Today Pentax announces the Optio S1 digital compact camera, It features 14MP Sensor, 5X optical zoom lens (28-140mm), High Dynamic Range mode, Sensor-shift PENTAX Shake Reduction and 720p HD video capture.
Press Release
GOLDEN, CO (March 2, 2011) …PENTAX Imaging Company announced the PENTAX Optio S1 digital compact camera with advanced, easy-to-use features and an eye-catching, gem-like finish. Available in striking Chrome or a glossy Black or Green, the Optio S1 is a fashionable and elegant digital camera with an ultralight body featuring:
• A high resolution 14 megapixel sensor for exceptional image detail.
• Wide angle 5X optical zoom lens (28-140mm) for flexible image framing.
• Ample 2.7 inch LCD for easy capture and playback of images and video.
• Sensor-shift PENTAX Shake Reduction (SR) system for sharp low light and telephoto images.
• Widescreen 720p HD video capture.
• Powerful PENTAX Auto Picture mode for set-it-and-forget-it shooting convenience.
• Fast Face Detection, Smile Capture, and Blink Detection for perfect portraits.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode for outstanding detail in wide exposure images (new to PENTAX digital compact cameras).
• PENTAX infrared remote control (remote purchased separately).
With meticulous attention given to every design detail, the ultra-compact Optio S1 is the perfect choice for digital photographers who want a very capable, yet elegant and classy, digital camera.
PENTAX OPTIO S1 FACT SHEET Three Stylish Colors
The PENTAX Optio S1 aluminum alloy housing is available in three high-quality finishes including a mirror-finish Chrome, or a high gloss Black or Green. Each model features a color coordinated lens barrel and translucent control buttons, as well as laser-engraved logos and feature descriptions on the front panel. The meticulous design detail of the Optio S1 makes it a digital camera that doubles as a fashion accessory.
Versatile 5X optical zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle coverage
The ultra-compact Optio S1 features an 5X optical zoom lens covering focal lengths from 5mm to 25mm (equivalent in the 35mm format to approximately 28mm wide angle to 140mm telephoto) that may be used for a wide variety of subjects and scenes including landscapes, architecture, group portraits in confined spaces, and tightly cropped snapshots taken from a distance. An Intelligent Zoom function allows even tighter zooming in on the subject, extending the digital zoom range up to 33.5X with no loss of image fidelity.
Exceptional image quality
With exceptional image resolution of 14 effective megapixels and an advanced imaging engine with a high-performance PENTAX zoom lens and a mechanical Shake Reduction (SR) system, the Optio S1 delivers brilliant, high-quality images with well-defined details even when enlarged to poster size.
Triple Shake Reduction (SR) image stabilization technology to prevent image blur Sensor-shift SR
The Optio S1 offers and advanced sensor-shift SR mechanism for sharp, blur-free images even when shooting telephoto shots, sunsets or indoor scenes in incident light. The camera compensates for camera shake up to approximately three shutter steps. High-Sensitivity Digital SR*
The Optio S1 automatically raises the sensitivity as high as ISO 6400 for higher shutter speeds to minimize the adverse effects of camera shake and subject movement when shooting still images in low-light conditions.
* When the High-Sensitivity anti-shake mode is selected, the recorded size is fixed to 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
Movie SR*
During movie recording, the Optio S1 can prevent blurry images and annoying camera shake by using Movie Shake Reduction.
* When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting.
High-quality, widescreen HD movie recording with dedicated REC button
The Optio S1 captures detailed movie clips at 16:9 high-definition TV resolution (1280 x 720 pixels)* at a frame rate of approximately 30 frames per second. A new, dedicated Movie REC button positioned on the back panel initiates movie recording from any shooting mode without delay.
* When the Optio S1’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output at standard definition. If the user wishes to play back movie clips in high definition (1280 x 720 pixels), the data must be transferred to a personal computer for playback.
Advanced, user-friendly Auto Picture mode for hands-off selection of the best shooting mode
The Optio S1 features the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode that automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by accurately and instantly accessing all photographic conditions affecting the subject or scene. This set-it-and-forget-it mode detects 14 different subjects and scene types including people, landscape, blue sky, sunset, and more. The mode instantly optimizes all camera settings such as sensitivity and shutter speed for the quality images for the type of subject and scene identified.
Upgraded face detection for greater convenience
A new-generation Face Detection AF & AE function instantly and accurately detects the subject’s face in the image field and a Natural Skin mode reproduces natural, healthy skin texture.
Creative digital filters and tools
The Optio S1 offers nine digital filters, including Toy Camera and Retro, to add various creative visual effects to recorded images without a computer. A new Miniature filter converts any scene into an image full of miniatures, and an HDR filter (first ever on a PENTAX compact) produces images with outstanding exposure detail in wide exposure situations.
Additional features
• Wireless remote shooting using an optional PENTAX infrared remote control
• Large 2.7-inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots for easy viewing of images and menus
• In body recharge system for simple and convenient, cellphone-like battery recharging
• Compatibility with SDXC memory cards for recording of high-quality images over extended hours*
• Dynamic Range (D-Range) adjustment to prevent whitewashed (overexposed) and blacked-out (underexposed) areas in an image
• Image viewing, editing and filing software included: ArcSoft MediaImpression 3.0 for PENTAX (Windows version) and MediaImpression 2.1 for PENTAX (Macintosh version)
*UHS-speed-class data transmission not available.
TOKYO – Nikon Corporation’s D3100 digital-SLR camera, recipient of the iF Product Design Award 2011, is also a recipient of the iF Communication Design Award 2011. The iF Design Awards are globally prestigious awards sponsored by International Forum Design GmbH of Hanover Germany. As recipient of two prestigious iF awards in 2011, the Nikon D3100 has proven its superior design.
Nikon entered the D3100 in the iF Communication Design Award’s Product Interfaces category. The D3100’s GUI was designed for simple operation that can be quickly mastered by even first-time users of a digital-SLR camera, and its major feature is the Guide Mode menus that allow users to gradually increase their photographic knowledge and skill. The camera won the iF Communication Design Award based on the usability, look and feel, and uniqueness of its interface.
Six independent and equally important design awards, collectively known as the iF Design Awards, have been sponsored by International Forum Design(iF) based in Hanover Germany, since 1953. Each year, industrial products exhibiting superior design from around the world are selected as recipients of these prestigious awards, among them the Product Design Awards, Communication Design Awards and Packaging Awards. This year, 861 products from 27 countries were entered in the contest for the iF Communication Design Awards 2011. 231 products, including the D3100, received the award.
This year’s awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on March 18th (Friday) at BMW Welt in Munich.
Panasonic Europe announced a new series of pocket full HD Camcorder with the Waterproof HM-TA20 and the HM-TA2. Both models comes with a 4x Digital Zoom, 3”touch LCD and E.I.S or Electrical Image Stabilizer, record full HD video in MP4 and can be used as Web Camera.
The HM-TA20 comes with a more rugged body both Shockproof and Dustproof as well as being waterproof (3M max).
Press Release
Panasonic today announced the release of the tough designed new HD Mobile Camera HM-TA20. The TA20 features a triple tough design that is waterproof, shockproof and dustproof, and Night View mode for shooting in dim lighting. These features greatly expand shooting possibilities — for both movies and photos — and allow users to enjoy active movie shooting during all kinds of sports and recreational activities. In addition, a large 3.0-inch Touch LCD enables easy and intuitive operation anywhere and anytime. The TA20 features the MPEG-4 AVC file format (MP4), which is convenient for uploading and editing images with a PC or the Internet.
The TA20 includes an integrated USB terminal in its compact body. After editing images inside the camera, the user simply connects the camera to a PC and the built-in software launches automatically. This makes it easy to upload movies online, such as to Facebook or YouTube. The new model can also be used as a web camera.
Panasonic introduces the new HD Mobile Camera especially for use in active lifestyles, making it possible to capture Full-HD movies and high-resolution photos as you like.
Some of the other new features of the new HM-TA20 include:
Full-HD Shooting with a 3-Meter Waterproof, 1.5-Meter Shockproof and Dustproof Design
The TA20 can be used underwater at depths down to 3 meters. The TA20 is dustproof for use in sandy or dusty places, and shockproof against drops from up to 1.5 meters1 for active movie shooting fun in various situations. The TA20 features high picture quality with Full-HD recording in MP4 format making it ideal for clear, high-resolution viewing both on a large-screen TV and a PC.
1. This doesn’t guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.
Night View Mode for Bright Movie Shooting
When shooting in dim lighting, the TA20 will automatically prompt the use of Night View Mode. This new function enables shooting at a frame rate of 1/15 with a single operation, which makes it possible to shoot bright images even in dimly lit conditions, such as a birthday party scene where someone is blowing out candles or a party at night.
Large 3.0-inch LCD with Touch Operation
The TA20 features a large 3.0-inch LCD with Touch Operation providing smooth, intuitive operation for anyone. The Touch Operation controls not only essential operations such as play, record, stop and zoom, but also enables users to edit, upload and configure settings with one finger. By holding the camera horizontally, images that were taken can be immediately viewed on the large LCD screen.
Other features of the HM-TA20 include:
– Tripod stand included for self-portraits
– Shooting faraway subjects with 4x Digital Zoom
– 8-megapixel still picture recording
– Blur-free shooting with E.I.S (Electrical Image Stabilizer)2
– Automatic optimal settings with iA (Intelligent Auto) mode3/4
– Captures faces beautifully with Face Detection
– 1-button simple operation for easy recording
– Simultaneous linear PCM sound recording with still pictures
– Still image cut out from video clips5/6
– Three playback effects: sepia/monochrome/soft skin
– Use as webcam with Skype
– Direct connection to high-definition TVs with a single HDMI cable
In addition to the TA20, Panasonic will also introduce the TA2 HD Mobile Camera which features Night View Mode for Bright Movie Shooting, a larger 3.0-inch LCD with Touch Operation and a bundled tripod stand for self-portraits.
FUJIFILM Corporation (President and CEO: Shigetaka Komori) is pleased to announce the commercial release of the new FinePix X100, a high-grade digital camera featuring an APS-C CMOS sensor (12.3 megapixel), a Fujinon 23mm fixed focal length F2 lens and a newly developed Hybrid Viewfinder.
The development of the FinePix X100 was first announced at the Photokina Exhibition in Cologne, Germany in September 2010, where it received an enthusiastic welcome from both professional photographers and camera fans.
FinePix X100 – The Main Features
1. World’s First Hybrid Viewfinder
The true enjoyment of photography begins with “the pleasure of seeing the world through a viewfinder”. The new Hybrid Viewfinder has been developed to reintroduce users to this essential camera experience. It combines the window-type “bright frame” optical viewfinder found in rangefinder-type film cameras such as the classic 135-size or medium-format cameras, and the electronic viewfinder system incorporated in most compact or mirrorless digital cameras. By integrating a prism for the 1,440,000 dot LCD panel image on the viewing screen in the reverse-Galilean optical finder, the Hybrid Viewfinder can show both the shooting frame and a variety of shooting data. Of course, it can also be used as a high-quality electronic viewfinder to compose or playback shots. With this ability to instantly switch between optical and electronic viewfinder images with simple “one touch” control, the new Hybrid Viewfinder offers users expanded freedom in the composition and enjoyment of photography in a wide range of challenging shooting conditions.
The reverse Galilean optical finder with a 0.5x magnification features all-glass elements made from high-refractive index glass and demonstrates low chromatic aberration and distortion.
In optical viewfinder (OVF) mode, the brightness of both the “bright frame” and text data is automatically adjusted according to the brightness of scene area, ensuring that shooting information is always easily and clearly viewable. Also, the displayed shooting data is constantly updated according to changes in shutter speed, exposure, sensitivity and other settings, so that the user’s eye never has to leave the viewfinder.
In electronic viewfinder (EVF) mode, the photographer can preview the picture or playback the result with the “through the sensor” image review and high-resolution 1,440,000-dot quality. With a flick of the one-touch lever, the user can switch to EVF to preview and confirm exposure settings, depth-of-field, and white balance – an especially useful capability when shooting macro shots and other scenes that are hard to confirm with only an optical viewfinder.
2. High-performance 23mm F2 Fujinon Lens
23mm (135 equivalent: 35mm) F2 lens. 8 elements in 6 groups. One aspherical glass molded lens .
The adoption of the non-collapsible lens structure with minimized lens length not only contributes to the compact size but also eliminates telescoping of the lens when the power is on. It’s ready to start shooting the moment the user turns it on.
Exploiting the merits of a fixed focal length lens, this lens delivers sharp resolution of the total image from the center to the corners. In addition, the lens features not only the large F2 aperture value, but also an optical architecture that maintains a high degree of resolution even when closed by 1 to 2 stops.
The adoption of a 9-blade aperture diaphragm combined with the large F2 aperture and high-quality optics lets users take photos with a beautiful circular soft out-of-focus (bokeh) effect.
Macro shooting as close as 10 cm lets users explore the fun and fascination of close-up photography.
The built-in ND filter (equivalent f-stop reduction of 3) can be switched ON / OFF via simple in-camera settings.
The FinePix X100 features a custom CMOS high-performance sensor, internally optimized and developed exclusively for this model.
Optimization of the angle-of-incidence in conjunction with the specially developed lens maximizes light gathering efficiency extending to the perimeter of the sensor for a sharper image with exceptional clarity.
When shooting HD movies, the combination of the large-sized sensor and the large aperture F2 lens, lets users shoot a soft out-of-focus touch (bokeh) – a capability not available in conventional compact cameras.
The ideal combination of a fixed focal length lens, high-sensitivity sensor (approx. 10 times the sensitivity of a conventional compact*) and a high-performance image processor captures exceptionally high-quality images from low sensitivity to high sensitivity. In standard form, the planned ISO range is from 200 to 6400, but this can be expanded to include 100 and 12800.
The newly developed EXR Processor takes EXR processing to new heights. Combined with the high-sensitivity sensor, the EXR Processor achieves the highest resolution, sensitivity and dynamic range ever produced by a FinePix camera for the ultimate in image quality every single shot.
The high-speed CMOS sensor read-out and the EXR Processor’s enhanced focusing system contributes to the high-speed AF performance, while the combination of the optical viewfinder and extremely low shutter time lag enhance the pleasure of every shot.
*Compared with other FinePix compact digital camera models.
4. Design
Beautiful, high-quality design inspired by the classic beauty and feel of traditional film cameras.
The top cover of the upper control deck and the bottom surface have been die-cast from magnesium alloy (semi-solid metal casting), contributing to a high-precision camera body.
All dials and rings are precision milled from metal. Adoption of traditional ‘manual’ dials lets the user confirm the position of the settings without turning on the power.
The ergonomics of the design offer the perfect balance between compact convenience and user-friendly functionality.
The camera controls have been carefully thought out to give the photographer simple and speedy access to aperture, shutter speed, exposure compensation etc. Allowing maximum creative expression with minimum hassle and enabling to view setting even when the power of the camera is turned off. Custom modes can also be used for a one-touch change in settings.
Premium quality is obvious in every detail. The chassis has been finished with high-quality leather-like accents and is a delight to use and a pleasure to hold.
5. Original Image Quality Enhancement Functions
In addition to Fujifilm’s original Film Simulation Modes that give photos the distinctive look of Velvia, PROVIA and ASTIA color reversal film emulsions, X100 expands the scope of photo expression with Monochrome Mode that can be fine-tuned with R / Ye / G filter settings.
Separate adjustment of shadow tones and highlight tones lets users reproduce the rich tonality of high-contrast subjects.
Capturing the scene in RAW format is easy with just a press of the RAW Button on the back of the camera. Then whilst on the way to the next shooting location, users can use the built-in RAW Development function to “develop” the RAW data in-camera, and enjoy Fujifilm’s original “image creation” according to the camera’s image quality settings.
6. Diverse Functions Stimulate the Desire to Capture Every Moment
X100 offers users the choice between the 49-point auto EVF focus area or the 25-point OVF auto focus area as well as the selection of 5 different focus area sizes in EVF mode. Dependent on the needs of each scene, X100 offers easy “focusing by design”.
HD Movie lets users capture the action in 720p high-definition detail. Just like shooting still photos, users can shoot movies with aperture-priority AE and enjoy a soft, defocused background effect. Also the built-in HDMI port allows users to easily and directly connect X100 to high-definition TVs for showing stills and movies with plug-and-play ease.
With the built-in Motion Panorama function, it is easy to capture 180° and 120° panoramic photos. Later users can print the results as pin-sharp A3-size enlargements and share the enjoyment of high-quality panoramic photography.
X100 also features 4 types of bracketing functions: AE, ISO, Dynamic Range and Film Simulation. With one click of the shutter captures 3 bracketed images of the scene so the moment never escapes.
7. Premium Accessory Lineup
CASE
To perfectly compliment the look and premium quality feel of the X100 camera body, a retro leather “quick shot” case with matching strap has been designed which fits the X100 like a glove. Made out of luxurious leather it has been thought out with uncompromising attention to detail, ensuring the ultimate ease of use and practicality .
LENS HOOD and ADAPTER RING
Precision milled from metal, the lens hood and adapter ring will be available as a set. The adapter ring is also compatible with commercially sold 49mm filters.
TTL FLASH
EF-20 (Guide Number:20) and EF-42 (Guide Number:42) will be newly added to the TTL flash lineup.
– Web Upload & E-mail
(via Wi-Fi) Uploads photos & videos to Social Network Sites or send them to any email address immediately.
(Direct) Access to Picasa, Facebook, Photobucket, YouTube, Samsungimaging.com
– Remote Viewfinder
– AllShare
AllShare wireless connection to upload pictures or videos to your DLNA supported TV or PC.
– PC Auto Backup
Save contents to PC through Wi-Fi.
Buy Canon Lenses, Buy Music CD or Digital Camera at amazon it helps this site, and you do not pay anything extra, it is just a way to help support this site.
New Camera Website, we list all type of new camera information, price review and all type camera rumors, subscribe us or follow us via twitter or facebook.
Disclaimer: We have attempted to select useful information to include on New Camera, and to ensure that the resources we have included on the site -- as well as the way we have described them -- are accurate, fair, and balanced. However, we make no claims, warranties, or other representations concerning the accuracy, completeness, or utility of the information provided, or concerning the abilities or performance of the organizations, agencies, companies, and other resources presented through New Camera
PENTAX OPTIO S1 FACT SHEET
