Monthly Archives: May 2008

Olympus E-520 Digital SLR Camera

Olympus has launched the E-520, an update of its E-510 digital SLR camera released in June last year. The key new features in the Olympus E-520 include in-body image stabilizer with a compensation effect of up to 4 EV steps allowing image stabilization shooting across a wide range from super-wide-angle to super telephoto at up to 33x, enhanced "Live View" shooting with new "High-Speed Imager AF", "Face & Back Control" for clearer reproduction of both faces and backgrounds, as well as a new 10-megapixel Live MOS Sensor and TruePic III image processing engine.

Other features of the Olympus E-520 include: Dust Reduction System, 3.5 frames-per-second sequential shooting, Built-in flash with wireless flash control, Continuous AF mode with improved focus tracking, 11-point multi-area auto focusing, "Perfect Shot Preview" function to compare the results of various effects before actual shooting, ISO Sensitivity up to 1600, and a new 2.7-inch HyperCrystal II LCD monitor with improved visibility in Live View shooting and picture playback.

Olympus E-520

Olympus E-520 Features:

10-megapixel Live MOS Sensor
TruePic III image processing engine
In-body image stabilizer
11-point multi-area auto focusing
9-point Multi-Pattern Metering available as well as centre-weighted average metering and spot metering
ISO Sensitivity up to 1600
Dust Reduction System
3.5 frames-per-sec. sequential shooting
Built-in flash with wireless flash control
2.7-inch HyperCrystal II LCD monitor with improved visibility in Live View shooting and picture playback
5 scene programme modes and 20 scene select mode available
"Perfect Shot Preview" function to compare the results of various effects before actual shooting
Continuous AF mode with improved focus tracking
Super Control Panel with excellent visibility and operability

Front Olympus E-520

Back Olympus E-520

Side View Olympus E-520

Olympus E-520 News Release

Everything Comes Into Focus With Olympus E-520 Digital SLR: Advanced In-Body Image Stabilization And Autofocus Live View Deliver Sharp Images

In-Body Image Stabilization Steadies Any Lens; Take-Anywhere Portable Design Means You’ll Capture It All

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., May 13, 2008 – The new Olympus E-520 digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera delivers brilliant images thanks to advanced technologies that help take the blur out. Industry leading Image Stabilization built into the portable camera body compensates for movement so that images are sharp and blur-free with any lens and even at slow shutter speeds. Autofocus Live View brings subjects into sharp focus on the camera’s HyperCrystal™ II LCD. Together, these technologies produce amazing results, along with the following features that further expand the DSLR experience:

In-Body Image Stabilization with Supersonic Wave Drive™ technology provides blur-free images when using any of the more than 30 digital-specific lenses;
Face Detection Technology targets and locks on faces to ensure they are in focus and blur-free for amazing portraits;
Shadow Adjustment Technology opens up detail in the shadows that other cameras would render too dark or underexposed while maintaining detail in the highlights; and
Perfect Shot Preview enables photographers to view and select White Balance and Exposure Compensation effects right on the LCD, and see how the image will look before they even capture it.

"Beyond a successor, the Olympus E-520 features an array of new technologies that help photo hobbyists and serious digital photographers take remarkable images,” said John Knaur, senior marketing manager – DSLR, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Its image stabilization system now lets photographers pan while holding the portable camera vertically – perfect for capturing everything from a sprinter breaking from the pack to the bride and groom walking down the aisle."

Enhanced In-Body Image Stabilization
For the first time, in-body Mechanical Image Stabilization has three modes for increased versatility. IS-1 mode for general shooting adjusts the sensor on both the X and Y axes to compensate for movement by the photographer so images stay sharp even at slow shutter speeds. To capture the motion of athletes and animals, and other moving subjects, the E-520 offers two specialized modes. IS-2 mode is ideal for capturing a racecar flying down the track, preserving the sense of motion while panning with the moving subject and holding the camera horizontally to dramatically portray the car’s high speed. For sharp images of moving subjects like a basketball player charging up the court, the IS-3 mode allows a photographer to hold the camera vertically while panning. The artistic effects of panning enhance the shot and render the player in sharp detail with blurred background.

The Live View Experience
The portable E-520’s advanced autofocus Live View enables photographers to compose their images and bring them into sharp focus on the HyperCrystal II LCD – just like a point-and-shoot camera. By simply pressing the shutter button halfway, subjects come into focus on the LCD, so when the perfect moment occurs it is easy to compose, focus and capture sharp images while viewing on the LCD. Live View makes it possible to shoot upward from a low angle for dramatic composition, in close for detailed macro photos of an exotic insect, or over a crowd of people at a tennis tournament.

New and Improved HyperCrystal II LCD
The E-520’s viewable HyperCrystal II LCD is the key to its Live View capabilities. While some LCD screens force photographers to squint to preview images in bright sunlight or a dimly lit room, the E-520 features a large, bright 2.7-inch LCD display that incorporates new technology. It also offers twice the contrast for better viewing in extreme light conditions, a larger color gamut that displays a greater range of color detail, and a 176-degree viewing angle.

Always Find a Face in the Crowd
The E-520’s Face Detection reduces the chance of blurred subjects in photography by distinguishing between people’s faces and the background. It tracks up to eight faces within the image area even if people are moving and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

In Sunshine or the Shadows, Never Miss a Detail
Shooting scenes with shadows can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark and bright areas. The E-520 addresses this challenge with Shadow Adjustment Technology that compensates for extreme contrast and maintains visible detail in both the shadow and highlight areas of the scene. Now users can preview and capture images showing the shadow detail they saw. This feature is also available in the Edit menu after the shot has been taken.

Preview a Multitude of Possibilities
Perfect Shot Preview enables users to preview and select from a variety of thumbnail previews of the photographic effects of white balance and exposure compensation adjustments live on the LCD before taking the photograph. It is an ideal way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, visually, without having to scroll through menu options. With 20 preset scene-select modes for every imaginable shooting scenario from underwater photography to fireworks, and program, automatic modes and full manual controls, the E-520 offers a world of possibilities to photographers.

Experience Life under the Sea
Olympus will offer the PT-E05 optional underwater housing for the E-520 to allow photographers to document the richness of life in the depths. Capable of reaching depths of 130 feet underwater, the housing will ensure that divers will not miss an image during their journeys to the abyss. Special underwater scene modes on the E-520 will assure that the camera is set up correctly for underwater use.

Wireless Flash Capability
Sometimes wireless flashes can help photographers cast the best light on their subjects and capture great images. For this reason, the E-520 is compatible with the Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R wireless electronic flashes that are designed exclusively for digital photography. When these flashes are used in combination with the E-520, wireless multi-flash photography is possible. The E-520 can control up to three wireless flash groups independently, with multiple flash units in each group.

TruePic III for Image Clarity & Speed
The 10.1 megapixel E-520’s TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos using all of the pixel information for each image to provide the best digital images possible for every photo with accurate color, true-to-life flesh tones, brilliant blue skies and precise tonal representation in between. TruePic III also lowers image noise by one step to reduce graininess in images shot at higher ISO settings, enabling great results in low-light situations.

Dust Reduction System for Spot-Free Images
Life moves too fast to spend time worrying about dust ruining the perfect image. Olympus’ proven Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter™. The patented ultrasonic technology vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor and captures it on a special adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on. These spot-free photos liberate users from hours spent retouching photographs at the computer or sending their cameras back to the manufacturer to remove dust trapped inside.

Easy to Handle, Easy to Operate
The E-520 is extremely portable, measuring 5.35 inches (width) by 3.6 inches (height) and 2.68 inches (depth), excluding protrusions, and weighing 16.75 ounces (body only). The new camera has a classic penta-mirror design that is light and compact enough to shoot with all day. It features a comfortable ergonomic grip to ensure that the camera fits snugly in the hand. Beyond its portable size, the E-520 has an expanded menu for greater control and buttons on the body for quick and easy direct access to the most common settings. Accepting both CompactFlash Type I & II, Microdrives and xD-Picture Cards, the camera provides a choice of data-storage options for enhanced flexibility, and it is possible to transfer image files from one card to the other right inside the camera.

100% Digital-Specific Lens for Sharpness and Rich Colors
The E-520 outfit includes a compact, Zuiko Digital 28-84mm equivalent (ED 14–42 mm Four Thirds) f3.5–f5.6 lens that perfectly matches the imager so light strikes the sensor directly to ensure rich, accurate colors and edge-to-edge sharpness. Its 3x ED Glass zoom lens covers the range most frequently used in photography and weighs just 7.5 ounces, offering users an extremely dynamic, portable, everyday-use zoom. Close-ups as near as 9.84 inches (0.25 m) are possible throughout the zoom range. This lens is part of Olympus’ expanding line of 100 percent digital lenses – designed specifically for digital photography. Unlike other camera companies, Olympus does not rely on old film lenses, which often result in images with soft edges or other imperfections.

Availability
The Olympus E-520 Digital SLR will be available in July 2008. It includes: E-520 Body, USB Cable, Video Cable, Li-Ion Battery Pack (BLM-1), Li-Ion Battery Charger (BCM-2), Shoulder Strap, OLYMPUS Master Software CD-ROM, Manuals and Warranty Card.

U.S. Pricing/Product Configurations
E-520 body Estimated Street Price: $599.99
E-520 with ED 14–42mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens Estimated Street Price: $699.99

Sony Alpha A350 Review at Good Gear Guide

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Good Gear Guide has reviewed the Sony Alpha A350 a 14.2 megapixel (CCD) DSLR with a 2.7 inch tilting LCD and live view.

They write: "image noise was kept under control at most sensitivities. We did see some creeping in at ISO 800, but it was very fine white noise and was only visible at large magnifications. At 1600 and 3200 it became a little more prominent and colourful but we’d still be happy using the shots in most situations….In terms of design this unit is a little larger than normal thanks to the second live view sensor, but aside from that it is well constructed. It sits nicely in the hands with the chunky grip feeling particularly good.”

Sony Alpha A350

Get a price at Amazon for the Sony Alpha 350 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera

Sony Alpha A200 Review at Digital Trends

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DigitalTrends has reviewed the Sony Alpha A200 an entry level digital SLR camera featuring a 10.2 megapixel (CCD) APS image sensor, 2.7 inch LCD Clear Photo LCDTM screen (230,000 pixels), and ISO range of 100 to 3200, built in super steady shot and a burst mode of 3 frames per second to the full capacity of the card that it is using when shooting in JPEG (and for a burst of 6 frames in RAW).

They write: “This entry-level D-SLR has a lot of things going for it: quick focusing, fast shutter speed, lots of tweaks for those who want them plus it captures good 10MP stills with accurate colors and nice contrast… Those moving up from a point-and-shoot will be happy with the A200—especially when they capture a winning goal or a terrific smile your old camera would’ve missed.”

Sony Alpha A200

Get a price from Amazon for the Sony Alpha A200K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera

Canon EOS 40D Review at Popular Photography

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Popular Photography has tested the Canon EOS 40D a 10.1 megapixel (CMOS sensor) DSLR with 6.5 frames per second shooting, a new Autofocus system with 9 cross type sensors, 3.0 inch LCD with Live View, DIGIC III image processor, EOS integrated cleaning system, Spot Metering, and a larger, brighter view finder and quieter mechanism than it’s predecessor.

They write – ‘The 40D’s new live preview mode is a hot feature, giving you through-the-lens viewing on the 3-inch LCD, with a full data display under the image. Unlike the 1D Mark III, the 40D’s AF works in live preview. It’s similar to the live preview AF on several Olympus and Panasonic DSLRs, and causes a short screen blackout while the mirror flips down and the camera focuses. Not the ideal AF method, but useful in some situations.”

Canon EOS 40D

Get a price at Amazon for the Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera

Sony Alpha A200

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The Sony Alpha A200 is an entry level digital SLR camera featuring a 10.2 megapixel (CCD) APS image sensor, 2.7 inch LCD Clear Photo LCDTM screen (230,000 pixels), and ISO range of 100 to 3200, built in super steady shot and a burst mode of 3 frames per second to the full capacity of the card that it is using when shooting in JPEG (and for a burst of 6 frames in RAW).

The Sony A200 has an auto focus speed 1.7x faster than the previous model; improved predictive control performance; quieter shutter sound; automatic pop-up flash. The DSLR-A200 camera’s supplied lithium ion battery offers up to 750 shots per full charge.

Sony Alpha A200

Get a price at Amazon for the Sony Alpha A200K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera

Sony Alpha A200 Reviews

NeoCamera reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “Noise levels are extremely low on the Sony A200. From ISO 100 to 800, there is barely any noise to notice and only a slow degradation of image details due to noise reduction.…The bottom line is that the Sony Alpha A200 is positioned to satisfy new DSLR owners by giving them excellent image quality and speed in a simple to use model…it has a good feature set, including body-based image stabilization, dust-reduction and most features that are expected from a modern DSLR. ”

PhotographyBlog reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “The Sony A200’s first impressive feature in terms of image quality is the extensive and very usable ISO range of 100-3200. ISO 100-400 is noise-free, whilst ISO 800 and 1600 produce more than acceptable results, and the fastest speed of ISO 3200 is OK for emergency use…. If you have no investment in a DSLR system and you’re looking for an entry-level model, the Sony A200 is a real alternative to the likes of the Nikon D60, Canon EOS 450D and Olympus E-510. It may not be the most exciting camera on paper, with no Live View and "only" a 10 megapixel sensor, but in practice it’s an easy-to-use, solid proposition from which you can confidently upgrade in the future to a more feature-rich model.”

Steve’sDigicams reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “Noise levels were also good for a model in this class. Imager noise is very low at ISO speeds of 400 and below. At 800, you can start to see some speckling in the dark or low contrast areas of the image, when viewing them at 100% for critic inspection. However, they are still capable of producing very nice prints… The Sony Alpha 200/DSLR-A200 is a worthy competitor in the entry-level market, offering awesome image quality, robust performance, great ergonomics and loads of useful exposure options. One feature that stands out is the Super SteadyShot option.”

DCRP reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “The DSLR-A200’s performance was very good in most respects. The camera is ready to start taking photos as soon as you slide the power switch. Focusing speeds were excellent, with the only exception being in low light, where they were on the slow side of things (even with the flash-based AF-assist lamp). Shutter lag wasn’t a problem, and shot-to-shot delays were minimal… Overall, the A200’s photo quality was very good, but the difference between RAW and JPEG images is disconcerting. JPEG images are considerably softer than those taken in RAW format, with noticeable noise reduction artifacting starting at ISO 200 in low light, and ISO 800 in good light.”

ImagingResource reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “Sony has shipped a digital SLR that I find easy to recommend to anyone, a position previously held mainly by the Nikon D40/D40x and Canon Rebel XT/XTi. The Sony A200’s handsome, compact body fits well in most hands, and it is easy to learn and use on a daily basis… The Sony A200 delivers. It works very well, is easy to understand and use, and most importantly it produces great images.”

CNET reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: ” The good: In-body image stabilization; supports wireless flash. The bad: Loud; Sony doesn’t have a stable of inexpensive lenses for consumers; oddly located, proprietary USB connector. The bottom line: The Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 is a solid entry-level dSLR that doesn’t really stand out in its very competitive field. ”

DigitalTrends reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “This entry-level D-SLR has a lot of things going for it: quick focusing, fast shutter speed, lots of tweaks for those who want them plus it captures good 10MP stills with accurate colors and nice contrast… Those moving up from a point-and-shoot will be happy with the A200—especially when they capture a winning goal or a terrific smile your old camera would’ve missed.”

TrustedReviews reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “..the A200 is a definite improvement over the A100. As with most DSLRs the A200 starts up in well under a second, and shuts down again almost instantly on power-off. The AF system is now much faster and more accurate, and is noticeably better at locking on quickly to low-contrast or poorly lit subjects… It ticks all the right boxes, with an attractive and easy-to-use design, brisk performance and good picture quality. Its feature set will leave advanced amateurs and semi-pros wanting more, but that’s pretty much the idea of an entry-level camera. For the price it offers a comprehensive package for the first-time user with very few problems.”

CameraLabs reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “In terms of actual improvements over its predecessor, the A200 has only a handful including a maximum sensitivity of 3200 ISO, quicker AF speed, a slightly bigger screen, support for an optional battery grip and the inclusion of an Info Lithium battery pack to deliver accurate feedback on remaining charge. The body and control layout has also been tweaked…especially with its superior high ISO performance, but with built-in stabilisation at a similar RRP, the Sony still looks strong. It’s also looking good against Nikon’s new entry-level D60..So as it stands, the A200 may be unremarkable, but remains a good, solid, entry-level 10 Megapixel DSLR we can easily recommend..”

PhotoReview.au reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “Image noise was generally low at high ISO settings, even with the in-camera noise-reduction processing turned off. At ISO 3200, both pattern and colour noise could be discerned but we found no evidence of stuck pixels and the noise pattern was not overly intrusive. Shots taken at ISO 1600 were of printable quality…The DSLR-A200 represents excellent value for money and provides all the adjustable controls a keen photographer requires in a compact, affordable body. It also offers slightly better continuous shooting capabilities than its higher-resolution rival.”

LetsGoDigital reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “As far as ISO sensitivity is concerned you will achieve the best results with this sensor using ISO sensitivity up to ISO 800. Higher ISO than this will influence the image quality due to noise even with the improved noise reduction trying hard. The higher the ISO setting the more the quality drops. To prevent using high ISO you can activate the SuperSteady Shot mode.… The Sony Alpha 200 is a joy to work with and the camera performs really well. So if you can’t wait any longer and you want to get going shooting away, the choice for the Alpha 200 is an excellent one!”

DPExpert reviews the Sony Alpha A200 and writes: “The camera is compatible with Minolta auto-focus lenses which means there is some second-hand glass available. We tried an old Minolta lens with mixed results – sharpness was better but contrast was worse. Unlike Canon, who offer the 400D with a choice of lenses of different qualities and prices, Sony’s approach is to sell the a200 with the lenses in the box. We suspect a good camera compromised by cheap lenses.”

Kodak Easy Share C813

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The Kodak Easy Share C813 is a 8.2 megapixel entry level point and shoot digital camera.

The Kodak C813 features a 3x optical zoom lens, a 2.4 inch (6.1 cm) indoor/outdoor color display, digital image stabilization, ISO up to 1250 and video with sound and print options. The HD still capture option allows you to view your pictures in high definition on an HDTV or any other HD device.

Kodak C813 Features:

• 8.2 MP camera for prints up to 30 × 40 in. (76 × 102 cm)
• 3X optical zoom lens
• 2.4 in. (6.1 cm) indoor/outdoor color display
• Digital image stabilization
• High ISO, up to 1250
• HD still capture
• Video with sound and print options

Highlights of the Kodak C813:

Shoot It.

Exceptional quality prints with 8.2 MP
8.0 MP for stunning prints up to 30 × 40 in. (76 × 102 cm)
More megapixels means you can crop and still get a great picture
Capture bright, beautiful color with KODAK Color Science
However you choose to print—at home, at retail, or online—trust Kodak for picture quality that’s truly exceptional and for memories that will last

Zoom It

3X optical zoom lens
The KODAK AF 3X Optical Aspheric Zoom Lens (35 mm equivalent: 36–108 mm) captures crisp details and gets you closer to your subjects without losing picture quality
5X digital zoom enlarges your pictures even more

Experience It

We made sure it had the one feature you’ve come to expect—simplicity. Because if your camera is simple to use, you’ll love to take pictures.

Digital image stabilization
Reduce blur caused by camera shake or subject movement
The camera software automatically minimizes camera shake to deliver a clearer picture

Indoor/outdoor color display
View your pictures with brilliance and clarity on the 2.4 in. (6.1 cm) color display

High ISO
Capture all the details in low light conditions and fast action situations with high ISO (up to 1250)

HD still capture
View your pictures in high definition on an HDTV or other HD device

Shoot video with ease
Capture life in motion with continuous VGA video (640 × 480 at 15 fps) featuring audio capture and on-camera editing
Video print options including 1, 4, 9, or 16 up prints, plus view and share single frames

Scene and color modes
Get great shots time after time with 16 programmed scene modes, including auto, sport, portrait, snow, fireworks, backlight, and party
Have fun with 3 different color modes: color, black & white, and sepia

KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology
Make your pictures as vivid as the moment you took them. Print better, brighter pictures using KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology.

Relive your memories in richer detail
Clear up dark shadows to reveal more smiles

Picture enhancing and editing features
Achieve the perfect shot with on-camera features such as cropping, blurry picture alert, and undo-delete

Internal memory plus
Don’t miss a shot if your memory card becomes full—switch to in-camera memory quickly, thanks to the internal memory plus feature
16 MB* internal memory, SD card expansion slot lets you start shooting right out of the box

Kodak Easy Share C713

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The Kodak Easy Share C713 is a 7.0 megapixel entry level point and shoot digital camera.

The Kodak C713 features a 3x optical zoom lens, a 2.4 inch (6.1 cm) indoor/outdoor color display, digital image stabilization, ISO up to 1250 and video with sound and print options. The HD still capture option allows you to view your pictures in high definition on an HDTV or any other HD device.

Kodak C713 Features

• 7.0 MP camera for prints up to 20 × 30 in. (50 × 76 cm)
• 3X optical zoom lens
• 2.4 in. (6.1 cm) indoor/outdoor color display
• Digital image stabilization
• High ISO, up to 1250
• HD still capture
• Video with sound and print options

Highlights of the Kodak C713:

Shoot It.

Exceptional quality prints with 7.0 MP
7.0 MP for stunning prints up to 30 × 40 in. (76 × 102 cm)
More megapixels means you can crop and still get a great picture
Capture bright, beautiful color with KODAK Color Science
However you choose to print—at home, at retail, or online—trust Kodak for picture quality that’s truly exceptional and for memories that will last