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CP+ 2013 wrap-up: brochure models, Japanese dancers and point-and-shoots aplenty
Despite an unfortunate lack of product introductions, largely due to the recent influx of new models at Photokina, there was plenty of excitement on the floor at Japan's annual CP+ trade show. The promise of new point-and-shoots brought us out to Yokohama, but non-stop manufacturer-sponsored entertainment at the exhibition hall, most often not in any way related to the devices on display, kept us coming back. At Nikon's booth, Japanese dancers clad in a variety of "urban" dress, remained in constant motion in an effort to demonstrate the autofocus abilities of the company's latest 1 Series cameras. At dozens of other stands, models, often surrounded by groups of attendees, held camera brochures in an array of different poses. And, at Casio, female presenters spoke of the company's "speed revolution" in front of dozens of amateur photographers, each clicking away as if under a looming deadline. All in all, this relatively small exhibition is an experience not to be missed. So, even if you weren't able to visit this year, you can join us inside Pacifico Yokohama in the video after the break.
Nikon Coolpix S9500, S9400 and S5200 point-and-shoots debut at CP+ (hands-on video)
Ready to check out some more point-and-shoots? That's great news! We've got a few more to share. The first two, the Coolpix S9500 and S9400, are nearly identical, save for a few key features. Appearance-wise, it's difficult to distinguish between the two, especially when they're powered off. Once you flip them on, however, you'll probably notice the S9500's whopping 22x zoom lens, compared to an 18x optic on the S9400. Both include 18.1-megapixel CMOS sensors and very crisp 3-inch OLED displays, while the higher-end S9500 ($350), which is likely to be the only US-bound model, adds built-in WiFi and GPS. Not to be overlooked, the S5200 includes a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 3-inch VGA LCD, 6x optical zoom lens and WiFi for $180. We caught up with all three compacts at Nikon's CP+ booth this week, and we were quite impressed with the S9500 in particular. Despite the 22x zoom lens, the camera was very thin and light -- it should be able to tuck into a pocket just fine. It included a premium finish, just like its slightly less capable sibling, the S9400, and performed very well during our hands-on. Both of these shooters have sharp OLED displays, which really looked fantastic, along with dedicated mode dials, though we were disappointed to see that Nikon omitted manual shooting options, in favor of some scene presets. The S5200, which was on display in red and blue, had a similar feel and finish, though it was quite a bit more compact, and lacked the OLED screen and mode dial. All of these models are set to ship later this month, but if you're eager to learn more, you can check 'em out in our hands-on after the break.
Hands-on with Nikon's Coolpix P520 and L820 superzooms at CP+ (video)
Nikon introduced a pair of step-up superzoom cameras here at CP+, with the P520 designed to meet the needs of advanced amateur shooters and the L820 best suited for casual photographers looking to get a bit closer to the action. Both models include BSI CMOS sensors, with the $450 P520 snapping 18.1-megapixel stills and the $280 L820 capturing 16 megapixels. That first model includes a 42x (24-1,000mm) optical zoom lens while the latter sports a 30x (22.5-675mm) optic -- both offer lens-based image stabilization. Both options feature lens-mounted zoom toggles, pop-up flashes and dedicated video capture buttons, but only the P520 offers a dedicated mode dial, and if you're planning to make changes on the fly, that's really a necessity. We caught up with the duo at Nikon's CP+ booth this week -- we were expecting some inconsistency between the two based on price and specs alone, but after trying out both models, the Coolpix P520 is far and above the better option. The VGA-resolution 3.2-inch display was incredibly sharp and bright, and the vari-angle functionality lets you snap overhead and below-eye-level shots with ease. The camera was very responsive and the housing felt quite durable -- you definitely get quite a bit for your 450 bucks. The L820, on the other hand, felt very much like a low-end alternative, so unless you're on a strict budget or in the market for a sub-$300 model, you'll want to spend for the P520. You should be able to check out both cameras in retail stores beginning later this month, or you can take a look today in our hands-on after the break.
Nikon Coolpix AW110 and S31 ruggedized cams see some action at CP+ (hands-on video)
You might figure that a climate-controlled exhibition center would offer a safe haven for even the most delicate of electronics, but with thousands of consumers getting handsy with these gadgets, many devices take quite a beating during a week-long trade show. No drop to the floor, counter crush or attendee sneeze is too much for these ruggedized Nikons, however. The Coolpix AW110 and S31 were both designed with wild lifestyles in mind, with waterproof and shockproof housings offering protection on land and under the sea. Our test location this week was limited to a display counter positioned front and center at Nikon's CP+ booth in Yokohama, so we can't speak to durability, but both offerings look convincing enough. With a sticker price of $350, the AW110 is certainly the higher-end of the two. We were particularly taken with the 3-inch OLED display, which looked fantastic -- it's perhaps the sharpest screen we've seen on any ruggedized model. The 5x internal zoom lens wasn't speedier than we expected, but it'll get the job done. The S31, however, looks very much like a child's plaything. And, considering the $120 MSRP (for a ruggedized camera, no less), it seems to be priced as such. We'll let you make that call for yourself, however -- take a closer look at both point-and-shoots after the break.
Pentax Optio WG-3 and WG-10 offer ruggedized shooting with a unique design, we go hands-on (video)
Some might call it ugly; we'll say unique. Regardless of your take on Pentax's ruggedized Optio housing, you'll get a capable waterproof shooter, with a handful of practical features. Two new models appeared this week at CP+ in Yokohama, Japan, and while both may look like they came from the same mold, the feature sets differ vastly. The more powerful compact, the WG-3, is also the slightly larger flavor. It packs a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, a sharp 3-inch LCD and a 4x, f/2-4.9 lens. Its survivability stats, printed around the lens, include waterproof to 14 meters (46 feet), shockproof to 2-meter (6.5-foot) drops, crush-proof to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of force and cold-proof to -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit). Then there's the WG-10, which is basically just a rebranded WG-1, so we won't focus much on that. Both cameras have similar designs that scream "rugged" -- in other words, if you're a fan of Panasonic's original Toughbook design, you might find these attractive. They're incredibly solid-feeling, so while trade show tethers prevented us from doing any durability testing, they definitely look the part. We spent a few minutes with the WG-3 (or WG-III as indicated to the right of the lens) -- it's almost intimidating in appearance, as if it's telling other cameras to watch their backs. The display is sharp and bright and the camera was generally responsive, though it certainly won't break any records for speed. Interestingly, the WG-10, which we were originally told was a Target-exclusive, and therefore only available in red, was displayed with a black finish as well -- perhaps Pentax has different plans for that model in Japan, which makes sense, considering that there aren't any Target stores here. Either way, you should expect to see both of these hit stores in April, or you can sneak a peek now in our hands-on video after the break.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 330 HS and 115 IS hands-on (video)
In Japan, they've been coined the IXUS 255 HS and IXUS 132, but folks in the US will probably recognize them as the ELPH 330 HS and 115 IS. By any name, they're Canon's two mid-range point-and-shoots for CP+, and while they were joined by the A2500 during this week's announcements, that latter model didn't seem to make it to the company's booth here in Yokohama. In any case, if you've handled an ELPH model in recent years, you know what to expect here -- Canon's design hasn't changed much, but we're not complaining. The 330 HS includes a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, compared to a 16-megapixel CCD in the slightly smaller 115 IS. Cosmetically, the biggest difference between the two is the powerful 10x optical zoom lens on the 330 HS, compared to a still-respectable 8x optic on the lower-end model. Both cameras offer the same familiar PowerShot UI, and they look nearly identical with the lens retracted. Zoomed in, however, it's clear which camera is the more capable of the bunch. Both performed very well during our hands-on at Canon's booth, though we'd definitely opt for the 330 HS, which offers a superior sensor and extended lens, not to mention built-in WiFi -- it's definitely worth spending an extra 60 bucks to snag the $230 HS model. Both cameras are set to ship beginning in March, but you can check them out in our walkthrough today, embedded just past the break.
Olympus Stylus XZ-10 packs control ring and PEN-like AF, we go hands-on at CP+ (video)
We have to say, Olympus has a very compelling point-and-shoot to show off at CP+. The Stylus XZ-10, which launched just this week, includes a small arsenal of features that you wouldn't normally find on a pocketable cam, including incredibly fast autofocus, a control ring around the lens, a dedicated mode dial and a very sharp (920k-dot) 3-inch LCD. The autofocus is the standout here, however -- Olympus describes it as being on-par with its PEN Micro Four Thirds models, and as compacts go, it feels just about as speedy as Sony's RX100. The 5x, 26-130mm lens offers a maximum aperture range of f/1.8-2.7, which should have you covered in most lighting situations. There's a 12-megapixel CMOS chip on board, with sensor-shift image stabilization, and support for 1080/30p video as well. The camera itself feels very much like a premium device, and it's attractive to boot. There's no built-in WiFi, which we've been seeing embedded with quite a few pocketable models this year, but you can take advantage of some smartphone sharing and editing features if you add on an optional Toshiba FlashAir card. Sadly, there's still no US pricing to speak of, but Olympus reps here in Japan quoted a retail price of ¥40,000 (about $440), plus tax, when the camera hits stores beginning in February. Take a closer look in our hands-on after the break.
We're live from CP+ 2013 in Yokohama, Japan!
It feels like just yesterday that we made our way through hall after hall at Photokina. Cologne, Germany's biennial photo extravaganza is absolutely massive in comparison to Japan's up-and-coming CP+, which admittedly promised a bit more excitement in 2012, but local enthusiasts seem to have come out in droves for this week's show here in Yokohama, likely motivated by an opportunity to check out models that first appeared earlier this month at CES. Still, CP+ is the most prominent camera trade show in Asia, and considering Japan's role in the digital imaging space, it's not to be overlooked. While we're here, we'll be checking out a handful of point-and-shoots from Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Olympus, just to name a few, perhaps joined by a surprise gadget or two. Protip: Follow CP+ through our event hub to catch the abundance of hands-ons, posted throughout the week.
Olympus unveils Stylus XZ-10 with f/1.8-2.7 zoom, smartphone sharing app
Olympus is carrying on the recent compact camera trend of fast-ish zoom lenses and wireless sharing capability with the launch of the 12-megapixel Stylus XZ-10. The new model follows in the footsteps of the company's top compact dog XZ-2 model, sporting a slightly smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor and a wider range 5x optical zoom with a similar f/1.8-2.7 iris. Otherwise, it's aimed more at the casual carry-around crowd with a 40 percent smaller body, touch-screen focus selection, control ring exposure adjustment, a 3-inch 920k dot TFT LCD, art filters (in the smartphone app), image (or film) stabilization and 1080P 30 fps HD video. Olympus is also trumpeting its smartphone OI.Share capability, allowing images to be sent wirelessly to an iOS or Android device and edited with the included app -- provided you have the optional Toshiba FlashAir card. It'll be arriving in March in black, brown or white at a rather steep-sounding £349, which equates to $550, though exact US pricing hasn't been revealed yet. See the PR after the break for more nitty-gritty.
Fujifilm launches alphabet soup of point-and-shoot, compact and bridge cameras
Where to start? Fujifilm has announced 9 new FinePix camera models by our counting, including six bridge models (the S6800 and S4800 series), the JX680 point-and-shoot, the F900EXR compact with WiFi and .05-second autofocus, and more basic F850EXR compact. The S6800, S6700 and S6600 are 16-megapixel bridge shooters with 30x, 28x and 26x zooms respectively, boasting OIS sensor stabilization, 12,800 max ISO, 1.0 second startup, 0.3 second autofocus, 10fps high-speed shooting at full resolution (max 10 frames) and 1080i 60fps HD video, with prices topping out at $250. The 16-megapixel FinePix S4800, S4700 and S4600 have the same 30x, 28x and 26x zoom levels and sensor shift image stabilization along with auto scene recognition, a 1.3 second startup time, 0.3 second autofocus, 720P, 30 fps video with mini-HDMI output and a max price of $230. For lovers of smaller form factors, the $100 JX680 point-and-shoot has a 16-megapixel CCD, 5x Fujinon optical zoom, "creative" filters like soft focus, a 3.0-inch, 230k-dot LCD screen, max 3200 ISO and 720P video with editing. In compact land, the $300 FinePix F850EXR sports a 20x optical zoom, CMOS-shift image stabilization, a 16-megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, 3.0-inch 920k-dot LCD, 9 fps continuous shooting (max 5 frames), 1.1 second startup time, Eye-Fi card compatibility and 1080P 60fps video. Finally, the $400 FinePix F900EXR matches all those specs while adding WiFi image transfer capability, faster 11 fps continuous shooting (5 frames max) and claimed "world's fastest" 0.05 second autofocus speed. Got all that? All the new models will arrive in March 2013, so feel free to check the PR and video after the break if you want more. We're going to take a nap.
Pentax expands ruggedized series with Optio WG-3, Target-exclusive WG-10
Think it might be time for a new ruggedized Pentax? It looks like the company agrees -- two new models are making their debut this week at CP+. The first is actually a rebranded WG-1, now called the WG-10, which will be available exclusively at Target stores and the website beginning in April. It's identical to the WG-1, save for the obligatory red finish and a $180 price tag. The second model is more of an original number -- it's an update to last year's WG-2. The new compact, dubbed the WG-3, maintains the unique design of the other two Optios, including a nifty LED ring around the lens for lighting macro shots. There's a 16-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, a 3-inch 460k-dot LCD, a 4x lens with an f/2 wide-angle maximum aperture, along with options for 1080/30p and 720/60p video capture. It's waterproof to 14 meters (46 feet), shockproof to 2 meters (6.5 feet) and freeze-proof to -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit). The basic version will run you $300, while a tricked-out $350 model adds GPS and Qi wireless charging, along with a secondary LCD that displays the current time, barometric pressure, a compass, altitude and underwater depth. Snag a peek in the gallery below.
Canon PowerShot A2500, ELPH 330 HS, 115 IS point-and-shoots debut ahead of CP+
You might have figured Canon's 2013 PowerShot lineup was diverse enough to satisfy just about any point-and-shoot craving. Well, no matter -- we're about to see a trio of compacts added to the mix. The ELPH 330 HS is the company's premium model for CP+, Japan's up-and-coming digital imaging trade show, which kicks off later this week in Yokohama. The 330 is similar to the 130 IS, which we first saw at CES, boosting the focal range from 8x to 10x, with a 24mm wide-angle lens. There's also an upgraded 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with a Digic 5 processor, a 461k-dot 3-inch LCD and built-in WiFi. The next higher-end offering is the ELPH 115 IS, which packs specs more in line with the 130 IS, including the same 16-megapixel CCD sensor and 8x 28mm lens. There's no WiFi to speak of, however, and the display drops to a 2.7-inch 230k-dot panel. It can shoot 720p video and offers the same Eco Mode bundled with all of Canon's 2013 compacts. Finally, for photogs on an even tighter budget, there's the PowerShot A2500. The specs are similar to the 115 IS, including a 16-megapixel CCD chip, a 2.7-inch 230k-dot display and 720p video shooting. Despite the reduced 5x 28-140mm lens, this flavor is a bit heftier, though it's a step up from most other A-series Canons. If you have the cash to spare, the $230 ELPH 330 HS is clearly the most compelling option launching this week -- it ships in March with black, pink or silver finishes. The slightly less capable 115 IS will be available in March for $170, in black, blue, pink and silver, while the A2500 will hit stores in April for $130, in black, silver and red. Catch a few more details in the PR just past the break.
Sigma unveils three new MFT and Sony E-Mount lenses
Despite the raves that recent micro four-thirds and Sony E-Mount cameras have received of late, there's still a dearth of lenses for the fledgeling systems compared to their more entrenched counterparts. Luckily, Sigma's just added to the pool of autofocus-equipped models for each system: updated 19mm F2.8 DN and 30mm F2.8 DN models along with an all-new 60mm F2.8 DN telephoto lens. Each Japan-made model has a "telecentric" optical design to minimize CMOS color issues, a metal exterior with silver or black color options, and a linear autofocus motor that Sigma claims is quiet enough to use for video. Meanwhile, the imaging outfit also announced an updated 30mm, F1.4 DC HSM model for Canon APS-C, Nikon DX and its own Sigma mount. All that's great news, though we're still waiting for an AF/electronic F1.4 or faster lens for E-Mount (there's only one on MFT as well) -- though this might tide us over, in the meantime. See the PR after the break for more info.
Nikon Coolpix AW110 and S31 deliver ruggedized shooting at vastly different price points
Looking to snap some frames from the mountains to the prairies to the oceans white with foam? Nikon's got you covered, with a pair of ruggedized point-and-shoots. The high-end model here, dubbed the Coolpix AW110, will set you back a whopping 350 bucks, while the S31 will run you about $120. Clearly, you'll be making some compromises if opting for the (significantly) lower-priced model. The AW110 sports waterproofing to depths of 60 feet, compared to 16.5 feet for the less-ambitious S31 -- the former will work just fine at many scuba depths, while the other model should have you covered for casual snorkeling expeditions. That $350 price tag will also net you built-in WiFi and GPS, a 3-inch OLED display, 1/2.3-inch 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 5x (28-140mm), f/3.9-4.8 optical zoom lens. The $120 S31, however, includes the same sensor as its predecessor, the S30, with a 1/2.9-inch 10-megapixel CCD. It also includes a 2.7-inch LCD and it can sustain drops from up to 3.6 feet (compared to 6.6 feet for the AW110). It does include a rechargeable battery, however, while the previous-generation model required AAs. Both cameras will hit stores at the end of February, with the AW110 available in black, blue, camouflage and orange, and the S31 shipping in blue, brown, pink, white and pink. Catch a few more details in the press release after the break.
Get your superzoom on with Nikon's Coolpix P520 and L820
Oh, the superzoom camera -- it's not a compact and the lens doesn't twist off, but for one reason or another, this confused category has survived against the odds. So, if superzooms happen to be your shooter of choice, we've got some good news: Nikon's got a new pair to add to the pickins. For those with deeper pockets, the Coolpix P520 might be on order, with an 18.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 3.2-inch vari-angle (tilt-and-swivel) VGA display. There's a 42x f/3.0-5.8, 24-1,000mm lens on board, netting you quite a bit of range. It also offers 1080/60i HD video shooting and WiFi compatibility through the optional ($60) WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. Casual photographers might be more taken with the Coolpix L820, which still packs a fair amount of punch, thanks to a 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, a 30x, 22.5-675mm zoom lens with optical VR, and 1080p video shooting. Unlike its more feature-packed sibling, though, this model uses AA batteries -- which you might be into if international travel is on the agenda (those disposable cells are available worldwide, which helps if you aren't keen on plugging in a charger). Both offerings will hit stores in late February, with the P520 available for $450 and the L820 shipping for $280, in your choice of black or red finishes.
Nikon updates Coolpix compact lineup with S9500, sub-$200 S5200 and L28
A Coolpix for every budget? Nikon's got you covered with this latest lineup of compact point-and-shoots. The S9500, priced at $350, offers a standard mid-range lineup of pocketable-cam specs. There's an 18.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, an impressive 22x 25-550mm zoom lens and a 3-inch OLED display. As you might expect from a camera in this price range, Nikon threw in embedded WiFi and GPS, letting you geotag and upload your pics directly from the camera. Next up is the $180 S5200, which manages to squeeze in a 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor and a 6x, 26-156mm optically stabilized zoom lens. You'll use the 3-inch HVGA LCD to navigate the updated (and simplified) user interface. Both of these cameras offer 1080/30p HD video capture modes, too. Budget-cam hunters might like the $120 Coolpix L28, which is largely identical to its predecessor, the L26, save for a new CCD sensor that snaps 20.1-megapixel stills, rather than the 16.1-megapixel shots you'd be able to grab with 2012's offering. Otherwise, you'll find a 5x, 26-130mm zoom lens with a maximum aperture range of f/3.2-6.5, a 3-inch QVGA LCD, 720p video shooting and an AA battery compartment. All three cameras are set to ship in late February, and will be available in black. The S9500 will also sport a red or silver finish, the S5200 can be had in blue, purple or red, while the L28 will come in red and silver. Try to hold back your excitement.
Pentax shows NERV, flashes Japan-only Evangelion-flavored Q10s
We've seen Neon Genesis Evangelion-branded devices for quite awhile now, and as a testament to the garish-hued series' longevity, Pentax has announced a special edition, show-themed Q10 series of its own. It'll release a mere 1,500 of the models in Evangelion heroine shades, starting with the Eva-01 model shown above at a price of 59,800 Yen ($660 or so). Besides showing your love for '90s anime, that sum will get you a 12.4-megapixel, mirrorless interchangeable shooter capable of Full HD video, while filling out the already-bounteous Q10 color choices from the hue-loving outfit. Stateside fans of the show will likely be disappointed though -- it'll only be sold in Japan, starting in April. Check the source to see the other colors.
Sony grows E-mount lens collection with 20mm pancake, 18-200mm power zoom
One of the most common criticisms circling Sony's NEX lineup and mirrorless cameras as a whole is limited lens selection, so we're always happy to see new high-end optics make their debut. Today, Sony's doing its part to make its products more appealing by adding two new lenses (for a total of 13): a 20mm f/2.8 pancake and a 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS powered-zoom optic, which first made its debut with the VG30 camcorder, but will now be available as a standalone purchase. That first model will ship in April for $350, while the zoom lens will be available in March for $1,200. Photography buffs can catch a few more details in the PR just past the break.
