National Geographic Editor Chris Johns picks his favorite photos published in 2009.

View the images at: National Geographic.

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS / IXUS 105

“The image quality is average, but the IXUS 105 is [...] an ideal tool for whipping quickly from your pocket when that photographic opportunity presents itself.”

We’ve added a new Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS / IXUS 105 [Specs] Review in our Reviews Matrix.

PhotographyBLOG has posted their review of the Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS / IXUS 105 [Specs], a point-and-shoot ultra compact digital camera with 12.1MP resolution (1/2.3-in. CCD), 4x wide-angle optical zoom (28-112mm equiv.), optical image stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230k-dot), and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

You can read the full Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS / IXUS 105 Review at: PhotographyBLOG.

Pentax K-x

“The Pentax Kx has enormous value, thanks to its remarkable image and print quality, fine build, and class-leading burst speed, all combining to make one impressive digital SLR camera.”

We’ve added a new Pentax K-x DSLR [Specs] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

Imaging Resource has just published their review of the Pentax K-x DSLR, with 12.4MP resolution (on a 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS image sensor), Shake Reduction sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 2.7-in. LCD (230K dots), 11 Point Wide Angle Focus (but no AF points in viewfinder), PASM, Auto Picture mode, Scene modes, Creative Processing and Filter Modes, 30-1/6000 sec. plus Bulb, Dust Removal, HDR Image Capture (captures 3 bracketed images and blends them in-camera), RAW, optical viewfinder with 96% frame coverage, Live View with Contrast Detect, Phase difference and Face Detection AF, Continuous Shooting 4.7fps, built-in flash, Wireless flash support, and HD Movie (1280 x 720 @ 24fps). The Pentax K-x uses the SD/SDHC memory card and is powered by 4 AA batteries.

You can read the full Pentax K-x Review at: Imaging Resource.

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Nikon D300s

“The D300S is a routine replacement instead of an eye-opening achievement.”

We have added a new Nikon D300s [Specs] review to our Reviews Matrix.

DigitalCameraInfo has published their review of the Nikon D300s, a digital SLR camera with 12.3MP (23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS), PASM, large bright viewfinder using a pentaprism with approximately 100% frame coverage, 51-point AF with 3D Focus Tracking, Integrated Dust Reduction System, Live View, 3.0-in. LCD (920K dots), Continuous Shooting 7fps, Advanced D Movie, RAW, Quiet Shutter-release Mode, Picture Control, Active D-Lighting, Built-in Flash, Virtual Horizon, dual card slots for CF (Type I only)/SD memory cards, and optional GPS Unit.

You can read the full Nikon D300s Review at: DigitalCameraInfo.

Editor’s note: Because DIgitalCameraInfo gives a so-so review of the Nikon D300s, we encourage you to get a second opinion from other expert reviewers.

B&H Deals:

Canon double instant rebates are now available! Buy a Canon EOS 5D Mark II Body with a lens or flash and you get “Double” the instant rebate available for the qualifying lenses and flashes if bought individually. That adds up to an additional $15 to $500 savings. WOW.

Click on the Canon logo to see our complete list of included products. Navigate to the “Double your instant rebate with purchase” link below each product to view possible options.

B&H is also offering $100-$200 instant on the purchase of Canon EOS 7D DSLR camera. See the 7D link for offer details.

Focus Numérique has an interview with Uematsu Michiharu, Manager for the Lumix Digital Interchangeable Lens cameras at Panasonic Japon:

• 12MP is more than enough for consumer cameras and calls for a stop to the megapixels race.
• A micro 4/3 videocam? Cameras and Videos are 2 different departments at Panasonic so he has no idea.
• A 14mm [28mm equiv.] f/2.8 pancake lens is in the works and might be presented at Photokina.
• Hates the mechanical shutter and shutter noise. The way information is read from the sensor would need to change to switch to an electronic, silent, shutter.
• The G2 and G10 are a logical evolution to the G1 with improved image quality thanks to the new Venus Engine HD II image processing engine.
• Lenses now only need to give a sharp image; distortion, vignetting and chromatic aberration can all be corrected in software.

Read the interview at: Focus Numérique [Google English translation].

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