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AMAZING LITTLE CAMERA!!!!
Update to my Update: Amazon would not allow me to post the link of the detailed review of this product on this review page, however they did allow me to post the link (to the review) in the comment section (comments are located to the right of the screen at the very end of my review, click on comments and I have the link to the review pasted, 10th post down)…

Fun Camera, but Overpriced….
I purchased this camera 2 weeks ago for use for an upcoming trip to use along side my Nikon D90. The feature set and touch screen interface drew me to this camera, although upon using this camera, its not quite worth the cash.

More owner thoughts & opinions

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraReview]
[ISO Performance Samples @ CNET]
[ISO Performance Samples @ WDC]
[Sample Image Quality @ CNET.uk]
[Sample ISO Performance Photos @ HardwareZone]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Press

Press Release

13th August 2009: Samsung Digital Imaging, leaders in innovation and technology, today announced the arrival of the ultra slim and stylish ST550 and ST500 compact cameras which boast yet another ‘world first’: front and back LCD display technology.

Delivering an unrivalled user experience, the hidden 1.5” LCD located on the front of the camera allows consumers to take accurate portraits using the front image as a guide – whether it’s a group shot with friends or a snap of yourself on holiday. There is no need to even press the shutter button – just a big smile will trigger the cameras to take the picture.

On the reverse, the Samsung ST550 features the world’s highest resolution 3.5” wide touch screen LCD* , almost four times the size of many other cameras, complete with haptic feedback for ease of use.

Complementing this, the 12.2 mega pixel cameras also use the perfect combination of a 27mm wide angle Schneider KREUZNACH lens with 4.6x optical zoom. This gives the photographer a wider shooting range from a shorter distance, producing clear, clean images with even resolution from the centre of the picture right to the edges.

“These cameras are the very first of their kind,” said Steve Mitchell, General Manager Marketing, Samsung Digital Imaging Division.

“The use of digital imaging technologies has evolved and we are offering functionality and capabilities that no other digital camera manufacturer has yet addressed. These cameras will be must-haves for those individuals that use popular social networking websites and for families that want to get everyone, including the photographer, in the picture.”

Smart Gesture User Interface (UI)
Showcasing further innovations, a Smart Gesture User Interface (UI) with built-in orientation sensor, means a simple tap or hand gesture allows users to access key features quickly. A simple tap can also turn the front LCD on instantly, ready to take the perfect self portrait photo.

One touch shooting and Auto-Focus
Sometimes the focal point of your picture is not always in the centre of the frame. The ST550 and ST500’s One Touch Auto Focus feature allows you to focus on a different part of the shot by simply touching the desired area. Once you’ve selected the focal point, you can simply leave your finger on the screen for two seconds or push the shutter button to take the picture.

Smart Auto (Scene Recognition)
Take professional-looking photos with Samsung’s advanced Smart Auto feature so you never have to worry about your photos being washed out, too dark or out of focus. Smart Auto analyses key elements of your composition such as colour, brightness, motion and subject and then automatically adjusts to take the perfect shot.

Smart Face Recognition
Samsung’s innovative Smart Face Recognition technology actually remembers faces it sees frequently and then prioritises them when focussing and exposing future shots. It can store up to 20 recognised faces in the cameras’ internal memory and allows users to search for their favourite faces in playback. This can be done quickly by using the ‘Face’ search in Smart Album, instead of viewing every single photo on the memory card.

In “Blink Detection Mode” the camera will take a series of shots when closed eyes are detected so everyone is captured with their eyes open; in “Smile Mode” a picture is automatically taken when smiles are detected and, in “Beauty Shot” mode, facial skin is retouched to three different user defined levels for brighter and smoother skin tones.

HD Movie Recording
The ST500 and ST550 record HD video in 1280×720p resolution at 30 frames per second in H.264 format. This format allows more than twice as much recording capacity as the MP4 format, so gives you more room on your memory card for images and movies. The ST550 also features HDMI connectivity via an optional adapter, so you can see your HD video creations in glorious HD on an HD TV.

Dual Image Stabilization/Perfect Self Portrait & Perfect Self Timer
Samsung’s Dual Image Stabilization technology combines advanced Digital and Optical image stabilization to ensure outstanding photos without blur – even in low light conditions. Couple this with the new front facing LCD screen and Samsung’s Perfect Self Portrait & Perfect Self Timer functions, and taking professional looking pictures of yourself and others is easy.

The ST500 is available in silver, red and blue colours and the ST550 is available in black, gold, orange and purple colours. All will be available from leading high street and online retailers from late August 2009.

Features

Dual LCD Displays
With the Dual LCD on front and back, ST550 and ST500 provide the easiest way to take the perfect self portrait, either by yourself or with friends or family, every time. On the front of the camera is a 1.5” LCD that shows you exactly what the picture will look like, so you can now be a subject of the picture, as well as the photographer.

- When you tap the front LCD, it turns on and automatically goes into Self-Portrait mode, ensuring that the user will always be framed exactly the way they want. You can also turn on the front LCD with a simple selection through the intuitive interface. As soon as you smile, the camera automatically takes the picture. But the Dual LCDs do more.
- In Children mode, the front LCD plays a fun animation to capture a child’s attention while taking their photo.
- Shutter Info ensures you take a photo of your subject while they’re smiling, the front LCD will display a “smiley face” when the shutter is pushed halfway thus signalling to the subject they should smile.
- Function Info helps you to know the features of every function, with the front LCD providing a visual readout of key camera settings, including whether or not the flash is engaged or if macro focus is in use.
- With Self-Timer, when taking a group photo using the self-timer, the front LCD will show a preview of the shot as well as a visual countdown timer so that everyone knows exactly when the photo will be snapped.

Smart Gesture UI
When it comes to smart, user-friendly features, the ST550 and ST500 are leading the way. Take for example its innovative Smart Gesture UI with built-in orientation sensor, which lets you quickly access and use the key features with either a simple tap or a hand gesture. To turn on the smaller LCD located on the front, simply tap the screen and activates automatically and immediately.

Using other advanced features is just as simple. With the Smart Gesture UI you can quickly scroll through your photos by slightly tilting the device in either direction or by selecting the appropriate photos for a slide show. You can also easily delete photos from your library using Gesture UI by marking a cross (X) on the screen using your finger or you can simply save your favourite photos into a separate folder.

If you want to rotate the images draw a circle (O) on the screen; if you want to see the next image you can drag it on to the screen with a sweep of your finger or by simply tilting the device.

World’s Highest Resolution 3.5” Wide Touch Screen Rear LCD*
The 3.5” wide LCD touch screen located on the back of the ST550 displays the sharpest images of any camera available today, delivering almost four times more than many cameras. Unlike other digital cameras, the LCD touch screen uses Samsung’s unique Haptic technology. That means the camera responds with a slight vibration and beep whenever you select an option.

12.2 Megapixels CCD, 27mm Wide Angle lens with 4.6x Optical Zoom
Samsung’s ST550 and ST500 come fully equipped with a true colour-filtered 12.2 megapixel CCD and boast a powerful 4.6x Optical Zoom, guaranteeing some of the sharpest and most detailed images available and allow for the printing of poster-sized photos. Whether you’re indoors or out, shooting a landscape or friends around a table, the 27mm wide angle lens plus 4.6x optical zoom give you a wider shooting range from a shorter distance delivering greater flexibility than 35mm cameras. Capture images of beautiful landscapes, entire wedding parties and skyscrapers without having to back up to get the shot. The precisely cut 27mm optical lens from Schneider-KREUZNACH delivers clear, clean images with even resolution from the centre to the edges. Each lens surface is multi-coated to minimize ghosting or flaring for a great shot every time.

Advanced Dual Image Stabilization (IS)
Samsung’s Advanced Dual Image Stabilization (IS) feature allows you to capture crystal-clear, blur-free shots without using a flash or tripod. The ST550 and ST500’s true Dual IS combines both Optical and Digital Image stabilizers to produce sharp images without the confusion commonly found in other cameras. The optical IS intelligently compensates for hand trembling by shifting the lens in the opposite direction. When Optical IS isn’t quite enough, the Digital IS automatically takes over to ensure blur-free images.

HD Movie Recording in the palm of your hand
The ST550 and ST500 are like having a compact HD video camera that also takes professional-grade photos. They record HD video in 1280×720p resolution at 30 frames per second. Their H.264 format also allows you to record twice as much as an MP4 and four times more than an MJPG (the format used in many other digital cameras), delivering much higher video and sound quality. With the ST550’s mini-HDMI connector, you can also now watch your HD videos with any HDTV or HD monitor.

Smart Auto: shoot like a pro
Take professional-looking photos with Samsung’s Smart Auto feature so you never have to worry about your photos being washed out, too dark or out of focus. Smart Auto analyzes key elements of your composition such as colour, brightness, motion and subject and then automatically adjusts to take the perfect shot.

Smart Album
A 4GB memory card can store over 1,200 12-megapixel photos. That means a lot of photos to sort through, but with Samsung’s convenient Smart Album feature, you can quickly scroll through your entire library of images and organize them in the way that’s best for you. This unique feature allows you to organize photos by Favourite (if tagged as a “favourite” photo), Face (someone you’ve taken many photos of), Timeline (date photos were taken), Colour, Content (photos, videos, voice) and Week.

Perfect Portrait System

Picture-perfect moments at their best
The Perfect Portrait System takes the guess work out of shooting beautiful portraits. Key features of this system are the Smile Shot and Blink Detection technologies which automatically detect when your subjects are smiling and have their eyes open so you capture them looking their best. Another advanced feature is the Red-eye Fix mode. This in-camera feature automatically fixes the typical occurrences of red-eye before the photo is produce. That means you don’t have to spend time afterwards removing red-eyes from your photos.

One touch shooting and Auto-Focus
Sometimes the focal point of your picture is not always in the centre of the frame. In cases like this, the ST550 and ST500’s One Touch Auto Focus feature allows you to focus on a different part of the shot by simply touching the desired area. That means your subject will always be in focus. Once you’ve selected the focal point, you can simply leave your finger on the screen for two seconds or push the shutter button to take the picture.

Smart Face Recognition
The ST550 and ST500 feature advanced Face Recognition technology that automatically stores up to 20 preferred faces to the cameras’ internal memory. While taking a portrait, the ST550 and ST500 will automatically recognize if one of the user’s preferred faces is in the frame and identify them as a priority for focus and exposure. Users can also save time sorting through their photos and instead search for photos that contain a specific face.

Beauty Shot
Samsung’s Beauty Shot feature lets you remove all the imperfections on your subject’s face such as wrinkles, blemishes and moles, leaving skin flawless. Simply select one of the two editing options to even out skin tone and complexion.

Photo Style Selector: unleash your creativity
The ST550 and ST500 are designed to help you find your inner artist and shoot beautiful pictures. With Samsung’s unique highlight feature, you can focus on one area of your photo and blur everything around it, so turning a normal photo into something much more complex. Simply select one of the two editing options to even out skin tone and complexion.

Transform your photos from simple memories to works of art using the Photo Style Selector feature. Choose from a wide selection of artistic treatments ranging from classic black and white to something more colourful allowing you to take control of the colours to be a true artist.

Previews

Preview Index

Steve’s Digcams (Preview)
“Once in your hands, you can immediately feel the ergonomic improvements of the Canon EOS 7D camera, starting with a new super-fluid body design with continuous curves outlining the top of the camera and a revised grip that fits better in a user’s hand. The camera has a new Quick Control Button, which opens an easy-to-navigate menu on the camera’s LCD screen.”

PDNGearGuide (Hands-On Preview)
“I was impressed with how much technology Canon has packed into the 7D. This is a serious mid-level professional digital SLR for serious photographers and it should gives its rivals in the HD video/APS-C sensor category — the Nikon D300s and Pentax K-7, in particular — a serious run for their money. But along with adding new features including a much sought-after 24p mode for its HD capture mode, Canon has rethought this entire category of camera with the 7D by making it photographically advanced yet highly usable.”

Rob Galbraith (Hands-On Preview)
“Control layout and customization Given the fact the 7D isn’t that much bigger a camera, Canon has done well in dispensing with the 50D’s cramped button layout in favour of buttons that are larger, arranged mostly on the side of the rear LCD rather than below it and are easier to press.”

Popsci (Hands-On Preview)
“Again, we only spent about 30 minutes face to face with a prototype, but even that was enough to realize that the 7D will be a strong contender with both videographers (with its increased framerate support) and photographers (with its enhanced auto-focus, rugged body and overhauled menus and custom functions) at a semi- or fully professional level. The only thing missing (and this will be a dealbreaker for many in the pro-leaning market, I imagine) is the full-frame sensor.”

Imaging Resource (Preview)
“The Canon 7D is long overdue. It’s been rumored for something like five years, though most of those rumors spec’d it as a full-frame camera. But I think this is just right: I don’t think they could have included another important feature without making the Canon 7D look absurd. Okay, maybe a real AF-assist lamp is all that’s missing.”

DPReview (Preview)
“The 7D isn’t a 50D with a new sensor, viewfinder and revised body – other headline changes include a new AF system with a dedicated processor, dual Digic 4 processors and new shutter mechanism to allow 8fps continuous shooting and the ability to control groups of external flashguns using its built-in flash. However, the updates extend beyond these big-feature changes to include a variety of tweaks, refinements and additions. Make no mistake, Canon wants to be the default choice again.”

LetsGoDigital (Preview)
“To sum it up; the Canon EOS 7D is an advanced semi-pro DSLR camera which incorporates several technology from the professional EOS-series, yet also features many new technologies and innovations applied to an EOS camera for the first time. Mainly creative photographers will feel invited by the 7D to take that extra step. The support you gain from the high-end technology really gives the photographer the feeling it was his own hand that captured that one incredible photo moment.”

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Samples

Sample Photos

[Image Samples @ DPReview]
[Image Samples @ Pocket-lint]
[Image Samples @ Neocamera]
[Image Samples @ HardwareZone]
[Image Samples @ TechRadar]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Image Samples @ Focus Numerique (Google Translated)]
[Image Samples @ Jeff Ascough]
[Image Quality Samples @ Photography Review]
[Image Quality Samples @ Imaging Resource]
[Sample Photos @ DPReview]
[Sample Photos @ Canon Japan]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Inside the 7D @ CPN]
[Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Press

Press Release

London, UK, 1 September 2009: Canon today unveils the EOS 7D digital SLR camera – a completely new design to meet the specific demands of photographers. Incorporating a new 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, developed by Canon, the EOS 7D also features: Dual “DIGIC 4” processors to offer fast, high-quality performance in all light conditions, an ISO range expandable to 12,800 and continuous shooting at 8 frames per second – without the need for additional accessories. Impressive technologies are matched by excellent build-quality designed with the photographer in mind – to create a whole new photographic experience.

During extensive development Canon went back to the drawing board, listening to photographers worldwide in order to design the EOS 7D to meet their specific needs. Commenting on the creation of the EOS 7D, Mr. Shinbori, Deputy Group Executive of Photo Products Group & Senior General Manager of Camera Development Center, Canon Inc,said “We consulted over 5,000 photographers worldwide and asked them what they most wanted to see from a camera. Matching this insight with cutting-edge technology, we were able to develop a camera that truly gives photographers the versatile tool they require to experiment with their images.”

Accurate Images – High performance AF and metering systems

The EOS 7D features a 19-point cross-type AF sensor, enabling photographers to achieve accurate shots and optimise composition options. This improved AF system offers a range of manual and automatic settings including Zone and Spot AF to track and capture subjects quickly and accurately. AF settings are highly customisable, allowing for rapid reaction to changes in the scene. Different AF points can be set for vertical or horizontal orientation, so photographers can automatically switch between landscape and portrait shots without touching a button.

The EOS 7D also incorporates a new metering system. The Focus Colour Luminance metering system (iFCL) intelligently measures focus, colour and luminance, across 63 zones. Complementing the 19 AF points, the dual layer sensor is able to gather information from each distinct zone to obtain a more accurate and consistent exposure.

Capture images exactly as you see them

The Canon EOS 7D features an Intelligent Viewfinder that offers photographers 100 per cent frame coverage. With 1.0x magnification* – a first for EOS – photographers see a large bright image that helps to fully immerse them within the shot. A transmissive LCD incorporated in the viewfinder allows photographers to choose between various overlay features – such as AF points, the spot metering circle and composition grid – providing a range of tools that help when framing a shot. The EOS 7D is also the first EOS to introduce a Dual-Axis Electronic Level – in the viewfinder and on the LCD – that indicates both pitch and roll angles. This feature is particularly useful when shooting landscapes to ensure a level horizon, or when used in conjunction with a Tilt and Shift lens to level the camera.

The camera features a new 3 inch Clear View II LCD screen with a solid structure screen, designed to combat glare by removing the air-gap between the LCD’s protective cover and the liquid crystal. This new screen has a viewing angle of 160 degrees and is effective even in bright light. As with the EOS 5D Mark II, an ambient light sensor on the side of the screen can set brightness automatically depending on the environment.

Experiment creatively with light

The Canon EOS 7D is equipped with an Integrated Speedlite Transmitter. For the first time in an EOS, photographers can control external Speedlites with no additional accessories – ideal for those looking to experiment with creative lighting set-ups. The EOS 7D also features an extensively upgraded, built-in flash including manual control, and wider flash coverage to cover focal lengths as wide as 15mm.

Customize your individual camera experience

The EOS 7D has been conceived and designed with the photographer’s needs in mind. The look and feel of the camera has been aesthetically and ergonomically crafted to offer photographers the very best interaction. To this end, the photographer can design their own experience – camera operations are customisable, allowing the user to assign frequently used functions and settings to convenient controls. This enables photographers to save time when shooting critical moments, by changing settings quickly.
Impressive Features, Impressive Images

The Canon EOS 7D is packed with new features:

- 18 MP APS–C CMOS Sensor
Designed and manufactured by Canon, the sensor produces an outstanding image and offers fantastic performance at high and low conditions, thanks to a new photodiode and microlens construction.
- 8 fps image capture
Enabled by the Dual “DIGIC 4” processors and improved electrical system, photographers can capture images at 8fps, without the need for additional accessories and in all file types.
- ISO Range
The EOS 7D enables photographers to capture subjects in their natural light. The ISO range (100 – 6,400) is expandable to 12,800.
- EOS Movie
With improved operation, making it easy to switch directly to movie mode, it is now even simpler to shoot Full HD video. Users can set exposure and frame rate – with options for 24 fps to create that cinematic feel.
- Dual “DIGIC 4” processors
By utilising Dual “DIGIC 4” processors, users of the EOS 7D never have to compromise between shooting speed, image quality and ISO performance.
- Impressive Design
Canon has listened to photographer feedback when designing the body, as well as the internal technologies. A magnesium alloy body offers environmental protection – the tough, lightweight construction is designed to defend against moisture, and dust – equivalent to the legendary EOS–1N.

The camera is compatible with a wide range of accessories so it can easily be integrated with a photographer’s workflow. The Wireless File Transmitter (WFT-E5) allows extensive camera control via a web browser – allowing photographers to control the camera using a web-enabled mobile device.

The EOS 7D is compatible with all EF and EF-S lenses as well as Canon EX Speedlites. The Canon EOS 7D can also be used with Battery BG-E7, and remote controllers and switches such as the remote Controller RC-1/RC-5.

* with 50mm lens at infinity, -1(1/m) dpt

Technologies Explained:

Canon CMOS sensor

The EOS 7D includes a new 18 megapixel CMOS sensor with a wide ISO range that delivers excellent results in both the low and high-speed ranges as well as improved image quality. The sensor is a standard APS-C size (22.4×14.9mm) and produces an effective field of view of 1.6x the lens focal length.

The EOS 7D sensor features condensed circuitry with improved sensitivity and increased capacity of the photodiodes, which enables shooting at high ISO and prevents overloading when shooting in bright conditions. The ISO range (100 – 6400) is expandable to 12800 enabling photographers to capture subjects in their natural light without the use of a flash.

The EOS 7D sensor includes gapless microlenses that have been moved closer to the photodiodes. These technological advances, which were developed and manufactured by Canon, improve the signal to noise ratio creating very clean high ISO images.

19-point cross-type AF system including Spot AF

The AF system has been completely redesigned using the same architecture as the EOS-1 series and includes a separate processor to handle AF calculations. This, along with AI SERVO II AF, enables the EOS 7D to offer accurate, reliable and continuous shooting at 8fps. Uniquely at this level, all 19 points in the EOS 7D AF sensor are cross-type points with f/5.6 or faster lenses, which allows sophisticated tracking, accuracy and performance throughout the frame.

EOS 7D also includes Spot AF, a new mode that uses a smaller area of the sensor to determine focus. This is useful for small subjects where there is background detail that can distract the AF sensor. It also includes Zone AF which limits automatic selection to one of five zones. This allows photographers to ensure their subject is automatically selected.

iFCL metering system with 63-zone Dual-layer Sensor

The iFCL system uses Focus, Colour and Luminance information to determine consistently exposed shots. All focus points provide distance information to the metering system to determine proximity to the subject and allow the algorithm to weight the exposure accordingly. EOS 7D has a completely new metering sensor with 63 zones compatible with 19 AF points. Typically, metering sensors are more sensitive to red subjects which can lead to overexposure. EOS 7D combats this with the dual layer sensor, which has one layer sensitive to red and green light and one that is sensitive to blue and green light. The metering algorithm then compares the level of the two layers and adjusts the meter reading accordingly.

100% Viewfinder with 1.0x magnification and built in LCD overlay

The EOS 7D features a high quality viewfinder with 100% coverage and 1.0x magnification – a first for EOS – making it simple and ease to use. The viewfinder uses a prism, coating technologies and eyepiece lenses inspired by the EOS-1 series.

EOS 7D viewfinder does not have interchangeable focussing screens. In their place is a Transmissive LCD Screen – another first for EOS. Through technological advances Canon has been able to implement the screen whilst maintaining viewfinder image quality. This new feature, which can be illuminated in lowlight, enables grid, spot metering and AF points to be superimposed upon demand.

EOS Movie

The EOS 7D features an improved movie function allowing users to record Full HD movies with full manual control and selectable frame rates. The operation of the movie function has been improved to make it easier to use via direct access to settings with dedicated buttons. AF can now be started by either half pressing the shutter button or using the AF-ON button as before.

The exposure of the movie can be controlled in Manual mode allowing full control of shutter speeds and apertures. It is possible to select frame rates from: 30 (29.97), 25, and 24 (23.976), with 60 (59.94) and 50 available at 720p. ISO can be set automatically or manually in the range (100-6400) and is expandable to 12800. EOS 7D also allows users to trim and cut their movies.

Dual “DIGIC 4”

EOS 7D is fitted with Dual “DIGIC 4” processors; the power of the processors enables more advanced processing algorithms allowing the camera to achieve a high performance 8fps at 18 megapixels.

DIGIC 4 removes the highly noticeable colour noise as well as reducing luminance noise without loss in detail, allowing for very clean high ISO images. Even at ISO 6400 noise levels are similar to those of ISO 1600 from DIGIC III. Auto Lighting Optimiser is now also available during manual exposure, without any drop in performance.

DIGIC 4 also allows UDMA cards (mode 6) to be used at their full speed, which allows the EOS 7D to take advantage of the fastest cards available.

Clear View II

EOS 7D’s 3 inch LCD monitor has 920,000 dots (VGA resolution) with a viewing angle of 160°. Clear View II has been designed to combat glare by removing the air-gap between the LCD’s protective cover and the liquid crystal. The air-gap is filled with an elastic optical material. This has the affect of suppressing the reflections from the surface of the liquid crystal, caused by the sharp change in refractive index, as light travels through the air-gap. In order to protect the liquid crystal from scratches the Clear View II LCD features a hardened glass cover material. As with the EOS 5D Mark II, an ambient light sensor on the side of the screen can set brightness automatically depending on the environment.

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Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ RegHardware]
[Sample Photos @ Steve's Digicams]
[ISO Sample Photos @ CNET]
[Sample Photos @ DigiCamReview]
[Low Light Sample Photo @ InfoSync]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Photo Detail @ CNET UK]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

Coming soon…

Similar

Similar Cameras

Press

Press Release

MIAMI, FL – Panasonic today introduced the LUMIX DMC-ZS3 and DMC-ZS1, both members of the new ZS-Series, the successor to the acclaimed LUMIX TZ-Series and Panasonic’s newest ultimate compact and powerful digital cameras. The LUMIX ZS3 features 10.1-megapixels, a 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens and 12x optical zoom, meaning it has added 2x optical zoom to the award-winning TZ-Series camera, yet reduced its size. The ZS3 also features a LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and High Definition (HD) video recording ability, known as AVCHD Lite.

“The LUMIX ZS3 is a powerhouse performer with enormous versatility. Compared with the TZ-Series, it extends the power of the optical zoom from 10x to 12x and expands the wide-angle lens from 28mm to an ultra-wide 25mm, giving it the range for virtually any shooting situations,” said David Briganti, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Despite its superior lens specifications and functionality, the ZS3 is remarkably smaller and lighter than its predecessors, making it easier to carry on travels and everyday shooting opportunities.”

The ZS3 is the world’s first digital camera to feature HD video recording in “AVCHD Lite*2”. Compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format, AVCHD Lite allows longer recordings with breathtaking HD visual and audio quality. This combined with a well-considered control interface, which includes a dedicated movie recording button on the camera’s back panel, makes the ZS3 a hybrid model that performs admirably for both still and motion image capture.

The ZS3 also expands Panasonic’s popular Intelligent Auto (iA) mode with the addition of Face Recognition – a feature that “remembers” faces from previous shots*1. When a registered face appears in the frame, the camera will prioritize focus and exposure to capture it beautifully.

With Face Recognition, when a familiar face is recorded several times, the camera will prompt the users to register the face. Once registered, if the face appears into the frame again, the camera will display the name specified for that person and prioritize focus and exposure so that the registered face is bright and sharply focused.

New this year to the ZS-Series, iA mode is also available in Movie Mode. It automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode and helps to correct handshake, focus and brightness problems – making iA mode your one-stop solution to capture beautiful still and motion images. In Movie Mode, the ZS3, Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) helps prevent handshake when using the high-powered zoom. Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion so it turns out perfectly. Intelligent Exposure continually checks the ambient light level and adjusts the exposure setting as conditions change to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows. And Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Macro, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the situation to optimize visual quality.

The imaging power of LUMIX has further evolved with the Venus Engine HD, which boasts two CPUs to provide approx. 2.4x processing capability and support for AVCHD Lite and HDMI output. It integrates all the advanced functions and camera operations with high performance and low-power consumption. In image processing, luminance noise and chromatic noise are reduced separately before and after signal processing. This is further refined by separating noise two-dimensionally into high-frequency and low-frequency noise. The circuits then effectively reduce only the low-frequency noise to minimize the unwanted noise and help produce beautiful, sharp still and motion images.

Playback with the ZS-Series is also easy. Simply insert the camera’s SD Memory Card into the VIERA® HDTV’s Image Viewer SD Card slot for a photo slideshow*3. Alternatively, connect the camera via an optional HDMI mini cable, the DMW-HDC2, to a VIERA Link™-equipped Panasonic VIERA HDTV and use the television’s remote control to run mixed slideshows of photos and videos. The ZS3 features a 3-inch, high resolution 460,000-dot Intelligent LCD with a wide viewing angle, improving visibility during recording and playback.

Other features of the LUMIX ZS3 include:

- Increased Scene modes for both still and motion image shooting – optimized for a variety of situations. There are 26 scene modes for still image and 17 for motion image (Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self portrait, Scenery, Low light, Food, Party, Candle light, Sunset, High sensitivity, Beach, Snow, Aerial, Pin hole, Film grain and Underwater)

- Two new My Scene settings let users assign their two most frequently used Scene modes to the setting, and with a simple switch, allow access to either scene instantly.

The ZS1, like the ZS3, features a 25mm ultra-wide angle, 12x powerful optical zoom. Distinguishing it, the ZS1 features a 10.1 megapixel CCD, a standard iA mode (no Face Recognition) for still image recording and a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD.

The DMC-ZS3 will be available in silver, black, blue and red for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $399.95, while the DMC-ZS1 will be available in black and silver for an SRP of $299.95. Both models will be available in April 2009. For more information, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 Depending on background and facial expression, camera may not recognize a registered person. For family members with similar facial features, camera may not correctly identify the intended subject.

*2 The “AVCHD” is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation. The “AVCHD Lite” is a subset of the “AVCHD format” for HD digital video cameras with HD video recording restricted to 720P. The new “AVCHD Lite” Logo and the “AVCHD Lite” License are restricted to devices within the AVCHD Video Camera category. Digital cameras have now been added to the AVCHD Video Camera category. For more details, please refer to the “AVCHD Information Website”. http://www.avchd-info.org/

*3 AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD disc cannot be played from a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.

*4 3-megapixel (4:3), 2.5-megapixel (3:2), 2-megapixel (16:9) recording. (10fps in Speed Priority mode / 6fps in Picture Priority mode)

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Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

Sensor	• 4/3 type MOS (’Live MOS sensor’) • 13.06 million total pixels • 12.11 million effective pixels • RGB (Primary) color filter array
Image sizes	• 4000 x 3000 (4:3) • 2816 x 2112 (4:3) • 2048 x 1536 (4:3) • 4000 x 2672 (3:2) • 2816 x 1880 (3:2) • 2048 x 1360 (3:2) • 4000 x 2248 (16:9) • 2816 x 1584 (16:9) • 1920 x 1080 (16:9) • 2992 x 2992 (1:1) • 2112 x 2112 (1:1) • 1504 x 1504 (1:1)
Aspect ratios	• 4:3 • 3:2 • 16:9 • 1:1
File formats	• RAW • RAW + JPEG Standard • RAW + JPEG Fine • JPEG (EXIF 2.2) – Standard • JPEG (EXIF 2.2) – Fine
Movie mode	• AVCHD lite (three quality levels) • Motion JPEG • Mono sound • AVCDHD: 1280 x 720, 60p (sensor output is 30fps) 9-17 Mbps • MJPEG: 320×240, 640×480, 848×480, 1280×720 (all at 30fps)
Lenses	• Micro Four Thirds mount lenses • Four Thirds mount lenses via adapter (DMW-MA1PP) Autofocus only available with: – Olympus Zuiko 25 F2.8 ‘Pancake’ – Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 – Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4-5.6 – Panasonic Leica D Summilux 25mm F1.4 ASPH – Panasonic Leica D Vario-Elmar 14-50mm F3.8-5.6 ASPH. Mega OIS – Panasonic Leica D Vario-Elmar 14-150mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH. Mega OIS
Focus modes	• Auto Focus • Manual focus • Face Detection • AF Tracking • 23-Area-Focusing/1 Area Focusing • Single or Continuous AF • AF detection range: EV 0-18 (F3.5 lens, ISO 100) • Pre AF (Quick AF/Continuous AF), AF+MF, MF Assist(5x, 10x)
AF assist lamp	Yes, dedicated lamp
Image stabilization	None (lens only)
Extended optical zoom	Yes
Digital zoom	• Up to 4x
Exposure modes	• Program AE • Aperture priority AE • Shutter priority AE • Manual • iAuto • SCN • Movie • Custom (2)
Scene modes	• Portrait • Soft Skin • Creative Portrait • Architecture • Sports • Peripheral Defocus • Flower • Food • Objects • Night Portrait • Night Scenery • Illuminations • Baby 1,2 • Pet • Party • Sunset
Sensitivity	• Auto • Intelligent ISO • ISO 100 • ISO 200 • ISO 400 • ISO 800 • ISO 1600 • ISO 3200
Metering	144-zone multi-pattern sensing system
Metering range	0 to 18 EV
Metering modes	• Multiple-Weighted • Center-Weighted • Spot
AE Lock	• AEL/AFL button • With shutter release half-press
AE Bracketing	• 3, 5 or 7 frames • 1/3 to 2.0 EV steps
Exposure steps	1/3 or 1.0 EV
Exposure compensation	• -3.0 to +3.0 EV • 1/3 EV steps
Shutter speed	• 60 -1/4000 sec • Bulb (up to 4 mins) • Flash X-sync 1/160 sec
White balance	• Auto • Daylight • Cloudy • Shade • Halogen • Flash • Custom 1 • Custom 2 • Kelvin temp (2500 – 10000 K, 100K steps)
WB fine tuning	Yes (blue/amber bias, magenta/green bias)
WB Bracketing	• 3 shots •+/-1 to +/-3 in either blue/amber or magenta/green axis
Color space	• sRGB • Adobe RGB
Image parameters	• My Color mode (Expressive/Retro/Pure/Elegant/Monochrome/Dynamic Art/Silhouette/Custom) • Film Mode (Standard / Dynamic / Nature / Smooth / Nostalgic / Vibrant) • Saturation (5 levels) • Contrast (5 levels) • Sharpness (5 levels) • Noise reduction (5 levels) • Monochrome (Standard, Dynamic, Smooth) • My Film (2 memories, multi film mode)
Drive modes	• Single • Continuous H (3 fps) • Continuous L (2 fps)
Continuous buffer	• 7 RAW images • Unlimited JPEG images with a fast card
Self-timer	• 2 sec • 10 sec • 10 sec, 3 images
Remote release	Optional DMW-RSL1
Flash	• Manual pop-up • TTL auto / manual • Guide no. 6.0 (ISO 100, m) • Sync modes: Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction, Slow syncro with red-eye reduction, Slow syncro • 1st /2nd curtain sync • Flash power: Up to +/- 2EV in 1/3 EV steps
Flash X-sync speed	1/160 sec
External flash	• Hot shoe • TTL Auto with FL220/FL360/FL500 (Optional)
Viewfinder	• Optional Electronic Viewfinder
DOF preview	Yes
Orientation sensor	Yes
LCD monitor	• 3.0" Low temperature Polycrystalline TFT LCD • 3:2 aspect ratio • Wide viewing angle • 460,000 dots • 60 fps • Approx 100% frame coverage • Brightness (7 levels), Color (7 levels) • Modes: Off / Auto Power LCD / Power LCD
Playback functions	• Single • Magnify (2 – 16x) • Index (12 or 30 frames) • Slideshow • Calendar view • Resize • Text Stamp • Trimming • Aspect Conversion • Audio Dubbing
Connectivity	• USB 2.0 (High Speed) • Video Out (NTSC / PAL) • Wired remote control DMW-RSL1 (optional) • HDMI
Print compliance	• PictBridge • DPOF
Storage	SD / SDHC / MMC
Power	• 1250 mAh 7.2v Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery • Supplied charger / AC adapter
Dimensions	119 mm x 71 mm x 36.3 mm (4.69 x 2.8 x 1.43 inches)
Weight (camera body)	Approx. 285 g (10.05 oz)
Weight (inc 20mm lens, card and battery)	Approx. 448 g (15.8 oz)

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Press

Press Excerpt

Fujifilm is pleased to announce the FinePix S200EXR, a worthy successor to the award-winning FinePix S100FS.  Aimed at top-end enthusiasts looking for excellent picture quality without the expense of a DSLR system, the FinePix S200EXR combines the pin-sharp 14.3x zoom lens so popular in the FinePix S100FS with the latest 12 megapixel Super CCD EXR sensor, which has won a string of awards since its introduction in the FinePix F200EXR. 
Compact, lightweight bridge cameras offering long zoom and high image quality have proved a big hit with those looking for an alternative to bulky interchangeable lens systems.  Users of the FinePix S200EXR will find their results equal or superior to DSLRs, principally due to revolutionary design of the EXR sensor. ??The key improvements of the FinePix S200EXR over the FinePix S100FS are:
- 1/1.6” 12 megapixel Super CCD EXR sensor
- EXR Priority modes and EXR Auto
- Pro Focus Mode and Pro Lowlight Mode
- 5 Film Simulation Modes (Black & White mode and Sepia mode is added)
- A new 2.7” high contrast 230k dot LCD
- New ‘Super Intelligent Flash’
- Improved battery life – almost a 50% increase on the FinePix S100FS
- Combined CCD-RAW (EXR) / JPEG shooting

Super CCD EXR?The EXR sensor on the FinePix S200EXR was built to perfectly match the optical qualities of the 14.3x lens. The goal was to produce a sensor/lens combination that works as close to that of the human eye as possible. The EXR sensor is essentially a switchable sensor; changing its complex electronic behavior to suit the subject, changing its characteristics as the photographer demands, and producing the very best picture without making compromises.
This sensor has already won great acclaim with the FinePix F200EXR.  Combined with the much bigger, more powerful 14.3x lens, it delivers quite astounding results.  The FinePix S200EXR offers 3 switchable modes in one sensor:
- High Resolution (HR) mode, which deploys all 12 million pixels, and is designed to offer the finest detail of intricate subjects when light is full and even;
- Wide Dynamic Range (DR) mode, which captures different exposures with two sets of 6 million pixels, which, when combined, gives an excellent level of detail in highlights that would otherwise be lost.
- High Sensitivity and Low Noise (SN) mode, which caps two adjacent pixels together to produce 6 million large photodiodes, which are big enough to absorb light in the darkest of conditions, to produce low-light shots of extraordinary quality with minimal noise and grain.

Advanced Intelligence?The FinePix S200EXR offers EXR Priority Mode, which is the most efficient mechanism yet invented to quickly optimise the camera’s settings to allow the photographer to concentrate on capturing the perfect shot. ?The Photographer can decide which sensor setting is preferable by choosing High Resolution Priority (HR) to maximize resolution, High ISO and Low Noise Priority (SN) for high quality low-light work or D-Range Priority (DR) for the best detail with contrasty subjects.??Also, the FinePix S200EXR features EXR Auto Mode, offering 6 settings: Portrait, Night, Macro, Landscape, Night Portrait and Backlit Portrait. The camera will recognise the scene and not only will optimise focus, colour balance, exposure, flash and sensitivity, but will also automatically switch the sensor to HR, SN or DR mode depending on the lighting conditions of the scene.

Super Sharp Lens?The massive 14.3x zoom lens is truly a delight to use in such a compact, lightweight design.  The ultra-high precision Fujinon lens achieves maximum resolution at all focal lengths of 30.5mm-436mm equivalent with maximum aperture of a bright F2.8 (wide angle) to F5.3 (telephoto). ??Because of the composite body and lens structure, there is no need to worry about dirt or dust on the Super CCD EXR sensor, and they are perfectly aligned for the very best results. The mechanical zoom offers image framing with fingertip precision as well as offering a user experience that closely matches the use of a high-end DSLR.??Pro Focus Mode / Pro Low-light Mode?In all EXR cameras, the EXR Processor and the Super CCD EXR sensor work closely together to guarantee exceptional image quality.  In the latest models including the FinePix S200EXR, newly researched Multi Frame Technology has been added, and along with it Pro Focus Mode and Pro Low-light Mode.??Pro Focus Mode works by taking a burst of 2 or 3 frames, and analysing the distance between the subject and the background. The camera then is able to take the main subject and crisply matt it against a defocused foreground and background. 

Perfect for portrait or nature photography, Pro Focus Mode should be used when professional results are desired, with minimal adjustment to the camera, and without the need to edit your photos afterwards on a PC.  The results from the FinePix S200EXR will look as good as those from a DSLR, or better!

Pro Low-light Mode should be used when you are trying to avoid noisy low light shots.  With conventional camera models, it is possible to achieve relatively blur-free low light shots using high ISO and CCD shift (or optical image) stabilization.  But this comes at a cost, as the ISO 1600 setting will invariably produce distracting and ugly noise.??Once switched to Pro Lowlight Mode, the camera will take burst of 4 high sensitivity images using Pixel Fusion Technology * in quick succession.  It will then deploy Multi Frame

Technology to overlap the 4 images to create one, single image with extremely low noise.
Film Simulation?One of the more popular features on the FinePix S100FS is repeated and extended on the FinePix S200EXR.  The FinePix S200EXR offers five modes as follows:
- Velvia/Vivid mode for rich and luscious landscapes.
- PROVIA/Standard mode for excellent, sharp, standard photography.
- ASTIA/Soft mode for soft, fine, smooth tonality.
- Black & White mode captures the dramatic honesty of your image in black and white.
- Sepia mode creates a sense of nostalgia with the warm brown “antique” tones of Sepia.

In Velvia and ASTIA modes, the dynamic range can be now be set to 800% to improve highlight detail further.

Only Fujifilm has developed its camera technology from its photographic heritage in film, which allows the FinePix S200EXR to capture subtle changes in tone and colour reproduction and provide the photographer the widest latitude for the ultimate creative expression.

New High Contrast 2.7”
FinePix S200EXR is fitted with an improved high contrast 230k dot 2.7” LCD.  The high contrast LCD is a considerable benefit in bright light.  The High Contrast LCD means that the camera can be pitched at various shooting angles to enable framing of awkward shots.  Viewable at angles of up to 160 degrees both vertically and horizontally, the LCD is bright and clear for easy and beautiful preview of your shots.

Super Intelligent Flash?
Super Intelligent Flash is a flash control technology that lets you take flash-assisted shots without the danger of flash wash-out. Integrated into the AUTO mode, this next-generation flash system makes it easy to capture both subjects and background in bright, clear and natural detail over the full flash range.  For those needing much better flash control for close-up and macro photography, the FInePix S200EXR will take the guesswork out of achieving perfect pictures at the touch of button.

Dual Image Stabilization?
The FinePix S200EXR features Fujifilm’s Optical Image Stabilization technology guaranteeing clean, sharp and blur-free images, even in low-light conditions. This technology combines Optical Image Stabilization to reduce blur from the photographer’s hand-shake, with Fujifilm’s High ISO setting, to reduce blur caused by subject movement (by automatically increasing ISO), for the ultimate in stabilisation technology.

Manually set the capture
?In the FinePix S200EXR it is possible to set shutter speeds of between 1/4,000 second and 30 seconds. By adjusting the manual controls it is possible to take photos with diverse expression by combining ISO sensitivity, which has a broad range of setting choices, and multiple apertures of between F2.8 – F11 at 1/3EV steps. Using the manual exposure setting, a bulb exposure of up to 30 seconds is possible.  The colour, noise reduction control, tone and the sharpness can also be individually set.

Multi Bracketing?
The FinePix S200EXR has three bracketing functions useful for high level photography: Film Simulation Bracketing (which automatically sets Film Simulation to PROVIA, Velvia and ASTIA for simultaneous capture of three frames), Dynamic Range Bracketing (which automatically sets dynamic range to 100%, 200% and 400% for simultaneous capture of three frames) and AE Bracketing (which automatically sets exposure range to even, under and over for simultaneous capture of three frames).

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“I was at the beach last weekend and I took a picture of the clouds. With the 12 Megapixel resolution, I was able to zoom into the picture and see very good detail of people (who were in the distance). So even though you probably would not print a 30×40″ picture, you can zoom in and crop small details of your photograph. I have also found that using the in-camera crop feature, that I can edit out ‘bystanders’ in photos without having to resort to Photoshop Elements.”
Rating:  

“After loading the pictures onto my computer, and printing a couple out, the results were mostly good, but there were some things I was disappointed in. Mainly in the “detail” of outdoor photos taken at ISO 80. There seemed to be a lot of blown detail, that shouldn’t happen at a low ISO. Apparently Samsung has squeezed too may MP into the HZ15W’s small sensor. I took several of the same pictures with my TZ5. the TZ5 was never known for “fine detail”, but IMO it had maintained more detail than the Samsung. This was very surprising and disappointing to me. One thing the Samsung excelled out was color. I thought the colors were among the best of any P&S camera I own. I took a few minutes of video, and it was “good” when viewed on my wide screen monitor. Sound was fair at best.”
Rating:  

“For those starting out looking for a point-and-shoot camera that’s a jack of all trades, here’s, at the time of writing, the latest effort by Samsung. One of its biggest selling points is also something buyers should be wary of: More megapixels does NOT necessarily mean better image quality. There’s a reason why a Nikon D300 has 12MP and costs the better part of two thousand dollars, while this 12MP camera only costs around three hundred dollars… The sensor on a proper Digital SLR can resolve a great deal more detail than this Samsung could ever hope to achieve.”
Rating:  

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Press

Press Release

23rd February 2009, 13:00 GMT – Samsung Digital Imaging, leaders in innovation and digital technology, is breaking new ground by including world-first technology in the advanced WB550/HZ15W and WB100 compact cameras.

The WB100 model, with a 5x optical zoom and 24mm ultra wide lens, breaks ground in the compact camera category by featuring the world’s first 3.0” hVGA AMOLED screen. The organic LED screen out performs conventional TFT LCD screens with better contrast and a brighter screen that really helps when shooting in both bright sunlight and dark conditions. The 460k pixel packed screen also shows fantastic detail when framing the shot and in playback.

The new WB550 also includes a world first 10x optical zoom and 24mm ultra wide angle Schneider lens (previously found only in the camera’s predecessor, the WB500) and cements Samsung’s position as an innovator in the new and important High-zoom category – compact cameras equipped with the sort of advanced zoom lens technology traditionally seen only in SLR cameras. This new technology gives people even greater control and helps them take better, professional standard photos; enhancing the entire photography experience, from shooting to sharing images with friends and family.

HD Movie Experience
The 12 mega pixel WB550 and WB100 also include HD movie capture so people can ‘Pause and Re-record’ high definition videos and super sharp movie-quality recordings in one movie clip – a Samsung patented function. The cameras also include ‘Smart Auto’ (Scene Recognition) technology: 11 optimized picture pre-settings such as Portrait, Night portrait, Macro and Macro Colour, to help people take the perfect shot regardless of the conditions.

Dual Image Stabilization
The WB550 and WB100 integrate Optical and Digital Image Stabilization into a Dual Image Stabilization function, providing outstanding quality photos without blur from handshake – even in low light conditions.

Full Manual Control
For the more advanced user who prefers to have more control over camera settings, the WB100 offers aperture priority, shutter priority, as well as full manual shooting modes. Samsung also includes its unique Advanced Picture Mode in the WB100. With Advanced Picture Mode, users can fine tune color tones in their saved images by adjusting the color temperature from 2,800-10,000K, in 100K increments, or by manually configuring the camera’s color space shift.

Face Detection
Samsung’s Perfect Portrait System is included within both the ultra-compact cameras alongside a host of other advanced features; “Face Detection” locates the subject’s face within the frame and automatically adjusts auto focus and auto exposure to ensure better composition and image quality for portraits; in “Blink Detection Mode” the cameras take a series of shots when closed eyes are detected so friends and family are always captured with their eyes open; in “Smile Mode” a picture is automatically taken when smiles are detected and, in “Beauty Shot” mode, facial skin is retouched for a brighter and smoother skin tone.

Frame Guide
The Frame Guide setting on the new WB550 and WB100 means you no longer need rely on the technological capabilities of strangers for perfect holiday snaps. When you use the setting, the camera take a ghost picture of your desired shot and displays a template when you pass the camera over to someone else – ensuring they take the picture you want them to take, with you perfectly placed in it.

Smart Album
The two advanced compact cameras also feature a new ‘Smart Album’ Digital Contents Management system; a contents management program within the camera that makes it quick and easy to store and manage your photo collection. The clever navigation program automatically organizes photos based on the date they were taken, their contents, colour or themes.

“Samsung is really strengthening our High Zoom and advanced compact range with the launch of the WB550 and WB100, providing world-first technology, unique and innovative features and advanced solutions for photographers of all levels” said Steve Mitchell, General Manager Marketing, Samsung Digital Imaging Division.
The WB550, available in Black and Dark Grey, is priced at £299 (TBC) and will be available from leading high street and online retailers from April 2009.
Samsung TL320 (WB100) Images

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Tokyo, Japan, August 20, 2009 – Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announced the release of the CX2, a new digital camera featuring a high magnification 10.7x (28-300 mm) optical wide-angle zoom lens in a compact body only 29.4 mm thick. The CX2 is capable of 5 frame/second high-speed continuous shooting of still images with the maximum number of pixels.

The new CX2 inherits many popular features from its predecessor, the CX1 (introduced March 13, 2009), such as the high image quality and expanded dynamic range made possible by image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a high-speed image processing CMOS sensor. At the same time, it enhances functions that expand photo possibilities in a number of areas, including (1) a 10.7x optical zoom lens that expands shooting capabilities from wide-angle through telephoto range, (2) high-speed continuous shooting (approx. 5 frames/sec. at maximum number of pixels) functions so you won’t miss the target scene, and (3) the easy-to-use AF functions Pre-AF and Continuous AF.

New scene modes such as “high-contrast B&W mode” and “miniaturize mode” have been added to stimulate shooting creativity, and various CX1 model functions have received enhancements, such as the addition of face recognition to easy shooting mode and the addition of an AUTO option for automatically defining the range expansion effect in dynamic range double shot mode.

With its expanded range of functions for the relaxed enjoyment of photography, the CX2 represents the further evolution of the compact digital camera as “A tool you will want to use every day.”