Sony Cyber-shot DSC-G1

Sony has introduced the Cyber-shot DSC-G1, their first camera to support wireless image transfer. The G1 can transfer photos and movies to other devices that support the DLNA protocol, which isn't terribly common yet. If you have a bunch of friends with G1's, then you can trade photos with each other (why does this remind me of the Zune?). Anyhow, here are the details on this new camera:
Cyber-shot DSC-G1

6.0 effective Megapixel CCD
F3.5-4.3, 3X optical zoom lens, equivalent to 38 - 114 mm
Optical image stabilization
3.5" LCD display with a whopping 921,000 pixels (originally I listed 3 inches, that was incorrect)
Ultra slim metal body
Has a whopping 2GB of internal memory; there's also a MS Duo slot should you need more space
Can share photos and movies with DLNA compliant devices, including other G1's; you cannot wirelessly transfer photos to just any Wi-Fi device: they must use DLNA
Point-and-shoot operation
Automatic image management system; photos can be organized by keywords and labels, and can even be filtered by face, color, and composition
Records movies at 640 x 480 (30 fps) with sound, possibly using a different codec than other Sony cameras
Uses proprietary lithium-ion battery
USB 2.0 High Speed supported
Ships in April for a rather hefty $600

Sony is advancing wireless digital photo sharing with today’s introduction of the 6-megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-G1 digital camera.
The G1 model is Sony’s first digital camera with the ability to send photos wirelessly to other Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA)-enabled devices, such as another camera or a PC.
“This is a step towards realizing a platform for networked photo communication,” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. “We will continue to explore the possibilities for networked digital imaging as broadband Internet becomes more pervasive in American homes.”
One-Touch Wireless Photo Sharing and Archiving
The G1 model features a 3.5-inch LCD screen with resolution of 921,000 pixels. Lubell said that’s four times higher than the average compact digital camera and all previous Sony Cyber-shot models. The new camera’s slide show with music function makes sharing photos directly on the camera even more enjoyable.”
“Sony popularized the use of large LCD screens on compact cameras, with the understanding that simply passing the camera around is a means of sharing,” Lubell said.
The new models’ camera-to-camera wireless capability makes it possible to send your friends a photo at the push of a button. It’s also possible for up to four camera users to send each other photos in real time. With a DLNA-compatible PC, storing and sharing photos becomes simplified through wireless image transfer from the camera to the PC.
Mega Storage Capacity and Sophisticated Image Management
The G1 unit is the ideal vacation camera with 2GB of internal memory, saving you from having to manage extra media cards. It becomes a virtual photo album in your pocket as it can store up to 7,500 VGA-quality photos or 600 6-megapixel pictures. If additional storage is needed, the camera's capacity can be expanded with an optional Memory Stick Duo ™ media card or Memory Stick PRO Duo ™ card, now available in capacities up to eight gigabytes.
In addition to storage capacity, it incorporates an auto image management system with sophisticated search functions. You can organize your photos by events, such as vacations or birthdays, and retrieve them later by keywords or labels. It’s also possible to select an image and search for other photos with the same face, same color, or a similar composition.
Armed with features for optimal shooting and sharing, the new model also integrates built-in technologies to minimize image blur, including Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization. It also has high light sensitivity, up to ISO 1000, to facilitate shooting at higher shutter speeds, as well as low-light conditions for more natural exposures or for settings where flash is not permitted.
This new Cyber-shot model also features a distinctive design. Its Carl Zeiss® 3x optical zoom lens is wrapped in an elegant metal body. You slide the lens cover across, instead of down as with previous models, and you’re ready to shoot in less than a second.
The DSC-G1 digital camera will ship in April for about $600. Additional accessories will include lenses, filters, batteries, travel chargers, sports packs and cases. All can be purchased online at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on Feb. 28 at www.sonystyle.com/newcameras.

Via Dcresource

Pentax Optio A20

As is the nature of this business the Option A20 replaced the A10 only seven months after that model had been announced (and is itself about to be replaced by the further upgraded A30). The A10 was one of the disappointments of last year, offering typical Pentax high quality output and wealth of features but with serious performance issues that made using it frustrating to say the least. The A20 has a new ASIC (processor), two million more pixels (10.0 MP 1/1.8-inch sensor) and a handful of new features. We decided to find out if Pentax has solved the problems that stopped the A10 from being a really great camera, starting as ever with the headline features:
10.0 effective megapixels High-performance smc PENTAX 3x zoom lens New ASIC SR (Shake Reduction) Face Recognition AF & AE Auto-tracking AF continuously focuses on a moving subject High-quality movies with an anti-shake function Auto Picture mode automatically determines the best settings for the shooting conditions ISO 64-800 Shutter Priority, Manual and numerous scene modes SDHC support Post-shot red-eye removal

Via Dpreview

Olympus Stylus 770 SW Digital Camera

The Olympus Stylus line has always been the go to camera for “weatherproof” cameras – cameras that are water resistant and dustproof. Over the last couple of years, they’ve also had at least one shockproof and fully waterproof camera in the Stylus line. The Olympus Stylus 770 SW is the latest camera to be fully waterproof. The Stylus 770 SW is a 7.1 megapixel camera with 2.5 inch LCD and 3x optical zoom. It is also waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof against 5 foot drops, cold proof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and crushproof to 220 pounds. Read on for our full review of the Olympus Stylus 770 SW.
The Olympus Stylus 770 SW succeeds the Stylus 720 SW and does get a few new features. It still has the same 7.1 megapixel resolution and 2.5 inch screen, but the 770 gets more resolution in the LCD (from 115K to 230K pixels). The waterproof feature is also improved, allowing you to submerge the camera to 33 feet under water. Olympus has also added some more “rugged” features – it’s crushproof to 220 pounds and it is freezeproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. A built-in manometer records air pressure or water pressure and altitude to your image data and a built-in LED illuminator are other new features to the latest shockproof, waterproof camera from Olympus.

Via Digitalcamerareview

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2

Small, light, portable, but very powerful, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 has a lot going for it. To start, you get a full 10 megapixels to play with. You'll also find a mode dial, a focus switch, and other physical controls right on the camera body. My favorite feature, though, is the Aspect Ratio switch, which lets you quickly change between 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9 aspect ratios. The 16:9 ratio is most commonly seen on HDTVs, which Panasonic also makes.

Via PCMag

Kodak Easyshare C875

Announced in August 2006 the C875 is the new flagship model in the entry-level Kodak EasyShare 'C' range, and the most interesting yet. Where most previous C series cameras have offered basic, beginnner-friendly 'point and shoot' operation at very low prices, the C875 transplants the functionality of Kodak's higher-end Z and P series cameras into an inexpensive, compact body. This - plus the 5x optical zoom and 8MP resolution - puts the C875 in direct competition with Canon's A series and some of the higher-end models in the Olympus FE range, yet the price (well under $200 if you shop around) is incredibly low for the features and specification on offer. So we decided to find out if this budget-priced Kodak really is punching above its weight or if it's a lightweight through and through. Let's start with the headline features:
8.3 million pixel 1/1.8" CCD sensor
5x (37-185mm equiv.) Scheider-KREUZNACH Variogon lens
2.5-inch wide viewing angle LCD screen
P/A/S/M modes
22 scene modes
ISO 64-800
Smart scene feature
KODAK PERFECT TOUCH technology for better, brighter pictures
MPEG-4 VGA movie mode

Via Dpreview

SONY’S CHARMING CYBER-SHOT DIGITAL CAMERAS BECOME THE LIFE OF THE PARTY

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 27, 2007 — Sony is introducing a line of slim and stylish Cyber-shot T-series cameras that are destined to be the fashionista crowd’s favorite party companion.
The 8-megapixel DSC-T100 camera is a showstopper with the most powerful zoom and largest LCD screen in Sony’s T-series. With its Carl Zeiss® 5x optical zoom lens and 3-inch LCD screen, this model will debut in red, black and silver.
The 8-megapixel DSC-T20 camera features a Carl Zeiss 3x optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch LCD screen, and will hit the scene in pink, white, black and silver.
In colors to match your party gear and less than a half-inch thick, both cameras can easily slip into a clutch purse or the pocket of a jacket. They can be fashionably protected with four different styles of matching camera cases in colors such as pink, red, green, grey, crème, brown and black, which will be sold separately.
“There’s a generation of style-conscious, tech-savvy people who want the brands and products in their lives to reflect who they are,” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. “Our new T-series cameras can give these customers the form factor and advanced technologies they’re looking for.”
Let Sony Take You Higher
When it comes to entertaining, the living room is the hub. Sony’s new T-series cameras feature high-definition output so you can bring your photos to the party and take full advantage of the HD equipment already in your home. Once you have viewed photos in the utmost clarity, color and detail on an HDTV set, there’s no going back to huddling around a PC. And tech-savvy snappers know that standard-definition equipment can’t display the full glory of even a 2-megapixel picture.
Sony’s new cameras have three accessory options for high-definition photo viewing. All are compatible with the Sony VMC-MHC1 HD component cable for simple connection to an HDTV set. They can also be connected to the new Sony CSS-HD1 high-definition Cyber-shot Station™ with a bundled component cable and a remote commander. Connect all your devices to the station just one time and it also works as a charger for the camera.
The complete high-definition photo viewing solution is the Sony DPP-FPHD1 package, which includes the high-definition component cable, a Cyber-shot cradle, a remote commander and a high-definition printer with component HD output. Designed to complement any living room, this new printer comes in elegant black and can be positioned horizontally or vertically. As you view your pictures, you can print the ones you want to hand out as party mementos, on the spot, in about 45 seconds.
All of the new cameras are equipped with a built-in slide show function. You can play back your images, complete with dynamic transitions choreographed to your choice of music clips.
Don’t Let Bad Photos Kill The Buzz
The party people will look fabulous in every shot with Sony’s new face detection technology. It can identify up to eight faces in the camera’s LCD frame, and automatically adjust white balance and flash as well as focus and exposure for sharp, clear photos.
Shooting in low light doesn’t have to result in blurry, grainy photos. Sony’s Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization counters camera shake and stabilize images so you can easily shoot with longer exposure times. Armed with high light sensitivity (up to ISO 3200), you can also shoot at higher shutter speeds without using the cameras’ flash and spoiling the mood of the pictures. Sony’s Clear RAW ™ noise reduction technology will help reduce the picture noise common to low-light exposures.
Technology That Won’t Slow You Down
Sony’s new T-series cameras are powered by the Bionz™ processing engine, first used in Sony’s Alpha digital SLR camera system. Not only does this robust processing engine deliver the fast image processing speeds needed to produce color-rich, detailed pictures for true high-definition photo viewing, it also speeds up the cameras’ response times and extends battery life.
Slide their lens covers down and these cameras are ready to shoot in less than a second and prepared for the next shot in about a second. They’ll keep snapping for the duration of the party – on a full charge, up to 380 shots for the T100 camera and 340 shots for the T20 model.
You can edit PC-free with these cameras’ internal functions. Red-eye correction and dynamic range optimization to adjust under- or over-exposed areas can be performed without having to make a lot of adjustments to the camera. Photos can be retouched and enlivened on the spot with up to four filter selections, such as the fish-eye filter for an amusing fishbowl effect.
The T100 camera will ship in March for about $400, and the T20 will be available in April for about $330. Options will include batteries, travel chargers, lenses, filters, sports packs and cases. All models can be purchased online at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on February 28 at www.sonystyle.com/newcameras.

Via Dpreview

Canon SD750/SD1000 7.1MP Digital ELPH Cameras

The updates aren't ground breaking but true to form, Canon's new Digital Elphs (iXus) digital cameras are as sleek and stylish as ever without losing the power and ease of use that we have all come to rely on.
Both the SD750 and SD1000 Digital Elph are available in either the original silver or dual-tonne matte black and silver finish. The SD750 inherits the rounded contours of previous models while the SD1000 opts for a more conservative square-like finish.
Both cameras have 7.1 megapixel CCDs, 3x optical zoom, and run on Canon's updated DIGIC III processor which Canon promises will result in, "higher performance levels including faster start up, autofocus and shutter response times, improved image quality and more efficient power consumption; resulting in extended battery life under typical shooting conditions."
Don't be fooled by higher numbers...the PowerShot SD750 is more superior that the SD1000 featuring a Touch Control Dial and a 3-inch LCD (versus a 2.25-inch LCD on the SD1000). The SD1000 however has an optical view finder which is helpful when you want to save on precious battery life.
Both the Canon PowerShot SD750 and SD1000 will be available by March 2007 at $349.99 and $299.99 respectively.

Read more at Mobilewhack

Sony To Release Four New Digital Cameras

Sony is ringing in the New Year with four additions to its Cyber-shot® digital camera line: the DSC-W55, DSC-W35, DSC-S700 and DSC-S650 models.
The slim, compact DSC-W55 and DSC-W35 models will sport 7.2-megapixel imagers and precision Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar lenses. They combine traditional, eye-level viewfinders with large LCD screens for easy framing and viewing of photos. The W55 camera will make a splash in Caribbean blue, pale pink, elegant black and sleek silver with a 2.5-inch LCD screen wrapped in a metal body, and the W35 camera will shimmer in silver with a two-inch screen.
The new DSC-S700 and DSC-S650 cameras will also feature 7.2-megapixel imagers, and will shine in classic silver. The former model will house a 2.4-inch LCD wrapped in a metal body and the latter a two-inch screen.
All four new models feature 3x optical zoom capability, blur-reduction technologies (ISO), and substantial internal memory for shooting without a media card. Their storage capacities can be expanded further with optional 8GB Memory Stick Duo ™ or Memory Stick PRO Duo™ flash media cards for the W-series models and 4 GB Duo media cards for the S-series models.
“Now that digital cameras are personal items, it’s common to have more than one camera per household,” said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital cameras at Sony Electronics. “Our new models are solid performers that will be easy for novices to digital photography to use and at the same time meet the needs of more advanced users.”
Capture the Mood
High sensitivity is featured on all of the cameras to reduce the chances of taking blurry photos, especially in low light situations. With settings up to ISO1000, you can shoot at higher shutter speeds to capture the candles on a birthday cake or the city lights without using a flash.
On the W-series cameras, Sony's Clear RAW ™ noise reduction technology helps reduce picture noise common to low-light exposures. Sony’s AF Illuminator also facilitates these models’ ability to shoot well in low light. A special light is thrown on subjects before taking a shot so that the camera’s imager can better detect contrast. The end result is well-focused, clear pictures, even in low light.
Shoot At The Speed of Life
These new models feature quick start-up, fast shot-to-shot times, and long battery life – up to 380 shots on a full charge of the W55 and W35 cameras’ Lithium ion battery, and 460 shots on a full charge of the S700 and S650 models’ optional, rechargeable AA batteries. The cameras' sophisticated auto-exposure and auto-focus features work fast so you get the picture right the first time.
No More Guesswork
All models incorporate a function guide and resolution guide. When menu icons are selected, a simple text explanation is displayed on the LCD screen. This function guide is readily-accessible through a convenient mode dial. The resolution guide is helpful when deciding on the best resolution for prints. When you select the resolution in the menu, a pop-up screen provides the ideal print size for that particular setting.
In stores in February, the W55 model will be available for about $200, the W35 for about $180, and the S650 for about $150. The S700 ships in March for about $180. Options will include batteries, travel chargers, lenses, filters, sports packs, and cases. All models can be purchased online at Sonystyle.com, at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on Jan. 23 at www.sonystyle.com/cameras2007.

Via Sony

Canon SD800 IS (IXUS 850 IS)

The SD800 IS (IXUS 850 IS), announced just before Photokina 2006 back in September, is a sister model to the popular SD 700 IS (IXUS 800 IS), one of the better ultra compact models launched last year. As well as an extra million pixels or so, the new model has one very welcome new feature; a 28-105mm (equiv.) zoom lens, making it one of the few cameras in this sector of the market with true wideangle capabilities. Other changes include an ISO 1600 option, DIGIC III processor (complete with face detection focus mode) and a better screen. We liked the SD 700 IS a great deal, and on paper the SD 800 IS looks like another winner. So let's find out if it can deliver the goods, starting as ever with the headline specification:
7.1 Megapixels and 3.8x zoom
Wide angle 28mm lens with Optical Image Stabilizer
DIGIC III with Advanced Noise Reduction and Face Detection AF/AE
Safety Zoom for extra telephoto reach
ISO 1600
High resolution 2.5" LCD
17 shooting modes including VGA movies (30 fps) with sound
Range of optional accessories including Underwater Case

Via Dpreview

Norcent announces DCC-1025 / DCS-760 digicams, slew of storage accessories

Hot on the heels of Norcent unveiling its forthcoming lineup of HDTVs, the company has announced that we'll be seeing its photogenic side as well, as the DCS-760 ($199) and DCC-1025 digicams make their debut at CES along with a slew of storage-related accessories. The 10.1-megapixel DCC-1025 ($179; DC-1020 pictured) reportedly sports a "champagne colored, brushed metal finish," 2.5-inch "scratch-resistant" LCD monitor, 3x optical zoom (and 4x of the practically worthless digital variety), 14 pre-selected scene modes, red-eye reduction, 640 x 480 MPEG4 movie mode, NTSC / PAL compatibility, 32MB of internal memory, SD / MMC slot, and AV out to boot. The more compact DCS-760 features a seven-megapixel sensor, "high-end design," 15 scene modes, VGA movie mode, 2.5-inch LTPS monitor, and the same 3x optical zoom and SD / MMC slot as the larger sibling. Making sure your digicam is fully prepared for a long day of shooting, the firm is also unveiling its SD Duo, Micro SD Trio, and Micro SD Reader / Adapter; the SD Duo combines SD and USB support, while the Micro SD Trio adds microSD, and neither unit needs a card reader to interface with any USB-equipped PC. As if that weren't enough, it's also showing off a 1GB ($19.99) / 2GB ($29.99) USB Pen Drive that rocks a LED indicator light and a "twist to open" cap to curb that "missing lid" syndrome so often associated with flash drives. While the DCS-760 won't be available until the Spring, everything else is available right now, and will be out on display in just a few days at CES.

Via Engadget

Sigma SD14 - 14-megapixel

Three years since Sigma last introduced a digital SLR. That's nearly two generations by digital camera standards. But, just days before the Photokina international trade show in September, Sigma announced the new SD14 ($1,600, estimated street, body only), proving it was still in the game.

Besides the Sigma name on the camera, you'll see the Foveon X3 logo: The SD14 is the first DSLR to include a new and improved Foveon X3 direct image sensor. Foveon and Sigma call it a 14.1-megapixel sensor and will market the camera as a 14.1MP DSLR, just as they billed the earlier SD9 and SD10 as 10MP cameras.

But all megapixels are not created equal. Unlike the CMOS and CCD imaging sensors used in cameras from other makers, which place red, green, and blue filters over different pixels on a monochromatic sensor, the Foveon X3 creates a color image by reading out color data from each of three separate layers sensitive to red, green, and blue. As a result, the sensor acts more like film does when capturing an image, helping to reduce moiré patterns and other artifacts in the very fine details of a typical image. So a more accurate description would be to say that the X3 sensor contains 14.1 million active pixels in three overlapping layers of 4.7 million pixels each. Granted, that would be hard to fit on the box!

Our Certified Lab Tests of the Sigma SD10 (which had 10.2 million active pixels in layers that each contained 3.4 million pixels) found it could resolve image detail on par with a good 6.5MP CMOS or CCD sensor. So, we'll bet that the new SD14 delivers resolution on par with 9.2-10MP DSLRs, but will not be in the same resolution class as the 12.4MP Nikon D2xs, for instance.


Of course, resolution is just one factor we use to determine image quality. And, based on the SD14's heritage, you can expect it to capture extremely accurate colors, fine details in shadow areas, and incredibly low noise. We'll reserve judgment, though, until we've run a production unit through the Pop Photo Lab.

Via Popphoto

Olympus Stylus 1000

You can't have everything, especially among Olympus compact cameras. While they have plenty of similar cameras that serve specific purposes, there's no catch-all, high-end, great-at-everything camera. The Olympus Stylus 720SW offers waterproof shooting. The Stylus 730 features an intuitive design and a 3-inch LCD screen. The Stylus 750 includes an image-stabilized, 5X optical zoom lens. And none of these Stylus cameras share those useful features. The Olympus Stylus 1000 follows that trend: it features a 10-megapixel sensor, but it isn't waterproof, its LCD screen is only 2.5 inches, and its meager 3X, 35-to-105mm-equivalent lens lacks optical stabilization.

The Stylus 1000's sturdy metal body has a gentle wedge shape, making the camera extremely comfortable for one-handed use. However, the tapered left side makes it even more awkward for left-handed users than most point-and-shoots. The controls are mostly flat buttons that are responsive under the thumb, but extremely similar in feel. It's easy to accidentally hit the menu button instead of the direction pad when reviewing your photos. The power and the image-stabilization buttons sit on either side of the shutter release, but they're recessed enough that you probably won't accidentally press them while shooting.

Though light on the manual controls, the Stylus 1000 has some very nice features. Like all Stylii, its metal body has rubber gaskets and seals to keep water and gunk out. You can't shoot underwater, but you can splash it without fear or hesitation. For low-light and action shots, the Stylus includes digital image stabilization and can shoot at as much as ISO 6,400, but images greater than ISO 1,600 are cut down to five megapixels. The camera lacks an autofocus light, but it does automatically increase the gain of its 2.5-inch screen when shooting in low light, making it easier to frame your shot. Besides some basic controls, such as exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance, it has 24 scene modes that let casual shooters set the camera for the type of shot they want. The camera also includes a 30fps VGA movie mode for shooting video clips.

Read more at Cnet

Ricoh GR Digital Firmware update

Ricoh releases third function-enhancing firmware update for GR DIGITAL
User requests reflected in update for functional improvement

Tokyo, Japan – November 20 – Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Masamitsu Sakurai) announced today that it will release on November 22 a third function-enhancing firmware update for its GR DIGITAL* high-resolution compact digital camera, which has been well received for more than a year since its release.
* The GR DIGITAL is a high-end digital camera popular with pro photographers, high-end amateurs, and photo aficionados that achieves high resolution in a compact body. It was first released October 21, 2005 and is open priced.
The function-enhancing firmware can be downloaded free of charge from the Ricoh website. The following features can be added to the GR DIGITAL by installing this firmware.

• New optional sizes can be set for the JPEG images recorded simultaneously when taking photos in RAW(3264 × 2448). "N3260" (NORMAL 3264 × 2448) and "N640" (NORMAL 640 x 480) can be set in addition to the conventional "F3260" (FINE 3260 × 2448). This allows for more shots to be recorded.
  (For example, with a 512 MB SD card, RAW+F3264 allows for 33 shots, while RAW+N640 allows for 42 shots.)
  
• With a 3:2 aspect ratio (vertical to horizontal ratio of an image), "N3:2"(NORMAL 3260 × 2176) can now be selected in addition to "RAW3:2" (RAW 3264 x 2176) or "F3:2"(FINE 3264 x 2176). This allows for more shots to be recorded.
  (For example, with a 512 MB SD card, F3:2 allows for 177 shots, while N3:2 allows for 308 shots.)
  
• The exposure adjustment range when shooting with Auto Bracket (function for shooting multiple shots at different exposures) can be selected at ±0.3 EV in addition to ±0.5 EV. This allows for finer shooting with Auto Bracket.
  *Auto Bracket function cannot be used in RAW mode (same as before).

In addition to the above-mentioned functions, improved auto focus speed and focusing precision in macro photography.

Canon PowerShot G7 Review,

Announced just before Photokina 2006 in September 2006, the G7 came as something of a surprise to many who had written off the G series of high end PowerShots when the G6 (launched 2004) wasn't updated last year. The G series has a long and distinguished history at the top of Canon's PowerShot range, offering SLR-like functionality in a solid, compact body and high-end features such as fast lenses and external flash capabilities. The G7 continues the tradition, adding all Canon's latest gizmos (including the new Digic III processor, face detection and image stabilization), though since its announcement there has been heated discussion about some of Canon's decisions - particularly the loss of raw mode and the slower lens. So let's find out if the new model is a worthy successor to the G6, or if Canon really has - as some users feel - squandered the legacy of one of the most acclaimed cameras in the short history of digital photography. We'll start, as ever, by looking at the headline features:
Headline features

* 10.0 Megapixels
* 6x optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer and SR coating
* DIGIC III and iSAPS with Advanced Noise Reduction and Face Detection AF/AE
* 2.5” high-resolution LCD with wide viewing angle and anti-glare coating
* ISO 1600 for flash-free, low light shooting
* Ergonomic design with dedicated ISO and Multi Control dials for fast, easy operation
* 25 shooting modes including full manual control and 2 custom settings
* Extra telephoto reach with Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom
* Hot shoe support for Canon Speedlite flashes and optional lens accessories

Powershot G7 vs G6: What's changed?

Two years is a very long time in the digital camera world, and it comes as no surprise that the G7 is a significantly different beast to the model it replaces both externally (there's no grip, making the body a lot slimmer) and internally. What is slightly surprising is how many of the changes are 'steps down' rather than 'steps up'; some of the key qualities and features that made the G series so different from Canon's other compact camera ranges have been removed or 'downgraded'. Of course there are some areas where the specification has been 'beefed up' over the G6, but not all these changes will be welcome to potential upgraders.

* Higher resolution (10MP vs 7MP)
* Digic III processor
* Longer, but slower zoom lens
* Image stabilization
* Larger, higher resolution screen (fixed: no longer vari-angle)
* Loss of Raw mode
* Face detection mode
* Lighter, smaller (no hand grip), no LCD info/status panel
* Reduced battery life
* Wider ISO range (to ISO 1600 at full resolution)
* New ISO dial on body
* Better macro mode
* Enhanced movie mode
* Additional scene modes

Read more Dpreview

Nikon announces a digital SLR for the masses

The D40 combines outstanding picture quality with a smart, lightweight and compact design that will appeal to everyone

Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Nikon has taken another huge stride forward with the launch of the Nikon D40, its lightest, most compact and easiest to use digital SLR ever.

The D40 marks a number of important milestones and cements Nikon’s reputation for developing high quality, innovative products packed full of the latest technologies and features.

The D40 is a brand new interchangeable-lens digital SLR that unites the brilliant performance of world-famous Nikkor lenses and the practicality of a remarkably small and light camera body. It boasts handling and performance advantages that do away with the frustrations often associated with compact digital cameras, making it ideal for anyone who wants to capture spectacular digital pictures without fuss or complication.

Thanks to Nikon’s world beating digital and optical technologies, the D40 makes it amazingly simple to capture beautiful pictures in almost any situation.

The D40 – equipped with a specially designed 3x 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor lens - is light and compact, making it easy to carry anywhere. The camera’s design incorporates fewer potentially confusing controls and other distractions, allowing anyone to take breathtaking pictures while eliminating the need to "learn" photography.

The D40 features a high-resolution 6.1-effective-megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor and a highly advanced Nikon Image Processing Engine. These combine to produce exceptional image detail with true, vivid colors.

Nikon’s exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II assures accurate exposure control even in difficult lighting conditions and an AUTO ISO feature makes the most of available light by automatically setting the camera’s light sensitivity from the available ISO range of 200 to 1600.

The D40 has remarkably fast responses, with autofocus control algorithms that are inherited from Nikon’s renowned D200 and D80 digital SLRs, delivering more precise focus, faster subject tracking and more accurate autofocus response and detection – even in low light.

The D40 takes just 0.18 seconds to power up, and its almost imperceptible shutter release lag time does away with the frustrating picture taking delay common with point-and-shoot digital cameras – assuring that special moments are captured beautifully.
Nikon’s scene-optimised Digital Vari-Program modes allow the photographer to concentrate on capturing nearly any type of scene without being distracted by camera settings. All eight modes – Auto, Auto (Flash Off), Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sport, Close Up and Night Portrait – are designed to produce remarkable results by automatically calculating the best settings and ISO-equivalent sensitivity for each scene.

The new mode, Auto (Flash Off), prevents the Built-in Flash from popping up while boosting the ISO, thereby allowing the photographer to take pictures in museums, concerts, school plays, weddings and other low-light situations where flash photography is prohibited.

The D40’s new Retouch menu offers exclusive in-camera image editing features that add to the D40's “fun factor” by providing greater creative freedom without the need for a computer. Included in the Retouch menu is Nikon’s D-Lighting, Red-eye correction, Image Trim and other creative features such as Image Overlay, Small Picture, Monochrome (Black-and-white, Sepia, Cyanotype) and Filter Effects (Skylight, Warm filter, Colour balance).

The kit lens for the D40 is the new 3x 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor lens, assuring superb picture sharpness and optimum contrast, along with the versatility of a wide-angle to medium telephoto lens.

Included with the camera is Nikon’s PictureProject software to transfer, organise and share images while Nikon’s Capture NX photo editing software is available separately.

The D40 opens up the fun, excitement and superior image quality of digital SLR photography to everyone. Its compact size and ideal ergonomics make it the digital SLR solution for pictures anytime, anywhere. Its bright and sharp viewfinder with 0.8x magnification ensures precise composition. After shooting, the camera’s large 2.5-inch high-resolution color LCD monitor provides a clear view for checking sharpness, exposure and focus by enlarging the picture up to 19 times.

Building on Nikon’s reputation for making the finest digital SLR cameras, the compact D40 offers mobility, easy operation and beautiful pictures to even first-time digital SLR users, making it ideal for anyone ready to experience the difference of Nikon digital SLR photography.

Leica announce fixes for M8

Upgrade for the LEICA M8 available

11/24/2006 - Since delivery of the LEICA M8 started as of the end of October 2006 we have received the endorsement of many happy users. Nevertheless, in some fairly rare situations, some annoying effects may occasionally occur. Even though these artifacts neither happen often nor to everyone we want to eliminate the effects by providing the following solution.

Issues reported as "Banding" and "Mirror/Ghost images"

Our engineering teams thoroughly investigated the root causes of these effects. They have developed and tested a robust remedy - an upgrade for the M8 - to eliminate any re-occurrence. We have taken extra precautions to not only make sure that the problem does not surface again, but that this remedy will enable every M8 to meet and exceed Leica performance standards.

Cameras shipped from our factory as of November 27th, 2006 will be equipped with the upgrade. Therefore, and because they will be tested thoroughly, we are confident that they will be defect-free.

All customers having received their LEICA M8 before this delivery date will be offered an upgrade free of charge in Leica Camera AG's Customer Service in Solms. To upgrade your camera please, register yourself on our website as of December 6th, 2006. After you have registered you will be contacted by Customer Service to make an appointment to send in your LEICA M8.
Please note that even without this upgrade all cameras delivered before this date are in working order and can be used normally. Even so, we recommend you to have the upgrade performed.

Above-average sensitivity for infrared light (synthetic fabrics are rendered with a slight magenta offset)

During the development of the LEICA M8, we made important design choices to insure that the camera delivers the quality in images the Leica M System is known for. Keeping the protective glass cover on the sensor as thin as possible on the one hand has the benefit of allowing the full potential of Leica lenses on the LEICA M8 to be utilized with respect to their sharpness and contrast rendition, but it also absorbs less of the infrared light. In everyday photographical use the resulting above-average sensitivity for infrared light may lead to a faulty color rendition, especially in the case of synthetic fabrics which - depending on the ambient light - cannot be rendered fully black but only with a slight magenta offset.

Our solution: We will offer special screw-on type UV/IR filters for all Leica M lenses. With respect to the Leica M's compact build the combination of a thin absorption filter on the sensor and a screw-on interference filter on the lens represents the best technical solution. It completely eliminates the color offset caused by infrared light. When using lenses from 16 to 35mm, we suggest opting for the 6-bit coded ones, in order to prevent a color offset towards the edges. No disadvantages must be expected for the images when the LEICA M8 is equipped with the latest firmware (from 1.10; available as of early December 2006).

Leica Camera AG offers every LEICA M8 customer a basic kit of two UV/IR filters with diameters of her/his choice and free of charge. Delivery will commence as of early February 2007. In order to receive the two free IR/UV filters, please register yourself as of December 6th, 2006, including your name and address as well as the camera's serial number. After your registration you can order two filters of choice which will be delivered to your address. Additional filters will be available from your Leica dealer.

Continuing improvements through firmware updates

As is common with digital products, Leica Camera AG is constantly working on improving firmware details such as in the case of the automatic white balance. All improvements will be made available for our customers as downloadable firmware updates.

We are confident these corrective technical measures will fulfil every expectation of even the most demanding customers.

Via Dpreview