with a 7-megapixel Exmor-R CMOS imaging sensor, 7MP max/5MP (widescreen) still resolution, a Sony high quality G-lens with 12X optical/160X digital zoom, Geotagging with built-in GPS receiver, Face Detection/Face Priority, Optical Steady Shot with Active Mode, and a Mini-HDMI port (for viewing of all captured video and stills on an HD monitor with a mini-HDMI to standard HDMI cable (not provided).

Initial Settings

The CX350 has an easy, logical UI. Switch between Video and Photo modes by simply touching the Mode button at the back of the camcorder. Flipping the LCD screen open powers the unit on. A 2.7-inch TouchPanel LCD allows the various controls to be accessed. Adjust the Movie Image quality to Standard or HD (1920 x 1080). In HD mode there are four settings, with HD HQ being the default. HD HQ gives the best compromise between image quality and recording time, whereas HD FH and HD LP give longer recording times respectively, but at reduced High Definition quality. Select the recording medium—either 32GB internal (default), or Sony’s Memory Stick Pro Duo (if you have one inserted).

In the Shooting Set menu you can set the SteadyShot to be either Standard or Active (for improved image stabilization). The Low-Lux sensitivity setting can also be activated, making it very handy for getting better exposure when shooting under low-light conditions. Face and Smile Detection settings are also available to lock into faces for the best focus.

For shooting still pictures, the Photo Settings menu is where you adjust image size (7MP/5MP WideScreen/2MP/ or .3MP VGA mode) as well as Flash Mode, Flash Level, and RedEye Reduction (when the built-in flash is used). Still image capture is also available simultaneously while shooting video, but at reduced 3MP resolution.  Just press the handy PHOTO button on the top next to the zoom button or on the LCD panel to automatically capture a JPEG image while shooting video.

Low-Light Recording Features

In addition to recording video within a well-lit daylight scene, the CX350 is excellent for recording in low-light/night conditions. Two built-in features make this happen—the Exmor-R sensor and the Low-Light Sensitivity setting. The Exmor-R sensor is Sony’s revolutionary CMOS sensor that allows video capture with relatively little increase in noise. This is remarkable because the sensitivity required to capture such an image in low-light would normally boost any noise to an unacceptable level. My video shot at Universal Studios City Walk in Los Angeles at night demonstrates the impressive low-noise capture.

12X Optical Zoom and Active Mode Image Stabilization

The CX350 has Sony’s high quality G-Lens with a remarkable 12X optical zoom range (30mm – 357mm equivalent). At 30mm it’s a very practical wide angle lens so you can get more in the frame. Another nice feature is the zoom control, which is smooth and responsive to finger pressure, and can travel its full range from a fast three seconds to a slow 13 seconds.

Handholding your camcorder has always been a challenge to videographers because of the tendency for camera shake. Sony has long been a leader in optical image stabilization technology, in order to make those captured images relatively shake free, but now their new Active Mode for SteadyShot in the CX350 brings it to a new level. In Active Mode, three types of image shake reduction are now employed: vertical, horizontal, and lateral roll. The end result is a dramatic new level of camera shake reduction when handholding. This Active Mode shake reduction improvement was demonstrated to me when I was handholding and shooting scenes of the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge from three miles away.  And just in case you might need it, 160X Digital Zoom is available at reduced resolution.

Sony HDR-CX350V 7MP still shots (click the thumbnails to see full-size images)

Final Words

Sony has really packed a ton of practical features into the diminutive HDR-CX350V. The image quality of captured 1080i video (daylight or night) was superb on my HD TV. Still images captured were as good as any 7MP digital camera I’ve tested too. The image stabilization was significantly improved thanks to ActiveMode SteadyShot. If you want a small sized High Definition camcorder that is a real workhorse, the HDR-CX350V should fit the bill nicely.

Sony HDR-CX350V: www.sonystyle.com

Canon Announces Three New PowerShot Cameras

August 19th, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News

Canon announced today three new compact PowerShot digital cameras—the PowerShot S95, the SD4500 IS and the SX130 IS. The PowerShot S95 is the upgrade to the popular and powerful compact S90, which many professional photographers have taken on as their additional pocket cam. The new S95 boasts RAW shooting capabilities, 720p HD video capability and in-camera HDR scene mode. It will be available for $399.99 later this month.

The SD4500 IS features 10x optical zoom and full 1080p HD video mode. It also has Super Slow Motion Video Mode, capable of capturing a subject at 240fps. It will be available for $349.99 in early September.

The SX130 IS is an ultra-zoom compact with a 12x optical zoom lens and Canon’s Optical Image Stabilization technology. It also features unique creative modes, including: Miniature, Fisheye, Poster, and Super Vivid. It will be available for $249.99 in late August. See more images and info from canon below.

Read the rest of this entry »

Nikon Announces D3100 D-SLR with Full-time Auto Focus

August 19th, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News

Nikon announced today the new D3100—the world’s first D-SLR to introduce full time auto focus in Live View and D-Movie mode, in order “to effortlessly achieve the critical focus needed when shooting Full HD 1080p video.” The D3100 also boasts Nikon’s new EXPEED 2 image processor and a 14.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor. The D3100 will be available for $699.95 in September. See more images and info from Nikon below.

Read the rest of this entry »

Panasonic Announces Lumix DMC-FX75

June 2nd, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News

Panasonic has announced the 14.1MP LUMIX DMC-FX75—a “slim and stylish hybrid” digital camera that shoots High Definition video. The camera boasts a super wide 24mm f/2.2 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with 5x optical zoom, which  can be used while shooting HD video in AVCHD Lite format. To complement the high-quality video, the LUMIX FX75 also features Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audio. Pricing and availability will be announced 30 days prior to the shipping date. Check out the full release from Panasonic below.

From Panasonic:

SECAUCUS, NJ (June 1, 2010) – Panasonic announced today the new LUMIX DMC-FX75, a super-slim digital camera that packs big features, including a 24mm ultra-wide-angle F2.2 bright LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with 5x optical zoom, which  can be used while shooting High Definition video. The slim and stylish LUMIX FX75, a 14.1-megapixel digital camera is one of Panasonic’s high-performing hybrid models with the ability to not only take high-quality still photos, but can also record HD video in the AVCHD Lite format.

“The Panasonic LUMIX FX75’s 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens is a rare feature to have on a compact camera – especially one this small, so we are packing a lot of value and quality into this slim and stylish digital camera,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Most consumers value the benefits of a long zoom, but understanding the importance of a wide-angle isn’t as known. With a 24mm ultra-wide angle like the one on the LUMIX FX75, photographers have a wider range of composition possibilities with approximately 213% larger viewing space compared to that of a 35mm camera.”

The LUMIX FX75 can record HD video in the AVCHD Lite format, which allows almost double the recording time in HD quality compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format.  When recording in AVCHD Lite, the content is perfect for viewing on an HDTV, like a Panasonic VIERA Plasma.  To complement the high-quality video, the LUMIX FX75 also features Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audio. For those users who are recording HD video to view on a computer screen, they also have the option to record in Motion JPEG, as well as WVGA (848×480) and VGA (640×480).

The LUMIX FX75 adopts full touch-screen operation, which allows for Auto Focus (AF) to quickly be set to the subject by simply touching the large 3.0-inch 230,000-dot LCD. Also, the user can click onto a subject with a single touch, and the FX75 then tracks the subject with the AF tracking feature – even when moving. The touch-screen operation is fluid and smooth – whether in record or playback mode.  While recording, once the frame is composed, users can simply touch the area they want focused before pressing the shutter button. In playback mode, users can drag the image across the screen with their finger to browse the collection of photos, as though it is a page in a book.

Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, a hallmark on all LUMIX digital cameras, is further advanced in the LUMIX FX75 with the addition of a new Motion Deblur mode*1  by updating the motion detection (Intelligent ISO Control) and brightness control (Intelligent Exposure) to gain the highest shutter speed possible. Combined with the outstanding brightness of the lens and the POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), the LUMIX FX75 reduces blur created from handshake or the subject moving. The iA suite of technologies include: POWER O.I.S., Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure – all which are engaged when in the iA mode.  Panasonic’s iA is also available while shooting video and include: AF Tracking, POWER O.I.S., Face Detection and Intelligent Scene Selector.

The Panasonic LUMIX FX75 features the Venus Engine HD II image processor, which helps assure superb image quality in both photo and video recording. It also incorporates Intelligent Resolution technology to perform the optimum signal processing based on the part of a picture to give a whole image outstanding, natural clearness with fine details.  At the same time, the multi-task image-processing engine Venus Engine HD II supports a super-fast response time. The shutter release lag time is as short as approximately 0.005 of a second in 1-area AF, and the camera’s quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities together with the Sonic Speed AF.

With the Intelligent Resolution technology, three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation – are examined pixel by pixel and automatically detected to enhance any degradation created during the digital zoom process or in high-sensitivity shooting. The outline areas are enhanced effectively to give the edges more clarity, while simultaneously giving a moderate accent to the textured areas so they look accurately detailed. To soften gradation areas, such as a face, the increased noise reduction system of the Venus Engine HD II is applied to make it appear smoother.  As a result of Intelligent Resolution, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and video recording.  The Intelligent Resolution technology powers Panasonic’s new Intelligent Zoom feature, which extends the camera’s zoom ratio by approximately 1.3x while maintaining picture quality – and enhancing the digital zoom and making it comparable to the quality of an optical zoom. With Intelligent Zoom, the Panasonic FX75 can reach up to 6.5x.

Other features include:

* Cosmetic Mode – takes portraits with the user’s favorite skin tone (soft skin, natural skin, summer look) and can add a degree of transparency of skin detail (low, standard, high), making it possible to take portraits with different skin tones, for example, look more sun-tanned.
* Happy Mode – option in iA that optimizes color, saturation and brightness to make both photos and movies more vivid and true to the color of the scene you memorized.
* Battery Life – the high performance Venus Engine HD II is also more energy efficient compared with the conventional Venus Engine HD, extending the battery life up to 360 shots (CIPA) on a single charge.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX75 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date.  For more information on these LUMIX models, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1The picture size may be reduced.

*Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.

*The LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company’s quality standards.

*Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

*HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

*YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.

*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 Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. You cannot use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC Memory Card on another device, be sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)

*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.

Pentax Optio I-10 Review

May 18th, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Camera Reviews, Pentax Optio I-10

Pentax Optio I-10 Review
Text and Photos by Allison Gibson

Retro Cool Compact

Similar to the white Pentax K-x D-SLR, the white Pentax Optio I-10 compact camera is eye-catching and envy-inducing—a beautiful object in the hand of the photographer. Weighing only 5.4-ounces, and measuring 1.1-inches thick, this ultra compact point-and-shoot is light and slim. And with the charming retro look of its pearl white body, the I-10 (which also comes in black) has style.

What’s Old is New

Because so many point-and-shoot cameras share similar specs and price points, manufacturers sometimes try to attract consumers by setting their cameras apart with style. Most camera makers opt to go the route of sleek and futuristic for these compacts, but Pentax has taken a look back for their style cues—back to the once beloved Pentax Auto 110 film camera. The new Optio I-10 (notice the homage to the past even with the name?) is styled after its elder—with a digital face-lift of course. At PMA in February, I had the chance to check out the old and new side by side, and the similarity is staggering. Both fit right in the palm of your hand. With the popularity of all things vintage in photography right now, such as the Hipstamatic iPhone app and resurgence of Pinhole photography, the I-10’s retro cool looks are right on trend. But how does it fare as a contemporary camera?

Beyond the Beauty

With a 12.1-megapizel CCD sensor and offering 5x optical zoom, the I-10 features much of what consumers want in a slim and stylish point-and-shoot. The 5-25mm (28-140mm equivalent) f/3.5-5.9 PENTAX zoom lens does offer a less than desirable aperture range, however. The camera’s 2.7-inch LCD screen—with a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio—is quite bright, even in direct sunlight. Though a 3-inch screen is ultimately more desirable for framing, it would have caused the camera body to be larger, and one of the I-10’s most celebrated features is its petite size.

Shooting Modes and Special Features

The I-10 features a host of subject and setting-specific shooting modes, which are accessed at the touch of the “Mode” button on a four-way D-pad to the right of the camera’s LCD. It is convenient that Pentax has chosen to not bury this menu deep in a digital folder somewhere because most users of this point-and-shoot will opt to swap modes fairly often, as the shooting environment changes from, say, Surf and Snow to Night Scene. Also included among the 24 shooting modes are: Auto Picture, Program (which allows slight tweaks to Auto such as white balance and exposure compensation), Portrait and Digital Shake Reduction (SR). There is also a mode called Digital Wide, which stitches together two pictures to create a wider image. This is not to be confused with Digital Panorama mode, which stitches together more than two images taken with the camera to create a panoramic photograph.

In addition to the point-and-shoot friendly shooting modes, there are a few features that are meant to assist in quality image capture. Another of the four-way D-pad choices takes you directly to a Focus Mode menu, where you can choose from among: Standard, Macro, Super Macro, Pan Focus, Infinity and Manual. To help the photographer avoid taking blurry pictures in challenging lighting conditions, the I-10 features a mechanical sensor shift Shake Reduction system. The Optio I-10 also features High Definition video (720p at 30fps) in .AVI format.

Interface

As I touched on above, there is a four-way control on the back of the camera, located to the right of the LCD, and owing to its petite size, there is room for few other manual controls on the body. A playback button and a button for Smile Capture and Face Detection are found above the four-way D-pad. Pentax’s “Green Button,” which is also found on the Pentax Kx, allows for a customizable quick-jump to a specific menu feature—I set it to EV Compensation. The button also doubles as the trash option when reviewing images in playback mode. To the left is the Menu button, where a fairly straight-forward set of options is presented in lists. At the top of the camera, we find the on/off button, shutter release and zoom toggle.

Beyond the D-SLR-like looks of the I-10, it carries over the feel of one in a small but important way with the raised hand grip on the front of the camera and the “leatherette” texture in the same place. I find that too many ultra compact digicams are hard to get a comfortable handle on, with their sleek body designs and slick plastic cases. The I-10 feels a lot more secure in-hand than most due to the small details of the grip and texture.

Performance

I did the bulk of my test shooting outside on a sunny day at a farmer’s market, and found that this was the ideal shooting condition for the I-10. It does well handling detail in bright spots and shadows, and focuses quite quickly on still objects in good lighting. In Auto Picture mode, with the Standard Focus option, I was able to get close-up shots with shallow depth-of-field, as it “took the guesswork out of photography” for me, as they say, reverting automatically to f/3.5 and ISO 80 to capture food displayed at a seller’s stand. When I shot the food that was inside of my farmer’s market tote, it punched up to ISO 800 in Auto mode and still maintained low noise. The results of photographing moving subjects in difficult lighting conditions were less consistent, however. At a fashion show in Malibu (a prime environment for showing off the stylish little digicam, by the way), the I-10 had some trouble tracking the fast-moving runway models under the inconsistent catwalk lighting.

The Price of Beauty

The I-10’s price that has been raising a few eyebrows since its January announcement, though I have to note that at $299.99 $249.99 (updated price) (MSRP) it’s not outrageous. People seem to expect to get everything they ever dreamed of in a camera these days for less and less money. All said, it is in the same ballpark as—or even less expensive than—some digicams with comparable specs. But I don’t like to play the spec-by-spec comparison game. It’s best to get your hands on a camera, get your eye to the viewfinder (or fixed on the LCD in this case), to judge whether it’s worth your money. You’ll need to weigh the limited aperture range against the stylish looks and ultra compact portability; the less consistent capture of moving subjects in difficult lighting against the impressively low-noise capture at higher ISOs when shooting still objects. In my estimation, the Pentax Optio I-10 packs an intuitive UI, HD video and a good zoom into its ultra compact and portable little body. Your major decision might come down to whether or not you want to commit to the camera’s unique retro look.

Pentax Optio I-10

SanDisk Announces 64GB Ultra SDXC Card

February 22nd, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, News, PMA

Here at PMA in Anaheim, SanDisk has just announced that they’ve begun shipping the 64GB Ultra SDXC card—the company’s highest capacity SD card ever, and the successor to the SDHC format cards. For video folks, the 64GB capacity SDXC, with up to 15MB/sec read speed2 and Class 4 speed rating, is ideal for capturing and storing massive 1080p HD video files and then transferring them quickly to a computer. But, as SanDisk says, “Because the SD 3.0 specification was recently released, only a handful of devices may be immediately available that support SDXC cards. However, the pace of new camera model introduction supporting the SDXC format is accelerating. Canon announced at CES that all of its new VIXIA camcorder models and PowerShot cameras are compatible with SDXC cards.” The 64GB Ultra SDXC card is priced at $349.99.

Samsung Announces TL350

February 20th, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News, PMA

Here at PMA in Anaheim, Samsung has just announced the TL350 compact camera. Compared to the simultaneously announced TL500 flagship “prosumer” camera, the TL350 boasts a 10MP CMOS image sensor and shoots full 1080p HD video.  Like the TL500, though, it also supports RAW, offers Manual control and has a 24mm ultra‑wide angle Schneider KREUZNACH lens. The TL350 will be available in Spring 2010 for $349.99. See the press release below.

From Samsung:

Anaheim, CA (February 20, 2010) – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award‑winning innovator in consumer electronics, today unveiled the TL350 – a high-speed, 10 mega‑pixel compact camera with 1080P, full-HD video recording. With a maximum video recording speed of 1,000 frames-per-second (fps) and a burst mode capable of capturing 10 full-size digital stills per second, the TL350 takes high-speed imaging to a new level for today’s consumer. Additionally, the TL350 enhances the digital imaging experience with Samsung’s Advanced Panorama Shot with Object Tracking as well as an innovative Dual Capture mode, which allows users to simultaneously take 10 mega-pixel still images while recording full-HD videos. The TL350 will be on display during PMA 2010, February 21-23, in the Samsung booth, #2227, in the Anaheim Convention Center.

“The TL350 is representative of Samsung’s strategy to lead the digital imaging industry through product innovation,” said Mr. SJ Park, CEO of Samsung Digital Imaging Company. “Consumers have expressed frustration with having to choose between shooting video or taking digital stills with their camera. With the TL350, Samsung has addressed this unmet consumer need, and now gives consumers the ability to do both simultaneously.”

High-Speed Digital Stills and Video

The TL350 allows users to capture high-quality images no matter how fast the action may be. Its advanced CMOS sensor and re-engineered DRIMeIII processor yield impressive low‑light performance and most notably, speed, giving users the ability to capture up to 10 pictures-per-second (pps) at the resolution of 10 mega-pixels. Additionally, the TL350 features a 1,000 fps (138×78), high-speed video recording mode which today’s creative consumer can use to reveal details of a fast moving event in super‑slow motion. Whether it’s used to capture an everyday moment in an astonishing new light or to analyze a golf swing, the capabilities of the TL350’s super-slow motion playback are endless.

Impressive Optics and Display

In addition to its impressive speed, the TL350 also features a high-performance 24mm ultra‑wide angle Schneider KREUZNACH lens complete with a generous 5x optical zoom. Much wider than traditional compact cameras, the TL350’s 24mm ultra-wide angle lens allows photographers to capture more of a desired scene, such as large groups of friends or family, while the 5x optical zoom will allow them to get in close when shooting from a distance. Samsung’s Advanced Panorama shot with Object Tracking will further enhance the camera’s wide-angle capabilities, ideal for the better capture of scenes such as vast landscapes. For blur‑free images, the TL350’s lens is also paired with Samsung’s Dual Image Stabilization technology.

The TL350 is equipped with a three-inch AMOLED screen providing users with a higher contrast ratio, deeper blacks and more accurate, vivid colors, even when viewed from an angle or in direct sunlight. The AMOLED display is also more efficient when it comes to power consumption, allowing photographers to maximize battery life and shoot longer on a single charge.

Features for the Advanced and Novice Shooter

The TL350 will appeal to both novice and more experienced users thanks to the combination of Smart and Manual controls. The camera’s intuitive Smart Auto 2.0 (Still & Movie) scene recognition technology will take the guess work out of taking a perfect photo or video every time; however, for those users who want to have more control over image capture, the TL350 supports RAW and offers Manual control. When set to Manual, consumers can experiment with features such as slower shutter speeds, depth-of-field and even focus.

Canon Announces Four New PowerShot Cameras

February 8th, 2010 by Allison Gibson Posted in Blog, Cameras, News

Canon today added four new cameras to their PowerShot lineup, including the 14.1MP SX210 IS, which shoots HD video (720p), and which will be available in late March for $349.99. Also announced were the SD 3500 IS, the SD1400 IS and the SD1300 IS.

From Canon:

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 8, 2010 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the addition of four new PowerShot Digital cameras, the PowerShot SX210 IS, PowerShot SD3500 IS, PowerShot SD1400 IS and PowerShot SD1300 IS, offering today’s photographer a compelling blend of cutting-edge photo capture technology and superior styling. The new PowerShot cameras offer increased shooting flexibility in a number of settings through advancements to the Smart Auto mode while offering greater photo personalization and enhanced creativity with new Scene Modes and Image effects. The addition of Fish-eye and Miniature Effect modes help photographers add a creative element or lend a humorous look and feel when capturing images of their favorite household pet or landscape scene.

From untimely blinks and awkward smirks to hard to shoot back-lit situations, the compact PowerShot SX210 IS, PowerShot SD3500 IS and PowerShot SD1400 IS cameras offer a variety of technologies to secure the best pictures under the most challenging conditions. In addition to the Face Detection self-timer, the new Smart Shutter scene mode now has Smile and Wink self-timers where the camera looks for a wink or smile which will act as the trigger and release the camera’s shutter.

The advances to Canon’s Smart Auto mode increases the number of shooting scenarios where each PowerShot camera can automatically adjust to different lighting or movement levels to obtain the best image possible. In addition, Canon’s Smart FE (Flash Exposure) function improves image quality by automatically adding the optimum level of flash illumination, aperture, ISO and shutter speed while the Low Light Mode features a wide ISO range (up to 6400), allowing more light to be captured creating sharper more vivid images and further enhancing the overall quality.

“The new Canon PowerShot Digital cameras are designed for consumers seeking a blend of eye-catching style and advanced image capture technology in a compact, easy-to-use form,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “Offering a unique blend of features and functionality including new Scene Modes, Smart FE and Smart Shutter, Canon once again brings image-taking and personal photography expression to new levels.”

For users interested in expanding beyond still images, three of the four new PowerShot cameras announced today have the ability to shoot 720p High Definition (HD) video offering extraordinary resolution and clarity when capturing moments such as a child’s dance recital or the latest trip to the local zoo. Also, the built-in HDMI mini-connector allows play-back of video and photos on an HDTV. With the camera tethered to a computer and the included software, movies can be uploaded directly to YouTube via the Camera Window. To further enhance a users ability to capture images and video, all of the new Canon PowerShot Digital cameras will support the high-spec SDXC memory cards with a maximum storage capacity of two terabytes (TB) in SDA standard.

Canon PowerShot SX210 IS Digital Camera:
The Canon PowerShot SX210 IS is designed for the photographer seeking HD video and brilliant image quality in a stylish, compact camera. Featuring a 28mm wide-angle lens with 14x Optical Zoom and Optical Image Stabilization, the PowerShot SX210 IS allows users to capture dramatic close-ups or broad landscapes with ease, while the 14.1-Megapixel resolution ensures stunning image quality. Available in three bold color variations, black, purple and gold, additional features include a 3.0-inch wide LCD screen for improved visibility and glare reduction with enhanced Control Dial with Hints and Tips. For shooting video, the PowerShot SX210 IS has the ability to zoom optically, shoot in stereo sound and has Dynamic Mode Image Stabilization for improved image clarity. Users embracing the freedom of wireless data transfer can connect directly to PCs through Eye-Fi memory cards1. The PowerShot SX210 IS is scheduled to be available in late March for an estimated retail price of $349.99.

Canon PowerShot SD3500 IS Digital Camera:

The Canon PowerShot SD3500 IS represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the ELPH series through the combination of superior image capture functionality and Canon’s touch screen technology. The camera’s large 3.5-inch wide LCD touch screen enables intuitive operation as users can customize their photo settings by simply dragging icons to their preferred on-screen location, then utilizing “tap” operations to switch between images during playback. A 24mm ultra-wide angle lens with 5x Optical Zoom gets more in your shot, like that family vacation at the Grand Canyon or the Empire State Building while Optical Image Stabilization ensure blur free images at full telephoto. The 14.1-Megapixel resolution delivers stunning images and the HD quality video further adds to the overall allure of this new PowerShot Digital camera. Available in three elegant color variations, black, silver and pink, the PowerShot SD3500 IS is also compatible with Eye-Fi memory cards for wireless transfer of video and photo files to PCs1. The PowerShot SD3500 IS is scheduled to be available in late February for an estimated retail price of $329.99.

Canon PowerShot SD1400 IS Digital Camera:

The Canon PowerShot SD1400 IS is the ideal choice for the on-the-go, spontaneous photographer seeking outstanding performance in a super-slim camera. Measuring less than one inch in thickness, the sleek PowerShot SD1400 IS features a 28mm wide-angle lens with 4x Optical Zoom lens and Optical Image Stabilization and 14.1-Megapixel resolution for outstanding photo and HD video quality. Available in four vibrant color variations, pink, orange, silver and black, the PowerShot SD1400 IS is scheduled to be available in late February for an estimated retail price of $249.99.

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS Digital Camera:

The Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS delivers outstanding value for the consumer seeking a stylish, highly functional digital camera. The PowerShot SD1300 IS features a 28mm wide angle lens with 4x Optical Zoom lens and Optical Image Stabilization, 12.1-Megapixel resolution, and enlarged 2.7 -inch PureColor System LCD screen offering superior visibility. Available in five color variations, silver, pink, green, blue and brown, the PowerShot SD1300 IS is scheduled to be available in late February for an estimated retail price of $199.99.