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Canon outs new PowerShots: G11, S90, SX20 IS, SX120 IS, SD980 IS and SD940 IS
Looks like that PowerShot G11 we spotted this morning was indeed the real deal, and it's being followed by five other compatriots announced by Canon this fine morning. Starting with the big boy, you're looking at a 10 megapixel sensor, 2.8-inch vari-angle LCD, 5x optical zoom, RAW support, a hotshoe and an MSRP of $499.99 when it lands in October. Moving on, we've got the $429.99 PowerShot S90, an all-business point-and-shoot model with a 3-inch LCD, 10 megapixel sensor, DIGIC 4 processing engine, RAW support and a 3.8x optical zoomer. Moving right along, there's the SX20 IS megazoom ($399.99), which packs a 12.1 megapixel sensor, 720p (30fps) video mode, an HDMI output, 20x zoomer and a 2.5-inch vari-angle display. The SX120 IS is a simpler beast (albeit bulkier), sporting a 10 megapixel sensor, 3-inch LCD, 10x optical zoom and AA battery support for $249.99, while the $329.99 SD980 IS Digital ELPH snags a 12.1 megapixel sensor, 3-inch touchscreen, 720p movie mode, 5x optical zoom lens and four different colors (silver, blue, gold and purple). Finally, the $299.99 SD940 IS offers up most of the SD980's amenities save for the LCD and zoom, which is replaced by a non-touch 2.7-inch version and a 4x lens. The full specifications are there in the read link.
Canon PowerShot G11 leaks out, looks promising
Canon's PowerShot G10 has lived a long, fruitful life, but after being on the market for right around a year now, it's time for a proper successor to step in and take things over. The slick little bugger you see above purports to be that very device, with the predictably titled PowerShot G11 supposedly boasting a swiveling LCD, 10 megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom lens, optical image stabilization, SD / SDHC card slot and full manual controls with RAW support and a hotshoe. We're told that it'll be available this fall for an undisclosed sum, and we get the feeling this will all become a lot more official in a matter of days / hours / minutes.[Thanks, Reznov]
Casio's Exilim EX-Z450, EX-Z280 and EX-Z90 compacts invoke more Zzzs
The EX-Z450 above is Casio's new Exilim Zoom flagship model, but you'll be forgiven for confusing it for its predecessor the Z400. Their spec sheets are almost identical: both come with 4x optical zoom, 12 megapixel sensor, 720p / 24 fps video, and Exilim Engine 4.0 -- hell, even the max ISO setting is identical at 3200, and you can upgrade that 'for free' since nobody expects your highest settings to be usable anyway. What's new? An autofocus for the ages, apparently, as the sole difference is a new Intelligent AF feature that automatically adjusts focus and exposure for photographic subjects, human or otherwise. The Z90 shrinks those innards into a more portable package, but drops to 3x zoom in the process. The two cameras are expected in early October for $199 and $149, respectively. They'll be joined by the unpriced Z280 shooter that misses out on the auto-detect magic, but gains a wide-angle 26mm lens. Full frontal shots of each camera after the break. [Via Impress] Read - Exilim Zoom EX-Z450 Read - Exilim Zoom EX-Z280 Read - Exilim Zoom EX-Z90
DigiDude camera mount shows Joby what style's all about
Oh sure, Joby may have reinvented the camera mount with its now-iconic Gorillapod lineup, but we're giving DigiDude the edge on personality and pizazz. From the same Quirky Community that brought us the delightful Split Stick comes this, a zany new camera mount that's easily portable (via keyring, y'all) and even easier to love. Users simply yank their Dude's head off, tug on the retractable legs and find something of a surface to sit him on. At least initially, a fivesome of guys will be available, all of which pack more character that you're used to dealing with when it comes to camera accessories. Feel free to select from Pinky Scorsese, Snot Buster, iChomp, G-bling-Money-Son, and BoltBot, all of whom are available right now for $19.99 apiece. Full release is after the break.
Samsung crams WiFi, GPS and Bluetooth 2.0 into well-specced CL65 point-and-shoot
If you're anything like us (and let's face it, you're exactly like us), you've been counting down the nanoseconds until Samsung finally revealed what its 'Tap and Take' campaign was all about. This, folks, is it. As many of you sharp folks surmised, Samsung is delving deep into the intelligent camera arena, equipping its luscious CL65 (no, not that CL65) with a 12.2 megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, 720p (30fps) movie mode, an HDMI output, and a 3.5-inch touchscreen that utilizes a Smart Gesture user interface. Furthermore, the camera can access certain features when simply tilted, and the built-in Bluetooth 2.0 module enables users to easily share images with other BT-equipped devices. Considering that you're probably still not impressed, how's about a little more on the cutting-edge front? The point-and-shoot also includes WiFi (much like Sony's disappointing DSC-G3 and Panny's Lumix DMC-TZ50), giving users the ability to upload directly to Facebook, Picasa and YouTube. Unfortunately, all photos uploaded via WiFi will be reduced to a resolution of two megapixels, and while we understand the reasoning, we figure an option for full / reduced res would've been a much better compromise. At any rate, the device also includes DLNA support for streaming to HDTVs and the like, while the integrated GPS chip handles the geotagging. The cam, which is admittedly bursting at the seams with features, will land next month in the US for $399.99. Full release is after the break.
AgfaPhoto intros beginner-friendly Optima 1, 100 and 102 cameras
AgfaPhoto might want you to believe that its Optima range of cams is "perfect for the ambitious photographer," but in truth they're entry-level shooters with a slant toward helping the less technically gifted. The new cameras come with 28 automated functions, such as a 'beauty mode' that masks skin imperfections, and a quirky 1920 x 1080 picture format for making widescreen photos that match your 1080p display. The Optima 1 and 102 (pictured) share a 12 megapixel sensor, but diverge on optical zoom (5x versus 3x) and LCD size (2.7 inches versus 3 inches), while the 100 is essentially a 102 scaled down to 10 megapixels. Shaping up as a decent proposition for the often overlooked untrained photographer, the trio will be available in Europe come September at prices between €129 and €179 ($186-$258) [Warning: PDF read link].[Via ZDNet]
Pentax debuts waterproof Optio WS80 alongside P80 and E80 point-and-shoots
Not turned on by Pentax's recently released Optio W80? How's about a colorful variant for $50 less? This fine evening, the waterproof Optio WS80 is being unveiled alongside two other entirely less enchanting point-and-shoots. The $249.95 WS80 (shown above) looks about as natural as a waterproof camera can, arriving this September in "his-and-her designs" with a 10 megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, a sub-1-inch thick body, 2.7-inch LCD and the ability to withstand depths of up to five feet (lackluster, we know). Still, the ability to snag underwater video at 720p is a real boon, and there's even face detection, shake reduction and sensitivity modes as high as ISO 6400. As for the other guys, the Optio P80 gets things going with a 12.1 megapixel CCD, 2.7-inch LCD, 720p (30fps) movie mode, face detection, shake reduction, a 4x wide-angle optical zoom lens (equivalent to 27.5 - 110mm focal length) and support for AA batteries. It's expected to ship this September for $199.95 in black, pearl and mint hues. Finally, the low-end E80 is pretty much the same as the P80 save for its 10 megapixel sensor, 15fps 720p movie mode and 3x optical zoom lens with a focal length equivalent to 32 - 96mm. It should also ship in September for $129.95. Check the full releases and specification sheets after the break... if you dare.
Samsung's 'Tap and Take' teaser hints at revolutionary, unicorn-approved Smart Cameras
Samsung sure has been milking this whole "teaser" thing for all it's worth of late, with the newest mystery coming to us in the form of its fresh 'Tap and Take' campaign. From now until August 12th, users can give the read link a visit in order to ingest clues about the outfit's upcoming line of Smart Cameras. These wildly intelligent shooters will purportedly "transform the way consumers take pictures," and they just might provide each and every American with free health care, solve world hunger and put the mighty Hubble to shame. The whole thing will be revealed in full on August 13th, but for now, why not drop a comment below as to what you think will be so revolutionary about the forthcoming point-and-shoot range?[Via Korea Newswire]
Ask Engadget: Best starter DSLR?
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 Adam, who is finally looking to make the leap into the money pit known as "the DSLR world.""I'm pretty much a complete noob when it comes to camera stuff. My wife loves to take pictures, though. So much so that she literally wore out her first point and shoot camera, and the Kodak Z712 I bought for her less than two years ago is starting to act up as well. To compound the matter, we are expecting our first born sometime next year. I fear the Kodak just isn't going to cut it any longer. What would be the best starter DSLR to get? She hates missing photo opportunities due to camera 'lag' so speed would definitely be at the top of the list. Photo quality and features would be next. Price should be no more than $800 or so. Also, I'm not interested in video capabilities as I would probably get a dedicated device for that."Aw, we've got love for the noobs, Adam! With Nikon's D3000 just announced, we figured this was about as good a time as any to get an updated list of responses for this always-popular inquiry. Be sure to let him know if your entry-level DSLR is doing you right, and feel free to drop those congrats / condolences on the kid while you're at it.
Casio EX-H10 point-and-shoot (and its superzoom pedigree) get reviewed
We covered this cam's full spec last month, but to refresh your memory, the major attractions are its 720/24p video recording and 10x optical zoom. In fact, the Photography Blog crew, who have a review unit sprawled on their test bench, reckon the H10 is both the thinnest and lightest shooter to ever pack that kind of zooming prowess. They've compared it to the Panasonic DMC-TZ7, their reigning champ in the compact superzoom category, and -- well, you'll have to read the review to find out. The impressions we can share with you include excellent battery life and a useful Anti-Shake system on the upside, but also noise issues at relatively low ISO speeds and only average image quality on the downslope. Still, hit up the read link for a full rundown -- trust us, it's worth it for the cliffhanger ending.
Samsung PL70 and PL55 bring 12 megapixels to the unwashed masses
Promising to allow the differently rich consumer a chance to experience "the latest and most advanced digital imaging technology" (of 2008), Samsung has today announced two new entry-level cameras. While the headline features -- 12.2 megapixel sensor and 5x optical zoom -- are identical, the PL70 (SL720 here in the US) comes with a 3-inch LCD screen, 28mm wide-angle lens and an optical image stabilizer, whereas the PL55 (SL502 for us Yanks) makes do with 2.7-inches, 35mm and digital image stabilization. The senior model also records video at 720p ( 640 x 480 for the PL55) and boasts the nifty ability to search images by a person's face. The usual scene, face, smile and blink detection is available on both cameras, while pricing is set at $229.99 and $149.99, respectively, for the August-bound shooters.
Sony readying CyberShot DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 cameras?
It was only a few months ago that we were fielding rumors about Sony's CyberShot DSC-HX1, and now we're struggling to keep our credit card at bay each time we waltz by one in the local camera shop. Today, Sony Insider has pointed out that the outfit may be readying a new duo to complement the megazoom: the DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1. If the latest whispers prove legitimate, the TX1 will boast a 10 megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, 3-inch LCD, 720p movie mode and a price tag somewhere south of $400. The WX1 should check in as a lower-end model with 10 megapixels, a 5x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD and the same 720p movie mode; why exactly it'll be cheaper we're not sure, but that's the good word at the moment. E-tailer Provantage already has listings for both cameras up, so it seems as if it's just a matter of time before Sony confirms all the good news.[Via Sony Insider]
Olympus E-P1 hands-on, test shots, and mini-review
It goes without saying that we've been pretty excited about the Olympus E-P1 (or "digital Pen") since we first laid eyes on the prototype the company was showing off. The Micro Four Thirds camera just seems to breed gadget lust amongst the staff, combining the best of modern tech with a throwback retro style that is somewhat irresistible. Of course, no one wants to drop $800 on a digicam unless it's actually capable of taking a decent shot -- so we thought we'd put the E-P1 through some basic paces to see if this guy is worth unloading nearly a grand on. Read on for some of our first impressions and observations.
Canon PowerShot D10 review
For the longest while, your options were highly limited in the waterproof / rugged point-and-shoot arena. In fact, it was arguably better to just buy a standard P&S camera and a waterproof casing for said camera than to worry over any of the standalone waterproof alternatives. When Canon introduced its PowerShot D10 earlier this year, we immediately noticed that this waterproof shooter was quite unlike the models before it. Outside of a somewhat bulbous casing, it didn't look drastically different than some of the thicker, non-waterproof options out there. Not to mention the respectable 12.1 megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom and ten meter waterproof rating. Needless to say, we couldn't resist the opportunity to grab this bugger and test it out for a week along the shores of Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica and Lago Cocibolca in Nicaragua, so follow us past the break to find out if this cam is the perfect accessory for your upcoming beach holiday.
Pentax's Optio W80 point-and-shoot shrugs off water, haters
While Canon's PowerShot D10 has been hogging the spotlight in the waterproof point-and-shoot arena, Pentax is dropping in a formidable opponent this evening with the Optio W80. Said shooter measures in at just one inch thick and features a 12.1 megapixel sensor, a 5x internal optical zoom, a wide-angle 28mm lens and a SuperProtect coating that helps repel water, grime and finger marks from the len's crystal cover. The chassis is built to handle submersion in water up to 16 feet deep, not to mention extreme cold, dust and drops of one meter or less. There's also a 2.5-inch rear LCD, a 720p movie mode, face detection and shake reduction. It's slated to ship next month for $299.95; now you've just got to decide between Cardinal Red, Azure Blue and Gunmetal Gray. Tough call, right? The full release is just past the break.
How would you change Canon's T1i DSLR?
Last week all the Nikon fanboys supporters were out in full-force critiquing the D5000, so we couldn't let another week slip by without giving Canon advocates (and haters, we don't discriminate) a similar chance with the T1i. Hitting the market at just about the same time, this well-specced entry-level DSLR packed a few niceties than alternative units simply did not: 1080p video, a 15.1 megapixel sensor and a price tag below $1,000. That said, there are still some areas that we reckon Canon could've improved upon, and if you feel the same way, we'd love to hear about it. Are you kosher with the 20fps 1080p mode? Is the image quality up to snuff? How's that stock lens treating you? Cut loose, won'tcha?
How would you change Nikon's D5000 DSLR?
Nikon's newest entry-level DSLR -- the D5000 -- has been out and about for just over a month now, which means it's just about time that we checked in with the early adoption crowd to see what kind of vibes are emanating. As Nikon's first DSLR with an articulating display, this one drew all sorts of attention for its unorthodox design. During our time with it, we found the display to be more of a gimmick than an aid in most scenarios, but we're interested to see if you agree / disagree. Has the D5000 lived up to your dreams? Are you stoked on the image quality? Have any quirks kept you up at night? Spill it all in comments below, we're all friends here.
Engadget Labs: The best point-and-shoot camera for under $400
The summer looms, and so too does the summer vacation season. Despite the economy there are visions of great trips brewing in the backs of peoples' minds, visions that will soon turn into (hopefully) great memories -- and (hopefully) great pictures. Some folks wouldn't dream of going on those trips without an SLR slung 'round their neck or hanging at the hip, but then there are plenty of others who'd much prefer something a little more pocketable. Even for aspiring photographers there are times when lugging around five pounds of glass just isn't going to work. There are dozens and dozens of cameras intended for casual shooters all the time or serious shooters some of the time, with models suitable for pockets of every shape and size -- and for wallets of equally varying dimensions. So, let's take a look at some of this summer's greatest, and see which comes out ahead, shall we?
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GH1 produces sample shots and videos galore
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GH1 has already shown off its visual prowess a time or two before, but the eagle-eyed photogs over at DPReview have finally hosted up a cornucopia of sample shots and videos for those still unsure if a Micro Four Thirds camera is right for them. And hey, even those cats obviously understand a little tongue-in-cheek humor, wouldn't you say? Tap the read link for the full array of goods.
Ask Engadget: Best small camera (with good video) under $600?
We know, you were hoping to just glance over today's hottest articles in the world of consumer electronics, and along comes this: something that actually asks a little of you. Trust us, it'll be alright, and hey -- after you've replied, you can send in a question of your own to ask at engadget dawt com. "The family and I are headed to Walt Disney World in June for the first time. I have a Canon Digital Rebel and a Canon GL1, but really do not want to haul either or both of them to the Magic Kingdom with us. So, the question is: what is the best camera that does great stills and video and is super small? Under 600 bones preferably. Thanks!" No Rich, thank you for making us all envious. Be sure to take the advice that'll surely flow in comments below and send us picture postcards while waiting in line to ride the Tower of Terror for the forty-third time. (Seriously, do not miss Tower of Terror.)
