Canon PowerShot SX150 IS

“The [Canon] SX150 IS would be an almost ideal choice for a first digital camera, an excellent choice as a primary family camera, and a very good choice for travelers who want an inexpensive, feature rich, dependable and relatively inexpensive point-and-shoot.”

We’ve added another Canon PowerShot SX150 IS [QuickPrice Check] review to our Reviews Matrix.

DigitalCameraReview has posted their review of the Canon PowerShot SX150 IS, with 14.1MP resolution (1/2.3-in. CCD), 12x wide-angle optical zoom (28-336mm equiv.), optical image stabilization, 3.0-in. LCD (230k-dot), Smart AUTO, PASM, Scene Modes, and HD 720p movie 1280×720 @ 30fps.

You can read the Canon SX150 IS Review @ DigitalCameraReview.

Related Link:

• Canon PowerShot SX150 IS Press Release
• Canon PowerShot SX150 IS Technical Specs

Canon PowerShot SX40 HS

“The Canon PowerShot SX40 HS is a feature-packed camera which also produces great images.”

We’ve added another Canon SX40 HS [QuickPrice Check] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

ePHOTOzine has posted their review of the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS, an ultra zoom digital camera with 12.1MP resolution (1/2.3-in. CMOS), a whooping 35x ultra wide-angle optical zoom (24-840mm equiv.), optical image stabilization, Zoom Framing Assist, 2.7-in. Vari-Angle LCD (230k-dot), EVF, Smart AUTO, PASM modes, Scene Modes, Continuous Shooting 8 shots @ 10.3fps, Super Slow Motion Movie (240fps), Color Accent, and Full HD movie (1920 x 1080) @ 24fps. Both the optical image stabilizer and optical zoom are available during movie shooting.

You can read the Canon SX40 HS Review @ ePHOTOzine.

Related Links:

• Canon PowerShot SX40 HS Press Release
• Canon PowerShot SX40 HS Technical Specs

Olympus SP-620UZ

PORTABLE POWERHOUSE: OLYMPUS SP-620UZ ULTRAZOOM BOASTS OUTSTANDING OPTICS, IMAGE QUALITY AND AFFORDABILITY

High-Performance 21x Wide Zoom Compact Camera–The Ideal Travel Companion

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., January 9, 2012 – Olympus today unveils the SP-620UZ, a long zoom camera designed for consumers looking for a powerful, great-value, go-anywhere compact that captures challenging shots. Offering impressive wide-angle capability for shooting landscapes, interiors and crowds, it’s a 21x optical zoom lens (25-525mm equivalent*) gives you the flexibility to focus and capture wildlife, competitive sports and other distant subjects without having to carry interchangeable lenses.

The outstanding optics are matched by Olympus’ advanced technologies, including Multi-Motion Movie  Image Stabilization, which minimizes camera shake even when the user is moving and Dual Image Stabilization allowing you to record crisp, clear stills and HD videos. Capture images with radiant colours, low noise and razor-sharp edges, thanks in part to the 16-megapixel CCD sensor.

Olympus SP-620UZ Back View

In addition to shooting wide-angle shots in close quarters, expansive panoramas and nose-to-nose close-ups, the Olympus SP-620UZ is flexible enough to experiment with intermediate zoom settings for portraits, still-life subjects and movies. A host of creative in-camera Magic Art Filters enables you to apply spectacular effects to all of life’s adventures both with stills and in video mode.

Olympus SP-620UZ Top View

No time to fix your make-up before someone takes your picture with the SP-620UZ? Olympus’ Beauty Make-up mode will let you apply everything from eyeliner to eye shadow and rouge. You can even lift cheekbones and morph your subjects into cover-models. With 3D image capture, the Olympus SP-620UZ combines two photos of the same subject from different angles to generate dynamic 3D images that can be viewed on a 3D-compatible monitor or television.

Eye-Fi™ card compatibility and a 3.0”LCD make it simple to share stills and HD videos with ease.

*35mm camera equivalent.

Olympus SP-620UZ

Canadian Pricing and Availability
The SP-620UZ will be available in January and ships with a Camera Strap, Protective Lens Cap, USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, 4 AA Batteries, Quick Start Guide, Instruction Manual and OLYMPUS [ib] Software CD-ROM and a Warranty Card.

Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (Available in silver and black)

ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.

Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhance people’s lives every day. These include:

•    Digital Cameras
•    Professional and Interchangeable Lens System Cameras
•    Related Underwater Products and Accessories
•    Digital and Microcassette Recorders
•    Digital Media
•    Binoculars

Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympuscanada.com.

Olympus SZ-14

TRACK YOUR SUBJECTS NEAR OR FAR WITH NEW ULTRA-SLEEK OLYMPUS SZ-14 LONG ZOOM CAMERA

Super-Slim & Stylish 24x Optical Zoom Camera Captures the Action Close Up and Personal

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., January 9, 2012 – Olympus today unveils the full-featured, slim and sleek SZ-14, a compact superzoom camera with a powerful 24x optical wide-angle zoom lens (25-600mm equivalent*) and two forms of image stabilization to help deliver the clearest results possible. Whether you’re traveling, at a family function, or on the sideline of a sporting event, the new, powerful SZ-14 gives you the flexibility to zoom right in and shoot brilliant close-ups without sacrificing versatility and image quality.

With remarkable magnification power in combination with 14-megapixel resolution, the super-slim SZ-14 is packed with state-of-the-art Olympus technology that delivers excellent image quality. A new, retro-chic “smart grip” at the front of the camera combined with built-in Dual Image Stabilization, helps cut out blur caused by imperceptible camera shake, allowing you to zoom right in for expressive close-ups and vivid HD 720p video.

High-speed, seven-frames-per-second (7 fps) sequential shooting gives you the power to capture a dynamic series of images of fast-moving subjects. For more composed shooting, the Olympus SZ-14’s Telephoto Macro captures all the rich detail of small subjects like flowers from inches away. The powerful zoom brings you up close to whimsical subjects like butterflies from a safe distance, so you don’t scare them.

Eleven Magic Filters power your creativity by adding a whole range of special effects to your images directly in-camera. The Olympus SZ-14 offers the new Fragmented magic filter to transform an average shot into a collage of tiles that look as if the original picture had been cut up and reassembled. They give the shot a lively new look and feel with a vibrant, three-dimensional texture.

Easily frame and review your images on the large, 3-inch LCD display (460,000 dots) and share them wirelessly throughout your social networks or on your computer via an optional Eye-Fi Card – or in all the glory of High-Definition using an optional HDMI cable on a big-screen HDTV.

* 35mm camera equivalent

Canadian Pricing and Availability

The Olympus SZ-14 will be available in March and ships with a Camera Strap, USB Cable, USB-AC Adapter (F-2AC), Lithium-Ion Battery (LI-50B), Audio/Video Cable, Quick Start Guide, Instruction Manual and OLYMPUS [ib] Software CD-ROM and a Warranty card.

Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (Available in silver, black and red)

ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.

Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhance people’s lives every day. These include:

•    Digital Cameras
•    Professional and Interchangeable Lens System Cameras
•    Related Underwater Products and Accessories
•    Digital and Microcassette Recorders
•    Digital Media
•    Binoculars

Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympuscanada.com.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7

PANASONIC INTRODUCES ULTRA-SLIM LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERAS WITH 10X OPTICAL ZOOM AND WIDE-ANGLE LEICA LENS

New LUMIX SZ7 and SZ1 Digital Cameras Offer HD Video and 25mm Wide-Angle Lens in a Compact Body Designed to be Portable and Easy-To-Use

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 9, 2012) – Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX SZ-Series of digital cameras, the LUMIX DMC-SZ7 and the LUMIX DMC-SZ1, which combine a powerful 10x optical zoom with a 25mm ultra-wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, in a slim and compact body, making it extremely portable and easy to carry. The LUMIX SZ7 (14.1 megapixels) can also shoot full-High Definition, 1920 x 1080 60i videos and with Light Speed AF, it has a super-fast focus response time of approximately 0.1 second – making it easy to capture spontaneous must-have photos. The LUMIX SZ1 (16.1 megapixels) features 720p HD video recording capabilities, and both models are easy to use thanks to Panasonic’s popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode which automatically chooses the best camera settings for natural, beautiful images.

“As more and more people revert to their smartphones because of convenience to take spur-of-the-moment digital photos, Panasonic is introducing two digital cameras that are not only small and compact, but also offer high-end imaging features such as a wide-angle LEICA lens, extremely fast Auto Focus speeds, and High Definition video, giving the consumer outstanding image quality,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. “Panasonic’s SZ7 and SZ1 are extremely compact in size, but offer features that are typically only available in much larger digital cameras, such as a 10x optical zoom, and with new features such as Panorama Shot and Miniature Effect, the SZ-Series is also fun to use.”

The LUMIX SZ7 and LUMIX SZ1 feature two new shooting modes – Miniature Effect and Panorama Shot. In Miniature Effect mode, the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized to make the picture like a diorama. Video recorded in Miniature Effect mode is played back in 10x fast-forwarding, making it comical and fun to watch*1. Panorama Shot makes it possible to shoot a horizontal or vertical panoramic image by taking consecutive shots and then overlaying the photos for the effect of a panoramic photo. Furthermore, both the LUMIX SZ7 and LUMIX SZ1 feature Creative Retouch which includes six filters -Toy Effect, Soft Focus Dynamic Monochrome, Expressive, High Key and Retro, each of which give the photo a more artistic look. Both models also feature an Auto Retouch function that adjusts contrast and brightness to give the photo a different look – all with a single press of the button.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1

To help ensure the LUMIX SZ7 and SZ1 are easy to use, both digital cameras feature Panasonic’s popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode. In iA mode, a suite of technologies are automatically engaged and the camera chooses the best setting based on the shooting environment. For instance, iA includes the new High Dynamic Range (on the SZ7 only), Intelligent Handheld Nightshot (on the SZ7 only) and Motion Deblur (on the SZ7 only) together with AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, MEGA O.I.S., Face Recognition (on the SZ7 only)/Face Detection (on the SZ1 only), Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure.

Other features of the new LUMIX SZ-Series include:
3.0-inch Intelligent LCD that automatically adjusts the backlight based on the environment’s lighting
The LUMIX SZ7 features a MOS sensor to support full-HD video, while the LUMIX SZ1 features a CCD sensor
USB power charging in addition to the conventional AC power supply
3D Photo Mode allows the user to take 20 panning shots and then the camera automatically selects the two most suitable images – one for the right eye and one for the left eye – to synthesize a 3D composite. Available on the LUMIX SZ7 only
Dedicated video record button which lets users instantly start recording a video without having to make any extra settings. Additionally, the full 10x optical zoom is available in video recording mode
High-quality stereo sound via Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator accompanies the realistic HD videos. The stereo zoom microphone comes with zoom noise reduction system, and the Wind Cut function helps to block noise from background wind

Pricing and 2012 availability will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping. The LUMIX SZ7 will be available in black and the LUMIX SZ1 will be available in black, silver, red and blue. For more information, and live coverage on January 10-11 from Panasonic at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show, please visit www.panasonic.com/CES. Plus, follow Panasonic’s CES activities on Twitter @PanasonicEvents and join the conversations.
*1 Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] in Creative Control Mode and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long)
*Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.
*The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company’s quality standards.
*The “AVCHD” is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.
*The “AVCHD” and the “AVCHD ” logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.
*AVCHD motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD disc cannot be played from a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.
*Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
*All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective corporations.
*This unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. You cannot use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC Memory Card on another device, be sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)
*Some accessories are not available in some countries.
*The use of recorded or printed materials that are protected by copyright for any purpose other than personal enjoyment is prohibited, as it would infringe upon the rights of the copyright holder.
*Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada. The Company’s portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more.

Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking. Follow Panasonic on Twitter @panasonicdirect, and additional company information for media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

Fujifilm FinePix S4500

FUJIFILM REDEFINES S-SERIES WITH THREE NEW SPEEDY SUPER-ZOOM CAMERAS

FinePix S4200, S4500 and SL300 Combine Super-Zoom, Speed, Creative Control, Precision Optics and Flexibility for Everyday and Enthusiast Photographers

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced three new additions that redefine the popular long-zoom S-Series lineup: the DSLR styled FinePix S4200, S4500 and SL300 digital cameras. Each new FinePix camera offers a 14 MegaPixel CCD sensor, with the S4200 offering an impressive FUJINON 24x long-zoom lens (24-576mm), and the S4500 and SL300 both delivering an extraordinary 30x long-zoom (24-720mm), for capturing even the most distant images. The SL300 makes long-zoom control even more flexible by adding Dual Zoom Control, so users can zoom in and out using the zoom dial on the top of the camera or on the side of the lens.

These FinePix cameras have large, bright 3” LCD screens, Electronic Viewfinders, and also come equipped with a powerful sensor shift Dual Image Stabilization to help keep even the most difficult images sharp by allowing users to adjust the ISO setting from 64 up to 6400. This year, the new S-Series cameras boast improved start up times and auto focus times as fast 0.35 seconds in low light, and two power options for versatility: AA battery power for the S4200 and S4500 and rechargeable Li-ion power for the SL300.

“The new long-zoom FinePix S-Series give every day and enthusiast photographers all of the tools that they need to take their pictures to the next level – all with the speed, zoom and superior image quality that they expect from an advanced digital camera without the expense of a system camera,” said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, Fujifilm North America Corporation. “The hallmark of these cameras remains superb image quality – even in low light shooting situations – and their high speed continuous shooting, 720p HD movie recording and other great features give users the photographic experience that they have been searching for in one, complete, stylish camera body.”

FUJINON Zoom Lens and Dual Image Stabilization for Superb Image Quality
The FinePix S-Series each feature Dual Image Stabilization CCD sensors and high ISO sensitivity settings for blur-free images, but with even greater zoom capabilities. Users can now capture anything from a stunning distant landscape to getting up close with Super Macro Mode as close as 2cm for breathtaking detail.

• The FinePix S4200 has a 24x wide angle zoom 24mm – 576mm FUJINON optical lens
• The FinePix S4500 has a 30x wide angle zoom 24mm – 720mm FUJINON optical lens
• The FinePix SL300 has a 30x wide angle zoom 24mm – 720mm FUJINON optical lens with dual zoom control for flexible shooting

HD Movie Capture
All three FinePix cameras also offer sharp HD movies in 720p with sound at 30 frames per second (fps) with one-touch ease. With a mini-HDMI output connector, it is easy to connect and view images on your HDTV (HDMI cable not included).

Fujifilm FinePix S4200

Smile and Blink Detection For Perfect Pictures Every Time
The FinePix S4200, S4500 and SL300 all include Smile Detection that recognizes the moment your subject smiles and releases the shutter only when this happens, ensuring a happy photo every time. Additionally, the Blink Detection function warns you if any of your subjects have blinked so that you can re-take the photo if necessary.

Face Recognition and Image Searching
With Face Recognition on the FinePix S-Series, users can tag and name eight of their favorite subjects and the camera will automatically recognize that person in every photo taken thereafter. This allows users to search for all their pictures of any of these people, by name, using the Image Search function. Image Search, found on all three cameras makes finding the people and places you’ve photographed easy to categorize and find.

This works in the same way for other categories of photo: the camera’s SR Auto Scene Recognition technology registers whether you’ve taken a picture of a person, or a landscape, or if it’s a night shot or macro shot, so you can filter your search by subject matter or even date and get straight to the photo you are after, quickly and intuitively.

Fujifilm FinePix SL300

Stunning Panoramic Shots
The FinePix S4200, S4500 and SL300 all feature the easy-to-use Motion Panorama shooting mode, which takes three successive shots with a helpful tool which automatically releases the shutter once the images are fully aligned to seamlessly stitch the shots together in-camera. This feature allows users to get creative and see impressive results with no fear of uneven landscapes or shaky horizons.

Social Networking and Photo book Features
The FinePix S4200, S4500 and SL300 all offer in-camera tagging capabilities for both Facebook and YouTube, allowing you to select photos and movies for upload on either of the sites, making for easy upload once you connect to a PC and launch MyFinePix Studio. The feature saves time, and enables users to share special moments right away on their social networks.

The three FinePix models also allow you to tag in-camera the images you want to feature in a photo book, which can be viewed separately in-camera and later created and ordered in a Photo book quickly and seamlessly.

Other features include:
• TTL Hot Shoe (SL300 only): Allows users to add accessories, including FUJIFILM external flashes.
• Tracking Auto Focus (AF): Tracks fast moving subjects so they don’t escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed; when users fully press the shutter button your subject will be in the centre of the photo in perfect focus.
• i-Flash Intelligent Flash: Offers a flash control system which efficiently controls the level of flash for a given exposure to produce beautifully balanced flash illumination across the foreground and background. Gone are the ugly washout shots where the subject is blasted with light and the background dark and unexposed.
• Full Manual Controls: Gives the user the choice of direct access to manually control the settings and shooting features (program/shutter-priority/ aperture-priority/manual), and the specially designed chassis includes dedicated command buttons for quick and easy key functions.
• Instant Zoom/Zoom Bracketing: Useful for high level photography. The Instant Zoom function captures moving subjects at high zoom settings. After zooming on a subject, a single button gives an additional 1.4x or 2x digital zoom. Zoom Bracketing automatically captures the same image three times with zoom ratio settings of 1x, 1.4x and 2x with a single shutter release.
• Continuous Shooting: High speed continuous shooting up to 8fps.
• AA-Battery Power (S4200/S4500 only): Using AA batteries is convenient for on-the-go digital camera users as it eliminates the need to charge battery packs, allowing for lots of picture taking and the ease of battery replacement.
• Li-ion Power (SL300 only): Rechargeable Li-ion delivers reliable power for 260 shots per charge.

Pricing and Availability
The FinePix S4200 and S4500 will be available in February 2012 and will be priced at US $229.95 and US $259.95 respectively. The FinePix SL300 will be available in March 2012 and will be priced at US $299.95.

NOTE: For more information, please go to: www.FujifilmUSA.com/CES2012.

For complete camera specifications, please go to: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/.

About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings America Corporation, consists of five operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division sells consumer and commercial photographic products and services including film, one-time-use cameras, online photo services and fulfillment, digital printing equipment and service. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras. The Motion Picture Division provides motion picture film, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides binoculars, and optical lenses for closed circuit television, videography, cinematography, broadcast and industrial markets. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. markets a range of Fujifilm products and services. For more information, please visit www.fujifilm.com/northamerica, or go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss.

FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Tokyo, Japan, brings continuous innovation and leading-edge products to a broad spectrum of industries, including electronic imaging, digital printing equipment, medical systems, life sciences, graphic arts, flat panel display materials, and office products, based on a vast portfolio of digital, optical, fine chemical and thin film coating technologies. The company was among the top 16 companies around the world granted U.S. patents in 2010, and in the year ended March 31, 2011, had global revenues of $25.8 billion*. Fujifilm is committed to environmental stewardship and good corporate citizenship. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmholdings.com.

Related Links:

• Fujifilm FinePix SL300 Technical Specs
• Fujifilm FinePix S4200 / S4500Technical Specs

Samsung HZ30W / WB600

“The Samsung HZ30W also meets my requirements for manual control, long shutter speeds, optical stabilization and has a pretty good Schneider-Kreuznach 3.9-58.5/3.2-5.8 lens (24-360mm 35mm equivalent).”

We’ve added a new Samsung HZ30W / WB600 [QuickPrice Check] review to our Reviews Matrix.

BobAtkins has published their review of the Samsung HZ30W / WB600, an ultra zoom with its 12MP resolution (on a 1/2.3-in. CCD image sensor), 15x ultra wide-angle optical zoom (24-360mm equiv.), Optical Image Stabilization, 3.0-in. LCD (230k-dot), Smart Auto, PASM, Scene modes, Smart Face Recognition, Perfect Portrait System, Smart Filter, Beauty Mode, and HD Movie 1280×720 @ 30fps with stereo sound.

You can read the Samsung HZ30W / WB600 Review @ BobAtkins.

Related Link:
Samsung HZ30W / WB600 Technical Specs

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150

Just Posted! Panasonic FZ150 Review

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150 is a well-featured super zoom camera that both beginners and serious amateur photographers will enjoy using. But it’s not just features for the sake of it; all of them work very well, giving you the confidence that every picture you take has the potential of being a keeper.

[ Read more in our Panasonic FZ150 Review... ]

Canon PowerShot SX150 IS

“The Canon PowerShot SX150 IS is a solid travel-zoom camera that certainly won’t break the bank.”

We’ve added another Canon PowerShot SX150 IS [QuickPrice Check] review to our Reviews Matrix.

PhotographyBLOG has posted their review of the Canon PowerShot SX150 IS, with 14.1MP resolution (1/2.3-in. CCD), 12x wide-angle optical zoom (28-336mm equiv.), optical image stabilization, 3.0-in. LCD (230k-dot), Smart AUTO, PASM, Scene Modes, and HD 720p movie 1280×720 @ 30fps.

You can read the Canon SX150 IS Review @ PhotographyBLOG.

Related Link:

• Canon PowerShot SX150 IS Press Release
• Canon PowerShot SX150 IS Technical Specs

Fujifilm FinePix X-S1

FUJIFILM CANADA INTRODUCES THEIR NEW PREMIUM X-SERIES CAMERA, THE X-S1: THE NEW STANDARD IN LONG ZOOM BRIDGE CAMERAS

Introducing the third model in the X-Series of premium cameras, the X-S1, that continues the X-Series tradition of setting new standards in quality and performance.

Mississauga, ON, November 24, 2011 – Fujifilm Canada is proud to announce a new addition to its X-Series digital camera lineup, the Fujifilm X-S1 premium long zoom camera, combining the large 12MP 2/3-inch EXR-CMOS sensor of the Fujifilm X10 with a newly developed FUJINON 26x optical precision zoom lens to produce sharp, high-quality images. Built in Japan to exact standards, the Fujifilm X-S1 represents a new breed of bridge cameras, with a high quality look and feel with metal dials, a rubberized coating and superior handling characteristics that will appeal to the discerning photo enthusiast.

“The X Series is a prime focus for Fujifilm and the X-S1 is a perfect example of our visionary direction. With its amazing zoom capabilities, incomparable image quality and DSLR looks, the X-S1 expands our X Series innovation into the bridge camera arena,” says Greg Poole, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Imaging Products at Fujifilm Canada. “Eliminating the need for multiple lenses, combined with a large 2/3-inch EXR-CMOS sensor, the X-S1 makes the perfect choice for photographers who want equipment that travels with no boundaries and limitless potential.”

Fujifilm FinePix X-S1 Top View

Maximum optical versatility
The centrepiece of the Fujifilm X-S1 is the Fujinon 26x optical precision zoom lens. Offering a focal range of 24-624mm (35mm equivalent), it features a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture at the wide-angle zoom setting.

This optical range is boosted further by Fujifilm’s Intelligent Digital Zoom capability, which effectively doubles the focal range without the drop in picture quality normally associated with traditional digital zoom functions. As a result, the Fujifilm X-S1 offers users an incredible 52x zoom range.

Optically, the lens is comprised of 17 glass elements, which includes four aspherical elements and two ED lenses, to deliver images with superb edge-to-edge sharpness and amazing clarity. The lens construction is of the highest standard, featuring metal cams for smooth zoom control and fast, precise framing.

The Fujifilm X-S1 is also ideally suited to capturing subjects close up. In standard Macro mode, the zoom focuses as close as 7cm, but by selecting Super Macro Mode, users can focus as close as 1cm for frame-filling close-up images. Furthermore, the lens’ aperture is made up of nine blades for excellent “bokeh” effect photography.

Great results in every picture-taking scenario
The Fujifilm X-S1 features the same large 2/3-inch 12MP EXR-CMOS sensor as the Fujifilm X10 to ensure high quality images regardless of the lighting conditions. The unique EXR-CMOS technology, pioneered by Fujifilm, allows the user to switch between three modes depending on the lighting conditions – or leave the camera to make its own choice in the Auto EXR mode.

Switching between the modes changes the performance of the sensor. The High Resolution option is perfect in bright conditions or when the very best picture quality is the primary aim. Wide Dynamic Range mode should be chosen in scenes of high contrast when the user wants to get details in both shadow and highlight areas of an image, while the High Sensitivity & Low Noise option should be selected for optimum results in low light conditions.

Coupled with the EXR-CMOS sensor is the high speed EXR processor, which offers a minimal shutter lag of just 0.01sec and a high speed continuous shooting capability of seven frames-per-second at full resolution (Large JPEG) or 10 frames-per-second at six megapixel resolution (Medium JPEG).

The Fujifilm X-S1 also takes high-quality movies. It captures Full 1080p High Definition (1920 x 1080 pixels) video with stereo sound at 30 frames-per-second, which is saved in the H.264 format. The X-S1 is also the first FUJIFILM digital camera to have a port for an external microphone.

Easy composition and image review
The Fujifilm X-S1 offers a powerful combination of a high quality electronic viewfinder and a tiltable LCD screen to ensure composing and viewing images is quick and simple, regardless of the lighting conditions.

The 0.47-inch electronic viewfinder (EVF) features 1.4 million pixel resolution for superb image clarity and has a wide viewing area of 26 degrees for better image framing. The 49 point selectable Auto Focus accurately and swiftly recognizes the primary subject and brings it into crystal clear focus. The bright EVF makes it easy to check settings or adjust focus manually.

Fujifilm FinePix X-S1 Back View

The tiltable 3-inch LCD features 460,000 pixel resolution making it easier for users to scroll through menus, assess exposure accuracy and view images. The LCD also offers a useful Daylight mode that overcomes the problem of viewing the screen in bright conditions.

Full user control and picture taking versatility
Photographers who prefer full manual controls are well catered to with the Fujifilm X-S1. The camera offers a full range of conventional shooting functions (program/shutter-priority/ aperture-priority/manual) plus users can fine tune levels of colour, image sharpness and tone. The X-S1 provides four auto bracketing options, eight Film Simulation and white balance functions and Raw file shooting capabilities.

For simplicity, the X-S1 will automatically assess the subject and then select the relevant scene mode for the perfect result, automatically switching the EXR-CMOS sensor accordingly. Not only does it determine the type of scene being photographed, it can also calculate whether an image contains a person, features backlighting or has any subject movement. ISO settings are adjusted by the Auto ISO mode, which selects the optimum setting between ISO 100 and 3200. Those after more ISO flexibility can manually select up to ISO 12800 (Small JPEG format only).

Fujifilm X-S1 key features:

• High quality Fujinon 26x optical precision zoom covering 24-624mm (35mm equivalent) with Intelligent Digital Zoom boosting focal range up to 1248mm
• Large 2/3-inch 12 MP EXR CMOS sensor
• Superb build quality and finish with rubberized coating and metal dials
• Up to 10 frames-per-second continuous shooting
• Large EVF with 1.4 million pixel resolution and 26 degree viewing angle
• Tiltable 3-inch 460,000 pixel resolution LCD screen with Daylight mode
• Full 1080p HD video with stereo sound
• PSAM modes
• Raw and jpeg shooting
• Film simulation modes
• Macro focusing as close as 1cm
• Lithium Ion rechargeable battery providing up to 500 shots per charge
• Optical Image Stabilization
• 360° Motion Panorama mode
• 2 Year Canadian Warranty

The Fujifilm X-S1 will be available February 2012 in Black with a suggested MSRP of $CDN 799. For more information visit http://www.fujifilm.ca/products/digital_cameras/x//fujifilm_x_s1/index.html .

From FinePixFred

Related Links:

• Fujifilm X-S1 Technical Specs: US | CA | UK | Special Site

Olympus SP-810UZ

“The SP-810UZ’s [...] noisy, blurred images–even at low ISOs–is absolutely inexcusable.”

We’ve added another Olympus SP-810 UZ [QuickPrice Check] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

DigitalCameraInfo has posted their review of the Olympus SP-810UZ with 14 MP resolution (1/2.3 in. CCD), 36x wide-angle optical zoom (24-864mm equiv.), Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 3.0-in. LCD (230k-dot), Intelligent Auto, P, 3D Photos, Eye-Fi Compatibility, Magic Filter, Beauty Mode, In-Camera Panorama, and HD Movie 720p 1080×720 @ 30fps.

You can read the Olympus SP-810UZ Review @ DigitalCameraInfo.

Related Links:

• Olympus SP-810UZ Press Release
• Olympus SP-810UZ Technical Specs

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150

“Panasonic rethinks their high-end ultrazoom, returning the flagship to five-star status with a reduction in resolution that paradoxically boosts image quality.”

We’ve added a new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150 [QuickPrice Check] Review to our Reviews Matrix.

Imaging Resource has posted their review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150 with 12.1MP resolution (on a 1/2.3-in. High-Sensitivity MOS sensor), 24x ultra wide-angle optical zoom (25-600mm equiv.), 32x Intelligent Zoom, Zoom lever on side of lens barrel, Optical Image Stabilization with Active Mode, 3.0-in. (460k-dot) Free-angle LCD, Intelligent AUTO (iA) mode, PASM, Scene Modes, Continuous Shooting 12fps at full resolution, Multi-process Noise Reduction, Intelligent D-range Control, Intelligent Resolution Technology, Creative Control and Photo Style for both still and video, hot shoe, high-speed videos at 220 fps in QVGA size (320 x 240 pixels), 3D Photo Mode, and Full HD 1920×1080/60p Movie in AVCHD format and stereo sound.

You can read the Panasonic FZ150 Review @ Imaging Resource.

Related Link:

• Panasonic FZ150 Press Release
• Panasonic FZ150 Technical Specs