Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony NEX-F3 review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/31/sony-nex-f3-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/31/sony-nex-f3-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/31/sony-nex-f3-review/#comments Sony NEX-F3 review

Just shy of a year ago, we reviewed the Sony NEX-C3, a mirrorless camera that quickly became our benchmark when it came to entry-level interchangeable lens cameras (ILCs). We praised its excellent image quality, generally consistent performance, overall solid design and, best of all, its $600 price tag -- including an 18-55mm kit lens. Since then, the landscape has shifted drastically for this particular type of compact shooter, with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 raising the bar for focusing performance, Nikon's cute J1 winning the hearts of many (likely due to a heavy marketing budget and adorable design) and the Fujifilm X-Pro1 pushing the envelope when it comes to price and body size. For its part, Sony also attracted plenty of attention with its flagship NEX-7, which appears to have been the inspiration for the company's brand new NEX-F3.

Based on its price tag and release schedule, you might have assumed that the NEX-F3 is here to dethrone Sony's NEX-C3. That may or may not be the case (we're hoping for the latter) -- the F3 is much more a scaled-down version of the NEX-7 than an update to the C3. Sure, designs can change drastically from one year to the next, but we were quite fond of last year's model, and many of you were, too. From a specification perspective, the F3 has a new APS-C sensor (though resolution remains unchanged), with a higher top ISO setting of 16,000, a 3-inch LCD that can flip 180-degrees to face completely forward, a new NEX-7-esque pop-up flash and a bulkier design. But does bigger mean better in this case? Click past the break for our take.

Gallery: Sony NEX-F3 review

Continue reading Sony NEX-F3 review

Sony NEX-F3 review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasDSLRILCinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameramirrorlessmirrorless cameramirrorless camerasMirrorlessCameraMirrorlessCamerasnexnex cameraNEX-F3NexCameraphotographyreviewSLRsonySony F3sony nexSony NEX-F3SonyF3SonyNexSonyNex-f3videoThu, 31 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Padcaster / Lenscaster lets you mount SLR lenses on iPad, we go hands-on at NAB (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/padcaster-lenscaster-ipad-SLR-mount-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/padcaster-lenscaster-ipad-SLR-mount-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/padcaster-lenscaster-ipad-SLR-mount-hands-on/#comments http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/padcaster-lenscaster-ipad-SLR-mount-hands-on/

Think people look ridiculous shooting stills or video with an iPad? Try throwing an SLR lens into the equation as well. Manhattan Edit Workshop founder Josh Apter developed the Padcaster as an inexpensive solution for mounting an Apple iPad on a tripod. And why would you want to do such a thing? With 1080p video capture, built-in LTE and a on-board editing suite, such a device makes for an excellent on-the-go all-in-one, letting you shoot, cut and transmit video with a single package. One major aspect of visual storytelling that the tablet doesn't excel at, however, is emphasizing details with blurred backgrounds, along with magnifying your subject with optical zoom. Enter the Lenscaster. This universal lens mount lets you use a standard 35mm adapter to attach any SLR optic to the iPad camera, enabling a small variety of hardware-driven optical effects, including shallow depth of field, manual focus and a zoom option that doesn't result in detail loss.

Apter took the Padcaster and Lenscaster along on a demo shoot in New York City's Union Square, interviewing passersby with a Cinevate 35mm lens adapter, 85mm f/1.4 Carl Zeiss lens and a Sennheiser MKH-60 shotgun mic, all mounted to a Padcaster-equipped new iPad. The mounting duo may note be visually appealing from a physical perspective, but the resulting footage does look convincing -- you can see it in full after the break. The Padcaster's aluminum frame even doubles as a DSLR cage, letting you assemble a pro rig complete with camera, lens, mic and lights after removing the urethane iPad insert. The designer is also working on an iPad insert, though the tablet-sized contraption may prove to be overkill when paired with a pocketable smartphone. The Padcaster will be available soon for "about $200," while the Lenscaster attachment should ship for an additional 60 bucks. You'll also need to factor in a magnification optic to compensate for the distance between the iPad and the lens, along with a 35mm adapter, both of which are not included. The device is also unable to take full advantage of the iPad's resolution, creating black borders around the image, which you'll notice in the sample video, positioned just below our hands-on video right after the break.

Gallery: Padcaster and Lenscaster for iPad hands-on

Continue reading Padcaster / Lenscaster lets you mount SLR lenses on iPad, we go hands-on at NAB (video)

Padcaster / Lenscaster lets you mount SLR lenses on iPad, we go hands-on at NAB (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple ipadapple ipad 2AppleIpadAppleIpad2cameracamerashands-onipadipad 2Ipad2Josh ApterJoshApterlenslens mountlensesLensMountManhattan Edit WorkshopManhattanEditWorkshopnabnab 2012Nab2012new ipadNewIpadphotographyslrslr mountSlrMountvideovideosWed, 18 Apr 2012 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/panasonic-lumix-gf5-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/panasonic-lumix-gf5-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/panasonic-lumix-gf5-hands-on/#comments Image
It's been a bumpy ride for Panasonic's GF line of Micro Four Thirds cameras. The GF1, an excellent mirrorless camera for its time, was soon replaced with a less-capable entry level model, the GF2. Then another, the GF3. And now, it's time to say hello (again) to the GF5. For better or worse, the GF3 won't be going away -- it'll sit tight at its new $500 price point (with a 14-42mm kit lens), ready to confuse consumers looking to purchase its nearly identical, yet $100 pricier, pseudo-replacement. Both cameras come equipped with 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensors, though the newer model adds a "High Picture Quality" distinction -- it's been dubbed a 12.1-megapixel "High Picture Quality" Live MOS sensor. So, naturally, we're going to expect some pretty incredible images. Panasonic has also added an ISO 12,800 "extended" mode (the GF3 topped out at a native ISO 6400). There has been a jump in the video department, with 1080/30p MP4 recording joining the 720p mix. Burst mode capabilities have seen an increase as well, from 3.8 frames-per-second to... 4. Finally, it's slightly larger, due to a more substantial (and more comfortable) grip, though battery life has dropped from 340 shots to 320, likely due to a new processing technique aimed at further reducing noise in low-light captures.

The GF3 and GF5 look so similar that we mistakenly photographed the former for a minute or two, only realizing the error when we flipped on the LCD. The 5 has a much-improved touchscreen, with a 920k-dot resolution (460k dots on the GF3). It looks gorgeous by comparison, but amateurs making the switch from a point-and-shoot may not take notice. The features they'll appreciate most relate entirely to the GUI, and include a highlight window for selection options, 14 filters with a realtime preview option, a background image that appears on the main menu and a filter recommendation while in Intelligent Auto. This feature works by suggesting that you apply the Expressive or Toy Effect if you're taking a macro shot, for example. Other additions include a stereo microphone for video capture, though the left and right mics are positioned oddly near each other -- on either side of the word "MIC" on the top of the camera, with the right mic angled towards the left -- so we can't image that you'll be getting a true stereo effect. Like its predecessor, the GF5 is clearly designed with beginners in mind -- more advanced photogs should consider the GX1 -- but with a $599 sticker price (with 14-42mm lens), it's sure to be a hit.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 hands-on

Continue reading Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more (hands-on)

Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital slrDigitalSlrDMC-GF5dslrentry levelEntryLevelfour thirdsFourThirdsGF5hands-onilcinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameralumix gf5LumixGf5micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCamerapanasonicPanasonic GF5panasonic lumixpanasonic lumix gf5PanasonicGf5PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGf5slrThu, 05 Apr 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon offers cashback on D3100, D5100 and D7000 in the UK and Ireland]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/nikon-offers-cashback-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/nikon-offers-cashback-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/nikon-offers-cashback-in-the-uk/#comments Nikon offers cashback on D3100, D5100 and D7000 in the UKIf you're still poring over the specs of Nikon's current DSLR consumer models, then you've managed to dally just long enough to snag a tidy cashback offer. At least, that's if you're in the UK or Ireland and can make your purchase before the end of May. Nikon has confirmed to us that this is a local promotion, but we're on the case to see if a similar deal is coming to the States. In the meantime, these discounts range from £30 ($50) on the D3100, £50 ($80) on the flip-screen D5100 (shown above) and £80 ($130) on the D7000 when purchased body-only, or slightly more if you pick up a Nikkor lens at the same time. On the other hand, if you're casting about more generally for a kit upgrade, and if you can bear to stall just a little longer, then this could potentially hint at new models coming soon -- although it's not the first cashback offer to hit this range. You'll find further details after the break.

Continue reading Nikon offers cashback on D3100, D5100 and D7000 in the UK and Ireland

Nikon offers cashback on D3100, D5100 and D7000 in the UK and Ireland originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 03:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerascashbackd3100d5100d7000discountdslrnikonnikon d3100nikon d5100nikon d7000NikonD3100NikonD5100NikonD7000pricespricingslrThu, 29 Mar 2012 03:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon EOS 5D Mark III field review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-review/#comments Image

Shoot in the dark. That's essentially what you can do with the Canon 5D Mark III -- with a top sensitivity of ISO 102,400, what was once unfathomable could soon become an acceptable standard. While point-and-shoot manufacturers are adding WiFi and GPS, and tweaking algorithms in an effort to boost sensitivity beyond the 6400 mark, Canon and Nikon are making clear cases for a DSLR upgrade, by drastically improving image quality. The 5D Mark II had an excellent three-year run, but with its 22.3-megapixel sensor, 1.04M-dot 3.2-inch LCD, improved autofocus and high-performance video capabilities, Canon's latest full-frame DSLR is an entirely different beast, and a very compelling successor.

We spent two glorious weeks with a pre-production 5D Mark III before reluctantly shipping it back to Canon. The biggest benefit (for us, at least) has been high-ISO shooting. While the former 5D could theoretically handle ISO 25,600 captures as well, its native range topped out at 6400 -- venturing beyond that territory meant taking a hit on image quality, making it a seldom-used feature that benefited the camera's spec sheet far more than our low-light snap collection. With this latest iteration, we were able to capture sharp images in environments where there was far too little light to make out details with the naked eye, just as we have with the larger (and pricier) Nikon D3S. Our resulting scenes look like they were lit with sophisticated rigs, or in an environment that allotted far more natural light than was actually available. Low-light shooting is but one benefit of the Mark III, however, so join us past the break for a closer look in our field review.

Gallery: Canon EOS 5D Mark III review

Continue reading Canon EOS 5D Mark III field review

Canon EOS 5D Mark III field review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5d5d mark ii5d mark iii5dMarkIi5dMarkIiicameracamerascanoncanon 5dCanon 5D Mark IIcanon 5d mark iiicanon eosCanon EOS 5DCanon EOS 5D Mark IICanon EOS 5D Mark IIICanon5dCanon5dMarkIiCanon5dMarkIiiCanonEosCanonEos5dCanonEos5dMarkIiCanonEos5dMarkIiid-slrdigital dslrdigital slrDigitalDslrDigitalSlrdslreoshands-onhigh-isoimage sensitivityImageSensitivityisoreviewreviewssensitivityslrvideoThu, 22 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon EOS 5D Mark III high-ISO sample images (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-high-iso-sample-images/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-high-iso-sample-images/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-high-iso-sample-images/#comments Canon unveiled its highly-anticipated EOS 5D Mark III just 10 days ago, but we already have a pre-production sample in-hand, and will be putting it through its paces over the next week. Today's installment focuses on high-sensitivity still image shooting, which we conducted at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea. We chose a dimly lit temple as our test subject, shooting a handful of images at ISO settings ranging from 800 to the camera's top native sensitivity of 25,600, and extended modes of ISO 51,200 and ISO 102,400. All images were captured at f/8 with a 24-105mm L lens.

As expected, the camera offered excellent performance at all of the native settings -- as you can see from the image above, there's some noise noticeable when viewing an image at full size, though considering the camera's top resolution of 22.3 megapixels, we hardly see ISO 25,600 being an issue. Jumping beyond the top native range did yield significant noise, but assuming you're shooting for the web, even these settings are usable. Chances are, you won't often be examining images at a 1:1 pixel view, so jump past the break to see how each of the four frames represented above will look when scaled to a web-friendly 600-pixels-wide resolution, then hit up our source link to grab full-res JPEGs of each image captured during the shoot.

Continue reading Canon EOS 5D Mark III high-ISO sample images (hands-on)

Canon EOS 5D Mark III high-ISO sample images (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5d5d mark ii5d mark iii5dMarkIi5dMarkIiicameracamerascanoncanon eoscanon eos 5d mark iicanon eos 5d mark iiiCanonEosCanonEos5dMarkIiCanonEos5dMarkIiid-slrdigital slrDigitalSlrdslreoshands-onhigh-isoimage sensitivityImageSensitivityisosensitivityslrMon, 12 Mar 2012 11:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Pentax offers 'special edition' K-5 DSLR kit: silver body, 40mm slimline lens, $1,600]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/pentax-offers-special-edition-k-5-dslr-kit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/pentax-offers-special-edition-k-5-dslr-kit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/pentax-offers-special-edition-k-5-dslr-kit/#comments Pentax K-5 special edition kit with 40mm f/2.8 lensIt's good to see a special edition that may actually deserve its name, for once. When the silver version of the popular K-5 came out last year, it was priced at $1,700 body-only. This new kit, which will be limited to 1,500 units worldwide and available from April, will cost just $1,600 including the bundled lens. And it's decent glass: an ultra-thin, Marc Newson designed beauty with a 40mm fixed focal length and f/2.8 aperture -- just like on the mirrorless K-01. The only thing missing? There's no sign of a "Limited Edition" stamp anywhere on it, but luckily we're too modest to notice.

Continue reading Pentax offers 'special edition' K-5 DSLR kit: silver body, 40mm slimline lens, $1,600

Pentax offers 'special edition' K-5 DSLR kit: silver body, 40mm slimline lens, $1,600 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 04:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleDSLRfast lensFastLensk-5k-5 silverK-5Silverlenslimited editionLimitedEditionMarc NewsonMarcNewsonpackagePentaxpentax k-5PentaxK-5prime lensPrimeLensSLRspecial editionSpecialEditionthinthin lensThinLensultra thinUltraThinSun, 04 Mar 2012 04:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D800 short lets you experience miracle of birth, motorcycles]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/nikon-d800-short/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/nikon-d800-short/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/nikon-d800-short/#comments Few experiences in life can match the miracle of birth, but sweet bikes and D-SLRs are probably right up there, right? Now you can experience all three in a six minute film. There are no doubt some good takeaways from "Joy Ride," which was shot using the newly announced Nikon D800, but the most important has to be the fact that some things just shouldn't be captured in HD. Video and an equally lengthy making-of after the break.

Continue reading Nikon D800 short lets you experience miracle of birth, motorcycles

Nikon D800 short lets you experience miracle of birth, motorcycles originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d-slrd800filmjoy rideJoyRideminipostnikonnikon d800NikonD800sandroshort filmShortFilmslrTue, 07 Feb 2012 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon EOS C300 to hit Japanese stores on the 31st, PL version coming in March]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/canon-eos-c300-to-hit-japanese-stores-on-the-31st-pl-version-co/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/canon-eos-c300-to-hit-japanese-stores-on-the-31st-pl-version-co/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/canon-eos-c300-to-hit-japanese-stores-on-the-31st-pl-version-co/#comments Do you have deep pockets? And do those pockets happen to be located in Japan? Well if you're also in the market for Canon's EOS C300 cinema camera, you might be in luck. The company has confirmed that its motion-picture-shooting flagship will be available in Japanese retail stores by January 31st -- exactly one week from today. As the story goes with expensive electronics in Japan, pricing is "open" at this point, meaning you might have to hit up a retailer for an amount before making two dozen trips to the ATM. But if money's no object (just that pesky release date), you should be on your way to making Cinema EOS magic before the month is out. And if your kit is best suited for the PL-mount version, expect that to ship in late March, "open" pricing in tow.

Canon EOS C300 to hit Japanese stores on the 31st, PL version coming in March originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexaarriarri alexaArriAlexac300camcordercameracamerascanoncanon c300canon cameracanon cinemacanon cinema cameracanon eosCanonC300CanonCameraCanonCinemaCanonCinemaCameraCanonEoscinemacinema cameraCinemaCameradigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreosilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensmoviemovie cameraMovieCameraredred camerared cinemared epicred epic-mRedCameraRedCinemaRedEpicRedEpic-mslrTue, 24 Jan 2012 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D4 hands-on and manufacturer sample images (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/06/nikon-d4-hands-on-and-sample-images-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/06/nikon-d4-hands-on-and-sample-images-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/06/nikon-d4-hands-on-and-sample-images-video/#comments With the onslaught of CES launches still several days away, the big news today is the D4, Nikon's brand new full-frame digital SLR camera. The 16.2 megapixel DSLR offers 1080/30p video capture, an extended ISO range of 100 to 204,800, a 91,000-pixel 3D color matrix meter and a top high-speed shooting option of 11 frames-per-second. And with the D3 first hitting stores nearly five years ago, this FX-mount successor was long overdue. Earlier today, Nikon held its D4 launch event in Asia, previewing the camera before a group of journalists in Hong Kong. We were on hand for a first look at the massive $6,000 pro body, and were quite pleased with what we saw. Jump past the break for our impressions.

Gallery: Nikon D4 Hands-on

Continue reading Nikon D4 hands-on and manufacturer sample images (video)

Nikon D4 hands-on and manufacturer sample images (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16.2 megapixel16.2Megapixelcameracamerasd-slrd3d3sd4digital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslrfull framefull-frameFullFramefxfx mountfx-mountFxMounthands-onnikonnikon d3nikon d3snikon d4NikonD3NikonD3sNikonD4proprofessionalslrvideoXQDFri, 06 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon announces D4 DSLR camera: full-frame 16.2 MP sensor, 204,000 extended ISO, $6,000 price tag]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/nikon-d4-dslr-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/nikon-d4-dslr-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/nikon-d4-dslr-camera/#comments More than two years after the D3S began shipping and roughly a half-decade after we first got a peek at the D3, Nikon has finally announced the full-frame DSLR's long-awaited successor. As expected, the Nikon D4 boosts both megapixel rating (to 16.2) and extended ISO (204,800 at Hi-4), and includes a brand new full-frame FX-format sensor. Video capture also jumped from 720/24p to 1080/30p, but so did the camera's somewhat-out-of-reach price tag -- you'll be dropping $5,999.95 when the D4 hits stores in late February. You're clearly not spending all that hard-earned photo dough for nothing, though. There's also a 91k-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Meter III, compared to a 1,005-pixel meter in the D3S, enabling the camera to evaluate the color and brightness of a scene with much greater precision, yielding much more accurate results. And since the D4 reportedly offers phenomenal low-light performance, you'll probably be using it quite often in the dark -- letting you get good use out of the new back-lit controls.

Photographers can preview images using the 921k-dot 3.2-inch LCD, which offers a 170-degree viewing angle and ambient light sensor. HD video can be previewed on the display as well, or directly through the HDMI port, which also supports uncompressed 8-bit preview video output with optional overlay. Naturally, the D4 is fast. It can power on and be ready to shoot in approximately 0.012 seconds, and can capture 10 fps stills at full resolution with full auto focus and exposure. Willing to lock both AF and AE? The D4 goes to 11. A new 51-point AF system offers full cross-type focusing that's compatible with all Nikon lenses, even when paired with a teleconverter. The D4 includes two card slots with support for both UDMA-7 CF and the recently-announced XQD format, which brings write speeds of up to 125 MB/s -- enough to capture 105 consecutive RAW images at 10 fps. You'll find full details and specs on the D4 just past the break, along with an overview of Nikon's new AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G FX-format lens, which is set to ship in March for $499.95.

Gallery: Nikon D4

Continue reading Nikon announces D4 DSLR camera: full-frame 16.2 MP sensor, 204,000 extended ISO, $6,000 price tag

Nikon announces D4 DSLR camera: full-frame 16.2 MP sensor, 204,000 extended ISO, $6,000 price tag originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16.2 megapixel16.2Megapixelcameracamerasd-slrd3d3sd4digital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslrfull framefull-frameFullFramefxfx mountfx-mountFxMountnikonnikon d3nikon d3snikon d4NikonD3NikonD3sNikonD4proprofessionalslrvideoXQDThu, 05 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Timelapse+ is the intervalometer you've been waiting for (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/insert-coin-timelapse-is-the-intervalometer-youve-been-waitin/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/insert-coin-timelapse-is-the-intervalometer-youve-been-waitin/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/insert-coin-timelapse-is-the-intervalometer-youve-been-waitin/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

That timelapse masterpiece you've been planning just got a whole lot less daunting thanks to Elijah Parker over at Kickstarter. Go through a few niceties, like handing over at least $99 and helping him reach his $20,000 funding target, and you'll take proud ownership of a Timelapse+ (previously called the Timelapse Pro) -- a photographer's intervalometer that does a lot to deserve its name. It'll come with a choice of adapters to match the standard cable release on your DSLR (or even SLR, if that's how you roll), and once hooked up it'll let you configure everything from delayed starts to incremental exposures and even multiple exposures per interval for a much-needed dose of HDR. The firmware will be open source to leave scope for user mods, and there'll also be the option of a Bluetooth interface for wireless controls -- although that'll require an extra $40 and a smidgen of FCC approval. The video after the break reveals more, and the source link has more+.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Timelapse+ is the intervalometer you've been waiting for (video)

Insert Coin: Timelapse+ is the intervalometer you've been waiting for (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraDSLRElijah ParkerElijahParkerinsert coinInsertCoinintervalometerkickstarterphotographphotographerphotographySLRtime lapsetimelapseTimelapse PlusTimelapse ProTimelapse+TimelapsePlusTimelapseProvideoTue, 03 Jan 2012 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung NX200 interchangeable lens camera review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/samsung-nx200-interchangeable-lens-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/samsung-nx200-interchangeable-lens-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/samsung-nx200-interchangeable-lens-camera-review/#comments There are some cameras that we absolutely love, some we find downright disappointing and others that get the job done, albeit with mediocre results. Samsung's digital imaging devices typically fall within that last category -- they're moderately innovative, generally affordable and often well-designed, but when it comes to image quality and performance, we're left... underwhelmed. So, when we first had a chance to try out the CE giant's new NX200 at IFA in Berlin, we weren't expecting a mind-blowing imaging device.

The NX200 is Samsung's latest entrant into the interchangeable lens (ILC) category -- it's a mirrorless model, to be more precise, and a fairly impressive one at that -- at least when you glance at the spec sheet. It's the company's latest ILC to use an APS-C size sensor, which is the largest we've seen in a mirrorless cam. This sensor type implies that the NX200 may have a chance at competing with Sony's NEX-C3, which has been our top pick in the category, and its 20.3 megapixel rating suggests that Samsung wants to be taken seriously here, with a true contender on its hands. But has Samsung delivered a winner? Jump past the break for our take.

Gallery: Samsung NX200 interchangeable lens camera review

Continue reading Samsung NX200 interchangeable lens camera review

Samsung NX200 interchangeable lens camera review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrdigital slrsDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrDigitalSlrsdslrdslrsilcinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensCameramirrorlessmirrorless cameramirrorless camerasMirrorlessCameraMirrorlessCamerasnx100nx200photographyreviewreviewssamsungsamsung camerasamsung nxsamsung nx100samsung nx200SamsungCameraSamsungNxSamsungNx100SamsungNx200slrvideoTue, 13 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic launches Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera, we go hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/panasonic-launches-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-we-go-han/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/panasonic-launches-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-we-go-han/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/panasonic-launches-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-we-go-han/#comments Remember the Lumix GF1? It was one of Panasonic's first Micro Four Thirds cameras, setting the bar quite high for models to come. But the GF1's successors -- the GF2 and GF3 -- did not live up to expectations, with the company gradually shifting the series towards transitioning point-and-shoot users, and away from early adopters who grew accustomed to the performance and build quality offered by that beloved early mirrorless cam. Now that familiar look and feel is back, in the form of the Lumix DMC-GX1. The 16 megapixel ILC includes a Live MOS sensor and Venus engine, with a maximum ISO of 12,800. Like other Panasonic G-series cameras, the GX1 uses a Micro Four Thirds mount, and is compatible with both Panasonic and Olympus lenses, including the standard 14-42mm zoom that ships with the $800 kit, or the Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm retractable lens that comes packaged for $950. Existing lens owners can pick up just the body for $700.

What we really missed was the solid feel of the GF1 -- everything from the housing to the controls felt well-made, while the design of later GF models, was... underwhelming. Picking up the GX1 helped to restore our confidence in the series -- it was a pleasure to hold. There's quite a bit of power under the hood, too. We weren't able to test the GX1, which is expected to hit stores in mid-December, but Panasonic promises autofocus speeds of 0.09 second -- you can focus simply by touching your subject on the 3-inch, 460,000-dot touchscreen. There's also an external EVF option, which attaches to the camera's hot shoe and offers a 1.44 million-dot display with 100-percent field of view. Movie buffs can capture 1080/60i HD video, with either MP4 or AVCHD compression. It goes without saying that the GX1 can shoot in RAW, and offers the complete gamut of advanced shooting modes. Of course the features don't stop there, so jump past the break for the full PR from Panasonic.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix GX1 hands-on

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix GX1 press shots

Continue reading Panasonic launches Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera, we go hands-on

Panasonic launches Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslrgf1gf2gf3gx1hands-onilcinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameralumixlumix gf3lumix gx1LumixGf3LumixGx1micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdspanasonicpanasonic gf1panasonic gf2panasonic gf3panasonic lumixpanasonic lumix gx1PanasonicGf1PanasonicGf2PanasonicGf3PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGx1photographyslrMon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon C300 cinema camera hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-c300-cinema-camera-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-c300-cinema-camera-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-c300-cinema-camera-hands-on-video/#comments Man, is this thing ugly. But when it comes to cinema cameras, looks are the last thing on a cinematographer's mind -- performance is where it counts, and with the Canon C300, its compact size is an asset as well. We haven't had a chance to shoot with Canon's new flagship cinema cam, but we've heard from plenty of folks who have, including director Vincent Laforet. The C300's incredibly compact size allows cinematographers to work in environments that aren't typically accessible to big rigs -- you can shoot with this camera just as easily as you can with a DSLR, hand-holding it for quick shots, with a waist-mounted Steadicam system for walk-around shoots or even mounting it on a small remote-controlled helicopter, as Laforet did during his three-day Mobius shoot.

The C300 will be more familiar to cinematographers -- photojournalists may have access to the cam, thanks to its $20,000 price tag (that's a relative bargain, believe it or not), but you can't pick this up and fire away without taking some time to learn the interface. It has quite the solid feel, as you'd expect from a camera in this price range, though it's not as heavy as it looks -- you won't want to hold it in your hand for a full day of filming, but quick shots probably won't be an issue. The system is modular, so you can add and remove components as you wish -- industry standard connectors let you hook up cinema gear, which is something you could never do with the 5D Mark II. The small form factor and price tag to match should help Canon gain some ground in Hollywood, but we'll wait for a chance to shoot some footage before drawing any firm conclusions. In the meantime, we'll have to take Laforet at his word -- which you'll find just past the break.

Gallery: Canon C300 hands-on

Continue reading Canon C300 cinema camera hands-on (video)

Canon C300 cinema camera hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexaarriarri alexaArriAlexabreaking newsBreakingNewscamcordercameracamerascanoncanon cameracanon cinemacanon cinema cameracanon eosCanonCameraCanonCinemaCanonCinemaCameraCanonEoscinemacinema cameraCinemaCameradigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreoshands-onilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensmoviemovie cameraMovieCameraredred camerared cinemared epicred epic-mRedCameraRedCinemaRedEpicRedEpic-mslruglyvideoThu, 03 Nov 2011 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon C300 makes an appearance in Vincent Laforet's Mobius, find the short and behind the scenes right here (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-c300-makes-an-appearance-in-vincent-laforets-mobius-find/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-c300-makes-an-appearance-in-vincent-laforets-mobius-find/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-c300-makes-an-appearance-in-vincent-laforets-mobius-find/#comments A New York Times photojournalist turned Hollywood director, Vincent Laforet has become synonymous with DSLR video, after his short film Reverie helped catapult Canon's 5D Mark II into the world of digital filmmaking. And after playing such a significant role in launching that camera, we certainly weren't surprised to see Laforet make an appearance at today's Canon Cinema event, with his short film Mobius getting some time on the big screen. The film follows a photojournalist who stumbles upon a Cartel execution, but it also tells the story of Canon's tightly-veiled C300 cinema camera, which the company launched just moments ago. Laforet used a pre-production C300 (note the green tape button labels) to shoot Mobius in the Mojave Desert under a variety of harsh conditions, including powerful sunlight and near-darkness, in both extremely hot and chilly temperatures -- the camera appears to have performed extremely well, given both the remote shooting environment and tight production schedule.

Canon has yet to reveal the C300's price tag, which we expect to far undercut the $120,000 Arri Alexa kit, but its sheer portability makes it a more appealing option for filmmakers -- especially those with limited time and other resources. Laforet was able to shoot his film with a very small crew, since the C300 can be operated by just one photographer. The director used the camera mounted on a tripod, tethered to a variety of helicopters, sitting on the road and even hand-held, like a camcorder or DSLR. Laforet shot with Canon's new FK30-300 telephoto cine zoom PL-mount lens, along with a variety of EOS mount lenses, and notes that the camera's form factor makes it even easier to shoot with than a DSLR like the 5D Mark II. Its cost -- somewhere in the range of $20,000 -- should also put it within reach of not only Hollywood cinematographers, but also television directors and even documentary filmmakers and news photojournalists. We won't see the C300 hit the market until late January 2012, so jump past the break for a sneak peak at Mobius to see Canon's new cinema flagship, along with a rather comprehensive behind-the-scenes video.

Gallery: Canon C300 shoot with Vincent Laforet

Continue reading Canon C300 makes an appearance in Vincent Laforet's Mobius, find the short and behind the scenes right here (video)

Canon C300 makes an appearance in Vincent Laforet's Mobius, find the short and behind the scenes right here (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexaarriarri alexaArriAlexacamcordercameracamerascanoncanon c300canon cameracanon cinemacanon cinema cameracanon eosCanonC300CanonCameraCanonCinemaCanonCinemaCameraCanonEoscinemacinema cameracinema camerasCinemaCameraCinemaCamerasdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreosepicexclusiveilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLenslaforetmobiusmoviemovie cameraMovieCameraredred camerared cinemared epicred scarletRedCameraRedCinemaRedEpicRedScarletscarletslrvideovincent laforetVincentLaforetThu, 03 Nov 2011 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon launches C300 cinema camera, prepares to take on Red Scarlet and Arri Alexa]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-launches-c300-cinema-camera-prepares-to-take-on-red-scarl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-launches-c300-cinema-camera-prepares-to-take-on-red-scarl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/canon-launches-c300-cinema-camera-prepares-to-take-on-red-scarl/#comments Well, we have to hand it to Canon -- this was one tight-lipped product launch. The imaging company just unveiled its C300 cinema camera at Hollywood's Paramount Studios, in front of a crowd of hundreds of journalists and film industry elite, including Martin Scorsese. Canon is no stranger to the professional photography community, but it has yet to make a name for itself in Hollywood, where cameras such as the Arri Alexa and RED EPIC dominate the digital filmmaking world. The C300 may not appear to be overwhelmingly powerful on paper -- stock features include an EF or PL mount (not both), 1080p capture, a pair of CF card slots, timecode and HD-SDI output -- but judging by the sample films we saw today, its incredibly powerful sensor and versatile form factor are likely to play a more significant role in making this camera a success.

Fujio Mitarai is saying that the camera is especially well-suited to accurate color reproduction, particularly skin tones. We're also receiving word that the C300 will cost somewhere in the range of $20,000 -- how's that for affordable? It contains a Super 35mm CMOS sensor and delivers up to 4K resolution with the outfit's new "top-end" EF zoom lenses, which come in four flavors: two 14.5-60mm lenses and two 30-300mm. And the lenses keep on coming, with three EF prime lenses in 24mm, 50mm, and 85mm variations. That CMOS sensor offers 1920 x 1080 pixels for the reds and blues and 1920 x 2160 for greens. Like we said before, list price for the C300 will be $20,000 when it hits stores in late January 2012. And that appears to be it for this very long announcement, but we'll have our first impressions soon. Full PR awaits you after the break.

Gallery: Canon C300 keynote

Gallery: Canon C300


Christopher Trout contributed to this post

Continue reading Canon launches C300 cinema camera, prepares to take on Red Scarlet and Arri Alexa

Canon launches C300 cinema camera, prepares to take on Red Scarlet and Arri Alexa originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexaarriarri alexaArriAlexabreaking newsc300camcordercameracamerascanoncanon c300canon cameracanon cinemacanon cinema cameracanon eosCanonC300CanonCameraCanonCinemaCanonCinemaCameraCanonEoscinemacinema cameraCinemaCameradigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreosilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensmoviemovie cameraMovieCameraredred camerared cinemared epicred epic-mRedCameraRedCinemaRedEpicRedEpic-mslrThu, 03 Nov 2011 18:13:00 EST<![CDATA[The Canon Hollywood event liveblog!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/the-canon-hollywood-event-liveblog/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/the-canon-hollywood-event-liveblog/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/the-canon-hollywood-event-liveblog/#comments Lights, check! Camera? Well, it soon might be a Canon. We're live from the red carpet at Canon's Hollywood launch event, where we're expecting the company to reveal its first cinema camera. We'll be watching the action live as it hits the silver screen in SoCal, but you can catch it all from home right here! Things get started at 3PM local time, translated into times for your locales below.

Psst... and toss your own time zone / day in comments below!

12:00PM - Hawaii (November 3rd)
03:00PM - Pacific (November 3rd)
04:00PM - Mountain (November 3rd)
05:00PM - Central (November 3rd)
06:00PM - Eastern (November 3rd)
10:00PM - London (November 3rd)
11:00PM - Paris (November 3rd)
02:00AM - Moscow (November 4th)
07:00AM - Tokyo (November 4th)

Photos by Zach Honig.

Continue reading The Canon Hollywood event liveblog!

The Canon Hollywood event liveblog! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camcordercameracamerascanoncanon cameracanon cinemacanon cinema cameracanon eosCanonCameraCanonCinemaCanonCinemaCameraCanonEoscinemacinema cameraCinemaCameradigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreosilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensliveblogMartin ScorseseMartinScorsesemirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameramoviemovie cameraMovieCameraredred camerared cinemaRedCameraRedCinemaslrThu, 03 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Canon Hollywood event is tomorrow -- get your liveblog here at 6PM ET!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/02/the-canon-hollywood-event-is-tomorrow-get-your-liveblog-here/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/02/the-canon-hollywood-event-is-tomorrow-get-your-liveblog-here/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/02/the-canon-hollywood-event-is-tomorrow-get-your-liveblog-here/#comments Canon has been incredibly tight-lipped about its upcoming announcement, with only a few vague details leaking out since the event was announced in September. What we do know is that the imaging company plans to unveil a product that represents a "commitment to play a larger role in the film and television community," and that Martin Scorsese will be on hand -- and we assume he's not there to announce that Sinatra will be shot exclusively with the 5D Mark II. Curiously, Red has scheduled an event for tomorrow evening as well, just a few blocks away from the Canon venue. We'll be coming to you live from Hollywood tomorrow evening, and if the hype is any indication, legacy cinema camera manufacturers have but a few hours left of industry domination. The curtain comes up at 3PM local time, and we've included a handy list of round-the-world start times below. Bookmark this page right here and find out as it happens.

Psst... and toss your own time zone / day in comments below!

12:00PM - Hawaii (November 3rd)
03:00PM - Pacific (November 3rd)
04:00PM - Mountain (November 3rd)
05:00PM - Central (November 3rd)
06:00PM - Eastern (November 3rd)
10:00PM - London (November 3rd)
11:00PM - Paris (November 3rd)
02:00AM - Moscow (November 4th)
07:00AM - Tokyo (November 4th)

The Canon Hollywood event is tomorrow -- get your liveblog here at 6PM ET! originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camcordercameracamerascanoncanon cameracanon cinemacanon cinema cameracanon eosCanonCameraCanonCinemaCanonCinemaCameraCanonEoscinemacinema cameraCinemaCameradigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreosilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensMartin ScorseseMartinScorsesemirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameramoviemovie cameraMovieCameraredred camerared cinemaRedCameraRedCinemaslrWed, 02 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Thailand flooding forces Sony to postpone Alpha NEX-7 release, curb A65 production]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/thailand-flooding-forces-sony-to-postpone-alpha-nex-7-release-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/thailand-flooding-forces-sony-to-postpone-alpha-nex-7-release-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/thailand-flooding-forces-sony-to-postpone-alpha-nex-7-release-c/#comments Sony has just postponed the launch of its new NEX-7 mirrorless camera, due to widespread flooding in Thailand. According to the manufacturer, the flooding has impacted operations at two of its three factories within the country, thereby delaying production of both the NEX-7 and Alpha A65. Reuters is reporting that one camera plant has been completely flooded, while operations at a semiconductor factory have been suspended due to supply shortages. The NEX-7 was originally scheduled to hit the market next month, though Sony now says it has been delayed indefinitely. "It is difficult for us to say at this time when production will re-start in Thailand," spokesman George Boyd told the BBC. "However, we are taking measures to move production to our third factory in Thailand which is operational and also to other sites."

Thailand flooding forces Sony to postpone Alpha NEX-7 release, curb A65 production originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha a65AlphaA65cameradelayfloodingfloodsmanufacturingmirrorlessnex-7releaseSLRSonysony alpha a65sony alpha nex-7Sony nexsony nex-7SonyAlphaA65SonyAlphaNex-7SonyNexSonyNex-7thailandThu, 20 Oct 2011 04:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony A77 reviewed: A 24.3 megapixel game-changer?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/sony-a77-reviewed-a-24-3-megapixel-game-changer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/sony-a77-reviewed-a-24-3-megapixel-game-changer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/sony-a77-reviewed-a-24-3-megapixel-game-changer/#comments It's been a long time coming, but the patience has paid off with Sony's A77 finally getting its first pro review. Sure, the $1,400 cost of entry (body only) will weigh heavily on even the most enthusiastic cameraman conscious. But, what's a few hundred dollars when it comes to a camera that Popular Photography says has "radically changed the world of DSLRs"? It seems only the rival Canon 7D holds a candle to this would-be king, besting Sony's latest when it comes to noise and performance at higher ISOs. However, the A77 wins on its all-around charm, with a 24.3 megapixel Exmor APS-C sensor, articulated LCD screen, world-first OLED EVF and impressive video-shooting chops. Video-wise, that top dollar gets you a high-end performance of 60fps at 1920 x 1080 with the fast phase-detection auto-focus we've also seen on its predecessors, the Sony A55 and A33.

Popular Photography does add a single caveat to the largely very positive conclusion: video enthusiasts should probably hold tight to see what Canon and Nikon counter with. Especially if you're in possession of multiple lenses. Aside from that, what's stopping you? Dig in to all the nitty-gritty details below, and we'd advise cutting down on those impulse eBay purchases -- this magnesium-alloyed beauty will certainly make a financial dent when it lands, if not a physical one.

Sony A77 reviewed: A 24.3 megapixel game-changer? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a77alphacameracamerasdigital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslrevfimpressionsoledreview roundupreviewedReviewRoundupslrsonysony alphasony alpha a77sony camerasony camerasSonyAlphaSonyAlphaA77SonyCameraSonyCamerasvideoMon, 03 Oct 2011 13:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon 1 J1 review (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/nikon-1-j1-review-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/nikon-1-j1-review-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/nikon-1-j1-review-video/#comments
So, Nikon finally has a mirrorless camera, after what was quite possibly the most dramatic launch event the company has ever conducted. Sure, competing models from Panasonic, Olympus and Sony have already reached the second, or even third generation before Nikon lifted the veil on its J1, but did last month's long-awaited announcement bring us the ILC to rule all ILCs? Well, no, not at all. Nikon isn't targeting pros or even advanced amateur shooters with its latest addition to the interchangeable lens camera family. Instead, the company is marketing its J1 to soccer moms (and dads), fashion-conscious young folk, and casual shooters who want some of the versatility of a DSLR, but are willing to sacrifice excellent image quality for a more compact design. But what about the rest of us? Will Nikon one day reward our patience with a true class competitor? Perhaps, but that's definitely not what we have here.

Nikon built the $650 J1 "from the ground up" -- a reference to its 10.1 megapixel, CX-size sensor with a 2.7x crop factor, along with a handful of quirky features that we probably won't use, but that some of you (or perhaps your family members) may love. Jump past the break to see what we really liked about the camera, and what left us rather unimpressed. And it you're dying to judge its performance for yourself, you can check out a handful of untouched images at the coverage link below the conclusion, along with a variety of sample videos spattered throughout.

Gallery: Nikon 1 J1 review

Continue reading Nikon 1 J1 review (video)

Nikon 1 J1 review (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 system1Systemcameracxcx formatCxFormatdigicamdigital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslrfeaturedfeaturesgeotagginggp-n100hands-onilcinterchangeableinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameraj1mirrorlessnikonnikon cxnikon j1nikon v1NikonCxNikonJ1NikonV1reviewreviewssb-5nslrv1videoMon, 03 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon plans Hollywood event, ready to roll out the red carpet on November 3rd]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/canon-plans-hollywood-event-ready-to-roll-out-the-red-carpet-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/canon-plans-hollywood-event-ready-to-roll-out-the-red-carpet-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/15/canon-plans-hollywood-event-ready-to-roll-out-the-red-carpet-on/#comments Oh, what's this, Canon? You want your turn in the spotlight as well? Well, we suppose a hint of an announcement is better than a non-announcement, so bring it on! The imaging company just sent us word of a presumably star-studded SoCal event on November 3rd, giving its cameras a chance to walk the red carpet in a rather surprising Hollywood role reversal. We're not sure exactly what Canon plans to unveil that night -- a new mirrorless camera, or perhaps some fancy pants camcorder, destined for Hollywood's elite? But assuming the company isn't crying wolf, we'll be there with a live report from the red carpet.

Canon plans Hollywood event, ready to roll out the red carpet on November 3rd originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camcordercameracamerascanoncanon cameracanon eosCanonCameraCanonEosdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslreosilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraslrThu, 15 Sep 2011 18:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Alpha A77 hands-on preview (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/sony-alpha-a77-hands-on-preview-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/sony-alpha-a77-hands-on-preview-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/sony-alpha-a77-hands-on-preview-video/#comments
When it comes to cameras, digital SLRs are a breed all their own. Many DSLR owners don't upgrade their bodies often -- if at all -- and even fewer would consider a switch to a competing camera system, especially after investing in a handful of high-end lenses. Manufacturers need to push innovation even further to target this segment of the market -- when some cameras cost thousands of dollars and already offer excellent performance, simply releasing a body with more megapixels and HD shooting options won't prompt photographers to pull out their credit cards. With its massive 24.3 megapixel sensor and high-res OLED electronic viewfinder, however, Sony's $1,399 Alpha A77 may just be the DSLR upgrade you've been waiting for. We spent a few days with a pre-production A77 paired with Sony's brand new 16-50mm f/2.8 lens ($1,999 in an A77 kit), and were very impressed with what will undoubtedly be a worthy successor to the well-received A700. Jump past the break for our initial impressions, along with plenty of still photo and HD video samples.

Gallery: Sony Alpha A77 (hands-on)

Continue reading Sony Alpha A77 hands-on preview (video)

Sony Alpha A77 hands-on preview (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a65a77alphacameracamerasdigital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslrevfimpressionsoledpreviewslrsonysony alphasony alpha a77sony camerasony camerasSonyAlphaSonyAlphaA77SonyCameraSonyCamerasvideoWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony reveals three new NEX E-mount lenses, LA-EA2 A-mount adaptor with translucent mirror]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/sony-announces-three-new-nex-e-mount-lenses-la-ea2-a-mount-adap/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/sony-announces-three-new-nex-e-mount-lenses-la-ea2-a-mount-adap/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/24/sony-announces-three-new-nex-e-mount-lenses-la-ea2-a-mount-adap/#comments
Sony's NEX line of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras (ILC) deliver quite a lot of bang for your buck, but a diminutive lens selection reduced appeal for advanced shooters. Today, the company is growing its E-mount family of lenses by three, now offering a total of seven compatible lenses. Shipping in October, the Carl Zeiss SonnarT E will take the helm as Sony's flagship optic, delivering a 24mm fixed focal length and f/1.8 aperture, with a minimum focus distance of 16 cm and a sky-high $999 price tag. Also packing a speedy f/1.8 aperture, the $300 E 50mm OSS doesn't sport Carl Zeiss branding, but it does include built-in image stabilization and a circular aperture, promising smooth defocus. Both lenses will ship in December. Hitting stores in October, a new telephoto lens, the $350 E 55-210mm compensates for its sluggish f/4.5-6.3 maximum aperture with optical image stabilization while offering 3.8x magnification. And finally, Sony's LA-EA2 A-mount adapter lets you use your full-size Alpha lenses with the NEX cameras without losing functionality, thanks to built-in Translucent Mirror Technology and a dedicated AF motor. NEX-3, NEX-5, and NEX-C3 owners will need a firmware update to take advantage of the adaptor, but if you already have a collection of A-mount lenses, $400 may be a reasonable price to pay for full compatibility when it ships in November.

Gallery: Sony NEX E-mount lenses

Sony reveals three new NEX E-mount lenses, LA-EA2 A-mount adaptor with translucent mirror originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha nexAlphaNexcameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslrilcinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLenslenslensesnexnex lensnex lensesNexLensNexLensesslrsonysony alphasony alpha nexsony nexSonyAlphaSonyAlphaNexSonyNexWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony A77 24 megapixel camera teases with more specs and photos]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/sony-a77-24-megapixel-camera-teases-with-more-specs-and-photos/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/sony-a77-24-megapixel-camera-teases-with-more-specs-and-photos/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/sony-a77-24-megapixel-camera-teases-with-more-specs-and-photos/#comments After multiple spec and picture leaks, we seem to have finally hit the mother-lode with even more details of Sony's soon-to-be-released A77 DSLR. With a reported Exmor HD CMOS sensor, the camera is said to work at ISO 100-16000 with an expandable ISO 50 option and 1/8000 shutter speed. Rumors are swirling that the camera has a 19 point AF sensor and 12fps burst, rather than the previously leaked specs citing an 11 point AF and 10fps burst. It reportedly runs on a Bionz processor and has built-in flash and GPS as well, and has enough juice to capture 500 shots on a single charge. Word on the street is that there's a TrueBlack 921k swiveling display round back and a three million dot OLED viewfinder. Of course, we won't be able to separate fact from fiction until the camera launches later this week. If you can't hold your breath that long, check the source for more leaked pics of Sony's slick new shooter.

Sony A77 24 megapixel camera teases with more specs and photos originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 22:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-way tilt LCD3-wayTiltLcda77AF sensorAfSensorcameradslrexmorExmor HD CMOS sensorExmorHdCmosSensorleakleaksoledrumorsslrsonytrueblackTrueBlack 921kTrueblack921kMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:06:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone 4 SLR Mount lets you shoot 5-megapixel photos with your $3,000 lens]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/iphone-4-slr-mount-lets-you-shoot-5-megapixel-photos-with-your/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/iphone-4-slr-mount-lets-you-shoot-5-megapixel-photos-with-your/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/iphone-4-slr-mount-lets-you-shoot-5-megapixel-photos-with-your/#comments
So you flew around the world for a photo assignment, camera bag packed full of high-end lenses, but forgot the DSLR on the kitchen counter. Not to worry! You never leave home without your iPhone 4 and its new must-have accessory: the iPhone SLR Mount. $190 $249 scores you one of these aluminum bad boys, eager to pair with your multi-thousand dollar Canon or Nikon optics, bringing "powerful depth of field" and manual focus to your smartphone's itsy bitsy image sensor. You can reportedly use the new pricey mobile rig to capture photos with shallow depth of field, without the need to add one of those "unethical" $5 digital filter apps. The accessory is ready to ship, so you're just 24 hours (and a couple hundred dollars) away from having this life-changing masterpiece sent straight to your door. As for us? We're holding out a bit longer for the iPad version.

Update: The folks at Photojojo wrote in to let us know that the $190 price provided earlier today was incorrect -- the iPhone 4 mount will actually set you back a cool $249.

iPhone 4 SLR Mount lets you shoot 5-megapixel photos with your $3,000 lens originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applecameracasedigital cameraDigitalCameradslriphoneiphone 4iphone caseIphone4IphoneCaselenslensesphotographyslrThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon restores camera production in Japan, hints at mirrorless model in 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/05/canon-restores-camera-production-in-japan-hints-at-mirrorless-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/05/canon-restores-camera-production-in-japan-hints-at-mirrorless-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/05/canon-restores-camera-production-in-japan-hints-at-mirrorless-m/#comments
There's no question that Canon and Nikon still dominate the interchangeable lens camera (ILC) market, but with Olympus, Panasonic, Sony, and now Pentax all launching compact, inexpensive, mirrorless models in recent years, the legacy manufacturers have some catching up to do. In an interview confirming the restoration of pre-quake production levels in Japan, Canon camera division head Masaya Maeda told Reuters that the company is "considering the technical aspects" of creating a mirrorless camera, following up by saying "we will launch an interesting product next year." The comment doesn't exactly make a mirrorless Canon a sure thing, but it's as solid a commitment as we can expect for now.

One possible concern for Canon is that entry into the new ILC category would cannibalize the company's higher-end point-and-shoot offerings, which likely offer higher margins. But if mirrorless models gain market share over traditional DSLRs and Canon doesn't have its own cam to match, the company could find itself racing to catch up, rather than dominating the ILC category as it has done in the past. Competition from Canon isn't likely to start a price war, since there isn't much elasticity at this point, but it could put pressure on other manufacturers to push the limits with image quality, accessory selection, and perhaps even lead to a future lens standard -- though we're probably more likely to see a Pentax Q that can actually capture DSLR-quality images far before manufacturers decide to adopt a universal lens mount.

Canon restores camera production in Japan, hints at mirrorless model in 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracanoncanon slrCanonSlrdigital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslrgf3hands-onILCinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensjapanMirrorLessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameranexnikonolympusolympus penOlympusPenpanasonicpanasonic gf3PanasonicGf3penpentaxPentax QPentaxQrumorrumorsslrsonysony nexsony nex-c3SonyNexSonyNex-c3Tue, 05 Jul 2011 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon shows off concept cameras in France, says hello to tomorrow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/nikon-shows-off-concept-cameras-in-france-says-hello-to-tomorro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/nikon-shows-off-concept-cameras-in-france-says-hello-to-tomorro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/nikon-shows-off-concept-cameras-in-france-says-hello-to-tomorro/#comments Nikon engaged in a bit of conceptual product show-and-not-as-much-tell at the French Cité des sciences et de l'industrie exhibit, Hello Demain (Hello Tomorrow). The four prototype cameras on display ranged from the clearly defined -- a fully customizable SLR that swaps the lens, grip and LCD screen at your whimsy -- to the mysterious webcam dongle-ish i-Ball of unknown purpose, to a mundane six-inch screener. But the real étoile of this forward-facing soirée is that Multi-Ball cam -- guaranteed to be a panoramic morning-after hit (or cause for much hungover consternation). While these concepts reside proudly in the province of tomorrowland, it's only a matter of time before they digitally immortalize your precious visage. Check the source for additional protoplastic photographic proof.

Nikon shows off concept cameras in France, says hello to tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cite des sciences et de lindustrieCiteDesSciencesEtDeLindustrieconceptconceptscustomizable SLRCustomizableSlrHello DemainHello TomorrowHelloDemainHelloTomorrowi-BallMulti-BallNikonNikon conceptsNikon prototypesNikonConceptsNikonPrototypesprototypeprototypesSLRTue, 28 Jun 2011 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Camera-equipped hexacopter turns summer vacation videos into aerial masterworks (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/camera-equipped-hexacopter-turns-summer-vacation-videos-into-aer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/camera-equipped-hexacopter-turns-summer-vacation-videos-into-aer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/camera-equipped-hexacopter-turns-summer-vacation-videos-into-aer/#comments Camera-equipped hexacopter turns summer vacation videos into aerial masterworks (video) Wakeboarding is so 2005. Wakeboarding with a camera-packing six-rotor MikroKopter tracking your every jump and belly flop? Now that sounds like something we can get behind. The folks over at MikroKopter have renewed our interest in the sport by mounting a FollowMe transmitter (which lets the drone track your every move), along with a GoPro camera to one watersportsman's helmet. They then sent a hexacopter drone, equipped with a Canon T2i, into the air to follow the boarder as he rode across the water. The resulting video definitely puts any and all of our family vacation videos to shame. High-flying video evidence awaits you after the break.

Continue reading Camera-equipped hexacopter turns summer vacation videos into aerial masterworks (video)

Camera-equipped hexacopter turns summer vacation videos into aerial masterworks (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerialaerial photoographyAerialPhotoographycanoncanon t2iCanonT2idronedslrgps trackergps trackingGpsTrackerGpsTrackinghexacoptermicrocopterMikrokopterslrsportsportst2ivideowakeboardwakeboardingwater sportsWaterSportsFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D5100 kit hits Best Buy shelves early, still costs $900]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/17/nikon-d5100-kit-hits-shelves-early-at-best-buy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/17/nikon-d5100-kit-hits-shelves-early-at-best-buy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/17/nikon-d5100-kit-hits-shelves-early-at-best-buy/#commentsNikon D5100 kit available at bestbuy
Eagerly waiting for some swivel screen action on the upcoming Nikon D5100? Well friend, you just got lucky, as said camera has just hit the shelves of Best Buy a few days early. The mid-range DSLR kit is now up for grabs either online or in stores for $900, but we expect Nikon to start shipping body-only options soon after -- Amazon and Adorama are already taking pre-orders for $800. Unfortunately, it looks like the accompanying ME-1 external mic won't be here until the original April 21st launch (or so we hope), but we're sure all Nikonians will be just fine without it over the next four days. Now go check out your local Best Buy to nab one of these swivelicious cameras.

Nikon D5100 kit hits Best Buy shelves early, still costs $900 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Apr 2011 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5100availableBest buyBestBuycameracamera kitCameraKitD5100DigitalDigital cameraDigital CamerasDigital SLRDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrDSLRkitME-1me-1 micMe-1Micmicnikonnikon accessoryNikon d5100NikonAccessoryNikonD5100releaseshipshippingshipsSLRswivelswivel screenSwivelScreenSun, 17 Apr 2011 11:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D7000 firmware update released, cools down 'hot pixels']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/22/nikon-d7000-firmware-update-released-cools-down-hot-pixels/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/22/nikon-d7000-firmware-update-released-cools-down-hot-pixels/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/22/nikon-d7000-firmware-update-released-cools-down-hot-pixels/#comments Hot on the heels of its P7000 firmware update, Nikon has just released one for its D7000 DSLR as well. The update was created for the sole purpose of fixing the hot pixel issue that pops up when taking videos in low light. While this doesn't completely eliminate the problem, the "bright spots" effect has been "reduced" according to Nikon USA. Unfortunately, this means you no longer have an excuse to not record your child's rendition of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Hit up the source link for the download.

Nikon D7000 firmware update released, cools down 'hot pixels' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 21:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsd7000digicamdigital cameraDigitalCameradslrdslr videoDslrVideofirmwarefirmware updatefirmware-updateFirmwareUpdatehot-pixelHotPixellow lightLow light shotslow-lightLowLightLowLightShotsNikonnikon d7000nikon-d7000NikonD7000slrupdateWed, 22 Dec 2010 21:33:00 EST<![CDATA[BlueSLR dongle and app turn your iPhone into a DSLR remote shutter release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/blueslr-dongle-and-app-turn-your-iphone-into-a-dslr-remote-shutt/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/blueslr-dongle-and-app-turn-your-iphone-into-a-dslr-remote-shutt/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/blueslr-dongle-and-app-turn-your-iphone-into-a-dslr-remote-shutt/#comments You have a phone, you have a DSLR, yet although you love them both equally, the two pretty much never speak. This failure in capturing synergistic value is now at an end, however, thanks to the BlueSLR Bluetooth dongle and its accompanying iOS app. Compatible with iPhones (down to the 3G model), iPod touches (second generation and above), and iPads, this remote control system will let you manually trigger your Nikon's shutter release from a distance of up to 300 feet. There's also GPS tagging, if you're into that sort of thing, and a toggle in the app for adjusting exposure length. The app itself's free, though the dongle will set you back a mighty $149. At least it communicates via Bluetooth, which won't require line of sight like Nikon's own IR remotes. Compatibility is set to expand to include Canon DSLRs and Android and BlackBerry smartphones in the future, but if you've already got a D5000 and an iPhone 4 lying around looking wistfully at one another, you can pre-order your BlueSLR at the source link below.

BlueSLR dongle and app turn your iPhone into a DSLR remote shutter release originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 06:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleblueslrbluetoothcameracamera remoteCameraRemotedigital cameraDigitalCameradongledslrgpsiosipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmanualnikonremoteremote controlremote shutterremote shutter releaseRemoteControlRemoteShutterRemoteShutterReleaseslrxequalsThu, 09 Dec 2010 06:44:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone 4 gets stuffed inside Canon SLR body]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/04/iphone-4-gets-stuffed-inside-canon-slr-body/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/04/iphone-4-gets-stuffed-inside-canon-slr-body/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/04/iphone-4-gets-stuffed-inside-canon-slr-body/#comments While it's far from the most practical of ideas, people just can't seem to stop trying to make their iPhones more SLR-like. Joining that illustrious group is one Aniebres who, typos aside, has built one of the most impressive contraptions to date. We're still waiting to see what the end results look like, but the hardware side of things looks to be surprisingly solid, with the iPhone 4 slotting in with a satisfying click, while the entire lens mechanism has been shifted over to line up with the iPhone's camera (and make room for an Apple sticker). Head on past the break for a quick video of the rig.

[Thanks, John]

Continue reading iPhone 4 gets stuffed inside Canon SLR body

iPhone 4 gets stuffed inside Canon SLR body originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diydslricanonicanon 4Icanon4iphoneiphone 4iphone 4 dslriphone 4 slrIphone4Iphone4DslrIphone4SlrmodslrSat, 04 Sep 2010 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon's Wonder Camera, and other future concepts that tease us from behind glass]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/02/canons-wonder-camera-and-other-future-concepts-that-tease-us-f/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/02/canons-wonder-camera-and-other-future-concepts-that-tease-us-f/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/02/canons-wonder-camera-and-other-future-concepts-that-tease-us-f/#comments Canon had a lot to show for itself at its annual expo today, from the EOS 60D to the (working!) Multipurpose 4K concept, but the best goodies are of course the ones just a few steps outside of today's technological limits. One display in particular that caught our eye was the 2010 Image Creation set, featuring the bold Wonder Camera Concept from July. Nothing functional here, not even in sleight-of-hand video render form, but the models are quite the lookers. Joining the "SLR Style Concept" (as it was being called here, according to the accompanying placard) were the 3D Cam, Image Palette (display), Image Navi Cam (point and shoot), and MR HMD (helmet) -- all aesthetically Kubrick in nature. Not that we mind, of course; we find it best to go ahead and accept our future for the glossy white design motif that it'll assuredly become. Elsewhere, we happened upon the purported "world's largest CMOS sensor" -- not that we'd argue with what we saw -- and the more compact 120 megapixel CMOS, along with (separately) its panoramic camera prototype body. You can live vicariously through us in the photos below.

Gallery: Canon's 2010 future concepts

Canon's Wonder Camera, and other future concepts that tease us from behind glass originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120120 megapixel120 mp120Megapixel120Mp2010 image creation2010 image creations2010ImageCreation2010ImageCreations3d cam3d camera3dCam3dCameracanoncanon expocanon expo 2010CanonExpoCanonExpo2010cmosconceptconceptsdigital slrDigitalSlrdslrdslr style conceptDslrStyleConcepthelmethmdimage creationimage creationsimage naviimage navi camImageCreationImageCreationsImageNaviImageNaviCamkubrickmrmr hmdMrHmdnavinavi camNaviCamslrslr style conceptSlrStyleConceptstylewonderwonder cameraWonderCameraThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Sigma SD15 DSLR gets reviewed: unique, but not for everybody]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/23/sigma-sd15-dslr-gets-reviewed-unique-but-not-for-everybody/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/23/sigma-sd15-dslr-gets-reviewed-unique-but-not-for-everybody/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/23/sigma-sd15-dslr-gets-reviewed-unique-but-not-for-everybody/#comments Sigma's certainly managed to get plenty of photographers' attention with its line of Foveon sensor-equipped digital cameras, but it hasn't exactly always managed to meet expectations. According to Photography Blog, it looks like that's also the case for the company's latest: the SD15. While the camera is described as 'less of an obvious odd fish than its forebears," the site says that it's still best suited for photographers looking for a "challenge," and that you likely won't want to have it as your only DSLR. In particularly, Photography Blog found that while images exhibited less of the odd color casts and white balance issues of previous models, they still left quite a bit to be desired, especially at higher ISOs. On the upside, that Foveon sensor does still offer some capabilities that can't be found elsewhere, and the site says that the camera is unique enough that it can't bring itself to actively dislike it.

Sigma SD15 DSLR gets reviewed: unique, but not for everybody originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dslrfoveonfoveon x3FoveonX3reviewsd15sigmasigma sd15SigmaSd15slrMon, 23 Aug 2010 16:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D3100 DSLR hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/nikon-d3100-dslr-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/nikon-d3100-dslr-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/nikon-d3100-dslr-hands-on/#comments In addition to the S1100pj and S5100, we also had a chance to play with Nikon's 14.2 megapixel D3100 earlier today. Sadly, due to the non-final firmware, we weren't allowed to obtain live sample stills and 1080p H.264 clips from the prototype DSLR, so we can't comment too much on the new CMOS sensor's picture quality. Still, there were some interesting features to point out here. Most notably, the seemingly solid D3100 has an improved grip compared to its predecessor and our own D5000 -- it certainly felt nice and secure in our hands despite the small (and slightly lighter) body. We also dig the new switch (resting by the now-larger dial) for quickly toggling various shooting modes, along with the new spring-loaded live-view trigger and video recording button (both at the top-right corner of the 3-inch 460k-dot screen).

Of course, we couldn't have gone home without having tested the video mode's headlining continuous autofocus feature -- we weren't able to tell how much motor noise might have gone into the clips, but the bundled 18-55mm lens was able to autofocus or track subjects at reasonable speeds, provided that we weren't zooming or moving about too rapidly. The only real bug we noticed was that sometimes the tracking may get overridden by large nearby objects with similar colors, so hopefully the final firmware will reduce this error. Another concern is with the new 1,030mAh battery -- no word on how many shots or video hours it can provide, but we shall find out when this $699 DSLR comes out next month.

Gallery: Nikon D3100 hands-on

Nikon D3100 DSLR hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p1080p24AutoFocuscontinuous autofocusContinuousAutofocusd3100en-el14hands-onNikonnikon d3100NikonD3100slrThu, 19 Aug 2010 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D3100 gets real, adds 1080p movie mode with continuous autofocus]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/nikon-d3100-gets-real-adds-1080p-movie-mode-with-continuous-aut/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/nikon-d3100-gets-real-adds-1080p-movie-mode-with-continuous-aut/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/nikon-d3100-gets-real-adds-1080p-movie-mode-with-continuous-aut/#comments We had a feeling we'd be seeing the well-leaked Nikon D3100 this week after the Coolpix S1100pj and S5100 were officially launched on Tuesday, and here it is, right on cue. Just as we'd heard, the big news is the addition of a 1080p/24 H.264 AVCHD movie mode with continuous contrast-detect autofocus, complete with face detection and subject tracking. That's a major first in the DSLR world, although we're extremely curious to hear how much focus motor noise you can hear in the clips -- we've definitely had issues with other continuous autofocus systems in the past. That new focus system carries over to regular Live View and the 720p movie mode, which shoots at both 24 and 30fps, and the new 14.2 megapixel sensor can be boosted from its native max of ISO 3200 up to 12,800 for some low-light action. Around back there's a three-inch screen, and Nikon's also beefed up the Guide mode, which the company says was extremely popular on the D3000 -- it shows you how to use the various features of the camera, complete with comparison shots showing the effects of different settings. The D3100 will run $699 with the usual 18-55mm VR kit lens when it hits in September -- we've got grand plans to put that video AF system through the wringer when we get one, but for now check some pics in the gallery and PR after the break.

Gallery: Nikon D3100 gets real, adds 1080p movie mode with continuous autofocus

Continue reading Nikon D3100 gets real, adds 1080p movie mode with continuous autofocus

Nikon D3100 gets real, adds 1080p movie mode with continuous autofocus originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoFocuscontinuous autofocusContinuousAutofocusd3100dslrfocusnikonnikon d3100NikonD3100slrThu, 19 Aug 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nikon D3100 SLR, Coolpix S1100pj and S5100 compacts leaked in German magazine]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/nikon-d3100-slr-coolpix-s1100pj-and-s5100-compacts-leaked-in-ge/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/nikon-d3100-slr-coolpix-s1100pj-and-s5100-compacts-leaked-in-ge/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/nikon-d3100-slr-coolpix-s1100pj-and-s5100-compacts-leaked-in-ge/#comments We've definitely seen new Nikon gear leak in the foreign press before, and it looks like the cycle continues: that rumored Nikon D3100 SLR just made an appearance in the pages of Germany's Foto Digital magazine, along with an updated Coolpx S1100pj projector-cam and a new Coolpix S5100. The D3100 is obviously the main attraction -- it has a 14 megapixel sensor with up to ISO 12800 sensitivity, a new 1080p video mode, and an improved processor and autofocus system, for a body-only price of €650 ($831). Not bad -- although we don't know if it has that rumored continuous autofocus mode for video yet. We don't know nearly as much about the new Coolpix S1100pj, except that it'll retain the projector from the S1000pj, come in colors and add a touchscreen and remote control the mix; the Coolpix S5100 is less of a mystery, with a 12 megapixel sensor and a 28-140mm zoom lens pegged in the magazine. Of course, none of this is officially official yet, but we'd imagine we'll be hearing more real soon -- stay tuned.

Nikon D3100 SLR, Coolpix S1100pj and S5100 compacts leaked in German magazine originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerascoolpixcoolpix s1100pjcoolpix s5100CoolpixS1100pjCoolpixS5100d3100dslrfoto digitalFotoDigitalleakleaksnikonpico projectorPicoProjectorprojectorrumorrumorss1100pjs5100slrFri, 13 Aug 2010 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon developing smaller DSLRs to compete with mirrorless cameras?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/canon-developing-smaller-dslrs-to-compete-with-mirrorless-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/canon-developing-smaller-dslrs-to-compete-with-mirrorless-camera/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/20/canon-developing-smaller-dslrs-to-compete-with-mirrorless-camera/#comments Ever since we heard that Nikon was joining the league of mirrorless cameras, the whole world's been waiting for its arch rival to make the next move in the battle of smaller prosumer cameras. Today, Canon finally gave away some hints about which camp it'll side with -- probably just sticking with traditional DSLRs, but smaller. Canon's Masaya Maeda didn't share any specific details, but here's how he dodged Reuters' inquiry: "It's not a question of whether or not you have a mirror. There is a consumer need for good-quality cameras to be made smaller. We will meet this need." And to add some icing to that bland statement, Maeda reinforced that it wouldn't be a challenge for his company to retain a mirror (hence a viewfinder, which is essential for obtaining better results and higher shooting rates) in a smaller design, and that they've made very small SLR cameras before (likely in reference to the film era). Whatever happens, here's hoping that Canon's new toy won't be any bigger than the much-loved G11.

Canon developing smaller DSLRs to compete with mirrorless cameras? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 18:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracanondigicamdigital cameraDigitalCameradslrMasaya MaedaMasayaMaedaMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCamerarumorrumorsslrTue, 20 Jul 2010 18:11:00 EST