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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 gets reviewed, recommended

by Joseph L. Flatley, posted Jul 10th 2009 at 2:48PM

If all those recently unveiled sample shots from Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GH1 have left you wanting more, you're in luck. The kids at Digital Photography Review have got their hands on the thing and have been kind enough to give us an extensive review. Rocking a Four Thirds imaging sensor, HD-video mode (with stereo sound recording), a multi-aspect sensor, and a video-optimized lens, the camera is essentially the G1 with HD-video, according to the review. Not that that's a bad thing, especially when noting that it has "the best implementation of video on a 'non-compact camera' that we've seen so far." Among the camera's strong points are its resolution, size and weight, build quality, image stabilization, and shutter-speed simulation. Still the reviewer didn't look kindly upon the camera's relatively small amount of RAW headroom, fairly low powered flash, poor battery life, and a loud shutter sound for a non-SLR camera. But overall? If you need a camera that performs admirably with video, and are willing to pay the $1500 premium, the GH1 comes highly recommended.

Homebrewed Nikon D90 lens is a fish-eyed theft deterrent

by Vladislav Savov, posted Jul 10th 2009 at 7:31AM

It may look like just a bit of corkwood taped to the front of a pretty expensive shooter, but that's only because it is. If you're already willing to withstand gadget muggles sniggering at your mighty DSLR and its six inch frontal protrusion, surely adding this sort of a ghetto mod isn't going to dent your self-respect too much. Put together using the ultimate in ordinary household objects, this fish-eye lens manages to kick out some pretty useful-looking images and seems a viable alternative for those with more time than money. Check out the read link for the full instructions and a gallery of photos taken with the lens.

Sony readying CyberShot DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 cameras?

by Darren Murph, posted Jul 3rd 2009 at 3:18PM

It was only a few months ago that we were fielding rumors about Sony's CyberShot DSC-HX1, and now we're struggling to keep our credit card at bay each time we waltz by one in the local camera shop. Today, Sony Insider has pointed out that the outfit may be readying a new duo to complement the megazoom: the DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1. If the latest whispers prove legitimate, the TX1 will boast a 10 megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, 3-inch LCD, 720p movie mode and a price tag somewhere south of $400. The WX1 should check in as a lower-end model with 10 megapixels, a 5x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD and the same 720p movie mode; why exactly it'll be cheaper we're not sure, but that's the good word at the moment. E-tailer Provantage already has listings for both cameras up, so it seems as if it's just a matter of time before Sony confirms all the good news.

[Via Sony Insider]

Energizer USB clip to charge camcorder / DSLR batteries via USB

by Darren Murph, posted Jul 1st 2009 at 9:56AM

Energizer's Energi To Go catalog just keeps getting sweeter. After introducing a new range of XPAL battery chargers last month, the company is evidently gearing up to reveal what's likely to be its most convenient and altogether useful product yet. The USB clip you see above is designed to make contact with DSLR and camcorder batteries and provide juice via USB; in other words, it's like a portable, highly mobile DSLR battery charger. OhGizmo points out that you may need one of Energizer's USB-equipped battery packs to charge up the 7.4V cells, but at least we're still talking about a non-proprietary charging connector. Per usual, there's no mention of dollars and cents, but hopefully it'll be rolled out for less than a song here soon.

[Via OhGizmo]

Pentax K-7 review roundup

by Vladislav Savov, posted Jul 1st 2009 at 12:27AM

We've been nothing if not comprehensive in our coverage of this new Pentax shooter, and early reviews are showing why. Photography Blog praised the K-7 for its weatherproofing and for having "one of the best LCD screens" they've ever seen on a DSLR, while ePHOTOzine were impressed by the image quality and Wired found the package of features and specs exceedingly robust given the $1,300 asking price. Some shortcomings were found, such as the slightly unintuitive interface and noise levels at higher ISO settings, but impressions were overwhelmingly positive. If you've been looking for a solid alternative to Canon's 50D or Nikon's D300, check out all the thoroughly detailed analysis in the read links below.

Read - Photography Blog
Read - Wired
Read - ePHOTOzine

Nikon D3000, D300s images materialize

by Ross Miller, posted Jun 30th 2009 at 12:37AM

What's this? An as of yet unannounced Nikon D3000 camera has allegedly popped up in press photo format, flaunting itself as what appears to be a slimmed down entry level DSLR. The gang LensTip have analyzed the pic pretty thoroughly against the D5000 and have concluded it's got a smaller body, no HDMI connector, no microphone (so much for a movie mode), and likely no articulating display. Additionally, we've got from Nikon Rumors what's purported to be our first glimpse at the D300s body. Given the angle of the shot, the only difference we can spot is the inclusion of a microphone -- then again, it could just be some subtle image manipulation trickery from a rabid fan. See it and decide for yourself after the break.

[Via Electronista]

Read - Nikon D3000 is coming
Read - Another Nikon D300s picture

Continue reading Nikon D3000, D300s images materialize

PhotoFast CR-7100 MicroSDHC adapter helps obsolete CF cards

by Vladislav Savov, posted Jun 26th 2009 at 10:16AM

That noise you hear is the sobering death rattle of the CompactFlash memory format. Allegiance to the now decidedly less than compact memory sticks seems to keep crumbling away bit by bit. The latest assault comes in the form of this here converter, capable of utilizing a MicroSDHC card in the high-end camera of your choice. The CR-7100 is available in Japan now for ¥2,980, or about 31 greenbacks. Here's hoping this agent of memory interoperability nirvana shows up in US and European markets sooner rather than later.

[Via Akihabara News]

Olympus E-P1 now available for pre-order

by Ross Miller, posted Jun 21st 2009 at 10:44PM

You might've noticed this already, but for those out there who share our lust for Olympus' E-P1 "digital Pen," but haven't done too much digging, consider this a public service announcement. The retro-chich micro four thirds camera is now available for pre-order from a handful of online retailers, with several different packages to choose from based with various body color (silver or white) and lens color (silver or black) combinations. Looks like it'll still cost you about $750 if you want body only, but really, at this point we don't know why you wouldn't pay an additional Ulysses S. Grant and grab a lens with it. Ready to smash that E-P1 piggy bank a bit early? You've got plenty of retailers willing to help you out there, but don't feel too pressured, there's still a little bit of time to decide before the July launch.

Read - Adorama
Read - Amazon
Read - B&H
Read - J&R

How would you change Canon's T1i DSLR?

by Darren Murph, posted Jun 13th 2009 at 12:41AM

Last week all the Nikon ~~fanboys~~ supporters were out in full-force critiquing the D5000, so we couldn't let another week slip by without giving Canon advocates (and haters, we don't discriminate) a similar chance with the T1i. Hitting the market at just about the same time, this well-specced entry-level DSLR packed a few niceties than alternative units simply did not: 1080p video, a 15.1 megapixel sensor and a price tag below $1,000. That said, there are still some areas that we reckon Canon could've improved upon, and if you feel the same way, we'd love to hear about it. Are you kosher with the 20fps 1080p mode? Is the image quality up to snuff? How's that stock lens treating you? Cut loose, won'tcha?

Nikon D300S screen leaks out

by Nilay Patel, posted Jun 12th 2009 at 1:02PM

It's been removed now, but Nikon Rumors says this screenshot from a supposed Nikon D300S was briefly posted on Nikon USA's site earlier today. There's not much to go on here, but that SD icon in the corner seemingly implies the update to the D300 will somehow feature an SD slot -- whether it's in addition to CF as previously rumored is obviously up in the air. Either way, it seems like we'll find out soon enough -- stay tuned.

Nikon's D5000 gets reviewed in staggering detail

by Darren Murph, posted Jun 12th 2009 at 10:07AM

Just in case our comparatively brief overview of the D5000 wasn't enough to sway you either way, why not have a gander at DPReview's astonishing 33 page critique of Nikon's first-ever DSLR with an articulating display? Within, you'll find oodles of sample shots, comparison to rival cameras and enough analysis to make you feel like a bona fide expert upon leaving. If you're looking for the long and short of it, however, you'll find a conclusion that essentially matches up word-for-word with our own summary: the articulating display is a bit of a personal preference, but every other aspect is rock solid. If you're not down with ponying up for the marginally more expensive D90 and you can't bear the thought of buying Canon glass, there's hardly a better option on the market right now. Dig in below if you still need more proof.

Olympus E-620 reviewed, does entry-level DSLR right

by Tim Stevens, posted Jun 10th 2009 at 9:31AM

When Olympus introduced the E-620 it was presented as a sort of greatest hits camera, cramming many of the features found in the higher-end E-30 into a small body like that on the E-450, then selling it at a middle-of-the-road price. It sounds like a tall order, but according to Photography Blog it's a an almost complete success, offering "the most effective combination of features, ease-of-use and price of any Olympus DSLR camera to date." Not everything is perfect, with low-light performance suffering from visible noise degradation, blamed on the relatively petite sensor here, and the lack of video capture being something of a detriment. But, overall image quality is rated very high, in-body image stabilization effective, the flip-out LCD useful, and overall it's said to be a great value for its $699 MSRP -- that it's already selling for well over $100 less than that is an extra bonus.

How would you change Nikon's D5000 DSLR?

by Darren Murph, posted Jun 5th 2009 at 11:51PM

Nikon's newest entry-level DSLR -- the D5000 -- has been out and about for just over a month now, which means it's just about time that we checked in with the early adoption crowd to see what kind of vibes are emanating. As Nikon's first DSLR with an articulating display, this one drew all sorts of attention for its unorthodox design. During our time with it, we found the display to be more of a gimmick than an aid in most scenarios, but we're interested to see if you agree / disagree. Has the D5000 lived up to your dreams? Are you stoked on the image quality? Have any quirks kept you up at night? Spill it all in comments below, we're all friends here.

Sample shots and video emerge from Pentax's K-7 DSLR

by Darren Murph, posted May 28th 2009 at 1:42PM

As with Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GH1, a few lucky folks who have managed to spend a few moments with Pentax's new 14.6 megapixel K-7 have stopped to host up the results for us to drool over. Early stills are rather impressive, with images being sharp, crisp and generally delightful to stare at. As for video, it's tough to judge the real quality based on a YouTube rendition, but feel free to glean what you can just after the break. So, if you weren't sold already, are you now?

Read - Pentax Forums
Read - DPReview

Continue reading Sample shots and video emerge from Pentax's K-7 DSLR

Sony Canada hints at Alpha A500 series of DSLRs

by Thomas Ricker, posted May 25th 2009 at 7:16AM

All we've got are these model numbers to go by, but it's pretty clear that Sony's cooking up a new series of Alpha DSLRs. The screengrab above (which we replicated ourselves) comes courtesy of SonyStyle Canada's registration page. A field populated by a well-meaning, yet misguided soul since Sony has yet to announce DSLRs carrying the A500, A500S, A550, A550S monikers. It's just a guess, but Sony's lineup has a glaring omission when compared to the competition in the consumer DSLR space: HD Video.

[Via PhotoRumors and Dyxum]