Entries filed under Photography
7th
February
2012
Canon announced two new versatile and powerful PowerShot SX digital camera models today – the PowerShot SX260 HS and PowerShot SX240 HS. Combining sleek, modern design with an impressive 20x optical zoom and advanced imaging technologies, these models are the ideal travel companions for recording everything, from family holidays on tropical beaches to action-packed adventures, in stunning detail and Full HD video.
Available in four[1] cool colours for the PowerShot SX260 HS and three[2] for the PowerShot SX240 HS, the new models are the world’s slimmest[3] in their class and offer Canon’s signature high image quality thanks to the DIGIC 5-powered HS System and new Intelligent IS technology, in a compact, pocket-friendly body. The PowerShot SX260 HS also features integrated GPS, making it even easier to record your travels and retrace your route on a map from the comfort of your armchair when you return home.
Super zoom, super quality
Whether it’s the holiday of a lifetime or a precious family moment, the PowerShot SX260 HS and PowerShot SX240 HS are designed to bring you closer to the action than ever before thanks to the enhanced 25mm wide-angle 20x optical zoom Canon lens with 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer (IS). New ZoomPlus technology further extends the reach of the zoom to 39x by harnessing the processing power of DIGIC 5 and the high resolution sensor to produce a more accurate and detailed digital zoom.
Complementing the impressive optical zoom, Canon’s new Intelligent IS technology ensures crisp, detailed images and smooth footage in a range of shooting situations. By identifying the scene and subject to be captured, the camera selects the most appropriate IS settings from seven[4] modes for steady, blur-free shots. For example, Macro IS is great for capturing those crystal clear close-up shots of exotic plants or insects, whilst Powered IS makes it easier to film distant subjects with the powerful zoom – perfect for recording wildlife on safari.
The HS System, which pairs Canon’s next-generation DIGIC 5 image processor with the 12.1 Megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor, has been further augmented to ensure outstanding, low-noise images in all conditions, particularly in low light. Whether on a beach in the moonlight or at a party, pictures are well-exposed with up to 75% less noise than the models’ predecessors, without the need to use a flash or tripod.
(more…)
7th
February
2012
The Canon PowerShot D20 digital camera was announced today – engineered to be a part of the adventure and capture exceptional images and Full HD (1080p) video when living life to the extreme. Housing advanced Canon imaging technology in a robust and sporty body, the PowerShot D20 is waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof and dustproof – ideal for hurtling down the rapids or conquering a mountain and bringing back the photos to prove it.
The PowerShot D20 is packed full of versatiletechnology including the advanced HS System, designed to produce fantastic picture quality, even in challenging low-light conditions. Sliding easily into a rucksack or attached to a carabiner, the PowerShot D20 is compact, lightweight and built to withstand the rigours of any adventure – freeing users to push themselves to the limits without worrying about their camera coping with the ride.
Canon-quality with every shot
The heart of the PowerShot D20 is powered by Canon’s HS System, combining a 12.1 Megapixel, high-sensitivity CMOS sensor with the DIGIC 4 image processor for high-quality performance in every situation – particularly in low-light situations.
Whether exploring the underwater beauty of an exotic cove or standing on top of the world after a mountain trek, glorious scenic vistas can be captured in their entirety thanks to the high-quality 28mm wide-angle Canon lens, with 5x zoom to bring users closer to the action. For rock-steady videos and crisp stills even in challenging shooting conditions, Intelligent IS automatically analyses the scene and selects the optimum settings for the optical Image Stabilizer from seven different modes[1]. For example, when filming movies off the beaten trail, Dynamic IS mode compensates for both hand shake and movement. Panning IS mode is perfect when shooting a flock of birds crossing the scene, ensuring the IS system stabilises in only one direction, while Macro IS mode is perfect for shooting the stunning detail of a starfish on a coral reef.
Breathe new life into shooting beneath the waves and capture the rare sights and close-up detail with the special Underwater Macro mode, combined with Quick AF mode to ensure rapid and accurate focus. The accuracy of Underwater White Balance is enhanced and also offers quick adjustment so that users can shoot the depths with beautiful natural colours. Allowing intrepid travellers to push the limits even further and dive into a new world, the optional WP-DC45 waterproof case with external flash support enables the PowerShot D20 to capture rare sights at depths down to 40m.
Handheld Night Scene mode means users can shoot dark scenes with confidence. It captures a series of high-speed shots and combines them into one crisp, well-exposed image. Giving more freedom for users to be creative, Super Slow Motion Movie mode can add tension and draw out the suspense in fast-paced events.
Ready to go whenever and wherever you may be
Rugged enough to brave the elements, the PowerShot D20 is waterproof to depths down to 10m, and can withstand freezing temperatures down to -10°C. Active Display technology also allows users to control some camera functions by tapping the camera body, making it easier to use when wearing gloves. Built to last, the PowerShot D20 is also shockproof from drops up to 1.5m and environmentally sealed against sand and dust to protect the advanced imaging technology inside.
Those who wish to blaze a trail and map out the adventure for others to follow can use GPS[2] tagging and the low energy consumption[3] GPS Logger feature. These can be used to tag images with location data or track routes and share discoveries easily using the supplied Map Utility software and through Google Earth[4]. Retelling the story behind a stunning shot is now even easier with Movie Digest mode creating a ‘making-of’ film reel for a day’s images. When engaged, this mode films the last 4 seconds before each photo is taken in 720p HD resolution and combines all the clips from that day to create a movie that allows users to document their experiences in a new and exciting way.
When things happen fast, the PowerShot D20 is always ready to go. The dedicated Movie Record button means users can switch instantly to Full HD 1080p movie quality and zero in on the action with the 5x optical zoom without missing a moment. Users can then relive the experience on a big screen thanks to the HDMI connection with CEC, allowing them to pause, rewind and replay any clip using the remote control of a compatible HDTV.
Easy to use, easy to explore
Even when the action is fast and furious, frame the scene perfectly with just a glance at the bright, vibrant 7.5 cm (3.0”) 460,000 dot PureColor II LCD screen with 4:3 aspect ratio. It’s also easier than ever to capture great images without needing extensive photography experience thanks to Canon’s enhanced Smart Auto feature which detects 32 different scenes, applying the best combination of camera settings to ensure every shot is well-exposed.
The PowerShot D20 features seven[5] creative effects that can be applied to give every shot new impact, allowing photographers to explore the world and change how people view it. Landscapes offer the impression of a scale model with Miniature Effect or similar effects to those of a fish-eye lens can be applied to present a completely unique view of the world.
Accessories for adventure
The optional Accessory Kit includes Carabiner and Shoulder Straps to keep the camera handy when hiking or climbing, a special Neoprene Pouch and a Silicon Jacket for even more protection, as well as a Float to keep the camera at the surface when swimming, making the PowerShot D20 ready for many adventures.
Join the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY community
Owners of this new model can also join the newly updated CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, an online facility for sharing photos and video now providing up to 10 GB of personal storage capacity, perfect for storing many photos, even in full resolution. An easy interface allows users to search for images, create combined photo and movie Albums that can receive comments from friends, and to share Albums directly via email and Social Networking Sites.
PowerShot D20 – key features:
• Rugged camera; 12.1 MP HS System
• Water, shock, freeze and dustproof
• 28mm, 5x optical zoom; Intelligent IS
• GPS
• 7.5 cm (3.0″) PureColor II LCD
• Full HD movies
• Smart Auto (32 scenes)
• Special movie modes
• Underwater functions
• Optional 40m Waterproof Case
Pricing and Availability
The PowerShot D20 is available from May, priced at £349.00 RRP incl. VAT.
[1] Intelligent IS modes include: Normal IS, Panning IS, Macro IS, Dynamic IS, Powered IS, Dynamic & Macro IS, and Tripod Mode.
[2] GPS use may be restricted in certain countries or regions. Use of GPS should comply with the laws and regulations of the country and area in which it is being operated, including any restriction on the use of electronics.
[3] The low energy consumption GPS Logger can log for more than 48 hours
[4] Google and Google Earth are trademarks of Google Inc.
[5] Creative filters include: Fish-eye effect, Miniature effect, Miniature effect in Movie, Super Vivid, Poster effect, Toy Camera effect, Monochrome
7th
February
2012
Canon today unveils the latest range of versatile, stylish and easy-to-use PowerShot A series digital camera models designed to help users capture impressive images and HD movies – anytime, anywhere. Each model combines Canon’s leading lens technology, a slim and stylish design and a range of stand-out technologies that make taking photos and recording HD movies easier than ever before.
The six new Canon PowerShot A series models include the PowerShot A810 and PowerShot A1300, perfect take anywhere cameras that combine Canon’s leading image quality with simple, easy functionality that offers versatile support for shooting everything from family group shots to outdoor events. Perfectly slim and stylish, the new PowerShot A2300 and PowerShot A2400 IS are ideal for style conscious users who want a camera to capture party shots and HD quality movies on nights out. The new PowerShot A3400 IS is Canon’s first PowerShot A series model to feature a 7.5 cm (3’’) touch screen LCD for flexible, intuitive control, and the PowerShot A4000 IS is the first PowerShot A series model to include a powerful 8x optical zoom lens that lets users get even closer to the action.
Exceptional quality for all
The new PowerShot A series models feature a range of Canon’s leading imaging technologies to ensure that no matter the scene and subject – from birthday parties, to family holidays – great shots can be achieved to share with friends and family. Each model features a 16.0 Megapixel sensor which works together with Canon’s advanced DIGIC 4 processor to ensure stills are captured in crisp, clear detail with natural colours.
The new models feature a 28mm wide-angle lens that help to capture more of the scene, from group gatherings to eye-catching landscapes, while the 5x optical zoom on the PowerShot A810, PowerShot A1300, PowerShot A2300, PowerShot A2400 IS and PowerShot A3400 IS lets users get closer to a distant subject. For zooming in even further and capturing more, the PowerShot A4000 IS features a powerful 8x optical zoom in a slim, compact body that easily fits into a bag during sightseeing trips or evenings out, so you can get even closer to the action with your camera.
To combat the effects of camera-shake, each new model benefits from Canon’s advanced image stabilisation techniques, to ensure a stunning, steady shot every time. By detecting motion and merging multiple images into one blur free image, Digital IS mode featured in the PowerShot A810, PowerShot A1300 and PowerShot A2300 minimises blur for sharp, clear shots. For even more advanced stabilisation, the PowerShot A2400 IS, PowerShot A3400 IS and PowerShot A4000 IS feature an optical Image Stabilizer with Intelligent IS technology. Whether shooting videos of friends, or blooming flowers, Intelligent IS automatically detects the type of scene and subject and automatically applies one of six¹ different IS modes in order to produce the best possible result.
(more…)
7th
February
2012
Canon today adds to its premium IXUS range with the launch of two new outstanding touch screen models – the IXUS 510 HS and the IXUS 240 HS. Fusing first-class design with Canon’s signature image quality and new Wi-Fi functionality, both models make it easier than ever to shoot photos and Full HD movies in exceptional detail and share them instantly with friends and family. Combining a high quality and compact 12x optical zoom with a highly-pocketable, luxurious and chic design, the IXUS 510 HS is the perfect take anywhere camera for style-conscious users, while the IXUS 240 HS’s slim and elegant design and fun functionality are ideal for shooting and sharing images, anytime and anywhere.
Quality meets design
Canon’s advanced imaging technology ensures superb results, no matter the subject being shot or the conditions. Both models feature cutting-edge genuine Canon lens technology, enabling the capture of sweeping vistas or distant detail with the powerful zooms in each camera. The IXUS 510 HS’s impressive 28mm wide-angle 12x optical zoom lens packs into a body measuring just 19.8 mm front-to-back, while the IXUS 240 HS’s 24mm ultra-wide-angle 5x optical zoom lens comes in a high-grade, super-slim body – offering exceptional quality and versatility. Canon’s ZoomPlus technology means users can extend the zoom of their camera and get even closer to the action, while maintaining higher quality than traditional digital zoom. With ZoomPlus, the IXUS 510 HS’ zoom extends beyond its 12x optical zoom to 21x, while the IXUS 240 HS reaches past its 5x optical zoom to 10x.
The IXUS 510 HS and IXUS 240 HS also feature Canon’s Intelligent IS, providing advanced image stabilisation that offers the freedom to shoot a range of subjects with confidence. Harnessing each model’s 3.5-stop optical Image Stabilizer, Intelligent IS rapidly analyses the shooting scene and automatically adjusts the camera’s settings, selecting from seven¹ different stabilisation modes to ensure photos and movies remain clear and with minimal blur.
Powered by Canon’s HS System, which optimally combines high resolution, high-sensitivity CMOS sensors with next-generation DIGIC 5 processing, both models offer image quality that reflects what the eye sees. Offering supreme performance in all conditions, and especially in low light, both the IXUS 510 HS and IXUS 240 HS allow users to capture and share experiences with incredible levels of detail and clarity.
(more…)
Tagged with camera,
canon,
ixus
7th
February
2012
Canon today adds to its world-famous EF lens series with the launch of three new lenses for photography professionals and enthusiasts. The new EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM professional zoom lens is an update to the popular EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, while the new EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM are the world’s first¹ wide-angle prime lenses to feature optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology. All three provide the highest levels of performance for modern digital photographers, combining premium image quality with durable, user-friendly designs.
The new EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM features completely redesigned optics to provide outstanding clarity, image quality and durability. A compact design makes it ideal for carrying on every shoot, and a range of optical enhancements provide improved performance – capturing greater detail across the frame while reducing distortion throughout the entire zoom range, particularly at the maximum 70mm focal length.
With a redesigned optical system that includes two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) and one Super UD aspheric elements to minimise chromatic aberration and colour blurring, the lens delivers consistently sharp, high-contrast images. Each lens element also features Canon’s optimised Super Spectra coatings to reduce ghosting and flare and ensure excellent colour balance. Additionally, a fluorine coating minimises the amount of dust, dirt and fingerprints that adhere to the front and rear of the lens, helping to maintain superior image quality.
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM also enables photographers to capture their subjects up close, with a minimum focusing distance of 0.38m at all focal lengths throughout the zoom range. A ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) works in combination with a high-performance CPU and advanced AF algorithms to ensure accurate, silent and ultra-responsive autofocus. For those who prefer to maintain full control in every shot, full-time manual focusing allows photographers to precisely tweak or alter the focus of their shot at any time, even when AF is engaged.
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is the latest lens from the elite L-series to offer Canon’s high-grade and user-focused design enhancements. The mechanical structure of the lens has been improved to offer enhanced zoom durability and greater shake and shock resistance within the lens barrel. The size of the lens has also been reduced by 10mm compared to the previous model, providing enhanced portability and greater convenience in everyday use. A new Zoom Lock lever also enables photographers to lock the zoom position at the extreme wide end to prevent damage to the lens in transit, while a water and dustproof construction² enables users to continue shooting in harsh conditions.
Canon today also launches the new EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM – the world’s first 24mm and 28mm fixed wide-angle lenses to feature optical IS technology. Ideal for landscape and reportage, both lenses offer outstanding flexibility allowing photographers to shoot an even broader range of scenes and subjects – combining fast apertures with IS to enable sharp results when shooting handheld, even in low light conditions.
Offering an advantage of up to 4-stops over lenses without IS, both lenses are ideal for capturing more of the scene thanks to their wider focal lengths. Both feature a wide f/2.8 aperture, allowing photographers to explore shallow depth of field, or to shoot in lower-light conditions. Wide apertures and IS technology also make each lens ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects, while Canon’s advanced IS technology is able to detect intentional panning movement and automatically switch from Normal IS mode to Panning IS mode – helping users to capture movement with greater accuracy.
Silent, high-speed AF performance is provided by the inclusion of a ring-type USM and additional features including optimized AF control. Full-time manual focusing also ensures adjustments can be made even when AF is engaged, while a minimum focusing distance of 0.20m (EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM) and 0.23m
(EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM) allows photographers to get even closer to smaller or more detailed subjects.
Both the EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM feature redesigned optics to improve image quality and reduce the need for post-production. An aspherical glass moulded (GMo) lens element is incorporated to correct aberration throughout the optical system, while Canon’s optimised Super Spectra Coatings reduce ghosting and flare for stand-out image quality. Externally, both models also boast a number of design similarities with Canon’s professional L-series lenses, with a similar coating on the barrel and a similar design on the focus ring. A distance scale is also included to assist with landscape photography, while the compact design makes these lenses an unobtrusive addition to any kit bag.
EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM – key features
• All-new optical design delivers exceptional sharpness
• Ultra-low dispersion (UD) and super UD elements
• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Sealed against dust and moisture
• Fast, silent ultrasonic autofocus
• Manual focus override
• Nine-bladed circular aperture
EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM – key features
• 24mm wide angle lens (38mm equivalent on APS-C sized sensors)
• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Up to four-stop Image Stabilizer
• Ultrasonic autofocus mechanism
• Circular aperture for soft background blur
• Super Spectra coatings reduce flare
EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM – key features
• 28mm wide-angle lens (45mm equivalent on APS-C sized sensors)
• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Up to four-stop Image Stabilizer
• Ultrasonic autofocus mechanism
• Circular aperture for soft background blur
• Super Spectra coatings reduce flare
¹ According to Canon research as of February 2012
² Waterproof construction around the lens mount, switch panel, zoom ring, focusing ring and zoom lock. Weatherproof when used with weatherproof EOS bodies.
7th
February
2012
Canon today unveils its new SELPHY compact photo printer, the SELPHY CP810, designed to make photo-lab quality printing on the move, or at home, quick and easy. Replacing the SELPHY CP800, the new model offers a number of improvements, boasting a slimmer, compact and more portable design, expanded creative features and improved usability.
The SELPHY CP810 is ideal for those looking for a convenient printer that delivers high quality prints in less than a minute. The lightweight, portable design also provides a suitable option for business users who want to offer on-the-spot ID Photos or instant photo printing services.
Photos can be printed directly from a range of compatible memory cards, or from any PictBridge-compatible device, such as a camera or camcorder. The SELPHY CP810 can also print from USB flash memory sticks or from mobile phones via the integrated USB port, enabling instant output without the need for a computer.
For enhanced viewing and operation, a tilting 6.8 cm (2.7”) colour LCD screen features at the heart of the SELPHY CP810 operation. With support for 13 languages, images can be viewed easily and printed with a simple press of a button.
To produce the best prints, the improved Auto Image Optimizer function increases the quality of the print output compared to the quality of the original digital image, recognising scenes and improving the subject by making specific adjustments – for example controlling the brightness or contrast. In addition, a selectable Smooth Skin effect evens out skin blemishes for more flattering portraits, and manual brightness adjustment can be applied to fine-tune the prints produced.
Dye sublimation technology gives images superb depth and gradation of colour, providing a similar look and feel to traditional photo lab prints without the wait. Prints are dry and ready for handling the second they leave the printer, resistant to scratches, spills and fading. The printer is capable of producing postcard (148 x 100mm), L (119 x 89mm), and credit card (86 x 54mm) sized prints in super-quick time, on a range of Canon photographic media. The SELPHY CP810 also offers a range of image layout options, including the ID Photo layout which enables users to print a range of standard or custom-sized ID Photo images on a single sheet of paper.
The optional NB-CP2L battery pack provides the ability to print instantly whilst on the move. Ensuring that the printer is only portable when needed, a security cable, such as a Kensington lock, can also be attached to the added security slot on the printer body, while an optional Dust Protection Cover protects the printer and consumables when operating in dusty environments.
Owners of the new printer can also join the newly updated CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, an online facility for sharing photos and video, now providing up to 10 GB of personal storage capacity, perfect for storing many photos, even in full resolution. An easy interface allows users to search for images, create combined photo and movie Albums that can receive comments from friends, and to share Albums directly via email and Social Networking Sites.
The printer will be available in the UK from May 2012, priced at £99.00 RRP inc. VAT.
20th
April
2011
Since recently changing from using the 32-bit to the 64-bit version of Microsoft Windows 7, I lost the ability to view Nikon NEF images in Windows Explorer and Windows Photo Viewer. A free codec compatible with the 32-bit version of Windows 7 can be downloaded from http://www.nikonimglib.com/nefcodec/index.html but, at the time of writing, Nikon say that compatibility for this codec with the 64-bit version ‘remains undetermined’.
I have rectified the issue by installing a third-party codec pack from Axel Rietschin Software Developments, and now I can once again view and sort the RAW NEF files from my Nikon D70 SLR camera in Windows 7:
The Swiss software publisher sells a standalone codec pack which is a Microsoft Windows add-in enabling users to display raw images from more than 350 digital camera models, as well as Adobe DNG and Adobe Photoshop documents, directly from Windows Explorer without launching a dedicated application.
The product takes advantage of the open architecture of Microsoft Windows to provide enhanced image file formats support to the operating system. Once the image decoders – also known as ‘codecs’ – are installed on a given computer, Windows Explorer is able to open and display new image formats in a natural manner, similar to the way it handles standard image formats such as JPEG and TIFF, complete with EXIF data display, Windows Photo Viewer slideshows and desktop search integration.
The software also supports specialized image formats like OpenEXR, Radiance HDR, Truevision Targa and DirectX DDS, as used in the computer gaming and graphics industry.
“Codecs are difficult to author and traditionally troublesome components” said Axel Rietschin, founder of the company. “We took extra-extra care and paid minute attention to details to make sure our product is dependable”. “Installing the Codec Pack is like lighting up Windows Explorer” said a local photographer and early user of the product.
The FastPictureViewer Codec Pack was designed from the start to work with Microsoft Windows 7 and is listed in the official Windows 7 Compatibility Center. Windows Vista is also fully supported as well as Windows XP, with some restrictions. All current 32-bit and 64-bit editions of Windows are supported.
More information and trial downloads available on the web at www.fastpictureviewer.com/codecs
Axel Rietschin Software Developments is a niche innovator of imaging software and components. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the company specializes in developing software solutions that meet business and consumer needs. Also known for its FastPictureViewer Professional photographer-oriented image viewer, the company’s technologies have been used by individuals and organizations across the world.
One thing that perplexed me initially was that I couldn’t use Windows Explorer to tag any of the NEF images, and just kept getting error 0x88982f50 when I tried to do so. Then I realised the codec, by design, is read-only and can make no changes to the files it reads, hence the error message when attempting to add one or more descriptive tag words to an image.
16th
February
2011
Lexar Media, a leading global provider of memory products for digital media, have announced new Professional Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) memory cards. The new high-capacity Lexar Professional 133x SDXC cards enable the capture, storage, and transfer of extended lengths of 1080p high-definition (HD) video and continuous, rapid-fire image capture in a single, solution. The Lexar Professional SDXC card is the first available in a 128GB capacity, and is also offered in a 64GB capacity. Both cards are speed rated at 133x, providing a minimum guaranteed transfer speed of 20MB per second, and feature a Class 10 speed designation. For additional information about Lexar Professional SDXC cards, visit www.lexar.com.
“The professional photography industry is at a point where digital photo and video-capture methods are converging, meaning that professional shooters need a memory solution with the versatility and reliability to safely store both photos and videos,” said Pachi Chen-Wong, senior product marketing manager, Lexar Media. “The 64GB and 128GB Lexar Professional 133x SDXC cards combine high-speed performance with large capacities to offer solutions for professionals who shoot large volumes of high-resolution images and HD video.”
The Lexar Professional 133x SDXC memory cards are compatible with all SDXC-enabled devices. The cards include the latest version of award-winning Image Rescue software to help recover lost or deleted photo and video files.
The new 64GB and 128GB memory cards have RRPs of £249.99 and £449.99, respectively.
Tagged with lexar,
memory,
sdxc
8th
February
2011
Sony Corporation announced today it will disclose the basic specifications of its E-mount for interchangeable single lens cameras, without fee, to manufacturers of lenses and mount adaptors, starting 1st April, 2011.
This opens the way for manufacturers of various lenses and mount adaptors to effectively develop products conforming to E-mount specifications.
Users of the Sony’s NEX-3, NEX-5, NEX-VG10 and other E-mount compatible Sony digital imaging products to be launched in the future will now be able to use interchangeable lenses from both Sony and various other manufactures, while they will also be able to attach non-Sony lenses to their Sony digital imaging products via a mount adapter.
Sony believes the growth of digital imaging products employing the E-mount will further increase the enjoyment of photography and video shooting among an even wider range of users.
These basic specifications will be disclosed to manufactures of lenses and mount adaptors following a predefined process of approval and the signing a licence agreement with Sony.
As of today, the decision to disclose basic specifications of the E-mount has been endorsed by the following companies:
Carl Zeiss AG
Cosina Co., Ltd.
Sigma Corporation
Tamron Co., Ltd.
7th
February
2011
Canon today enhances its leading PowerShot SX camera range with the launch of the impressive PowerShot SX230 HS and the PowerShot SX220 HS models. This duo of new compact super-zoom models combine high-zoom performance, wide-angle flexibility and full manual control in two slim, sleek, pocket-friendly designs. The PowerShot SX230 HS also features new GPS functionality – a first for a Canon compact camera – allowing users to record the location where their images were taken and to record their journey with the GPS Logger.
The inclusion of the HS System means that both models can capture outstanding-quality images in more situations than ever before. Representing a unique combination of a 12.1MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor and Canon’s powerful DIGIC 4 processing technology, the HS System works to produce images with reduced noise and increased dynamic range that produces clear, detailed and natural results even in the most challenging of situations.
The 14x genuine Canon optical zoom lens featured in both models offers a huge zoom range to capture a wide range of subjects. The 28mm wide-angle setting allows the capture of wide, sweeping landscapes or fit more of a scene into a frame, and with the full zoom at a 392mm equivalent focal length, users can reach distant subjects without having to move. Canon’s leading optical Image Stabilizer technology corrects camera shake, offering a 4-stop advantage to prevent image blur throughout the entire zoom range and when shooting in handheld in low light.
Ideal for travellers or casual shooters, the PowerShot SX230 HS’ GPS unit will record where and when images are taken, allowing users to easily keep a record of the place and time their pictures are shot. Additionally, the GPS Logger facility can record the journey that users take, allowing them to later review their travels by using the supplied Map Utility software which integrates with Google Maps.
Ideal for users who just want to point and shoot, the PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS feature Canon’s Smart Auto mode. Designed to make it easy for anyone to get great-quality shots, Smart Auto uses Scene Detection Technology to evaluate each shooting situation against multiple factors and selects the optimum scene from 32 variables, capturing the perfect picture. All the photographer needs to do is focus on framing the shot – Smart Auto takes care of everything else.
Smart Auto also features the latest Advanced Subject Detection technology, allowing the camera to identify and lock onto non-human subjects such as pets or other moving objects within a scene. Once identified and the shutter has been half-pressed, Servo AF/AE ensures the subject remains in focus and well-exposed, right up until the shutter release is fully pressed and the image captured. i-Contrast and Smart Flash Exposure functions within Smart Auto also ensure subjects are captured in the best possible detail, reducing the occurrence of harsh shadows and over-exposed highlights.
A new Movie Digest shooting mode provides a fun new way to add movie footage to a day of shooting still images. Movie Digest mode films and records the action up to four seconds before every still image taken, before joining all clips captured into a VGA-resolution movie!
The PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS should be available to buy from mid-March 2011.
