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Nikon crams 36x zoom in P500, full manual controls in P300, refreshes Coolpix range with tons of color
Is it spring already? Nikon has just assaulted us with no less than nine new Coolpix models, freshening up its consumer offering with a litany of hot new shades, touchscreens and hardware updates. We'll let you dig into the press releases after the break for the full details, but the two new Performance range cameras, the P500 and P300, are worth discussing in more detail. The P500 improves on Nikon's P100 by a few orders of magnification, touting a voyeur-friendly 36x optical zoom, while also offering a 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, 1080 / 30p video plus stereo sound recording, max ISO of 3200, and an 1100mAh battery. The back is also adorned with a tiltable display, sized at 3 inches diagonally and fitting 920k dots. Yours on March 3rd for $400, €464 or £400, depending on your local currency. %Gallery-115978% The P300 is cheaper at $330 / €348 / £300, however it might well be the more appealing option for image quality obsessives as it boasts a lens with an aggressive F1.8 aperture and 4.2x optical zoom. It shares the same backside-illuminated sensor as you'll find in the P500, but benevolently permits its user full manual control to let him or her capture that perfect shot. Rapid-fire shooting at 8fps for up to seven frames is available, but we're loving the fact it can also do 1080 / 30p with continuous autofocus and the ability to both capture images and use its optical zoom while recording. If Nikon is to be believed, the P300 is basically the P7000 that came out last year, but shrunken down to the size of a compact. It really is a very diminutive and attractive -- it has that intentionally understated matte black finish that huskily whispers the word "prosumer" in your ear -- compact camera. It lands on March 17th. %Gallery-115979% %Gallery-115976%
Fujifilm confirms Finepix X100 ship date, price and accessory line for US market
We've spent quite a bit not nearly enough time with Fujifilm's fixed-lens Finepix X100, and while it felt that March would never actually come during Photokina 2010, it's actually just a few weeks away. The outfit has today confirmed that its 12.3 megapixel shooter will be shipping to America next month, with a wallet-burning $1,199.95 netting you a 23mm F2 prime lens, a standard ISO range of 200 to 6400 (with a boost to 12800), built-in ND filter, Hybrid Viewfinder and a magnesium alloy chassis. Feel free to peek back at our hands-on sessions to get a better idea if this is the retro body you've been yearning for, and hop on past the break if you'd care to see the official verbiage. %Gallery-102872%
Pentax reveals Optio WG-1 and WG-1 GPS rugged cameras, limited edition K-5 DSLR
Who woulda thunk it? Half a year ago, finding a conventional point-and-shoot with integrated GPS was a chore, but these days, it's growing tougher and tougher to find one without it. Pentax is joining the geotagging frenzy this evening with its Optio WG-1 GPS, a rugged 14 megapixel shooter that's waterproof up to 33 feet, shockproof in nature and engineered with a "crushproof" body that can withstand weight force of up to 220 pounds (but not another Black Eyed Peas halftime show). You'll also get integrated face detection technology, the ability to snap in sub-freezing temperatures, a 5x optical zoom lens and a 2.7-inch rear LCD. There's also a 720p movie mode, HDMI output, IR control compatibility and support for Eye-Fi's wireless SD card. It'll ship this April in black or yellow-green for $399.95, and if you're uncomfortable remembering where you took each and every photograph, the GPS-less Optio WG-1 will also be available (in black or purple) for $50 less. In related news, the company is taking this opportunity to issue a limited edition K-5 DSLR, with this one touting a silver body, a uniquely shaped grip and shock-resistant, scratchproof glass surrounding the LCD. Outside of that, everything else about the 16.3 megapixel shooter will remain the same as it ever was, and the $1,699.95 (body only) price point is most certainly no easier to swallow. For those still sold on the idea, Pentax will also be offering a trifecta of silver prime lenses: the 21m f/3.2 AL, 40mm f/2.8 and the 70mm f/2.4. Check out Sir Silver (and the full press releases) just after the break.
Canon trots out Canon Rebel T3 and Rebel T3i DSLR cameras
Not looking for a new PowerShot? How's about a new DSLR? Canon has just rolled out a new entry-level Rebel and a new flagship Rebel this evening, with the T3 (1100D) and T3i (600D) offering mild updates over their predecessors. The EOS Rebel T3 will ship at the end of March with a EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II zoom lens for $599.99, offering up a 12.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 Imaging processor, nine-point autofocus system and a 63-zone dual-layer metering system. You'll need to provide your own SD, SDHC or SDXC card, but unlike entry-level bodies of the past, this guy will capture full-motion video at 1280 x 720. There's an ISO range of 100 to 6,400, a pop-up flash and a newfangled Basic+ non-technical interface that should help beginners grow accustomed to more technical aspects of photography without the steep learning curve.Stepping up, there's the new T3i, which boasts an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, an ISO range of 100 to 6,400, support for SD / SDHC / SDXC cards, DIGIC 4 Imaging processor, pop-up flash, integrated Speedlite settings (to go along with a few new Speedlite flashes also introduced today) and a tilt / swivel LCD monitor. It'll ship at the start of March for $799.99 (body only), or $899.99 bundled with a EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II zoom lens. Hit the source links below for the devilish details, not to mention information on two new telephoto lenses (the EF 500mm F/4L IS II USM and EF 600mm F/4L IS II USM).
Ricoh CX5 reviewed: only marginally better than the CX4
Well, isn't this just cute? If you'll recall, Ricoh's CX4 was found to only be "slightly superior" the CX3 that came before it (and the same with the CX2 / CX3 before that). Fast forward a few months, and it's the same song and dance all over again... but with different model numbers, of course. The fine folks over at Photography Blog recently put the similarly styled CX5 through its paces, and autofocus aside, it's essentially the same camera as the CX4. The lone standout feature on the new guy is the Hybrid AF feature, which most certainly improves autofocus times, but critics were quick to point out that the focus time on the CX4 was never really an issue to begin with. In fact, the following line just about sums it up: "The CX5 is virtually indistinguishable from the slightly older CX4 in terms of its design, image quality and feature set, with only the faster AF system to get truly excited about." Furthermore, the rest of the point-and-shoot world has evolved quite a bit during all of this time, making the CX5 an even less compelling option than the CX4 was during its own launch window. Feel free to hit the source link for the whole shebang, but don't expect to leave feeling any warmer about that impulse buy you just made.
Panasonic debuts Lumix FP5, FP7, FH5 and FH2 ultraslim compact cameras
It ain't Photokina, and it ain't PMA, but darn if the cameras aren't rolling out left and right here at the 2011 edition of CES. This evening, it's Panasonic's turn, and we've got four new Lumix point-and-shoots to discuss in more detail below: For starters, we've got a pair of newcomers to the Lumix FH series, the FH5 and FH2. Both of these are sporting sleek, svelte exteriors, with the DMC-FH5 nabbing a 16 megapixel sensor and the DMC-FH2 stepping down to 14 megapixels. Both of 'em feature a newly-developed retractable 28mm wide-angle lens, a 4x optical zoom and a 720p movie mode. You'll also find a newly-incorporated Venue Engine VI, which hastens startup and overall reaction times. Mega optical image stabilization, face detection and an intelligent scene selector are all included, as is the Lumix Image Uploader to get your shots up onto the web, STAT. Pricing on this duo is expected at a later date, though we are told that the FH5 will ship in silver, violet, black and gold, while the FH2 dons black, red, pink and blue outfits. Looking for something with a bit more pizazz? The ultrathin FP series is growing by two today as well, with the 16.1 megapixel DMC-FP7 and 14.1 megapixel DMC-FP5 offering up a sexy exterior, 4x optical zoom and a 720p movie mode. The FP7 goes with a mirror-like finish, while the FP5 sticks with matte. The FP7 (shown above) also has a nicer-than-average rear, with a 3.5-inch LCD; the FP5 steps it down ever-so-slightly to a 3.0-incher. Both models include Smart Touch Screens that enable shooters to tweak lots of settings within hitting a single physical button, and the FP7 goes one step further by offering one-touch re-touching. The duo also incorporates Panny's Venus Engine VI, mega optical image stabilization, face detection, an intelligent scene selector and a dedicated iA button. Pricing remains a mystery for these as well, but you can decide between red, blue and black on the FP7 or black, pink, silver and blue on the FP5. %Gallery-112599% %Gallery-112598%
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 CES 2011 camera lineup: DualView ST700, PL170 and PL120 / WB210 and PL210
Samsung, taking it easy at CES? Not a chance. Hot on the heels of a smorgasbord of new HD gear comes a five-pack of new cameras. Three of 'em are situated in the company's growing DualView line, which places a display on the front that makes self-portraits entirely easier to snap. The ST700 point-and-shoot includes a 16.1 megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, dual image stabilization, a 3-inch touchscreen on the rear, a 1.8-inch screen on the front, 720p movie mode, an ISO range that tops out at 3200 and a $279.99 retail price. The PL170 ($199.99) is also equipped with a 16.1 megapixel sensor and a 5x optical zoom, but the screen on the front is stepped down to 1.5-inches and the feature set is scaled back. The PL120 is the lowest-end of the new DualViews, with a downsized 2.7-inch rear LCD and a $149.99 price point. In related news, the WB210 (shown above) and PL210 are also debuting today, with the former touting a 12x zoom lens, a 22.4mm thick body and a 14 megapixel sensor. The PL210 goes with a 10x optical zoom, 27mm wide-angle lens, a 3-inch rear LCD and a 14 megapixel sensor. These are slated to go on sale next month for $279.99 and $199.99 in order of mention, and the full releases are waiting for your eyes just after the break. %Gallery-112774%
Fujifilm's CES 2011 point-and-shoot lineup: Finepix Z90, AV200, AX300, JV200, JX and T series
Fujifilm's rugged Finepix XP30 just a bit too rough around the edges for you? If so, we'd recommend grabbing a cup of joe and diving into the outfit's CES 2011 line of point-and-shoot cameras. The company's holding nothing back with this year's barrage of new shooters, so let's get to it, shall we? The Finepix Z90 (shown above) is a sleek, svelte new compact with a three-inch resistive touchpanel, 14 megapixel CCD sensor, Fujinon 5x wide-angle optical zoom lens and automatic upload to both YouTube and Facebook. There's also a new 'Dual Direction GUI' (which splits the rear screen in various ways to view multiple images at once) digital image stabilization, face detection / red-eye removal, a 720p movie mode and a chassis that's just 17.5mm thick. It'll go on sale in around a fortnight for $169.95. The Finepix AV200, AX300 and JV200 are aimed at the bargain consumer, with all three boasting a 720p movie mode, face detection and a relatively understated design. The AV200 and JV200 are outfitted witha 14 megapixel CCD sensor and a 3x optical zoom lens, while the AX300 steps up to a 5x optical zoomer. The trio packs a 2.7-inch rear LCD, digital image stabilization and automatic red-eye removal. The AV200 and AX300 get powered by a pair of AA batteries, whereas the JV200 is equipped with a rechargeable Li-ion. The whole lot will go on sale in the US next month, with pricing set at $89.95, $99.95 and $109.95 in order of mention. For those looking to step up a bit, there's the new JX series. The JX300 and JX350 include 5x optical zoomers and a 720p movie mode, not to mention a 2.7-inch rear LCD, metal body and Li-ion rechargeable battery. The JX300 is blessed with a 14 megapicel CCD sensor , while the JX350 packs a 16 megapixel CCD sensor. Fuji plans to hawk the 300 in silver, whereas the 350 will be available in brushed metal or black. Other features include an easy YouTube / Facebook upload, smile / face detection and red-eye removal. The JX300 will go on sale next month for $129.95, with the JX350 coming in April for $159.95. Wrapping things up, we've got the T200 and T300, both of which are equipped with 10x Fujinon optical zoom lenses (28mm to 280mm) and a 720p movie mode. These check in at just 18.5mm thick and include sensor shift image stabilization and a 14 megapixel CCD sensor. The T300 ups the ante with a 3-inch high-res display, while the T200 gets saddled with a 3.7-inch display. We're told that the T300 will be available in black, while the T200 gets wrapped in a gunmetal finish. The T300 will ship in April for $199.95, and the T200 will go on sale this March for $20 less. %Gallery-112519%
Fujifilm adds GPS module, geotagging functionality to waterproof Finepix XP30 camera
Remember Fujifilm's Finepix XP10 from... oh, right around seven months ago? Hopefully you're not one to get overly depressed about the rush of progress, because Fujifilm has just outed an update to that very camera that's significantly improved. Following Casio's footsteps on the Exilim EX-H20G, Fuji is introducing the GPS-enabled Finepix XP30 here at CES. The overall size and shape remains similar to the aforementioned XP10, with this point-and-shoot being waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof. What may really entice the argonauts in the crowd is the embedded GPS chip; this will keep tabs of your location and embed your exact coordinates into every picture you take. Once you get back home, just dump 'em into iPhoto or Picasa in order to view photos based on location. Moreover, the GPS Tracking Data function will regularly store location data, and when you get home, you can actually create a map of your travels. Other specifications include a 14 megapixel CCD sensor, 720p movie mode, image stabilization, a 2.7-inch anti-reflective LCD, a reinforced hardened glass lens barrier, a metal, unibody chassis and a riveted front panel. The XP30 should ship next month for $239.95, while a GPS-less sibling (the Finepix XP20; pictured after the break) will ship a month later for $199.99; those looking to accessorize will find an adjustable float strap, protective silicone skin and a neoprene sports case for sale in March for an undisclosed amount.
Fujifilm brings 30x optical zoom to Finepix HS20EXR, 15x to F500EXR and F550EXR
Is 2011 the year of the superzoom? It's doubtful, but darn if Fujifilm isn't trying hard to make it so. Following up on the outfit's CES 2011 unveiling of the Finepix XP30, XP20 and a slew of low-to-mid-range point and shoots comes this stash: a pocketful 'tater sack full of nicely specced megazooms. Let's break 'em down, cool? The Finepix HS20EXR (which leaked just a few hours ago) is easily the crown jewel of this bunch, boasting a 16 megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, a 30x Fujinon manual optical zoom lens (24mm to 720mm equivilent), a tilting 3.0-inch LCD, a 'heads-up' sensor that automatically changes from LCD to EVF, 8fps continuous shooting, 1080p movie recording, the ability to shoot in RAW (or RAW + JPEG), an optional remote release cable and support for two Fujifilm external flashes. This bad boy will ship in late March for $499.95. Looking for megazoom range in a compact's body? You've found it. The Finepix F500EXR and F550EXR both offer relatively sleek bodies, a new 16 megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, a 15x Fujinon wide-angle zoom lens and a 3-inch LCD on the rear. You'll also get high-speed shooting capabilities as well as a 1080p movie mode, with the 550EXR stepping up and adding both GPS geotagging and the ability to capture files in RAW. Both cameras measure 22.9mm thick, offer image stabilization and have an ISO range of up to 1600. Both of these shooters will hit in mid-March, with the 500EXR going for $329.95 and the 550EXR seeming like a pure-tee bargain at just $20 more. Bringing up the rear, it's the new S series. The SLR-styled Finepix S2950, S3200 and S4000 superzooms boast a 14 megapixel sensor, with 18x, 24x and 30x Fujinon optical zoomers available in order of mention. You'll also get dual image stabilization, a 3-inch LCD around back, an electronic viewfinder, 720p movie mode and the ability to power these with a pair of AA batteries. The S2950 will go on sale this month for $229.95, while the S3200 hits next month for $249.95 and the S4000 lands in March for $279.95. %Gallery-112520%
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%
Olympus E-PL2 camera leaked, Penpal Bluetooth dongle to share photos via smartphone
CES 2011 is just around the bend, and while LG's 72-inch monstrosity will undoubtedly see its fair share of attention, Olympus is hoping to shake things up in the camera realm. Or so we're led to believe. The shot above is purportedly the first leaked image of the outfit's forthcoming E-PL2, the Micro Four Thirds followup to the E-PL1. The real question here is this: did Olympus' engineers take your advice on how to change it? According to 43 Rumors, this guy will ship with a new 14-42mm f/3.5 - 5.6 kit lens, a 'direct movie' button, high-res 3-inch display, an ISO ceiling of 6400 and an intriguing Bluetooth module as an option. Cleverly dubbed Penpal, this is essentially the most sensible method of sending photos you snap on your camera to the web, be it on Facebook, Flickr or any other social network. If you've got the apparatus plugged into the hot shoe, you can sync it with your BT-enabled smartphone (Android or "Windows Mobile," we're told) and use its cellular connection to complete the upload. Definitely a more logical approach than shoving a 3G chip into a digicam, and undoubtedly a trend we expect to see take off in 2011. Regrettably, there's no pricing or release information to share, but all should be revealed in a matter of days.
Nikon D7000 firmware update released, cools down 'hot pixels'
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.
Panasonic's Lumix GH2 now shipping in America
It's not exactly November, but those who pre-ordered early may still end up with a Lumix GH2 beneath their tree. The highly-anticipated GH1 followup -- which was introduced back at Photokina -- has officially begun to ship to end users in the US of A. The official order page shows a one to two week wait, but we've confirmed with Panny itself (as well as tipster Nate, the proud owner of the one above) that units are indeed trickling out as we speak. For those in need of a refresher, this Micro Four Thirds shooter packs a 16 megapixel sensor, 1080p movie mode, SDXC support and an ISO range from 160 to 12,800. Feel free to take a peek back at our hands-on from Germany, and make sure you cancel those holiday plans STAT -- wouldn't want this sitting on your doorstep for a solid week, now would you? [Thanks, Nate]
Samsung Ucim digicam concept saves shots to three USB sticks
So, let's say you're out with a bud. Two buds. Just you three, hanging out, talking up memories of the days when you all kept in touch via the Kin Spot. And then, a monument. Any monument will do. You bust out a point and shoot, scrunch together, and snap a picture. Fast forward to next week, and your buds are still wondering when you're ever going to offload those images and shoot 'em over via email. You've not only let down the two most important people in your life, but you've failed yourself. Enter Samsung's Ucim camera, which sports a full trio of USB ports meant to house three USB memory nubs. When the shutter snaps, it logs images to all three nubs, and when the party's over, you and your two buds grab your respective nubs and part ways. Too bad it's just a concept for now, but here's hoping it becomes much more than that in the near future. Your buds hope so, too.
Nikon Coolpix P7000 v1.1 firmware released, improves RAW processing and focusing reliability
Nikon's taken criticism of its enthusiast-friendly P7000 compact to heart and has today announced a fresh firmware for that shooter. Overall NRW (Nikon's own RAW format) processing times are said to have been reduced, while lens control has been optimized to reduce the occurrence of focusing errors. A couple of other tweaks have also been thrown in: one to overcome a rare issue that would block the zoom from operating, and another causing blown highlights on the camera's LCD when Active D-Lighting is enabled and the shutter is half-pressed. That's your lot; if you've got the camera already, it's a no-brainer, and if you don't, it might cast a happier new light on the P7000's earlier reviews.
Ask Engadget: best Micro Four Thirds / interchangeable lens camera on a budget?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Terrillo, who seems eager and excited to make the leap up from the point-and-shoot universe. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I really want a new camera, but not a point and shoot -- more like a DSLR or a Micro Four Thirds. My budget is $300 but I can go up to $400 if there's sufficient reason. I really want to get a new camera before Christmas. Any suggestions?" Suggestions? Boy, are there. The interchangeable lens / Micro Four Thirds market has exploded this year, making up nearly all of the news that flowed from Photokina in September. Panasonic's GF2 has seen glowing reviews, as has Sony's NEX line. So, readers, what do you recommend? Speak out in comments below.
BenQ's 14 megapixel S1420 camera touts mega O.I.S., 720p movie mode
Jonesing for a new point and shoot before the holiday break? Don't go lookin' for BenQ's newest unless you're camped in Asia, as this orange delight won't hit other nations until the first of 2011. Sporting a 14 megapixel sensor, a metallic casing and a seemingly robust implementation of optical image stabilization technology, the S1420 also touts a 26mm wide-angle lens, a 5x optical zoomer and ingrained HDR II technology that tosses a little pizazz on top of your otherwise ho hum photograph. There's also a smattering of "creative shooting modes" that you may or may not ever touch, though the 720p movie mode and ISO range that reaches to 6,400 should both prove quite useful. There's nary a word spoken on pricing, but something tells us it'll be situated halfway between dirt cheap and perfectly affordable.
Pentax K-r receives a rainbow paintjob, 35mm prime lens for limited edition kit
Do not adjust your browsers, that really is a Pentax product adorned with a generous helping of the three primary colors and a mech's head attached to its flash hotshoe. Why? In response to customer demand, of course. It'd seem people were so enamored with the way the K-x got abused restyled that they wanted more of that Korejanai magic, and Pentax is kindly obliging them with a limited run of 100 "robotized" K-r sets. The internal specs are unchanged from the original, but you do get a new 35mm prime lens with a wide F2.4 aperture to play with. Pre-orders costing ¥99,800 ($1,187) will start on December 24th for a delivery in early January. Yup, just in time for you to be the coolest blogger at CES.
