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Press Release

LONDON, UK, 19th August 2009: Today Canon announces the PowerShot S90 – marking the return of the Canon PowerShot S-series. The PowerShot S90 continues the PowerShot S-series tradition with impressive, fully manual features that deliver excellent image quality and user experience, including:
Canon’s Dual Anti-Noise System with an f/2.0 wide-angle lens, a 3.0 inch, PureColor II LCD display and an intuitive new lens Control Ring.

Exceptional image quality in all conditions
The PowerShot S90 features Canon’s Dual Anti-Noise System, combining a high sensitivity 10.0 Megapixel image sensor with Canon’s enhanced DIGIC 4 image processor. Photographers can capture full resolution images – even in tricky lighting conditions – with the Dual Anti-Noise System taking maximum advantage of the available light, while substantially reducing image noise.

This is particularly useful in low-light portrait and landscape photography, where users are able to shoot high quality full resolution images even at ISO 3200. DIGIC 4 also includes an enhanced version of i-Contrast: Canon’s Intelligent Contrast Correction technology, which delivers a wider dynamic range to reduce high-light blowout while retaining low-light detail.

The f/2.0 Advantage
Canon has fitted the PowerShot S90 with a wide aperture f/2.0 wide-angle lens to help photographers take full advantage of the Dual Anti-Noise System. The f/2.0 wide-angle lens allows twice as much light into the camera as an f/2.8 lens, enabling photographers to use faster shutter speeds to reduce blur or achieve a shallower depth of field.

The camera also includes Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, which uses a lens-shift system to minimise camera shake and image blur – effectively giving photographers a 4-stop advantage over less capable cameras.

To help users capture the perfect shot, the PowerShot S90 includes a 3.0 inch LCD display, which features Canon’s PureColor II LCD technology. It enables users to frame and review images easily thanks to an exceptionally wide viewing angle, 461k dot resolution and great colour rendition.

Sophisticated performance, sensational ease of use
As befits a camera of this calibre, the PowerShot S90 features a wide range of powerful manual and automatic controls that give photographers creative freedom.

The PowerShot S90 features an intuitive lens Control Ring, which enables users to adjust the settings of various functions by twisting the selector at the base of the lens barrel to the left or right. The Control Ring can be used as a quasi-manual zoom offering a closer view of subjects in 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm and 105mm steps.

Additional settings can be assigned, such as ISO (in 1/3 stop increments), shutter, aperture, focus and exposure compensation – giving photographers a satisfyingly tactile experience. The Control Ring also helps enhance user interaction with the camera by offering fast, accurate scrolling through menus, functions and images. In new Nostalgic Mode the Control Ring can also be used to add an aged effect to the shot, from a subtle faded look to full grainy black and white.

Smarter Scene Detection
For more creative control, users can also choose from a variety of Scene Modes (SCN on the Control dial) that enable them to choose the best settings for particular shooting situations – ideal for creative effects or when shooting in difficult lighting. A new Low Light mode can help users capture reduced resolution 2.5 Megapixel images in very dim light at ISO speeds of up to ISO 12800 and at a fast 2.4 frames per second.

Photographers can also choose from a range of creative modes including Aperture priority AE, Shutter priority AE, Program AE, Manual and Custom modes. Choosing and using different camera settings is now even easier thanks to an improved menu navigation system, which includes ‘Hints & Tips’ on most settings and features.

The PowerShot S90 allows fine custom adjustment of the camera’s white balance settings – enabling compensation of different kinds of tungsten, fluorescent and other light conditions for perfect results every time.

For quick and easy snaps, the PowerShot S90 includes Smart Auto with Scene Detection Technology. This selects the scene type from 22 variables, applying the best settings for optimum output – a great asset to those who love to point-and-shoot without worrying about the technical details. Smart Auto now measures movement of objects or people in a scene, activating Servo AF/AE to ensure that the focus and exposure are locked onto a subject.

In addition, the PowerShot S90 offers RAW format shooting and support for Canon’s Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, making it easy to integrate the camera into a user’s digital workflow. Users will also find it easy to share images captured on the camera with family and friends, thanks to an HDMI mini port, which enables the camera to be connected to a compatible TV using an optional cable.

With a strong heritage and impressive range of features the PowerShot S90 is the ideal compact camera for technology and photographic enthusiasts alike.

Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR

DCT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:30:29 +0000

Last update 20 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ WDC

Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR announced on July 22, 2009 and is a 12 megapixel superzoom camera that features 14.3x optical zoom lens (30.5 – 436mm on a 35mm camera), 2.7-inch High-Contrast & Wide Viewing Angle LCD, 1/1.6-inch Super CCD EXR sensor, super intelligent flash, camera dimensions are 133.4 (W) x 93.6 (H) x 145.0 (D) mm / 5.3 (W) x 3.7 (H) x 5.7 (D) in. and weighs 820g.

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Reviews

Review Index – (updated 20 November’09)

WDC
With all the cameras on the market it would be easy to overlook the S200EXR, yet, for the price this camera offers an impressive performance for a decent price. Its technology is unique and because of it you can pull off some nice looking images which a lot of compact camera owners who are looking to upgrade will find attractive.
Rating:

CNET.uk
Boy, do you get a lot of camera with the S200EXR. It even looks and operates like a full DSLR, but won’t break the bank because it’s about half what an equivalent DSLR would run. The reviewer notes the EXR sensor technology works but Fujifilm has not fully integrated it with the camera’s operation, and in the case of the EXR the sensor size limits the photo quality.
Rating:

RegHardware
Bottom line, the reviewers were impressed with the F200EXR. Fuji has taken camera technology a step forward with the EXR sensor which really improves the picture quality, particularly with dynamic range. However, they would have like to have seen support for RAW, HD movies and more manual controls. The camera does have some operational quirks but once you’re beyond those it’s smooth sailing. Nice camera with very handy features and great photos quality.
Rating:

Steve’s Digicams
“About the only flaw with this camera is the lack of being able to record 12 megapixel photos in the specialty shooting modes, which by the way are the coolest thing about this camera. As compared to other contenders in its class the S200EXR because of its great photo quality and good performance.”

CNET Asia
“Experienced photographers will definitely appreciate this camera for its dSLR-like controls and super picture quality, however, its size and design may be negative features for beginners. The menu interface is confusing and hopefully Fujifilm will make this right in the next version of this camera. But overall, we recommend the FinePix to users who want a dSLR-like experience without the need to drag around additional lenes.”
Rating:

Photoxels (Editors Choice)
“Buy the Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR if you want the best bridge super zoom available. You get a super zoom with image stabilization, manual zoom ring, very good image quality, and extended dynamic range that really works.”

PhotographyBlog
“The D-Range Priority (DR) mode in particular is literally a real eye-opener, recording much greater dynamic range and preserving more detail in the shadows and highlights than either the S200EXR’s own high-resolution mode, or any other compact camera that we’ve reviewed. The EXR – High ISO & Low Noise mode is admittedly less successful, producing slightly less noisy images at each equivalent setting than Resolution Priority mode, but this is tempered somewhat by the latter mode’s excellent results from ISO 100-800, a much more versatile and usable range than most compacts offer.”
Rating:

ePhotozine
“I can’t argue the image quality, it’s very good and I think in the right hands, it’ll produce sterling images. At the current price, it’s a bit steep compared to other cameras on the market but bear in mind that it’s innovative technology and there’s a lot more features on it. If you’re looking for a camera that can reproduce images that remind you of the heady days of film, then this is the camera to get.”
Rating:

Cameras.uk
“The Fuji Finepix S200EXR is about as close as you can get to a Digital SLR without buying one. I was delighted by my test results and the camera handled superbly too. It was a joy to use a twisting barrel lens and the selection wheel speeds up selecting key settings. There are enough features here to satisfy more demanding photographers and I am more than happy to strongly recommend this camera.”
Rating:

Pocket-lint
“We welcomed the added punch provided by selecting the Velvia film mode, which for us often delivered results closer to those seen by the eye. So, while results straight out of the camera at times benefit from further tweaks in the image-editing package of your choice, the Fujifilm’s intended audience of photo enthusiasts who’ll want to get hands-on shouldn’t be dissuaded from purchase – even if the suggested retail price still smarts.”
Rating:

DigitalTrends
“The FinePix also has many DSLR features, including fast response and many tweaks for those who’d like to make them. The Super CCD EXR chip is a good one, but isn’t nearly as large as the APS-C sized sensors found in DSLRs, which accounts for the noise issues. Now, if the S200EXR were around $100 cheaper, we’d be cheering. But it’s not, and that’s why it won’t get an Editor’s Choice designation.”
Rating:

DigitalCameraReview
“Image quality is very good and no one in the class has better ISO performance. The camera offers a full range of manual and automatic shooting modes, and a host of user established settings to manipulate images in just about any conceivable way. Shutter lag is minimal. AF performance is on a par with the class competition.”

PhotoReview
“Buy this camera if: – You’re looking for an ultra-zoom digicam that can capture raw files as well as JPEGs and RAW+JPEG pairs – You take a lot of photographs in bright conditions (beach and/or snow) and need the ability to record highlight details in subjects – You’re prepared to forgo access to aperture and shutter speed adjustments to achieve dynamic range control – You want plenty of adjustable controls and image stabilization – You’d enjoy taking very close ‘macro’ shots.”
Rating:

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[Sample Image Test @ WDC]
[Photo Quality Samples @ CNET.uk]
[Sample Photos @ RegHardware]
[Sample Photos @ Steve's Digicams]
[ISO Comparison Samples @ CNET Asia]
[Image Quality Samples @ Photoxels]
[ISO Comparison Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample ISO 3200 Photo @ ePhotozine]
[Sample Photos @ Cameras.uk]
[Sample Photos @ Pocket-lint]
[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraReview]
[Sample Photos @ Fujifilm]

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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).

Ricoh CX2

DCT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:18:11 +0000

Last update 20 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ RegHardware

Ricoh CX2 announced on August 20, 2009 is an image stabilized 9 megapixel compact digital camera that features 10.7 inch optical zoom (28-300 mm), 5fps continuous shooting, 3 inch LCD, dynamic range double shot, ISO range from 80 to 1600, camera dimensions are 101.5 mm (W) x 58.3 mm (H) x 29.4 mm (D), and it weighs Approx. 185 g (excluding battery, SD memory card, strap).

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Reviews

Review Index – (updated 20 November’09)

RegHardware
No viewfinder or manual or for that matter even semi-manual controls put a serious hurt on this cameras appeal. And if you consider the price the reviewer thinks it’s a lot of money to hand out for a camera that nothing more than a point-and-shoot. Sure it’s well constructed and has some cool features but the competition is tough and there are just better cameras out there for the money.
Rating:

PhotographyBlog
“As in the CX1 the image quality is really nice in the CX2. In the past we have thrown a few rocks at the noisy low ISO images but the bigger 9 megapixel CMOS sensor has really made some improvements with extended ISO capability and cleaner crisper images. Ricoh has given the user a lot of control to allow you to tweak setting so the images are a lot more to your particular liking.”
Rating:

ITReviews
“Image quality is really impressive just like it is with the CX1 primarily because Ricoh has kept its Smooth Imaging Engine IV and the 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, yet with the longer telephoto reach the image stabilization at times has problems keeping up.”

PCW
“Verdict: An excellent point-and-shoot camera with some unique features. Good points: Long zoom lens; good focusing; large 3in screen. Bad points: Some features didn’t work as described.”
Rating:

Pocket-lint
“The Ricoh CX2 is undoubtedly a machine for the more advanced user, but offers image quality to match for those that know what they’re doing and is easy enough to use. The all-auto and scene modes have useful tweaks but to get the most from the camera you’ll need to keep control to yourself and you’ll be amply rewarded with some stunning shots.”
Rating:

CNET.uk
“The Ricoh CX2 is a very interesting camera. It’s responsive, well-made and combines a high continuous-shooting speed with an unusual degree of focus control. But, while the use of a 9.3-megapixel CMOS sensor is fine in itself, the image quality we got from our camera was disappointing.”
Rating:

Buy-n-Shoot
“Generally speaking the CX2 produces images that are well saturated, possibly too much so for some personal preferences and colors reproduce fairly well overall.”
Rating:

DPExpert
“Ricoh, like Fujifilm, is a brand that stands in the shadow of the big names of Canon, Nikon, Sony and Panasonic. But Ricoh has a much longer history in cameras than the last two. Their digital offerings always feel as though they have been designed by photographers for photographers, with a strong emphasis on image quality and usability rather than on gimmicks. The CX2 has a modest pixel count compared with the competition and doesn’t even have face detection, let alone a Smile function. This is a camera for taking pictures, not a toy for playing with. Highly recommended.”

GoodGearGuide
“Its images are definitely sharp and their colors are accurate, and there are no problems with chromatic aberration. It’s also a fast camera, it has useful scene modes, it’s well built and it’s relatively simple to use. The only real drawback is the noise that’s present in photos.”
Rating:

PCAdvisor
“Despite some issues with noise, the Ricoh CX2 is an admirable compact camera. It has a huge 300mm lens, captures vibrant and sharp images, has useful scene modes, and is reasonably priced. Put it on your shopping list if you want a point-and-shoot camera with a versatile lens.”
Rating:

PhotoReview
“Buy this camera if: – You want an ultra-compact long-zoom camera for snapshot photography – You could benefit from the dynamic range expansion function and can tolerate its restrictions – You’re happy to use the monitor for shot composition – You want manual flash adjustment plus a good range of flash settings for a slimline digicam.”
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Trusted Reviews
“The Ricoh CX2 is a very accomplished camera from one of the veteran names in the industry. It combines excellent build quality, a versatile specification, class-leading performance and superb image quality with a range of innovative features and easy-to-use handling, all for a very reasonable price, and even includes a two-year warranty. It’s impossible not to be impressed.”
Rating:

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[Image Quality Sample @ Pocket-lint]
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[ISO Performance Photos @ Trusted Reviews]
[Sample Photos @ Ricoh]

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Press

Press Excerpt

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.”

Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR

DCT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:09:55 +0000

Last update 20 November’09 – Review @ MacWorld

Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR is a CCD EXR 12 megapixel switchable sensor (6MP in low-light and dynamic range modes) and it features 5x optical zoom, 3 inch LCD, High sensitivity modes (ISO 6400 at 6MP resolution & 12800 at 3MP resolution), and manual controls (including aperture and shutter priority).

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Reviews

Review Index – (updated 20 November’09)

MacWorld
This is a great compact camera but it does have some interesting limitations. Low light photos are outstanding, even without using the flash. Great colors and the F200EXR has some high level A.I., however the flash exposures were a let down. Also the reviewer had hoped for better variation between the look and feel of it’s creative modes. The review notes it was a good camera but he was expecting a little more.
Rating:

ImagingResource
“The camera is too difficult to use. The poor zoom control, and horrible menu system make it not fun to use, let’s say. And competing technology, while not as glamorous perhaps, is generally more competent at extending dynamic range if not reducing noise.”

DigicamReview
“The Fujifilm F200EXR is a compact camera with a high quality LCD screen, 12 megapixel sensor, a wide angle 5x optical zoom and image stabilization. Image quality is very good, with low noise, when compared to other digital cameras and the option to capture a wide dynamic range is a very welcome feature. Battery life was lower than I had hoped for. Overall the camera works well and produces very good images in a number of situations, and is recommended!”
Rating:

DPInterface
“The FinePix F200 EXR certainly isn’t a flawless camera, but is nevertheless a good one. The camera’s main advantage/appeal is that it excels in taking pictures, especially in low-light, and offers noise levels which are one to two stops better and more usable than the competition. If your utmost important criteria in getting a compact camera is “high quality images” and you care less about other aspects, then the FinePix F200 EXR should be at the top of your consideration list.”

PCWorld
“Though the FinePix F200 EXR is a great little point-and-shoot, it has some surprising limitations. Low-light images are excellent without the flash, colors are vibrant, and the F200 EXR has some top-notch A.I.; but flash exposures are disappointing, and I had hoped for greater visible variation between the look and feel of its sensor-tweaking shooting modes.”
Rating:

CNET
“Without the Super CCD EXR sensor, the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR is a very good 12-megapixel compact camera with a lot of shooting options. However, the extra flexibility of the sensor and the wide-angle 5x zoom lens pushes it beyond that, making it one of the best in its class. And you’re not paying more for the privilege.”
Rating:

DigitalRev
“With the right knowledge, the LX3 will outperform the F200EXR most of the time without fail. However, that is not to say the F200EXR is inferior. It is easy to use and gives consistent results. In the right situation, it can better the LX3’s results.”

IT Reviews
“The overall result is a much greater range of shooting possibilities and a high percentage of high quality stills with a plethora of shades and tones to suit the occasion. In addition, you have various film simulation modes which will make your images look more vivid, softer, monochrome or sepia. The only omission that might be missed by the increasingly demanding target audience is the absence of HD recording.”

DigitalCameraInfo
“It’s not a bad camera. The resolution and color performance were both very good, and the noise levels are decent too. It has plenty of controls, including a manual mode lacking in similarly-priced models, and we were generally pleased with how it performed. However, the menu interface is set up poorly, the video mode is limited to 640×480, and the shot to shot speed was a letdown. It’s a decent camera that takes good pictures, but for $400 there are a lot of alternatives out there.”

Cameras.co.uk
“This camera offers something a little different to most digital cameras. It has a few interesting features added in and takes a good photo. If you are looking for a compact camera with a some more advanced features then take a look here.”
Rating:

LetsGoDigital
“The image quality is excellent. How strongly the Super CCD EXR is actually influencing the end result did not become clear to us. It turned out that features such as dynamic range and signal/noise ratio are better than just average, which is a great achievement for a compact camera.”
Rating:

InfoSync
“The ultimate test came down to darkness, for so far the Fujifilm Finepix F200EXR had greased our wheels and blasted our rocketships with a magnificent all-around image performance. Well, even in low light the Finepix F200EXR was a fireworks finale. We closed the aperture down all the way and went with a long shutter for the first image, and the colors and detail look amazing.”
Rating:

TechRadar
“Things take a turn for the better in Wide Dynamic Range mode, which really does work effectively. The effect can be applied automatically or manually, with two increasing strengths available in most modes to best suit the scene, and three strengths on offer in EXR Wide Dynamic Range mode.”
Rating:

DPReview
“Ultimately, even without the EXR modes, the F200 is a nice and well-specified camera. It’s built around a very useful lens (28-140mm is not a range you’ll find matched by other cameras this small), and offers image quality at least up to the standards of its contemporaries. And the EXR modes are worth having – the high-ISO ‘SN’ mode may not be world-beating, but the dynamic range mode is astonishingly capable if you’re happy with the 6MP output (which is plenty for most applications).”
Rating:

Luminous Landscapes (As compared to the Canon G10 and Panasonic LX3)
“The SX200 is the largest of the three cameras, by a small margin, and quite attractively styled. As mentioned above, its worst design flaw is the pop-up flash which can not be convinced to lay down. On the plus side, its top-mounted mode dial has definitive click stops, and is the least likely to be accidentally moved to the wrong position. Like far too many cameras today the mode dials on the Fuji and the Panasonic are almost certain to be in the wrong position when the camera is removed from a pocket.”

Trusted Reviews
“The Fuji FinePix F200 EXR is well-made premium compact that represents a major technological breakthrough in terms of sensor design and performance, and a welcome return to form for Fuji’s flagship compact series. It is capable of taking good quality pictures in virtually any light conditions, and has better high-ISO image quality and low-light focusing than any other compact on the market. It is expensive at the moment, although the price will almost certainly fall over the next few months.”
Rating:

Neocamera
“There is a new champion among ultra-compacts, the Fuji Finepix F200 EXR. Not only does it equal in terms of noise the performance of the F100fd, it adds improved dynamic-range, faster performance and more advanced controls.”

DPExpert
“This is a wonderful little camera. Subjectively we feel that we had a much higher ratio of successful photos to duds than we usually expect in compact photographic testing. The F200EXR is different, but not in a gimmicky way. It is different and better. It sets new standards of image quality by employing clever technology. We hated to send it back.”

DCResource
“Photo quality was very good in most respects. At the normal, full resolution setting, the F200EXR’s photos are well-exposed (though there’s some highlight clipping), with pleasing, vivid color. I do feel that images are on the soft side, though, and some fine details aren’t as crisp as I’d like. Don’t be surprised if you see some jaggies or other weird artifacts, either — they seem to come with the territory on SuperCCD-based cameras. Noise levels are low through ISO 800 in good light, and ISO 400 in low light — a full stop better than the competition.”

DigitalCameraReview
“The Super CCD EXR sensor alone is the F200EXR strongest selling point, and primary differentiator from the F100fd. With a broadened dynamic range that most digital compacts can’t even touch, the technology behind the sensor is certainly innovative and worth trying for yourself.”

Photoxels
“The Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR is once again the compact consumer camera to beat. Not only is it a very good low light compact digital camera, it now adds the ability to capture images with a wide dynamic range. It gives excellent image quality shot after shot with point-and-shoot simplicity in all lighting situations.”

GoodGearGuide
“Nevertheless, if you care about taking great looking photos with a minimum of fuss, the FujiFilm FinePix F200EXR is definitely worthy of consideration. It might not be the sexiest camera on the market, but its superior imaging performance makes up for this superficial shortcoming. Highly recommended.”
Rating:

CNET UK
“Fujifilm’s always banged on about how overall picture quality is more important than megapixels, but its cameras haven’t always driven the point home. The FinePix F200EXR is different. It’s a decent camera in its own right, but the new EXR sensor is the real star of the show and really does deliver image quality that its rivals can’t.”
Rating:

Pocket-lint
“This isn’t the smallest camera out there, however the in-camera technology and features make this a very versatile camera indeed. If you are looking for a camera that is compact and virtually guarantees you’ll get a decent image at the end, this is certainly one to look closer at.”
Rating:

PhotographyBlog
“For now, though, the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR produces fantastic out-of-the-camera JPEG images with low noise and amazing dynamic range. Sure, the pay-off is physically smaller images in some instances, but if you want to literally see the finer details in all areas of your photos, that’s a price well worth paying in our book.”
Rating:

PhotoReview
“Backlit subjects were competently handled and extreme backlighting produced little flare, even with the non-EXR shooting modes. The autofocusing system was reasonably fast and usually accurate with subjects that were centrally located. However, with the default Centre AF mode, subjects that were only slightly off-centre were slightly soft.”
Rating:

ePhotozine
“Noise is dealt with very well at low ISO which is the mark of good hardware and a larger sensor. It’s not until ISO400 that it starts to become evident on the image but it then starts to deteriorate as the sensitivity increases.”
Rating:

CNET Asia
“Although the F200EXR lacks an HD video-recording function, it makes up with the glorious photos it can produce. Leaving the shooter in auto EXR mode wasn’t an issue for us because the shooter had proven in our tests that it is intelligent enough to differentiate scenes and optimize the settings for the shot.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ ImagingResource]
[Sample Photos @ DigicamReview]
[Sample Photos @ DPInterface]
[Sample Photos @ CNET]
[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraInfo]
[Sample Photo Gallery @ Cameras.co.uk]
[Sample Photo Gallery @ LetsGoDigital]
[Sample Photos @ InfoSync 1, 2, 3, 4]
[Sample Dynamic Range Photos at DPReview]
[ISO Performance Shots at Trusted Reviews]
[Sample Photo Gallery at Neocamera]
[Sample Photos at DPExpert]
[Image Quality Samples at DCResource]
[Image Quality Samples at Photoxels]
[Sample Photo Quality at CNET UK]
[Sample Photos at Pocket-lint]
[ISO Quality Sample Photos at PhotographyBlog]
[ISO Quality Sample Photos at CNET Asia]
[Sample Photos at DC.Watch]
[Sample Photos at DPReview]
[Sample Photos at Fujifilm]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Owner thoughts and opinions]

Similar

Similar Cameras

Press

Press Release

February 4, 2009: First announced at Photokina 2008, Fujifilm’s new EXR technology makes its first appearance in a new camera announced today, the FinePix F200EXR.

Following a long line of famous Super CCD sensors in cameras like the FinePix F10 and FinePix F31fd, the FinePix F200EXR is designed by Fujifilm to be the perfect camera for the photographic enthusiast. Primed to be the class-leading compact of 2009, the FinePix F200EXR utilises brand new, ground-breaking technology to create an unprecedented level of image quality from a consumer level compact.

Using the human eye as the basis for the perfect camera sensor, Fujifilm has yet again extended technological boundaries, creating a Super CCD capable of registering excellent levels of detail when switched to its high resolution mode, but at the same time, capable of offering excellent quality in low light and superb highlight detail in contrasty light when switched to its high sensitivity and wide dynamic range modes respectively.

In addition to the 12 Megapixel 1/1.6”Super CCD EXR and completely redesigned EXR Processor, the FinePix F200EXR inherits its rich feature set from the FinePix F100fd, which includes a powerful Fujinon 5x wide angle optical zoom lens, and the most powerful face detection technology on the market, Face Detection 3.0, with auto red eye removal. On top of this, the F200EXR offers 5 Film Simulation Modes, a 3.0” high-resolution 230,000 dots wide view LCD, HD Photo Output, Dual Image Stabilisation and sensitivity up to ISO 12800 (3 million pixel only).

This combination of cutting-edge technology encased within a pocketable digital compact body means that advanced amateur photographers through to professionals will be able to take breathtaking pictures in the most challenging of conditions.

The world’s most versatile photographic sensor

Faced with a market driven by the demand for higher pixel counts, yet conscious that high concentrations of pixels on small sensors can produce diminishing quality returns, Fujifilm engineers had a radical rethink about sensor technology. Why not make a sensor that can flex its behaviour according to the scene to be photographed? Why not give full resolution when bright light allows, but use the pixels in a different way when the light is not ideal? The FinePix F200EXR offers 3 switchable modes in one sensor:

- High Resolution mode, which deploys all twelve million pixels, and is designed to offer the finest detail of intricate subjects when light is full and even
- High Sensitivity and Low Noise 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; and
- Wide Dynamic Range mode, which captures different exposures with two sets of six million pixels, which, when combined, gives an excellent level of detail in highlights that would otherwise be lost.

In EXR Mode, the photographer can choose which sensor setting is preferable for the subject to be photographed by choosing High Resolution Priority (HR) to maximise 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.

Perfect Pictures – Automatically

The FinePix F60fd was the first digital camera to introduce SR AUTO (Scene Recognition AUTO), allowing photographers to let the camera determine the settings to ensure correct exposure, colour reproduction and lighting.

The FinePix F200 EXR takes the next technological step by combining Scene recognition technology with EXR technology by automatically and intelligently choosing the correct Super CCD EXR Priority in conjunction with a range of other controls (image quality, exposure, focus, white balance etc). Now, the photographer can let the camera choose the best sensor mode by using the revolutionary EXR AUTO 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.

EXR Auto offers six modes to choose from: Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Backlit Portrait, Night, and Night Portrait. As an example, when taking close subject, FinePix F200EXR will intelligently choose Macro mode by recognizing the scene. Then the sensor will switch to the best EXR mode that is suitable for the scene. Intelligently switching into one of High Resolution Priority (HR), High ISO and Low Noise Priority(S/N), and D-Range Priority (DR) to capture the best possible shot.

The FinePix F200EXR also retains Fujifilm’s improved exposure modes. New “Super intelligent flash” can control technology that even lets you take flash assisted macro shots without flash washout. Enables to capture subjects and background in bright, clear a natural detail over the full flash range including ultra close-ups. Other popular exposure modes such as Natural Light and with Flash (giving the user a choice of flash ‘on’ or flash ‘off’ shots) or Natural Light, is featured to capture great candid portraits when powerful flash might be intrusive.

Like all great compacts, the FinePix F200EXR lets the photographer decide the best shooting mode. On AUTO, the camera deploys 12 million pixels and operates like other standard high-class compacts. On MANUAL, the aperture and shutter speed can be chosen independently, while PROGRAM mode offers a choice of Program AE and Aperture Priority AE.

Don’t Leave Without Your Favorite Film

Photographic versatility is stretched yet further with the addition of five Film Simulation modes. Producing beautiful images is something which is in the very DNA of Fujifilm, and Fujifilm engineers are determined to leverage the considerable strengths gained through years of perfecting film to making the best sensor possible. Introduced to compacts for the very first time, the FinePix F200EXR offers Velvia/ Vivid mode for rich and luscious landscapes, Provia/ Standard mode for excellent, sharp, standard photography, ASTIA/Soft mode for fine, smooth tonality, Black and White for dramatic monochromes and Sepia for a warm-toned period look are also featured.

Great on TV Also

Images captured by the FinePix F200EXR look breathtaking when displayed on an HDTV. With standard HD cameras, HD-out means pictures can de displayed in the correct aspect ratio in excellent resolution. But with the FinePix F200EXR, noise and grain in the shadows is hardly noticeable while highlights, so often poor with conventional cameras, can be seen in excellent detail. And colour, sometimes washed out and insipid, looks bold and dramatic, especially when Film Simulation modes are used.

The Full Package

The FinePix F200EXR is fitted with the same sharp lens that made its predecessor such a winner. With its precision optics and massive 5x zoom range, from wide 28mm to long telephoto of 140 mm, the optic delivers sharp, crisp pictures to the sensor every time. And with CCD shift image stabilisation combined with high sensitivity, shots will be blur-free time after time, even in the most difficult of conditions. The FinePix F200EXR can shoot up to super high sensitivity ISO 12800.

Finally, to help with quick focusing, the FinePix F200EXR is fitted with Fujifilm’s Face Detection 3.0, which is regarded to be one of the most accurate and speedy on the market. Faces can be ‘found’ instantly and accurately at any angle.

Availability & pricing

The FinePix F200EXR will be available from end of February. Pricing will be announced nearer to the date of the launch.

Sony A550

DCT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:17:37 +0000

Last update 19’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ PhotoclubAlpha

Sony A550 announced on August 27, 2009 is an image stabilized 14.2 megapixel CMOS sensor DSLR that features 7fps in speed priority mode, AF Live View, 180º tilt-angle 3 inch LCD, Manual Focus Check, Auto HDR mode, HDMI™ output, Auto ISO range (ISO 200-1600), Manual ISO range 200- ISO 12800 in 1 EV steps, camera dimensions are 137 x 104 x 84mm (5.5 x 4.2 x 3.9 in) and it weighs 599 g (1.5lb).

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Price & Availability

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 19 November’09)

PhotoclubAlpha
This camera definitely found a nook in the reviewers photo system, however he also indicated it probably would not be used a lot. As far as a lightweight travel camera it would be neat but he really would have preferred a low ISO of 100 rather than than the A550’s 200.
Rating:

AlphaMountWorld
The folks at AMW have a hot cold attitude when it comes to the A550 and thought there was not a lot of room in between. On the hot side – the A550 got their attention because it has the capability to capture really good photographs, the Auto HDR is outstanding, live view has some cool functions and tools, the grip was nice, and above average performance. On the cold side – its menu system was inferior to the big brother Alphas, it just took WAY too much thought and concentration, low light capability was marginal, and the layout of the function buttons was dumb. Overall, they were not happy with the A550 and felt Sony could have done a better job.

PhotoReview (Editor’s Choice)
“Buy this camera if: – You want an affordable interchangeable-lens camera with fast autofocusing regardless of whether Live View or the viewfinder is used for shot composition – You want body-integrated image stabilisation that works with all lenses – You’d like a wide range of user-adjustable controls and functions – You require fast burst speeds and a generous buffer capacity – You could make use of the extended sensitivity range, despite its associated image noise.”
Rating:

Photocrati (Field Report)
“The the A550 would be a fine choice for DSLR novices thanks to the many digicam-style features, but the great versatility and advanced functions make it just as suitable for photo enthusiasts.”

DPReview (Preview)
“Sadly, the much asked-for depth-of-field preview and mirror lock-up options have not returned. In both live view modes, the lens aperture is kept wide-open until the shot is taken, giving no representation of depth-of-field. And, although the mirror could theoretically be kept in the ‘up’ position, the new MF Check live view system still flips the mirror down and up again just as the shot is being taken, even when combined with self-timer. Whether this lack of mirror lock-up will make any difference to images won’t become apparent until we’ve tested the camera.”

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ PhotoclubAlpha]
[Sample Photos @ AlphaMountWorld]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

Body material	Plastic exterior
Sensor	• 23.4 x 15.6 mm APS-C Type CMOS Exmor Sensor • RGB Color Filter Array • Built-in fixed low-pass filter • 14.6 million total pixels • 14.2 million effective pixels
Image sizes *	3:2 • 4592 x 3056 (L) • 3344 x 2224 (M) • 2288 x 1520 (S) 16:9 • 4592 x 2576 (L) • 3344 x 1872 (M) • 2288 x 1280 (S)
File qualities / formats	• RAW (.ARW) • RAW + JPEG Fine • RAW + JPEG Standard • JPEG Fine • JPEG Standard
Dust reduction	• Charge protection coating on low-pass filter • Sensor-shift dust reduction mechanism
Lenses	• Sony Alpha lenses (also compatible with Minolta and Konica -Minolta AF lenses)
FOV crop	1.5x
SteadyShot INSIDE	• CCD-Shift ‘SteadyShot Inside’ system • Claimed equivalent to 2.5 – 3.5 steps in shutter speed
Auto Focus	• TTL CCD line sensors (9-points,with center cross sensor) • EV 0 to 18 (ISO 100) detection range • Predictive focus, Focus Lock
AF area selection	• Wide AF area • Spot AF area (center) • Focus area selection (any of 9)
Focus modes	• Single-shot AF • Continuous AF • Automatic AF • Manual focus
AF assist illuminator	• Yes (using built in flash) • Range approx 1m – 5m
Eye-start AF	Yes, selectable from menu
Shooting modes	• Programmed AE (Auto, Flash off, P) • Aperture priority AE • Shutter priority AE • Manual • Scene Selection
Scene modes	• Portrait • Landscape • Macro • Sports • Sunset • Night view/portrait
Sensitivity	• Auto (ISO 200-1600) • Manual ISO 200- ISO 12800 in 1 EV steps
Metering modes	• Multi-segment (40 segment Honeycomb pattern) • Center-weighted • Spot
Metering range	• TTL metering • 40-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC • EV 2 to 20 (Multi-segment / Center-weighted) * • EV 4 to 20 (Spot metering) * (at ISO 100 with F1.4 lens)
AE Lock	• AEL button (customizable, hold or single-press) • Half-press shutter release
AE Bracketing	• Single or continuous bracketing • 3 frames • 0.3 or 0.7 EV steps
Exposure compen.	• -2.0 to +2.0 EV • 0.3 EV steps
Shutter	Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane Shutter
Shutter Speed	• 30 to 1/4000 sec • Bulb
Flash X-sync	• 1/160 sec
Aperture values	Depends on lens, 0.3 EV steps
DOF preview	No
White balance	• Auto • Daylight • Shade • Cloudy • Incandescent • Fluorescent • Flash • Color temperature/filter (2500 – 9900 K) • Manual (Custom)
White balance fine tuning	• Auto (none) • Preset WB: -3 to +3 • Fluorescent WB: -1 to +2 • Color temperature WB: G9 to M9 (Magenta to Green)
White balance bracketing	• 3 exposures • Hi / Lo level selectable
Dynamic range optimizer	• Off • D-Range Optimizer (Auto, Lv 1-5) • Auto HDR (Auto, Ajustable up to 3 EV betwwen 1.0-3.0 EV in 0.5 EV steps)
Color space	• sRGB • Adobe RGB
Color modes	• Standard • Vivid • Portrait • Landscape • Sunset • B&W
Image parameters	• Contrast (-3 to +3) • Sharpness (-3 to +3)) • Saturation (-3 to +3)
Noise reduction	• Long exposure for exposures longer than 1 second • High ISO NR at ISO 1600 or higher • User controllable: On / Off
Viewfinder *	• Eye-level fixed optical glass pentamirror • Spherical Acute Matte focusing screen • Magnification approx. 0.80x * • 95% frame coverage • Dioptric adjustment (-3.0 to +1.0) • Eye-relief 19 mm from eyepiece, 15 mm from frame* • Eyepiece cup removable • Viewfinder info bar
Live view (Quick AF Live View) *	• Dedicated live view sensor (pentamirror tilt system) • 1200 zone evaluative metering • Sensitivity 1-17 EV* • 90% frame coverage • Exposure and white balance simulation • Face Detection and Smile Shutter* • Smart Teleconverter (x1.4 / x2.0 slectable)* • Display: Histogram, eal-time image adjustment display (White balance, Sunset/ B&W of Creative Style, Exposure Compensation)
Live view (MF Check Live View) *	• Live View with CMOS sensor Exmor • Metering varies according to shooting mode • 100% frame coverage • Display: Real-time image adjustment display (White balance, Sunset/ B&W of Creative Style, Exposure Compensation) • Zoom (x7.0/x14.0), Grid line display
LCD monitor *	• 3.0 TFT Xtra Fine LCD • 921,600 dots • Auto Brightness Control (auto setting in 2 steps) • Manual settting in 5 steps
Flash *	• Built-in pop-up flash (manual release) • Metering: ADI, Pre-flash TTL, Manual flash control • Guide number 12 (ISO 100/m) • Angle of coverage 18 mm (35 mm equiv.)* • Flash sync 1/160 sec
Flash modes	• Off • Auto • Fill Flash • Rear Sync • Slow sync • Wireless/High Speed Sync.
Flash Bracketing	3 exposures in 0.3 and 0.7 EV steps
Flash compensation	-2.0 to +2.0 EV in 0.3 EV steps
External flash (optional)	• Sony HVL-F58AM • Sony HVL-F56AM • Sony HVL-F42AM • Sony HVL-F36AM
Drive modes	• Single-frame • Continuous • Speed-Priority* • Self-timer (10 or 2 sec)
Continuous shooting	• Approx 5 fps max (4 fpsin Live view) • Speed- Priority: 7 fps max • RAW: Up to 14 frames • RAW+JPEG: Up to 7 frames • JPEG (Fine): 32 frames • JPEG (Standard): 116 frames
Self-timer	• 10 sec • 2 sec
Orientation sensor	Yes, for shooting, playback and control panel display
Connectivity	• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (mass storage, Multi-LUN or PTP) • DC-IN • Remote terminal
Remote control	• Wired: with optional RM-S1AM or RM-L1AM
Video out	• AV (Selectable NTSC or PAL) • HDMI • ‘PhotoTV’ HD settings applied with BRAVIA.
Storage	• SD/ SDHC • Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro HG Duo • Supports FAT12 / FAT16 / FAT32
Power	• NP-FM500H Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery (1650 mAh) • Battery charger included • Optional AC adapter • Batter life Approx 950 shots with viewfinder, 480 in Live view mode (CIPA standard)
Vertical grip	• Yes (model tbc)
Dimensions	137 x 104 x 84mm (5.5 x 4.2 x 3.9 in)
Weight (body)	599 g (1.5lb)

Manual

Owners Manual

Coming soon…

Press

Press Release

August 27, 2009: Two powerful, feature-packed DSLR cameras from Sony make it easier than ever to capture beautiful pictures, carefree family portraits, stunning holiday memories and action-packed scenes.

The DSLR-A500 (12.3 megapixels) and DSLR-A550 (14.2 megapixels) are packed with advanced Sony technology that combine the spontaneity and freedom of Live View shooting with generous possibilities to realise your creative vision.

At the heart of both cameras is a new Exmor™ CMOS sensor that ensures crisp low-noise images, packed with fine detail and vibrant colours. Sharing powerful on-chip noise reduction techniques with the full-frame DSLR-A900, this advanced sensor works with processing algorithms handled by the high-speed BIONZ™ engine to deliver premium images plus razor-sharp shooting responses. Dramatically reduced picture noise now allows super-sensitive shooting at up to ISO12800, allowing attractive results when shooting handheld in challenging situations like candlelit interiors.

Thanks to the powerful BIONZ image processing engine, Quick AF Live View now supports even speedier shooting responses with rapid, precise autofocus. This makes it easier than ever to capture beautifully relaxed portraits, dynamic action shots and more.

Powered by the BIONZ image processing engine, fast-moving action can now be captured effortlessly with faster continuous shooting speeds. Sustained shooting speeds of up to 4 fps can be achieved in Live View Mode, rising to 5 fps with the optical viewfinder. New Speed Priority mode on the DSLR-A550 raises the bar further still, shooting at an incredible 7 fps (with AF and AE setting maintained from the first frame ). It’s a powerful creative tool for capturing the nuances of a portrait subject’s changing expression or dynamic action sequences.

In a DSLR debut, Quick AF Live View now features Face Detection, prioritising AF on people’s faces and fine-tuning exposure/white balance settings for crisp, beautiful portraits with natural skin tones. Another DSLR first by Sony that’s already featured on many Cyber-shot™ models, Smile Shutter detects faces in Live View mode, automatically firing the shutter at just the right moment to capture happy, relaxed smiles.

A special new Manual Focus Check Live View mode assists with fine-tuning your composition. Low-noise images can be previewed directly from the CMOS sensor, allowing critical assessment of focus and fine detail, even in low light. The live image offers 100% field coverage, assisted by framing grid lines for precise composition. There’s also a selectable 7x/14x zoom function for a close-up confirmation of focus.

The A500 offers a crisp, high-contrast 3-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus screen with the same tilt range for clear, comfortable composition and reviewing shots.

The A550 features a superb (921k dot) 3-inch Xtra Fine LCD screen for critical focusing and photo-quality viewing with class-leading colour, contrast and detailing. The screen tilts up or down over a full 180 degree range, allowing uncompromised ‘free-angle’ live view shooting in any position. An ambient light sensor automatically boosts LCD brightness for extra screen clarity when surrounding light levels are high while both cameras also feature a clear, bright optical viewfinder with wide 95% field coverage for framing and focusing as an alternative to live view shooting.

Operation of both cameras is brilliantly simple, thanks to a redesigned on-screen interface that provides easy access to functions and settings during live view operation. A unique Graphic Display gives a clear, intuitive indication of how shutter speed and aperture adjustments will affect the final image.

Creative options are broadened by new Auto HDR mode that captures a huge range of shadow and highlight detail in landscapes, interiors and other scenes. Previously accessible only to enthusiasts equipped with a tripod and image processing software, HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a specialist technique that combines two frames shot at different exposure settings. The A500 and A550 use powerful algorithms to combine and optimise two successive frames in less than 10 seconds, correcting any misalignment between frames when shooting handheld. The result is a single HDR image emulating the huge natural tonal range of human vision – with no PC or tripod needed.

SteadyShot Inside Image Stabilization

The D-Range Optimiser featured in previous DSLR models has been enhanced for even better results with backlit portraits and other tricky high-contrast scenes. The powerful BIONZ engine now optimises image data in real time, processing brightness and contrast in individual areas of each exposure for balanced, natural looking results. Optimisation can also be selected manually from 5 processing levels.

A Smart Teleconvertor button instantly boosts image size by 1.4x or 2x to etend your camera’s zoom lens range further for frame-filling close-ups.

Like all DSLR cameras by Sony, both new models feature SteadyShot™ INSIDE, the powerful optical image stabiliser that cuts the effects of camera shake by up to 4 stops while shooting handheld with any lens.

After shooting, it’s easy to to connect both cameras to your BRAVIA™ television via HDMI (requires optional cable) for a stunning big-screen view of your shots. Compatible BRAVIA™ models automatically switch to PhotoTV HD mode for optimised still image playback with incredible detail, colour and clarity. BRAVIA Sync lets you control image slideshows in comfort via your TV’s remote.

Both cameras let you capture even more incredible moments without the worry of running out of power. The rechargeable battery pack of the A500 allows up to 1000 shots (CIPA test, approx. figure) – the highest capacity of any ? series digital SLR camera battery to date. The battery of the A550 delivers up to 950 shots from a single charge.

If you’re hungry for even more shooting stamina, the new VG-B50AM Vertical Control Grip holds up to two NP-FM500H batteries. This premium grip gives A500 users an incredible 2,000 shot maximum capacity (A550: 1,900 shots), with automatic switchover between batteries and accurate display of power remaining in % increments on the camera’s LCD. An additional shutter release and dual controls support comfortable, accurate shooting in either portrait or landscape positions.

Also, with Memory Stick™ at the heart of the Sony alpha, you have every advantage. The advanced Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX (4GB, 8GB, 16GB or 32GB) is the perfect tool for continuous shooting mode, with the ideal combination of massive storage capacity and blisteringly fast operation. Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX 32GB will never miss the key shot because the number of pictures taken in 1 min is approx 270* photos (in RAW+JPEG/L (12M).Delivered with USB Adaptor, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX 32GB is ideal for users who want to transfer data in high speed: approx. 1700* pictures in L (12M) size at RAW+JPEG mode in 26 minutes.

The DSLR-A550 and DSLR-A500 digital SLR cameras are available from the end of October 2009.

*these figures are measured under certain conditions

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX1

DCT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:04:39 +0000

Last update 19 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ GoodGearGuide

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX1 announced on August 5, 2009 is a 10.2 megapixel compact digital camera and it one of the first to use back illuminated CMOS sensors. It features 10 fps high speed shooting, 4x optical zoom, image stabilization, HD movie capture, dynamic range optimization, 3 inch LCD, sweep panorama mode, camera dimensions W x H x D: 93.8mm x 58.2mm x 16.5mm (3 3/4″ x 2 3/8″ x 21/32″) and it weighs (Approx.) : Approx. 119g (4.2oz.) body only; Approx. 142g (5.0oz.) body with battery and MSDuo.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Lowest Price

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 19 November’09)

GoodGearGuide
If you are looking for a camera that is small enough it can be comfortably packed around in your pocket or purse. Performance wise this camera is not what they would call a good all-round performer, however, for normal candids and party photography it would probably be a good choice.
Rating:

Cameras.uk
“The TX1 is quite an impressive camera and when you take into account its better than normal capabilities such as sweep panorama, 10 frames per second shooting and multi-photo twilight mode are at the very least clever. Downside is it does have some quirks, it’s awkward to hold and the menu system is confusing to navigate and the lens is nothing to write home about.”
Rating:

Cameras.uk (As compared to the Sony Cybershot DSC WX1)
“Looks as though it’s a draw between these two when it comes to photo quality and features. So the deciding factor is going to come down to which camera looks best to you or if you like a touch screen or not. But in this case whichever you choose our test result show you will probably be happy with either.”

Cameras.uk (As compared to the Canon Powershot SD980 IS/IXUS 200 IS)
“If you look at features I prefer the Sony Cybershot DSC TX1. Beyond that our speed tests puts the nail in the coffin so to speak because the TX1 wins hands down. Both cameras weigh in at about the same price but the Sony gives more bang for the buck.”

PhotographyBlog
“For its hefty price we would expect a lot more photographer friendly features which puts in an awkward position where the beginner will not be interested because of price and more experienced shooters will be turned off by the lack of features. However, the TX1 produces outstanding image results, it’s too bad it could not strike a fair balance between style, price, and features. All that aside this camera is worth taking a second look at if you’re after the best point-and-shoot.”
Rating:

CNET.au
“The TX1 is a great advancement in the compact camera sector, better low-light ability and photo quality instead of more megapixels. It still has some ground to make up relative to photo processing and a better lens, but still, this camera is one of the most slender, most well defined bodies we have seen in a long time.”
Rating:

Imaging Resource
“Oh, the Sony TX1 is a Dave’s Pick all right, let’s get that out of the way right now. It has the technical wonders required to earn one, starting with the new Exmor R sensor’s increased light sensitivity, the responsive widescreen, touch-sensitive LCD, and some innovative shooting modes.”

Wired
“Good: Thin and light with an impressive touchscreen and amazing low-light capabilities. A fast 10-fps shutter is perfect for sports, kids, animals and the occasional fleeing celebrity. Cool new features like Hand-Held Twilight and Sweep Panorama modes work like a charm.

Not so Good: You pay big bucks for such a small cam: Price tag skates close to 4 Benjamins. Confusing menus can make it frustrating to change settings on the fly.”
Rating:

Cameras.uk
“This pocket camera is very different to most of its competitors. It has a number of exciting features such as a 10 frames per second burst mode, High Definition movies, sweep panorama and a handheld twilight mode that aims to reduce noise once lighting levels fall. It you are on the lookout for a digital camera packed with the latest features then take a look at the Sony Cybershot DSC TX1.”
Rating:

Digital Trends
“We have to look at this camera as a version-0.9 offering. Although it’s almost fully developed, it’s not all the way there. Sweep Panorama and Handheld Twilight are really good features, as is the 10-frames-per-second shooting. Yet colors were uneven, and focusing isn’t as good or accurate as we’d like. Given these issues, this one is hard to recommend. Hopefully, the implementation of Exmor R technology in the WX1 or future models will resolve these issues.”
Rating:

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Press Release

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 5, 2009 – Sony today announced two new Cyber-shot® cameras (DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 models) that provide unprecedented advances in low-light performance with approximately twice the sensitivity of cameras with traditional image sensors.

These Cyber-shot cameras are the first to employ Sony’s new “Exmor R” back illuminated CMOS sensor technology to improve shooting in low-light scenarios, enhancing image clarity and drastically reducing grain.

“With these new “Exmor R” CMOS sensor cameras, Sony has vastly improved the customer experience for taking pictures with digital still cameras in low-light scenarios,” said Phil Lubell, director of the digital imaging business at Sony Electronics. “We’ve all taken pictures in dimly lit areas, where the results were grainy and unclear. By redesigning the way these cameras capture light, Sony is leading the industry by creating this easy way to take amazingly clear, vibrant photos in low lighting scenarios.”

“Exmor R” Sensor Optimizes Low-Light Performance
Conventional image sensor architecture has required wires and other circuit elements to be positioned above the light sensitive photo-diodes, limiting the imager’s light gathering capability. Positioning these elements behind the photo-diodes, Sony’s “Exmor R” image sensors can gather more light, resulting in approximately twice the sensitivity compared to conventional sensors.

To further extend low-light shooting performance, the TX1 and WX1 cameras incorporate the hand-held twilight and anti-motion blur multi-shot modes introduced in Sony’s breakthrough Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. Using “Exmor R” CMOS sensor’s high speed, these modes capture six separate images in less than a second and utilize Sony’s BIONZ™ processor to combine the shots into a single image of extraordinary detail and low noise.

Combining the “Exmor R” technology with hand-held twilight and anti-motion blur modes delivers a breakthrough in low-light photography. Users can now capture images of stunning detail and low noise in scenes with no more than candlelight—without flash or the need of a tripod.

Innovative Sweep Panorama™ and High-Speed Shooting
In addition to their breakthrough low light performance, these new cameras also include Sony’s Sweep Panorama and 10 frames per second burst shooting features, which were introduced with the Sony® DSC-HX1 camera. The TX1 and WX1 cameras offer these features in smaller, more compact bodies that match nearly any unique style.

Capturing wide landscapes is as easy as “press and sweep.” Sweep Panorama mode lets you reach beyond the traditional wide-angle lens and capture breathtaking shots. Using the high-speed “Exmor R” CMOS sensor, the cameras shoot continuously while you sweep across the scene. Using the BIONZ imaging processor, they automatically stitch the pictures together to create one stunning panoramic photo.

The TX1 and WX1 Cyber-shot models can take up to 185 and 256-degree panorama shots respectively in one easy press-and-sweep motion with an image size of 7152 x 1080 (ultra wide horizontal).

Advanced Technology and Compact Design
While the HX1 camera is a well-rounded solution for customers who are looking for high-zoom and speed in a smaller size than a DSLR, the TX1 and WX1 cameras are made for an audience that wants advanced technology in an even more compact design.

With its slim profile of just 16.5mm, the 10.2 mega-pixel TX1 offers streamlined, distinguished curves for a sophisticated look appealing to the fashion-oriented who are also looking for great performance.

This model features a new operation on the touch panel that lets you scroll through images with an effortless “flick” of your finger and directly access menus on the 3-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus™ display.

With a Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® lens, the TX1 camera lets you focus as little as 0.4 inches from your subject for extraordinary close-up shots. The 4x telescopic zoom is perfect for capturing far-away subjects, and Sony’s Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization helps overcome camera shake.

The 10.2 mega-pixel WX1 camera has a 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus display and is just over three quarters of an inch thin—an ideal choice for DSLR owners who also want to carry a compact, high performance digital still camera.

The WX1 camera features a Sony G lens with an extraordinary wide angle 24-120mm 5x optical zoom. This lens’ f/2.4 maximum aperture offers nearly twice the light gathering capability of conventional lenses, and works together with the “Exmor R” imager and low-light shooting modes to provide low-light photography beyond the abilities of other compact cameras.

Tech Savvy Cameras
These cameras include the most recent Sony technology, including, Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode which, recognizes scenes, lighting conditions and faces, and adjusts settings resulting in clearer images, faces with more natural skin tone and less blur; Face Detection that detects up to eight faces and optimizes focus, flash, exposure and white balance and intelligent Scene (iSCN) that delivers nine Scene Selection modes to quickly adjust for specific shooting conditions.

Pet mode is a new Sony feature that minimizes blur when shooting moving pets. This new mode also reduces glowing pet red-eye.

Additionally, the cameras have technologies Sony Cyber-shot customers have come to expect. These include Smile Shutter™ technology that automatically captures a smile, dynamic range optimization (DRO) that improves exposure and contrast, intelligent Auto Focus that captures fleeting moments and HD video capability that records HD movies in 720p high definition MPEG4 format.

With HD video capability, these cameras record HD movies in 720p high definition MPEG4 format for stunning large-screen home movie playback. You can record up to 29 minutes (or up to 2GB file size) in 720p format.

Pricing and Availability
The TX1 camera will be available in silver, gray, pink and blue this September for about $380. The WX1 camera will be available in black this October for about $350. Pre-sales will start in August. The cameras and a range of accessories will be available online

Samsung TL225

DCT — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:03:12 +0000

Last update 19 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ Cameras.uk

Samsung TL225 / ST550 announced on August 13, 2009 is a dual image stabilized 12 megapixel compact digital camera that features dual LCD screens – 1.5 inch Front LCDSelf Portrait plus a 3.5 inch touch screen LCD on the back, 27mm Schneider-KREUZNACH wide angle lens, 4.6X optical zoom, tilt gesture controls, HD video capture, and high ISO of 3200.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Price & Availability

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 19 November’09)

Cameras.uk
This camera is loaded with features. It not only takes good quality pictures it arrives with a touch screen LCD and in addition one on the front of the camera for taking self portraits.
Rating:

DigitalCameraInfo
They thought it delivered good photos and has a decent zoom and overall the camera was easy to use. The LCD was excellent mainly because it was bright and had enough resolution to view fine details. Its menu system was pretty good and the reviewer had no problems setting cameras adjustments. For a simple straightforward camera that deliver good performance the TL225 fits the bill. Plus with the front LCD screen it provides a new unique way to take some creative images.

CNET Asia
“From our perspective this cameras target market is women. Almost every time we pulled it out the ladies noticed it and loved the LCD on the front of the camera and thought it was pretty cool to be able to take self portraits. If we set the photo quality and battery life on the shelf this is actually one the year’s most innovative cameras.”
Rating:

Steve’s Digicams
“Talk about a sweet spot – Samsung has sure found it with this camera. For photos of yourself the DualView feature all but nails this to perfection. Add in the Smart Auto and things like unsharp and goofy exposures are things of the past. I only struggled with a couple of things; it locked-up occasionally and some of the people shots took on the dreaded red-eyed demon look. Hey, it may not be the cheapest 12 megapixel camera on the block but if you take into account its cool features it’s a lot of bang for the buck.”

Wired
“What we liked: Front LCD is very cool for creating pictures of yourself. Big wide angle all the way out to 27mm. What we did not like: Okay photo quality, particularly in low light. Nasty shutter lag causes missed images. Touchscreen is a little poky — it seemed pretty fragile and seemed like it could get damaged really easily.”
Rating:

DigitalCameraReview
“It may be a little on the expensive side which will undoubtedly turn off some consumers. But take our word for it, you should check this camera out. We really enjoyed taking pictures with it and did not find anything too terribly wrong with the camera. This is a cool camera and it works precisely as its marketed and it’s worth trying out.”

CNET
“This is an awesome little camera however, It’s not for everyone. It’s added abilities are nice and the secondary front LCD is definitely more for those who would rather be in front of the camera than behind it. Also, the touch-screen interface might drive some people insane regardless of how responsive it is. The camera is a standout in design and features and actually solves a real problem instead of just being a gimmick.”
Rating:

GoodGearGuide
“Despite its reasonably good image quality, the Samsung ST550 could still use some refinement. The menu system needs to be more user-friendly and the battery life and charging options need vast improvement. We’re also not convinced that the majority of people who want to take self-portraits will need a second screen, but we applaud the innovation.”
Rating:

WDC
“The abundance portrait and facial recognition technologies, image stabilization, 3.5in wide touchscreen rear LCD, super macro mode and clever subject tracking auto focus make this a real ‘people camera’. It looks the part, by and large plays the part too and can only get a big thumbs up.”
Rating:

PCMag (Editor’s Choice)
“With solid image quality, an incredibly sharp and responsive touch-screen LCD, and an innovative front-mounted display for self-portraits, the Samsung DualView TL225 delivers a stellar shooting experience, so it’s our latest Editors’ Choice point-and-shoot camera.”
Rating:

CNET.uk
“The Samsung ST550’s twin displays are what most people will pick up on, but it’s the haptic touchscreen interface that’s the real star. The camera’s motion-detection capability is also very impressive. Its pictures are pretty ordinary, but the camera itself is a stunningly successful technical exercise.”
Rating:

Video Review @ ComputerTv

HardwareZone
“If you’re looking for a simple gadget with nifty little features, then the Samsung ST550 / TL225 with its hefty price tag will go well with your purchase for the holidays. If imaging quality is of utmost importance with no compromises, there are others to consider. However, you would be doing yourself a disservice should you choose to not even have a hands-on trial of the Samsung ST550 and its nifty features. Who knows, you might just get convinced! “
Rating:

DPExpert
“This camera is loaded with the essential gimmicks – face detection and recognition, smile and blink automation of shutter firing and so on, but it also permits a reasonable degree of user control. Samsung divides customers into six categories, one of which is Style. The ST before the 550 tells us that this little camera is for the style conscious. The high gloss finish on the front panel looks the goods, at least until it is smeared with finger prints. CSI will love it! An interesting camera, well thought out, worth consideration by any tourist.”

Owner Feedback

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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.

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ Cameras.uk]
[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraInfo]
[ISO Comparison Photos @ CNET Asia]
[Sample Photos @ Steve's Digicams]
[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraReview]
[ISO Performance Samples @ CNET]
[ISO Performance Samples @ WDC]
[Sample Image Quality @ CNET.uk]
[Sample ISO Performance Photos @ HardwareZone]

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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.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX1

DCT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:41:52 +0000

Last update 19 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ PhotographyBlog

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 announced on August 5, 2009 is a 10.2 megapixel compact digital camera and it is one of the first to use back illuminated CMOS sensors. It features 5x optical zoom, 10 fps high speed shooting, anti motion blur, HD movie capture, 2.7 inch LCD, sweep panorama mode, optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization, dynamic range optimizer, face detection, pet mode, ISO range from 80 to 3200, Camera dimensions are 3 9/16″ x 2 1/16″ x 25/32″ (90.5mm x 51.8mm x 19.8mm ), and it weighs 5.3oz. (149g) – With battery and Memory Stick media.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Lowest Price

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 19 November’09)

PhotographyBlog
If full manual control of your camera is not high on your list then the WX1 would be an excellent choice. It comes loaded with a lot of innovative “here, let me do it for you” modes, which can make the process of taking regular pictures, panoramas, and low light images a lot easier and more fun. Looks can be deceiving, while the WX1 looks like all the competition it delivers really nice results and it’s a lot of fun to boot.
Rating:

DevHardware
The WX1 impressed the reviewer. They indicated the average person just would not expect a compact with so much technology, but not so with this little camera. Packed with lots of shooting modes this camera makes the photographic experience fun and memorable.

DCResource
The reviewer thought the photo quality of the WX1 was disappointing and had hoped that in this particular area it would shine. Even at its lowest ISO setting of 160 the pictures exhibited detail loss, major shadow noise and near the edge of the frame there was blurring. When they pumped up the ISO to 200 – 800 it did a little better than similar cameras, but for example the Fuji FinePix F200EXR does way better. It also had a tendency to overexpose and blast out the highlights. All-in-all this camera just didn’t capture their attention or even hold it for that matter. Your money would be better off spent on something else.

GoodGearGuide
“This is not the fastest camera on the block. When you start the camera up it is poky enough that it can grind on your nerves, and when you shut the camera off it takes way too long also. However, its autofocus speed impressed us, plus it does make you select macro for shooting close ups, the WX1 does it on the fly, nice. The camera is a mixed bag while we liked its low light ability and the sweep panorama is cool but the above mentioned flaws keep it from getting a perfect rating.”
Rating:

PhotographyBay
“I feel the WX1 is high on the list of top consumer compact digital cameras. Warning – unless you are willing to admit that a camera is super smart and you can trust it to do the job without your help you will probably love the WX1. On the flip side. Unless you agree to switch the mode dial off the full auto selection, you probably don’t want this camera. With a ton of special modes the WX1 stands above the crowd.”

Cameras.uk
“The Sony Cybershot DSC WX1 has features you don’t see on a typical, pocket camera. With features like a very high speed burst mode, a sweep panorama mode for landscapes and cityscapes, and a High Definition movies mode this camera definitely sets a high standard. Image quality is also very good.”
Rating:

CNET.uk
“Sony has used a sensor found in its high-end camcorders and a lens based on those from its Alpha dSLRs, should you expect excellent photo quality? It certainly sounds reasonable. But, in the end, the fun-to-use DSC-WX1 is still a point-and-shoot camera, capable of above-average photos under challenging conditions where most other snappers in its class fail.”
Rating:

ImagingResource
“There was good detail in the images, but the reds and blues were clearly oversaturated. But the Sony WX1’s 5x G lens with optical image stabilization wasn’t really a liability. In fact, its 24mm wide-angle focal length was a boon in such a small camera. For its extreme low light capability in such a remarkably small package, the Sony WX1 still earns a Dave’s Pick”

The New York Times (Canon PowerShot SD880)
“So does this settle the “What camera should I buy?” question? Unfortunately, not quite. You’ve still got some agonizing to do. The Sony WX1 is nearly irresistible for its low-light abilities, HD video, sweep panorama and burst mode. Still, in good light, a Canon PowerShot SD880 IS still offers better color and sharpness.”

CNET
“Just because Sony used a sensor and lens based on those from its Alpha digital SLRs, should you expect SLR-quality photos? I don’t think so. While the WX1 is capable of producing excellent snapshots, it’s still a point-and-shoot camera. It’s just a really, really nice one with several fun and useful features.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Image @ DCResource]
[Sample Image @ Cameras.uk]
[Sample Image @ CNET.uk]
[Sample Photos @ ImagingResource]
[Sample ISO Example Photos @ CNET]

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile