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Ricoh unveils CX5 with hybrid AF, continues tradition of subtle improvements
The folks at Ricoh have dependable predictability down pat, and the CX5's specs are, for the most part, nothing new. We've talked up the CX line of compact superzooms since the release of the CX1 almost two years ago, and we've watched the company fine-tune the already impressive camera with each new edition. Every incarnation of the CX series is just a tad better than the last: you might recall the CX4 didn't make any big changes, either. The CX5 offers few marked signs of improvement (at least on paper) over its predecessor, but it does sport a hybrid AF that combines a distance sensor with contrast detection to bring focus rates down to two-tenths of a second: twice as fast as the CX4. Other than that -- you guessed it -- the CX5 sports the same specs as its predecessor (unless you count the addition of a "continuous golf swing" mode). So, if you're looking for a big step up from your CX4, you might want to wait for the next generation. Then again, we can't guarantee Ricoh will break with tradition.
Samsung rolls out five new ST series point-and-shoot cameras
Samsung just introduced a slew of new cameras at CES earlier this month, but it's now already back with another batch, which consists of five low to mid-range point-and-shoots in its ST series. Those begin with the $100 ST30 model, and move on up to the ST65, ST90 and touchscreen-equipped ST95, before topping out with the $230 ST6500 (pictured above), which packs a 16 megapixel sensor, a 5x optical zoom, 720p video recording, and the same touchscreen interface as the ST95. As for the rest of the lot, you can expect to get between 10 and 16 megapixels, either a 3x or 5x optical zoom, and 720p video recording on all but the ST30. Head on past the break for the press releases with the complete specs, and look for all five cameras to be available in February or March. %Gallery-114702%
Sony DSC-TX100V and the rest of the Cyber-shot posse hands-on
Sony announced a heap of new Cyber-shot cameras earlier this week, and after spying the entire line posing Miss America-style at Sony's CES booth, we decided to go hands on. The DSC-TX100V's OLED screen, which is a Cyber-shot first, was definitely impressive in terms of clarity, brightness and color reproduction -- despite only viewing a fellow convention goer obstructing the booth. The DSC-TX10 is also one the classiest looking ruggedized camera we've ever seen and thankfully lacks accents such as excessive rubber detailing. Sony wasn't really down with us testinghow much grief it could actually take though. Similarly, we had hoped to check out the DSC-WX10's 1920 x 1080 60fps video capture mode -- since it's the only digital compact to support it -- but that idea got shut down the moment a few Sony VIPs arrived. Still, we did manage to take a few shots of each in the wilds of the convention center which you can check out in the gallery below. %Gallery-113428%
Sony reveals 3D capturing Cyber-shot cameras, includes world's first compact capable of 1080/60p video
Sony has announced the DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX9 16.2-megapixel Cyber-shot cameras here in Las Vegas, which are the world's first compacts to include a 3D still capture feature using just one lens and imager. This is made possible via a special shooting mode that takes two consecutive shots in different focus positions that are then combined to produce a 3D effect. All also feature so-called Dual Rec technology borrowed from the Handycam line that enables users to capture three megapixel stills while recording video. Outside of what they have in common, several of the models have a few noteworthy details. The DSC-WX10 is the only digital compact to support full 1920 x 1080/60p video capture. Speaking of firsts, the DSC-TX100V is the first Cyber-shot to to feature a 3.5-inch OLED touch screen. Less revolutionary (but still drool-worthy) is the DSC-HX7V's ability to record the location and direction of a particular photos thanks to a built-in GPS and compass, while the DSC-TX10 is ruggedized to be waterproof, dustproof, shockproof and freeze-proof. All of these models will be available this March, and cost between $220 and $380. For more details be sure to check out the full PR after the jump. %Gallery-112852%
Panasonic intros Lumix DMC-S3, DMC-S1, DMC-FH25 and DMC-FH27 compact cameras
More Lumix goodness? You betcha. Hot on the heels of Panasonic's CES unveiling of the FP5, FP7, FH5 and FH2 ultraslim compact camera comes this: even more Lumix compacts. Per usual, we'll tell you exactly what you need to know below, and those hungry for more can peek the full releases after the break. Up first we have two new folks joining the S series: the DMC-S3 and DMC-S1. Both of these are designed for up-and-comers looking for ease of use, with the S3 having a 14.1 megapixel sensor and the S1 dipping to a 12.1 megapixel sensor. Both of 'em tout a 720p movie mode, refreshed designs and a 4x optical zoom lens. Panny admits that they're both "entry-level," though you'll still find optical image stabilization, face detection, an intelligent scene selector and the Venus Engine VI image processor. There's a 2.7-inch LCD on the rear of each unit, and while the S3 will ship in blue, red, black and violet, the S1 will arrive in black, gold, blue, pink and silver. Mum's the word on a price and release date, sadly. The DMC-FH27 and DMC-FH25 point-and-shoots are both aimed at the fashionistas in the crowd, with the pair touting a 16.1 megapixel sensor, 8x optical zoom lens and a 720p movie mode. There's also an advanced Intelligent Auto mode for those who detest fiddling with settings, and the Venus Engine VI image processor promises to speed up just about everything dealing with operation. Face detection, optical image stabilization and an intelligent scene selector are all present, though the FH27's 3-inch rear LCD one-ups the 2.7-inch panel that's on the FH25. Per usual, Panny's keeping its trap shut when it comes to a price and release date. %Gallery-112601% %Gallery-112598%
Samsung's WiFi-enabled SH100 shoots in 14.2MP, uses your Android as a viewfinder
WiFi cameras are hardly anything new, but there are a few features on this Samsung SH100 that caught our attention. For one, this 14.2 megapixel imager lets you use your Android smartphone -- Galaxy S is specifically mentioned here -- a "real time" remote viewfinder and trigger over WiFi! Additionally, users will also benefit from the camera's DLNA and wireless PC sync capabilities. While this sounds all awesome, we'll have to wait until March before our wallets take a $199.99 damage. Full spec sheet after the break. %Gallery-112475%
Kodak intros Easyshare Touch, Mini and Sport cameras, Playfull and Playsport camcorders
Things are just getting underway here at CES in Las Vegas, and Kodak's on-hand in order to serve up its latest smorgasbord of optical treasures. Without further ado, allow us to present to you the Easyshare Touch -- a $149.95 offering with a three-inch capacitive touchpanel, a dedicated video record button, a 14 megapixel sensor, 5x Schneider-Kreuznach lens and an HDMI output. Next up is the $99.95 Easyshare Mini, described as Kodak's smallest camera yet. It's "around the size of a credit card," offering a 3x wide-angle optical zoom lens, a built-in front mirror (you know, for those glorious self-portrait sessions), a ten megapixel sensor and a 2.5-inch rear LCD. Moving right along, there's the $79.95 Easyshare Sport, which is the outfit's first waterproof camera that can go up to ten feet underwater without any significant consequences. It'll also shrug off dirt and dust while snapping 12 megapixel shots and previewing them on the 2.4-inch LCD. Sashaying over to the video realm, there's the $149.95 Playfull camcorder, which touts an ultraslim design (it'll "fit in the pocket of your skinny jeans," according to Special K), a 1080p capture mode and an unmistakable 'Share' button to get your footage onto YouTube or a social network without any wasted time. The company's also using CES as an opportunity to launch the next generation of its Playsport video camera, with this $179.95 model being waterproof up to ten feet, shockproof, dustproof and capable of logging clips at 1080p. You can also snap stills at five megapixels, and that previously mentioned 'Share' button is predictably tacked on here as well. Speaking of revisions, the Pulse digital photo frame is also seeing a gentle refresh, with this one available in 7-inch ($129.95) and 10-inch ($199.95) sizes. The newcomers add the ability to comment on the pictures you receive from friends and family, with our favorite predetermined response being "Such a KODAK MOMENT!" Seriously. Oh, and these also have an ingrained activity sensor that turns the frame off when you walk away, and brings it back to life when you re-approach. Finally, the ESP C310 all-in-one printer will be selling for $99.99, but so far as we can tell, Kodak would rather extol the virtues of its ink-saving abilities than drum up interest in its cutting-edge feature set. Further details can be spotted in the full release after the break. %Gallery-112240% %Gallery-112328%
Pentax's faceplate-swapping RS1000 reviewed, a good choice if you're on a strict budget
Sadly the Nanoblock-fronting NB1000 looks destined only for Japan, but Pentax is at least blessing those abroad with its RS1000 which, with its customizable and hot-swappable faceplates, offers you a modicum of two-dimensional customization. That cam has been reviewed over at Photography Blog, with the conclusion being that you won't be dazzled by the cam's features nor image quality, but for the $120 MSRP (closer to $99 street price) you could do a lot worse. That's especially true since you get 720p video and a 4x zoom out of the deal -- though an inability to zoom while filming means those two features remain somewhat mutually exclusive.
Canon SD4500 IS reviewed: gets recommended despite some glaring faults
Canon's latest midrange SD4500 point and shoot -- known as the IXUS 1000 HS in Europe -- has scored a "Recommended" review by the folks at Photography Blog thanks largely to its excellent image quality (particularly with night shots) and the presence of a big 10x zoom lens packed inside its Elph body. The testers were concerned, though, with the camera's poor 150-shot battery life, 36mm not-so-wide-angle setting and minimal physical controls -- which may drive experienced users loco from excessive button mashing. Its $299 price tag is also precariously close to the beloved Canon S95, which offers significantly better performance for only $70 more. Still, if your budget is rigid and size is key, the SD4500 should suit you and your pockets nicely. To read the full review by the folks at Photography Blog, thanks.
Panasonic Lumix GF2 vs. GF1... fight!
If yesterday's preview of the GF2 wasn't enough for you, here's a little more eye candy to feast upon. We paired up Panasonic's all-new Micro Four Thirds shooter with the GF1 that preceded it and collected a nice little gallery for your perusal below. The major difference between the two is in their dimensions -- the GF2 feels a lot closer to your typical compact camera -- though there are plenty of smaller modifications as well, such as the refashioned grip on the camera's right side, the replacement of the jog dial up top with a stereo mic array, and the introduction of a luminous iA button for switching on the intelligent auto mode. The back of the GF2 is also quite a bit tidier, which has been achieved mostly by eliminating some buttons in favor of the touchscreen interface. Check it all out below or jump past the break for some video action. %Gallery-106820%
Panasonic Lumix GF2 preview
At first glance, sitting all on its lonesome like that, the GF2 might forgivably be perceived as just another mundanely incremental upgrade on what was already a lauded predecessor in the Lumix GF1. But, for once, our pessimism was not borne out by the facts -- far from it. With the GF2, Panasonic has somehow managed to shrink its smallest Micro Four Thirds shooter even further, by a reported 19 percent, and the difference in handling is tangible. The Japanese giant has also lightened the load by seven percent, thrown in a new touchscreen-centric UI, and, predictably, upped the video ante to 720/60p or 1080/60i recording in AVCHD format. Join us after the break to see what we thought of this delicious new recipe for pseudo-pocketable large-sensor shooting. Please note: Panasonic has not yet finalized the GF2's firmware, meaning that the sample images and video below may not necessarily be indicative of the quality you'll get from the final product.%Gallery-106778%%Gallery-106781%
Nikon's tiny Coolpix S5100 reviewed before disappearing into someone's pocket
There are those who pick their pants based on the size of the camera they're going to pocket for the day, and those who just pick their pants and take a camera if one fits. For that latter group Nikon's latest, the Coolpix S5100, may be a good choice. It has scored a "Recommended" review over at Photography Blog, delivering good quality images through its 5x zoom and 12.2 megapixel sensor despite that diminutive size -- barely wider than a credit card. And, with a $179 MSRP, it won't put too much of a hurting on those real pieces of plastic you wouldn't dare leave home without.
Canon PowerShot G12 scores predictably glowing review
If it's a pocketable PowerShot and its name begins with 'G' you can be pretty sure it'll be a good performer, and Canon's latest is no exception. The $499 G12 is the sequential successor to the G11 and, as is typical for the range, it isn't a revolutionary leap forward. The G12 makes use of its predecessor's 10 megapixel sensor situated behind the same 5x zoom lens and offering the same suite of full manual controls. New this year is a 720p24 video recording mode with stereo mics, finally bringing this camera into the HD age -- but sadly doing so without use of that zoom. Also new is an HDR mode, stitching together three photos to make those vampires hiding in the shadows really pop. According to Photography Blog those improvements plus a few other niceties make this a particularly solid compact, even if its chunky dimensions as ever push the definition of that term.
Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W3 reviewed, deemed a worthy W1 successor for slightly less early adopters
Early reviews of Fuji's FinePix Real 3D W1? Not so hot. However, a year later the $450 refreshed W3 seems to be doing better, scoring a "Recommended" review over at Photography Blog. The camera's dual 1/2.3-inch, 10 megapixel CCDs and 3X zoom lenses are carried over from before, but a new design and more user-friendly interface is said to make a huge improvement -- even if it's still too easy to stick a finger over either of the two light portals up front. Build quality is solid and the new 3.5-inch, glasses-free 3D LCD on the back is called "impressive," far brighter than last year's parallax barrier. The machine will capture 720p 3D movies and can save both 3D MPO images and 2D JPEGs simultaneously, meaning your holiday snaps are future-proofed even if you haven't jumped on the 3D bandwagon just yet.
Canon's 35x SX30 superzoomer reviewed: dazzling specs don't trump sub-par performance
The more things change, the more they stay the same, and though Canon's PowerShot superzoom line has gone from SX20 up to SX30, the new model has received a review that's strikingly similar to that applied to last year's model. On the SX20 they liked the focal range but hated the noisy image quality, and such is the case on the SX30 IS. This year it has a whopping 35x focal range, going from 24mm all the way up to 840mm and adding "very effective" IS to boot. The problem is double-trouble on the image quality front: noisy shots anywhere north of ISO 400, and chromatic aberrations that add a little too much Technicolor delight on contrasty shots. Ultimately it sounds like a hugely flexible and capable shooter, but only for those who aren't too picky about quality -- and who don't mind the $429 MSRP.
Sony NEX-3 goes pink on November 19, in accordance with our wishes
We weren't shy about telling Sony that it ought to bring some of those NEX-3/5 color concepts from Photokina out on the market, and the Japanese manufacturer has clearly taken note. To be fair, our pining was more concerned with the white variant than this pink number, but whatever, a new hue is a new hue. Japanese lovers of small cameras with big sensors and rosé color schemes will be able to enjoy their slice of nirvana on November 19 for around ¥80,000 ($975), while the rest of the world sits and ponders the crazy price. It's no higher than the standard NEX-3 kit, mind you, which can currently be had in silver, black, or red. And if Sony Japan's scheme to conquer the female market with a lick of new paint pays off, we might see the pink camera -- along with the litany of matching accessories also introduced today -- sailing out to new shores as well. One can only hope. [Thanks, Conrad]
Samsung AQ100 reviewed and found partially-worthy of Flipper glamour shots
PhotographyBlog has indulged us with a thorough review of Samsung's 12.2 megapixel WP10 waterproof compact -- known as the AQ100 stateside -- and their takeaways are mixed. One major concern is that the screen misleadingly makes photos appear overexposed. Its slow 5x zoom, run of the mill feature set and measly battery life good for approximately 150 shots per charge doesn't improve the situation; nor does the lack of separate charger for juicing dead spares while using the camera. That said, an included HDMI port, a clever SmartAuto shooting mode, and relatively quick two second start up time does help balance the equation. Throw in the fact that it's waterproof up to 3 meters, takes decent imagery, and has an MSRP of $199 with street prices dipping even lower and they concede it's not a terrible proposition as a laid-back compact. Whether it's a better deal than a slew of other Cousteau-worthy options released this year such as the Finepix XP10, Sony TX5, or Pentax Optio w90 is still something we'll leave you to mull over. Can you really quantify the value of your camera color matching the water you're shooting in though? For more details, read the full review at the source link below.
Leica slaps D-Lux 5 badge on Panasonic LX5, hitches up the price (update)
What has a 1/1.63-inch CCD sensor capable of 10.1 megapixel stills, a 3.75x DC Vario-Summicron lens, and 720p AVCHD Lite video? The Panasonic LX5? Why yes, it does, and so does this carbon copy that Leica just unveiled, the D-Lux 5. Much as with the identikit LX3 and D-Lux 4 before them, the new 5 models share pretty much everything apart from brand name, accessories bundled in the box, and that all-important price tag. If you opt for the red circular logo above, you'll have to dish up £630 ($983), whereas the LX5 -- which was criticized for being pricey at launch -- can now be had for around £355 ($554). Feel free to peruse our gallery of D-Lux 5 shots below while pondering the "value" on offer here. Update: We just got word that Leica's already priced the D-Lux 5 for a stateside release -- find it for the slightly-more-reasonable-but-not-quite price of $799 when it ships this October. %Gallery-102818%
Nikon Coolpix S80 and P7000 hands-on
Sharing the limelight with the Nikon D7000 today were these two Coolpix cameras: the OLED touchscreen-donning S80 (left) and the prosumer-oriented P7000 (right). Let's start off with the S80: this 14.1 megapixel compact turned out to be pretty sexy and solid, and we had no qualms with sliding its lens cover, either. That said, the 3.5-inch touchscreen was one helluva double-edged sword -- sure, it was responsive to our touch input (for tap-to-capture or tap-to-focus), but a lot of the times we found our naughty fingers slipping onto the screen, thus accidentally triggering the camera. And just as we speculated, the lack of physical buttons (zoom control and shutter, for instance) was pretty intimidating to begin with, but as with many smartphones these days, it probably just takes time to get used to this newfangled interface. If we were to improve the camera as it is right now, we'd probably throw in a sharper alternative for the OLED display -- despite its wide viewing angles and vibrant colors -- for the sake of focusing and playback. Do read on for our thoughts on the P7000 after the break.%Gallery-102327% %Gallery-102330%
Pentax announces customizable cameras, faceplate-swapping RS1000 and Lego-loving NB1000
Sure, you can buy compact cameras in dozens of garish and offensive colors, but what if you're the sort who craves a different garish and offensive color every day of the week? You need the $150 Pentax RS1000, a 14.1 megapixel shooter with a 4x optical zoom, 720p video recording, and faceplate that's just four screws away from getting lost. Using the Personal Skin Designer app you can craft your own custom cover (the first one is free), meaning you could be just a few clicks away from having that brick of a camera look like a real brick. Far more exciting, however, is the identically spec'd NB1000 and its Nanoblock connectors, which are a lot like Lego but smaller and presumably cheaper to license. With that you can truly shape whatever you want, like the above safari scene, which makes this model particularly pocket unfriendly. Both cameras are set to release later this year, though the Lego-esque NB1000 is tragically destined only for kids of all ages in Japan.
