Archive for September, 2006
Easy to use, easy to work, such a basic camera anyone could use it, its small, compact, stylish and hand and lives in a handbag easily, the downside is the shutter lag and the fancy you don’t have a viewfinder and have to rely on the large lcd screen at the rear, although this does have it’s advantages in lowlight, shooting in the bright sunshine can prove to be a bit of a problem. The overall picture quality is not as good as i would expect from this sort of camera! but then, maybe i expected a little to much for a small compact, but don’t be put off, overall a great compact for the money, would give it a 7 out of 10.
Review by DCRP
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 ($500) is an upgrade to the DMC-LX1 from last year (read our review). That camera was unique for its 16:9, “widescreen” CCD and 28 mm lens. On the LX2 Panasonic has added several new features, some good, some not-so-good. They include:
* 10.2 Megapixel widescreen CCD (versus 8.4 on the LX1)
* Widescreen 2.8″ LCD display (versus 2.5″, 4:3 LCD on the LX1)
* Uses new Venus III image processor (the LX1 used Venus II)
* ISO can go up to 1600 (3200 in high sensitivity mode) compared to 400 on the LX1
* Higher resolution movie mode (1280 x 720 vs 848 x 480)
* Improved battery life (300 vs 240 shots)
* Adds 13MB of built-in memory (in lieu of a bundled memory card)
* Support for SDHC memory cardsSome features that haven’t changed include the wide-angle 28 - 112 mm lens, optical image stabilizer, full manual controls, and support for the RAW image format.
Review by dpreview.com
Panasonic today introduced the Lumix DMC-LX2, successor to the DMC-LX1, which has received high acclaim worldwide for its unique 16:9 wide CCD, plentiful functions, and smart design. The DMC-LX2 inherits the f/2.8 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 112mm on a 35mm film camera) and MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system in addition to an enhanced CCD capable of 10.2-megapixels and larger 2.8†16:9 wide LCD.
The DMC-LX2 is unique in that it incorporates triple-“wide†features of 28 mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 16:9 wide CCD and 16:9 wide LCD. Not only that, the LX2 is further distinguished from other cameras by its full manual controllability with a joystick allowing users to easily enjoy creative shooting. The DMC-LX2 also boasts Venus Engine III high performance image processing LSI to dramatically reduce the noise that challenged the predecessor, realizing image recording at max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution.
To fight against the major cause of blurred images, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S. system taking advantage of its superior lens technology to compensate for handshake – a feature which has long been incorporated into the LUMIX range of cameras. In addition, to also compensate for the other major cause of blurred images – movement of the subject – the LX2 is also equipped with the world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. When set to the I.I.C., the Venus Engine III detects the subject’s movement and adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the subject movement and the light condition automatically. Panasonic’s excellent image stabilizing system allows users to take clear, crisp images in any situation automatically, leaving everything to the camera.
Review by LetsGoDigital
Panasonic Lumix DMC LX2 : Panasonic introduced the Panasonic Lumix DMC LX2, successor to the LX1, which has received high acclaim for its unique 16:9 wide CCD, plentiful functions, and smart design. The Panasonic LX2 inherits the f/2.8 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 112mm on a 35mm film camera) and MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) system in addition to an enhanced CCD capable of 10.2 Megapixels and larger 2.8 inch 16:9 wide LCD. The Panasonic DMC LX2 is unique in that it incorporates triple-“wide†features of 28 mm wide angle Leica DC lens, 16:9 wide CCD and 16:9 wide LCD. In addition, the Panasonic LX2 is capable of recording wide 16:9 high definition (1280 x 720) motion image at 15 fps.
Panasonic Lumix DMC LX2Panasonic Lumix LX2 - Venus engine
Not only that, the Panasonic Lumix LX2 digital compact camera is further distinguished from other cameras by its full manual controllability with a joystick allowing users to easily enjoy creative shooting. The Panasonic DMC LX2 compact camera also boasts Venus Engine III high performance image processing LSI to dramatically reduce the noise that challenged the predecessor, realizing image recording at max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution.
Compact / Small Digital camera - For Intermediate, Traveler users - 8.5 Megapixels - Zoom: 2 X Optical zoom - Zoom: 4 X Digital zoom - Storage SD/MMC Card - 1.8 in LCD Screen - Built In Flash - Digital Format: AVI
Review by Trusted Reviews
As I mentioned in the review of the Caplio R1V a few weeks ago, Ricoh has recently launched a range of new cameras in an effort to regain something of the dominant market position it had in the late 1990s. At the top of its new range is this, the impressive 8.2 megapixel Caplio GX8. It is currently the most powerful compact digital camera we’ve seen, a full megapixel ahead of its nearest competition. At the time of this review, if you want more pixels than this you’ll have to buy a digital SLR costing over £3,000. Since the GX8 is available for £239.99 it has more shooting power per pound than pretty much anything else on the market.
The GX8 is a very high specification model, with a range of features designed to appeal to the creative photographer. Its key selling points, apart from its sheer pixel-power, are its 3x optical zoom, 28-85mm (35mm equivalent) lens and its high-speed performance. It is ready to take pictures in just 1.3 seconds from a cold start, and is equipped with a hybrid autofocus system that can lock onto a subject in one tenth of a second, virtually eliminating shutter lag. Its shot-to-shot times are equally impressive. In maximum resolution mode (3,264 x 2,448 pixels, fine mode) it can shoot at 1.7 second intervals until the memory card is full, and in high-speed burst mode it can shoot 16 frames in two seconds, displaying the results in a single image as a 4×4 grid - useful for analysing high-speed action such as sports performance. It also has a second burst mode that can capture three frames in a second. In 640 x 480 resolution mode it can keep this speed up until the card is full.
Review by Lets Go Digital
Ricoh Caplio GX8 digital camera review : More than a year ago Ricoh introduced the Ricoh Caplio GX, a five Megapixel camera with a number of unique features. Now Ricoh introduces the Ricoh GX8 as its successor; an almost similar camera but with no less than eight Megapixels. These 8.2 Megapixels make the Ricoh Caplio GX8 take the lead as far as number of pixels on digital compact cameras is concerned. Besides its high resolution, the camera has some additional interesting possibilities.
Ricoh Caplio camera - Optical zoom with wide angle
The zoom range on the Ricoh GX8 for example is especially interesting. I wouldn’t say it has a super broad optical range, because it has a three times optical zoom which is not that enhanced. However, it starts at 28mm (compared to a 35mm camera) and goes all the way up to about 85mm. This gives the Ricoh Caplio GX8 an extremely popular range. From a real wide angle to a fine telephoto. Most competitors offer a lot less wide angle. It makes the Ricoh Caplio GX8 an interesting camera for the street- or landscape photographer. Also the ISO sensitivity, which ranges up until ISO 1600, may be called exceptional on a digital compact camera like the Ricoh GX8.
Review by dpreview.com
Tokyo, Japan, 26th April 2005. Ricoh announces the Caplio GX8, an 8-megapixel successor to the popular Caplio GX. The GX8 Combines a 28mm wide-angle zoom digital camera with outstanding performance and expandability, all in a sleek and compact aluminum die-cast body featuring the signature rubber handgrip. In addition to offering lightning fast operation and astounding macro mode capabilities that have long distinguished Ricoh digital cameras, the Caplio GX8 boasts superb flexibility, connecting to a wide array of accessories and instruments, such as wide conversion lens, external shutter release, and even a telescope. With such a plethora of tools on board, the photographic possibilities are limitless.
Main Features
More Pixels
Equipped with a superb 8.24-megapixel (effective) CCD, the Caplio GX8 breaks new ground among compact digital cameras. All that power in a slim 29 mm package weighing a mere *205 grams. Those 8-megapixels deliver stunning clarity and resolution for prints up to A3 size, and Ricoh’s proprietary image processor ‘Smooth Imaging Engine’ ensures accurate colors, quick response and low noise levels.
* without battery, strap and SD Memory Card
Go Wide
A 28mm wide-angle zoom lens ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes or street shots complements the 8.24 megapixel CCD. Composed of 9 glass elements in 7 groups this lens delivers sharp, clear pictures without distortion or aberration even at wide-angle operations, as well as 12x zoom capability combining a 3x optical zoom with a 4x digital zoom to hone in on even the smallest detail of a distant object.
Description: This full-featured, solid and elegant compact camera combines a slew of advanced manual functions with the perfect compliment of easy, automatic options to deliver a superb performance day and night. From one-touch printing and 30 shooting modes to customizable settings and conversion lens/external flash compatibility, there’s a comfort level for just about anyone who picks it up. The wide conversion lens lets you include more in your picture by
decreasing the magnification of your subject by 0.7x. Telephoto conversion lens lets you increase the magnification of your subject by 1.7x in the telephoto position. Extend the flash range with the powerful external flash. From fast-paced sports to peaceful landscapes, there’s a scene mode for almost every occasion. Change the lens for a perspective or attach an external flash to literally lighten the mood. Everything looks bigger and better on the large 2.5″ color LCD. Faster start-up and shutter speeds are just two of the benefits or the exclusive TruePic TURBO image processor, which also smoothes individual pixels to contribute to finer quality images. Image quality is never an issue when you shoot with the same optic technology used in our professional-level digital SLRs. Taking great pictures is easy and printing them is just as simple with a direct USB cable connection from the SP-350 to a printer and a one-touch EasyPrintbutton on the back of the camera.
Review by PC World
A low price, long battery life, and top-notch image quality are the best attributes of this small advanced camera.
The 8-megapixel Olympus SP-350 is inexpensive for an advanced camera, yet it offers top-notch image quality. Its tiny, closely packed buttons, however, make the SP-350 most suitable for users who want the option of working with manual controls but don’t plan to use them regularly.
In our lab tests, the SP-350 earned our top rating (Superior) for overall image quality. It also received very high marks for color and exposure accuracy, outscoring some significantly more-expensive models. Informal images I shot in macro mode were impressively sharp. Sometimes, however, the camera was a little slow to zoom, focus, and display images on its 2.5-inch LCD. The SP-350’s CRV3 battery excelled in our battery life test, continuing to power the camera when we reached the test’s 500-shot maximum.
Review by Steves Digicams
For 2005 Olympus has announced a new SP-series of digital cameras, the 7.0-megapixel SP-310 and the 8.0-megapixel SP-350 introduce specialized features that enable photographers of all skill levels to express their creative vision. Both cameras feature a new 3x optical zoom lens designed specifically for digital cameras that provides the equivalent of 38 to 114mm focal length with a Super Macro Mode that captures details from as close as 2 cm. They also offer the option of either manual settings for creative control or 30 selectable shooting modes, along with optional add-on accessory lenses, an optional underwater housing, and a large, easy-to-view 2.5-inch premium size LCD. The SP-350 has a hot shoe for external flashes, providing additional versatility when difficult lighting is an issue.
With the new SP-series cameras, Olympus returns to the traditional, compact appearance of its traditional range-finder cameras. At a compact size of just 3.9″ W x 2.6″ H x 1.4″ D and less than 7 ounces, it tucks away easily into a pocket or backpack. The addition of an ergonomic grip makes it easy to hold with one hand, for capturing those photo ops when you are, literally, on the run.
Review by Megapixel.net
The SP camera series is new for Olympus. So far 3 models exist: the SP-310, a 7.1 megapixel model; the SP-350, an 8-megapixel 3X zoom and the subject of this review; and the SP-500 UZ, a 6-megapixel 10X zoom camera, which will be reviewed in the coming weeks.
The rubber insert on the grip and the lens trim are both light grey, while the rest of the SP-350’s body is made of plastic with a flat black finish. The grip is comfortably shaped and provides a secure handhold on what is, after all, a small and light camera.
There are relatively few external controls, but these are well organized and easily manipulated as they are designed to be controlled with either the index or thumb.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T10 is a slim and stylish point-and-shoot digital camera (released on 01.08.06) equipped with 3x Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar® optical zoom lens with Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization . The camera featuring a 7.2 megapixels (CCD), a 2.5-inch LCD screen, and it’s running on a rechargeable NiMH batteries. The camera will be in August for about US $400 at sonystyle.com
Review by CNET
Years after the first Sony T-series hit the market, it’s still impossible to deny the cool factor of these little, silver snapshot cameras. This time, Sony serves up the 7.2-megapixel Cyber Shot DSC-T10, which lands between the 6-megapixel DSC-T9 and the 7.2-megapixel DSC-T30 in the company’s line. The DSC-T10 doesn’t sport the fancy plexiglass back panel or the 3-inch LCD of the T30, but it’s got most of that camera’s other features and a nice looking 2.5-inch LCD of its own. To keep things interesting, Sony has offered a choice of four colors for the T10: black, pink, silver, and white.
Except for its 7.2-megapixel CCD sensor, the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-T10 is extremely similar to the DSC-T9. A full-body-width sliding lens cover turns the camera on and off, and the back panel layout is essentially identical, with most of the control buttons gathered to the right of the 2.5-inch, 230,000-pixel LCD. One nice touch is that, when the lens cover is in the down position, a small vertical ridge provides a perfect grip for your middle finger. A tiny button to the right of the shutter controls the camera’s optical image stabilization, which Sony refers to as Super Steady Shot. We found that it’ll get you between one and two stops of leeway when shooting at slower shutter speeds. For example, we were able to shoot steady, crisp images at 1/20 second with stabilization on, in situations that would normally require a shutter speed of 1/60 second to prevent blur.
Review by dpreview.com
Sony is launching a new color strategy with the introduction of its seven-megapixel Cyber-shot® DSC-T10 digital still camera. Premiering this summer in pink, white, black and silver, the new model upholds the standard for slim and stylish design.
“The number of digital still cameras per household is steadily increasing, up to three or four, which suggests that people are buying cameras to fulfill different needs,†said Phil Lubell, director of marketing for digital still cameras and photo printers at Sony Electronics. “Our new model is so stylish that it can be viewed as a fashion accessory.â€
Not Just Another Pretty Face
The new T-series camera features double anti-blur protection to deliver great pictures, even in unfavorable lighting conditions, such as low-lit nightclubs or restaurants.
It incorporates Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization to reduce the chances of taking a blurry picture because of shaky hands. The camera automatically calculates the compensation needed to provide a clear, crisp image.
Review by Steves Digicams
Equipped with double anti-blur protection, the DSC-T10 is the great for capturing photos in low light situations. The T10 provides 7-megapixels of resolution for poster size prints as well as a Carl Zeiss “folded” 3x optical zoom, VGA sized MPEG movie recording, 58MB of internal memory and a huge 2.5-inch high-quality LCD display. With its Super Steady Shot® optical image stabilization and high-sensitivity mode button, in seconds you can reduce the chance of taking a blurry picture the very first time.
Adding to its already stylish and sleek design, Sony is launching a new color strategy with the Cyber-shot® DSC-T10. Users can choose from pink, white, black and silver.
The Super Steady Shot technology minimizes blur caused by shaky hands, while the high light sensitivity (up to ISO 1000) mode reduces blur by shooting at faster shutter speeds. There’s even added defense with Sony’s Clear RAWâ„¢ noise reduction system, which kicks in to counter picture noise associated with high-sensitivity shooting.
As with other T-series cameras, you simply slide the lens cover down and the camera is ready to capture images in seconds. Sony’s ultra-fast Real Imaging Processorâ„¢ circuitry increases the camera’s efficiency for quicker start-up, faster shot-to-shot times, higher-quality movie capture, and longer battery life. Its supplied InfoLithium® battery provides plenty of power - up to 250 shots per full charge.
Review by LetsGoDigital
Sony Cybershot T10 - Image stabilizer
The new Sony Cyber-shot DSC T10 digital compact camera features double anti-blur protection to deliver great pictures, even in unfavorable lighting conditions, such as low-lit nightclubs or restaurants. It incorporates Super Steady Shot optical image stabilization to reduce the chances of taking a blurry picture because of shaky hands. The Sony T10 camera automatically calculates the compensation needed to provide a clear, crisp image. Pre-orders will begin on Aug. 4 at the sonystyle.com website .
Sony T10 digital camera - Sensitiviy
The Sony Cybershot T10’s high light sensitivity, up to ISO 1000, minimizes blurriness when you need to shoot at faster shutter speeds because of low-light conditions or fast-moving subjects. By selecting the high sensitivity mode, you can shoot in available light for more natural exposure or in settings where flash is not permitted, such as museums.
For the best digital photos at the snap of a button, the Canon PowerShot S2 IS digital camera leads the digital photography field in features and performance. This Canon digital camera features a resolution of 5 megapixels, 12x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, and a 1.8†LCD display. With iSAPS technology to improve focus speed and accuracy and a DIGIC II image processor to improve processing speed, this digital camera promises the highest quality with the user-friendliest experience. With an image stabilizer, this digital camera produces clear, even images even in shaky conditions. Featuring MovieSnap, this Canon PowerShot lets users record movies with ease. Offering automatic and manual settings, this Canon digital camera proves perfect for beginners or advanced photographers. The Canon PowerShot S2 IS digital camera promises crystal clear images and optimized settings for every digital photography environment.
Review by CNET
The successor to the image-stabilized S1 IS has more than just a slightly expanded waistline. The Canon PowerShot S2 IS boasts an upgrade to a 5-megapixel sensor (from 3.2), a 12X zoom lens (up from 10X), and a 1.8-inch LCD (vs. 1.5 inches). A Digic II processor and a high-speed USB connection speed things up. Add a full complement of manual controls, as well as high-quality video with stereo sound, and the S2 IS is sure to find its way into the hands of photo enthusiasts who want to shoot long and print big.
Review by DCRP
Last year’s PowerShot S1 IS was one of the most popular ultra zoom cameras on the market. It was one of the first “hybrid” cameras to successfully combine the best features from digital cameras and camcorders. Earlier this year Canon introduced its replacement — the PowerShot S2 IS ($499). The S2 isn’t just a higher resolution sensor in the same old body — you get a whole lot more. Some of the new features on the S2 include:
* 5 Megapixel CCD (versus 3.2 on the S1)
* 12X optical zoom lens (versus 10X)
* DIGIC II image processor, which gives the S2 its robust performance
* Larger LCD display (1.8″ versus 1.5″)
* Stereo sound recording
* New “Night Display” feature brightens the LCD and EVF in low light
* More movie mode options: wind filter, selectable sound quality and mic level
* My Colors feature lets you highlight and even swap colors right on the camera
* Uses Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (instead of CompactFlash)
* USB 2.0 High Speed support
The S2 keeps all of the S1’s trademark features including optical image stabilization, a rotating LCD, an excellent movie mode, full manual controls, and support for conversion lenses.
Review by dpreview.com
Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 22 April, 2005. Canon, a leader in photographic and imaging technology, today releases the 12x optical zoom, 5.0 Megapixel PowerShot S2 IS. A convincing blend of versatility with power, this worthy successor to the PowerShot S1 IS features optical Image Stabilizer technology, outstanding optics and 30 fps digital video camera quality extended video recording of up to 60 minutes* with stereo sound.
Powered by the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon’s pro-series D-SLR cameras, the PowerShot S2 IS features super-responsive 2.4 fps shooting, start up times and auto focus speeds almost twice as quick as that of its predecessor, 18 shooting modes and shutter speeds to 1/3,200 of a second. The processor even makes it possible to capture a maximum resolution digital still whilst shooting video. As well as giving camera performance a real boost, DIGIC II also improves colour rendition and white balance accuracy, as well as speeding up playback review and scrolling. A USB 2.0 Hi-speed interface is provided for super quick image and video transfers.
Review by Megapixel.net
The Canon PowerShot S2 IS takes the PowerShot S1 concept we examined precisely 1 year ago, and moves it to its next evolutionary level.
The S2 continues the use of an Electronic Viewfinder (EVF), but boosts the image stabilized Ultrasonic zoom lens to a 12X power and increases the CCD resolution from 3 to 5 megapixel.
While the body design of the S2 follows that of the S1, a close look at the PowerShot S2 IS’ s exterior reveals a few differences. Some of these are a reflection of enhancements made to the camera’s performance, while others improve its ergonomics.
The LUMIX DMC-FZ50 with MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) features a powerful 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC lens. It also boasts a 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD for its image sensor and Venus Engine III for the image processing LSI, making it possible to record an image at a maximum ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution. Furthermore, by dramatically reducing noise levels, the DMC-FZ50 is able to capture 10.1-megapixel full resolution images even in high sensitivity recordings.
Review by dpreview.com
Announced bang on schedule exactly a year after the camera it replaces, the FZ50 is the new flagship in Panasonic’s big-zoom Lumix range, upping the image size to a class-leading 10.2 megapixels and adding a couple of welcome new features. Unlike the FZ30, which represented a leap forward in design and features over the FZ20 (and closed the gap between fixed lens and SLR cameras further than ever before), the new camera is a fairly minor upgrade. Then again, the FZ30 was hardly crying out for a massive overhaul; despite a wealth of ’super zoom’ competitors it really does sit in a class of its own, offering true SLR-like handling and operation and an amazingly versatile 35-420mm equivalent 12x optical zoom (with fluid-damped mechanical zoom mechanism). So let’s find out if the FZ50 is a worthy successor, and if it can overcome the few complaints we had, starting as usual with the headline features:
* 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD
* LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT 12x optical zoom (35-420mm equiv.)
* MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system
* Venus Engine III processor
* Full photographic control
* 2.0-inch flip-out 207k high resolution LCD
* High resolution electronic viewfinder
* Fast startup and operation
* TTL Flash hot-shoe
Review by LetsGoDigital
To fight against the major cause of blurred images, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S. system taking advantage of its superior lens technology to compensate for handshake - a feature which has long been incorporated into the Lumix range of cameras. In addition, to also compensate for the other major cause of blurred images, movement of the subject, the Panasonic FZ50 is also equipped with the world’s first Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) and max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity recording capabilities within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III.
Review by DigitalPhotographyBlogs
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 is a prosumer digital camera with a large 12x Optical Zoom lens, 10.2 megapixel image sensor (CCD), ISO of up to 1600 (using their new intelligent ISO control which detects movement in shots and beefs up the ISO rating automatically) and 16:9 VGA video.
The FZ50 also featres image stabilization, is claimed to have less noise than it’s predecessor (the FZ30) as a result of it’s Venus Engine III technology, a flip out 2.0 inch LCD and faster auto focus.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 will hit stores in September 2006 (no mention of price yet).
The Olympus Stylus 710 is another 7.1 megapixel CCD digital camera to be announced by Olympus today.
It features a 3x Optical Zoom, 2.5inch LCD, USB 2.0, PictBridge connectivity, some in camera editing and 19.1MB internal memory as well as a maximum ISO of 1600.
The Olympus Stylus 710 has ‘all weather’ durability and is compatible with the new PT-032 underwater housing which has been specifically designed for this digital camera.
Review by Steves Digicams
The all-weather Stylus 710 is a stylish and durable digital camera that delivers premium features, advanced performance and enhanced usability in a sleek, compact point-and-shoot body that’s less than one inch thick. The large 2.5-inch LCD and Bright Capture Technology dramatically improves composition, capture and review of images in low-light situations. The 3x optical zoom lens provides the equivalent of 37-111mm focal length in 35mm photography, and
a Super Macro Mode that captures details from as close as 3.2 inches.
Olympus’ exclusive TruePic TURBO™ Image Processor, coupled with a 7.1-megapixel image sensor, produces crisp, high quality photos. The fast startup of less than one second and nearly instant shutter release time ensures a high-speed response so you are always ready to take great pictures. The inclusion of 28 shooting modes offers versatility across a variety of shooting situations. And a built-in Help Guide provides on-the-fly instruction – a handy alternative to toting around a user manual.
Review by DCRP
The Stylus 710 ($349) is the latest addition to Olympus’ line of ultra-compact, weatherproof cameras. Being 0.8 inches thick, the 710 is the thinnest camera yet in the Stylus series. Other features on the camera include a 7.1 Megapixel CCD, 3X optical zoom lens, 2.5″ LCD display, high ISO capabilities, and a VGA movie mode.
Review by CNET
If you’ve ever sat through a graduation in the rain, you know that life’s memorable moments don’t wait for the sun. At times like that, a camera that can handle the elements sure comes in handy. Though the Olympus Stylus 710’s gasketed body fills the bill and its combination of ISO 1,600 support and digital image stabilization can handle any fog banks that roll in, you’ll likely be disappointed by the photos.
According to Olympus, the Stylus 710’s metal, vaguely wedge-shaped body is gold-plated and coated with a platinum alloy to produce an attractive, clean, scratch-resistant surface. The camera’s fairly standard control layout is easy to navigate. The shutter release and the power button rest alone on top of the camera. The back panel holds the zoom rocker; the four-way-plus-OK control pad; the mode dial; and the menu, print, display, and trash buttons.
Read full review here
Samsung introduces a 8.1 Megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical SHD lens to strengthen its digital success in the popular 8.1 Megapixel digital camera sector. The Samsung L85 is a portable compact digital camera that delivers an image resolution of 3264 x 2448 pixels.
Review by PC Magazine
One of the most consistent complaints I get from digital camera owners concerns missing crucial shots, whether it is a mom who can’t record her baby’s precious smile or a dad having a hard time capturing his son hitting a baseball. Most times, this happens because of shutter lag, the delay between when you press the shutter release button and the time the shutter actually opens. That’s also one reason I find the Samsung Digimax L85 compact digital camera so disappointing. My tests show it has the worst shutter lag of any camera I’ve tested to date.
Review by dpreview.com
The new Digimax L85, the latest addition to Samsung’s Prestige line of digital cameras, is the world’s first digital still camera to feature High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI). This revolutionary new feature allows L85 users to share their photos on a high definition television in their original quality. The eight-mega-pixel L85 also includes a world renowned Schneider Kreuznach 7.8 23.44mm lens with 5x optical zoom, a 2.5-inch LCD display (approximately 230K pixels) which provides the photographer with a wider viewing angle and a more vivid viewing display. The stylishly designed camera offers a comfortable grip, ergonomic design and a sleek black body with silver accents.
Review by LetsGoDigital
The Samsung Digimax L85 has Special Effect features that help take picture taking a stage further. The Special Effect features offered by the Samsung L85 are Highlight, Photo Frame and Composite shot. Besides the special features the Samsung Digimax L85 offers multipoint Auto focus with Auto macro and Super Macro function, 8x digital zoom, continue shooting at 2fps and 11 Scene programs to get control of every situation. At the upcoming PMA 2006 in Orlando Samsung will display their complete line of digital cameras.
Less than 0.8 inch thick, this versatile, compact digital camera is designed with the signature style and performance for which the Stylus line is renowned with the added benefits of Shock and Waterproof technology perfect for any situation, durable enough for shooting in any conditions. From hiking, surfing and skiing to parties and Little League games, the solid, shock-absorbing design combines with waterproof sealants to deliver clear, vibrant pictures of whatever, whenever, wherever.
Camera Specifications:
* 7.4 Megapixels
* 3 X Optical Zoom , 5 X Digital Zoom
* Compact / Small Digital Camera
* 2.5 in LCD Screen
* Built In Flash
Review by PC Magazine
When Pentax dove into the underwater point-and-shoot camera market last year with its nifty, but limited, Pentax OptioWP, I learned how much fun you could have taking underwater photos and videos. The ultracompact Olympus Stylus 720 SW builds on this notion and makes some important improvements. For example, the Stylus 720 SW is shock-resistant as well as being waterproof to a depth of 10 feet. (The Optio WP isn’t shockproof at all and is waterproof only down to about 5 feet.) Those improvements make this the perfect camera for the backyard pool or even a trip to the beach.
Very capable despite its rugged design, the 720 SW is a 7.1-megapixel point-and-shoot camera with 28 scene modes, a 2.5-inch LCD and 3X optical zoom with a 6.7mm-to-20.1mm range (which is equivalent to a 35mm lens with a 38mm-to-114mm zoom). The lens also has corresponding maximum f-stops of f/3.5 to f/5.
Review by Steves Digicams
The Stylus 720 SW can withstand a 5-foot drop, shoot under water up to 10 feet, and combines light, durable body construction and shock-absorbing materials throughout the interior. The stylish and compact Stylus 720 SW offers 7.1 megapixels of resolution, a 3x internal zooming lens, 2.5†LCD, Bright Capture Technology, Digital Image Stabilization Mode and much more. Designed for everyday use yet versatile and rugged enough to shoot on the mountain, at the game, at the party, on the beach or up to ten feet underwater.
The Stylus 720 SW is packed with a wealth of premium features such a large 2.5†LCD and Olympus’ exclusive Bright Capture Technology providing dramatically improved shooting in low-light conditions – indoor, sunset, night time, and underwater. The combination of Olympus’ TruePic TURBO Image Processor and the 7.1-megapixel image sensor capture crisp, high-quality images fast. And the 28 shooting modes – including Digital Image Stabilization Mode – offer maximum versatility for shooting in most any situation.
Review by dpreview.com
Designed to take the knocks, bumps and other trials of daily life with ease, the exceedingly tough Olympus µ (mju) 720 SW heralds a brand new era in digital photography. Waterproof to 3m* and resistant to falls from up to 1.5m*, this attractive yet incredibly robust camera can take pretty much anything life throws at it – whether that’s being showered with champers or dropped into a mountain stream.
And as the Olympus µ (mju) 720 SW has been blessed with a 7.1 million pixel CCD and
3 x optical zoom and Olympus’s BrightCapture Technology it can endure virtually any photographic demands asked of it as well. BrightCapture Technology uses all of the information from the CCD to make the 6.4cm LCD screen significantly brighter, and boosts the camera’s light sensitivity to reduce the need to use flash.
This metal-bodied camera is available in Dusky Pink, Polar Blue and Steel Silver. The Olympus µ (mju) 720 SW will retail for around £300 from all good camera shops and will be available from March – ready to be taken anywhere and put through anything.
Review by LetsGoDigital
Olympus Stylus 720 Digital Camera
According to Joshua Waller: “The camera is fairly quick to switch on and take photos, being ready in just under two seconds. Focusing seemed fairly quick (under 1 second in low light). The playback mode is a bit sluggish, with photos taking around one second or less before displaying when going from photo to photo, however the zoom is very quick. The Olympus Stylus 720 SW camera shutter response seemed very quick when pre-focused, with a response time of around 0.1 seconds.