DC | Digital Camera

Nikon D3X DSLR 24.5 MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 03:15:00 +0000

Nikon D3X DSLR 24.5 MP

Price (Amazon.com)

Specifications

Effective pixels
24.5 million

Image sensor
CMOS sensor, 35.9 x 24.0 mm; Nikon FX format; total pixels: 25.72 million

Image size (pixels)

FX format (36 x 24): 6,048 x 4,032 [L], 4,544 x 3,024 [M], 3,024 x 2,016 [S]
DX format (24 x 16): 3,968 x 2,640 [L], 2,976 x 1,976 [M], 1,984 x 1,320 [S]
5:4 (30 x 24): 5,056 x 4,032 [L], 3,792 x 3,024 [M], 2,528 x 2,016 [S]

Sensitivity
ISO 100 to 1600 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV; can be set to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 EV (ISO 50 equivalent) below ISO 100, or to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, or 2 EV (ISO 6400 equivalent) over ISO 1600

Storage media
CompactFlash (Type I/II, compliant with UDMA); Microdrives

Monitor
3-in., approx. 920k-dot (VGA), 170-degree wide-viewing-angle, 100% frame coverage, low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with brightness adjustment

Exposure metering

TTL full-aperture exposure metering using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor
1) 3D Color Matrix Metering II (type G and D lenses); Color Matrix Metering II (other CPU lenses); Color Matrix Metering (non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data)
2) Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 8-, 15- or 20-mm circle in center of frame, or weighting based on average of entire frame
3) Spot: Meters 4-mm circle (about 1.5% of frame) centered on selected focus area (on center focus area when non-CPU lens is used)

Exposure modes

1) Programmed Auto (P) with flexible program,
2) Shutter-Priority Auto (S),
3) Aperture-Priority Auto (A),
4) Manual (M)

Interface
Hi-speed USB

Power sources
One Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a/EL4, Quick Charger MH-22/MH-21, AC Adapter EH-6 (optional)

Dimensions (W x H x D)
Approx. 159.5 x 157 x 87.5 mm (6.3 x 6.2 x 3.4 in.)

Weight (without battery, memory card, body cap)
Approx. 1,220 g (2 lb. 11 oz.)

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Canon EOS 5D Mark II DSLR 21.1 MP

DC Digital Camera (Main Page)

Canon EOS 5D Mark II DSLR 21.1 MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 15:11:00 +0000

Canon EOS 5D Mark II DSLR 21.1 MP

Price (Amazon.com)

The EOS 5D Mark II has a stunning 21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with DIGIC 4 Image Processor, a vast ISO Range of 100-6400 (expandable to ISO L: 50, H1: 12800 and H2: 25600), plus EOS technologies like Auto Lighting Optimizer and Peripheral Illumination Correction. It supports Live View shooting, Live View HD videos, and more. It can shoot up to 3.9 fps, has 9 AF points plus 6 AF assist points, a new 98% coverage viewfinder, a 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (920,000 dots/VGA) and a rugged build.

Type

Type: Digital, single-lens reflex, AF/AE camera
Recording Media: CF Card Type I and II, UDMA-compliant CF cards, via external media (USB v.2.0 hard drive, via optional Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E4A)
Image Sensor Size: 36.0mm x 24.0mm (35mm Full-frame)
Compatible Lenses: Canon EF lenses
Lens Mount: Canon EF mount

Image Sensor

Type: High-sensitivity, high-resolution, large single-plate CMOS sensor
Pixels: Effective pixels: Approx. 21.1 megapixels
Total Pixels: Total pixels: Approx. 22.0 megapixels
Aspect Ratio: 3:2 (Horizontal: Vertical)
Color Filter System: RGB primary color filters
Low-pass Filter: Fixed position in front of the CMOS sensor
Dust Deletion feature:
(1) Automatic sensor cleaning
(2) Manual cleaning of sensor
(3) Dust Delete Data appended to the captured image

Recording System

Recording Format: Design rule for Camera File System 2.0
Image Type: Still: JPEG, RAW (14-bit, Canon original), sRAW1, sRAW2, RAW+JPEG
Video: MOV

File Size:
(1) Large/Fine: Approx. 6.1MB (5616 x 3744 pixels)
(2) Large/Nomal: Approx. 3.0MB (5616 x 3744 pixels)
(3) Medium/Fine: Approx. 3.6MB (4080 x 2720 pixels)
(4) Medium/Normal: Approx. 1.9MB (4080 x 2720 pixels)
(5) Small/Fine: Approx. 2.1MB (2784 x 1856 pixels)
(6) Small/Normal: Approx. 1.0MB (2784 x 1856 pixels)
(7) RAW: Approx. 25.8MB (5616 x 3744 pixels)
(8) sRAW 1: Approx. 14.8MB (3861 x 2574 pixels)
(9) sRAW 2: Approx. 10.8MB (2784 x 1856 pixels)
Exact file sizes depend on the subject, ISO speed, Picture Style, etc.

Recording Functions: With the WFT-E4A attached, image recording to the CF card and to the USB external media connected to the WFT-E4A will be possible as follows:
(1) Standard
(2) Automatic switching of recording media
(3) Separate recordings according to image-recording quality
(4) Recording images having the same size

Backup Recording: Enabled with WFT-E4A attached
File Numbering: Consecutive numbering, auto reset, manual reset.
Possible to create new folders and select folders in the CF card
RAW + JPEG Simultaneous Recording: Provided (RAW/sRAW+JPEG also possible)
Color Space: sRGB, Adobe RGB
Picture Style: Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful, Monochrome, User Def. 1-3

Image Processing

Type: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten Light, White Fluorescent Light, Flash, Custom, Color Temperature setting
Auto White Balance: Auto white balance with the image sensor
Color Temperature Compensation: White balance correction: ±9 stops in full-stop increments
White balance bracketing: ±3 stops in full-stop increments
Blue/amber direction or magenta/green direction possible
Color Temperature Information Transmission: Provided

Viewfinder

Type: Eye-level pentaprism
Coverage: Vertical/Horizontal approx. 98%
Magnification: Approx. 0.71x (-1m-1 with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint: Approx. 21mm (from eyepiece lens center)
Built-in Dioptric Adjustment: -3.0 to +1.0m-1 (diopter)
Focusing Screen: Interchangeable (Eg-D: Grid lines, Eg-S [point of Focus], Eg-A standard focusing screen provided
Mirror: Quick-return half mirror (transmission: reflection ratio of 40:60, no mirror cutoff with EF600mm f/4L IS USM or shorter lenses)
Viewfinder Information: AF information (AF points, focus confirmation light), Exposure information (shutter speed, aperture, ISO speed, AE lock, exposure level, spot metering circle), Flash information (flash ready, flash exposure compensation, High-speed sync, FE lock), Image information (Highlight tone priority, monochrome shooting, maximum burst, white balance correction, CF card information), battery information
Depth-of-Field Preview: Enabled with depth-of-field preview button

Autofocus

Type: TTL-CT-SIR AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF Points: 9 AF Points (1 Cross Type) + 6 AF Assist Points
Metering Range: EV -0.5-18 (at 73°F/23°C, ISO 100)
Focusing Modes: Auto, One-Shot AF, Predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF)
AF Point Selection: Automatic selection, manual selection
Selected AF Point Display: Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist Beam: When an external EOS-dedicated Speedlite is attached to the camera, the AF-assist beam from the Speedlite will be emitted when necessary.

Exposure Control
Metering Modes: 35-zone TTL full-aperture metering

Evaluative metering (linkable to any AF point)
Partial metering (approx. 8% of viewfinder at center)
Spot metering (approx. 3.5% of viewfinder at center)
Center-weighted average metering

Metering Range: EV 1-20 (at 73°F/23°C with EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100)
Exposure Control: Program AE (Shiftable), Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Creative Auto, Full auto, Manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash program AE
ISO Speed (Recommended Exposure Index): ISO 100-6400 (in 1/3-stop or 1-stop increments)
ISO 100-3200 set automatically
Extension settable (with C.Fn.I-3-1): ISO 50 (L), 12800 (H1), 25600 (H2)
High Tone Priority settable: ISO 200-6400
Exposure Compensation: Manual: ±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments (can be combined with AEB)
AE Lock: Auto: Applied in One-Shot AF mode with evaluative metering when focus is achieved
Manual: By AE lock button

Shutter

Type: Vertical-travel, mechanical, Electronically-controlled, focal-plane shutter
Shutter Speeds: 1/8000 to 1/60 sec., X-sync at 1/200 sec.
1/8000 to 30 sec., bulb (Total shutter speed range. Available range varies by shooting mode)
Shutter Release: Soft-touch electromagnetic release
Self-timer: 10-sec. or 2-sec. delay
Remote Control: Remote control with N3-type terminal. (Wireless remote controller RC-1/RC-5 can also be used.)

External Speedlite

Zooming to Match Focal Length: Provided
Compatible Flash: EX-series Speedlites
Flash Metering: E-TTL II autoflash
Flash Exposure Compensation: ±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments
FE Lock: Provided
External Flash Settings: Flash function settings, Flash C.Fn settings

Drive System

Drive Modes: Single, Continuous, and Self-timer (10-sec. or 2-sec. delay)
Continuous Shooting Speed: Max. 3.9 shots/sec.
Maximum Burst: JPEG (Large/Fine): approx. 78 (CF)/approx. 310 (UDMA CF)
RAW: approx. 13/approx. 14 (UDMA CF)
RAW+JPEG (Large/Fine): approx. 8 (CF/UDMA CF)
Based on Canon's testing standards with a 2GB CF card, continuous shooting, ISO 100 and Standard Picture Style
Varies depending on the subject, CF card brand, image-recording quality, ISO speed, drive mode, Picture Style, etc.

Live View Functions

Shooting Modes: Still photo shooting and video shooting
Focusing: Quick mode (Phase-difference detection)
Live mode/Face Detection Live mode (Contrast detection)
Manual focusing (5x/10x magnification possible)
Metering Modes: Evaluative metering with the image sensor (still photos)
Center-weighted average metering (video)
Metering Range: EV 0-20 (at 73°F/23°C with EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100)
Grid Display: Provided (Two-type grid displays)
Exposure Simulation: Provided
Silent Shooting: Provided (Mode 1 and 2)

LCD

Type: TFT color, liquid-crystal monitor
Monitor Size: 3.0 in.
Dots: Approx. 920,000 (VGA)
Coverage: Approx. 100% (viewing angle: approx. 170°)
Brightness Adjustment: Auto, 7 levels provided
Interface Languages: 25 (English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Greek, Russian, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Romanian, Ukraine, Turkish, Arabic, Thai, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese)

Image Playback

Display Format: Single image, Single image + Image-recording quality/shooting information, histogram, 4- or 9-image index, magnified view (approx. 1.5x-10x), rotated image (auto/manual), image jump (by 10/100 images, index screen, by shooting date, by folder), slide show (all images/selected by date/folder)
Highlight Warning: Provided (Overexposed highlights blink)

Image Protection and Erase

Protect: Single images can be erase-protected or not
Erase: Single image, check-marked images or all images in the CF card can be erased (except protected images)

Direct Printing

Compatible Printers: PictBridge-compatible printers
Printable Images: JPEG images compliant to Design rule for Camera File System (DPOF printing possible) and RAW/sRAW images captured with the EOS 5D Mark II
Easy Print feature: Provided

DPOF: Digital Print Order Format

DPOF: Version 1.1 compatible

Direct Image Transfer

Compatible Images: JPEG and RAW images
Only JPEG images can be transferred as wallpaper on the personal computer screen

Customization

Custom Functions: Total 25
Camera User Settings: Register under Mode Dial's C1, C2 and C3 positions
My Menu Registration: Provided

Interface

USB Terminal: For personal computer communication and direct printing (USB 2.0 Hi-Speed)
Video Out Terminal: (1) Video OUT terminal: NTSC/PAL selectable
(2) HDMI mini OUT terminal
Extension System Terminal: For connection to WFT-E4A

Power Source

Battery: One Battery Pack LP-E6
AC power can be supplied via AC Adapter Kit ACK-E6 with Battery Grip BG-E6 attached.
Battery Check: Auto
Power Saving: Provided. Power turns off after 1, 2, 4, 8, 15 or 30 min.
Date/Time Battery: One CR1616 lithium-ion battery
Start-up Time: Approx. 0.1 sec.

Dimensions and Weight

Dimensions (WxHxD): Approx. 6.0 x 4.5 x 3.0 in./152.0 x 113.5 x 75.0mm
Weight: Approx. 28.6 oz./810g (body only)

Operating Environment

Working Temperature Range: 32-104°F/0-40°C
Working Humidity Range: 85% or less

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Pentax K2000 DSLR 10.2 MP CCD

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 18:53:00 +0000

Pentax K2000 DSLR 10.2 MP CCD

Price (Amazon.com)

10.2 MP
10.2 megapixel CCD sensor offers superior image resolution with maximum control over noise.

Ultra-compact, lightweight design
One of the smallest and lightest available designs makes the K2000 perfect for spontaneity. Easy one-handed operation with a comfortable carrying weight makes transitioning from a point and shoot trouble-free.

Pentax Auto Picture
Expect the right exposures with the settings you want. Auto Picture mode automatically calculates photographic factors to pick the best picture mode, optimizing the camera settings for any situation.

Scene modes
Ten intuitive Scene modes offer point-and-shoot ease by further optimizing the camera for common situations and subjects.

2.7 inch LCD monitor
A 2.7 inch high-resolution, wide-view LCD monitor beautifully displays your pictures, and provides intuitive, easy-to-read menus.

Pentax-developed body-based Shake Reduction
With body-based Shake Reduction, the Pentax SLR system will stabilize your shots, providing maximum flexibility with no compromise in optical quality. It increases your handheld shooting shutter speed range by 2.5 to 4 stops for blur-free pictures, and is compatible with every Pentax lens ever produced.

Help Button
Leave the manual at home. The dedicated and reprogrammable Help Button on the K2000 is like having a built-in user’s guide. It clearly explains camera settings to ease the transition from compact photography to DSLR mastery.

Dust Alert function
Dust Reduction and Dust Alert features eliminate the need for time-consuming retouching by minimizing dust and determining if and where any dust remains after the system is activated.

Pentax Real IMage Engine (PRIME)
PRIME image processing engine maximizes image properties and allows custom adjustment of image parameters, such as truer color tones, a wider dynamic range, and natural-looking high ISO images.

Full backward lens compatibility
Pentax has manufactured over 25 million lenses in the last six decades; all DSLR bodies offer backward compatibility with every one. Whichever lens is used, whether a most recent lens or a classic screwmount, it will faithfully capture the image desired.

Custom IMage modes
Custom IMage modes, with six preset options, offer superior control of how the PRIME processor develops images, and can be further modified to meet your needs. Get beautifully processed images in any shooting condition.

AA battery compatibility
Approximately 1,650 images can be taken when using AA size lithium batteries due to their energy-saving design. (Four Energizer lithium batteries are included with each camera.) Plus, AA power can be found anywhere in the world.

Specifications

Sensor: Type - Interline interlace CCD with primary color filter and integrated Shake/Dust Reduction sensor movement system; Size - 23.5 x 15.7mm; Color depth - 8 bits/channel JPG, 12 bits/channel RAW; Effective pixels - 10.2 MP; Total pixels - 10.75 MP; Recorded resolutions - 10M (3872x2592), 6M (3008x2000), 2M (1824x1216); Quality levels: (Best), (Better), (Good); Dust Removal - Image sensor movement combined with SP coating

Lens Mount: Type/Construction - Pentax KAF2 bayonet stainless steel mount; Usable lenses - Pentax KAF3, KAF2, KAF, and KA (K mount, 35mm screwmount, 645/67 med format useable w/ adapter and/or restrictions); SDM function - YES; Power zoom function - n/a

Focus System: Type - TTL phase-matching 5 point wide autofocus system (SAFOX); Focus modes - AF Auto, AF Single (w/ focus lock), AF Continuous (available in Action mode including Auto Picture Action, Kids, Pet, Stage Lighting, and Night Snap modes, P/A/S/M/B/Sv), Manual; Focus point adjustment - Auto, Wide, Spot; AF assist - YES, via built-in flash

Viewfinder: Type - Penta-Mirror; Coverage (field of view) - Approx 96%; Magnification - Approx 0.85X (w/ 50mm f/1.4 at infinity); Standard focusing screen - Natural-Bright-Matte II; Diopter adjustment - -2.5 to 1.5; Depth of field preview - Digital (available as a custom function linked to Help button)

LCD Monitor: Type - 2.7” TFT color LCD monitor, adjustable brightness; Resolution - 230,000 dots; Wide angle viewable - YES

Built-in Flash: Type - Retractable P-TTL auto/manual popup flash; Guide number - 11 (100/m); Coverage - 28mm wide angle (equivalent to 35mm); Flash modes - On, off, redeye, wireless; Flash exposure compensation - -2 to 1 EV in 1/2 steps

External Flash: Type - Hot shoe (P-TTL, high speed sync available), wireless with Pentax dedicated flash; Synchronization speed - 1/180s

Storage Media: Internal memory - n/a; Removable memory: SD, SDHC

Interfaces: Ports - USB 2.0 hi-speed, video out; Video out - NTSC, PAL; Printer interfaces - PictBridge

Power Supply: Power source - 4 AA (lithium, NiMH rechargeable, alkaline); Recordable images - Approx N/A (lithium); Playback time - Approx N/A (lithium); AC adapter available - YES (optional)

Physical Specifications: Body dimensions (W x H x D) - 4.8 x 3.6 x 2.7”; Body weight, without battery or removable memory - 18.5 oz, Loaded and ready - 20.8 oz (lithium); Construction material(s) - Fiber reinforced plastic polymer covers around a rugged stainless steel chassis; Operating temperature - 32-104 degrees F

Language Support: English, French, German, Spanish, Swedish, Dutch, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Danish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, Japanese, Korean, Traditional/Simplified Chinese

Image Stabilization: Type - Body-based, sensor shift Shake Reduction (4 stops maximum)

Metering System: Type - TTL open aperture, 16 segment metering; Sensitivity range - EV 0-21 (ISO 100, 50mm f/1.4); Multi-segment - YES, 16 segments; Center weighted - YES; Spot - YES; Exposure compensation - +/- 2 EV (1/2 or 1/3 steps); Exposure lock - YES (available as a custom function linked to the help button); Exposure bracketing - YES, 3 frames, up to +/- 1.5 (1/2 steps) or +/- 1.0 (1/3 steps)

ISO Sensitivity: Auto - 100-3200 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps), up to 1600 ISO in Bulb mode; Manual - 100-3200 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps), up to 1600 ISO in Bulb mode

White Balance: Auto preset modes - Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Fluorescent (D, N, W), Tungsten, Flash; Manual mode(s) - YES; WB fine adjustment available

Shutter: Type - Electronically controlled, vertical run, focal plane shutter; Shutter speed - 1/4000 to 30 sec, bulb available

Capture Modes: Mode selection - Auto Picture (Portrait, Night Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action), Picture (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action, Night Scene Portrait, Standard Flash Off), Scene (Night Scene, Surf & Snow, Food, Sunset, Kids, Pet, Candlelight, Museum, Stage Lighting [2M JPG], Night Snap [2M JPG]), Program, Sensitivity Priority, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Metered Manual, Bulb (available in Metered Manual); Green simplified mode available - N/A; P/A/S/M/B - P, A, S, M (extended modes include Sv, Bulb available in Metered Manual); Date stamp - N/A; Digital filters (capture) - Toy Camera, High Contrast, Soft, Starburst, Retro, Color Extract (N/A). Custom Image Modes includes Bright, Natural, Portrait, Landscape, Vibrant, and Monochrome modes. Color Custom Image Modes include gamut radar and fine adjustment for saturation, hue, contrast, and sharpness. Monochrome Custom Image Mode includes adjustment for film filter effects (green, yellow, orange, red, magenta, blue, cyan, infrared), toning (sepia warm/cool), contrast, and sharpness (regular and fine adj scales).; Data record - Folder Name (standard, date)

Drive Modes: Mode selection - Single, Continuous (Hi, Lo), Self-Timer (12s, 2s), Remote (0s, 3s), Auto Bracket; Continuous FPS - 3.2 FPS (4 JPG and Continuous Hi, 4 RAW), 1.1 FPS (unlimited JPG and Continuous Lo, 4 RAW); Self-timer - YES (12s, 2s); Remote control - YES, infrared (0s, 3s)

Playback Modes: Mode selection - One shot, index (4, 9, or 16 thumbnails, select & delete available), magnification (quick zoom available), image comparison, image rotation, folder view, calendar, slideshow, histogram, bright/dark indication, resize, trimming, DPOF, digital filter, RAW to JPG; Magnification - Up to 16X, scrollable; Digital filters (playback) - Toy Camera, High Contrast, Soft (3), Starburst, Retro, Color Extract, Illustration (Pastel, Watercolor), HDR (3), B&W, Sepia, Color (18), Slim (+/- 8), Brightness (+/- 8), Custom

File Formats: Still - RAW PEF/DNG, JPG (EXIF 2.21), DCF 2.0 (design rule for camera file system), DPOF, Print Image Matching III

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Sony Alpha α DSLR-A200K 10.2 MP CCD

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:32:00 +0000

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A200K 10.2 MP CCD

Price

The Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A200 camera is positioned to carry a new generation of photographers into the creative world of DSLR performance.

10.2 MP CCD

Superb image quality gives you great DSLR shots right from the start, with a large APS-size CCD imager developed by Sony to expand dynamic range, minimize noise more effectively and provide greater detail for making big prints or cropping in tight on your subject.

Expanded ISO Sensitivity

Broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the Sony alpha DSLR-A200K to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light - with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.

Super SteadyShot in-camera Image Stabilization

A high-performance sensor detects vibrations and the image stabilization system automatically compensates. Because image stabilization is built into the α (alpha) DSLR-A200, every lens benefits - and with an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 stops, you can shoot effectively at higher shutter speeds even in very low light with minimum blur from shaky hands or fast-moving subjects.

Bionz Image Processor

The “brain” of the Sony α DSLR-A200 is the advanced Sony Bionz Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, improved white balance and exposure control, and expanded D-Range Optimizer capabilities. With 2-channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster.

Dynamic Range Optimizer

To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the α (alpha) DSLR-A200 provides Dynamic Range Optimizer at two levels: Normal DRO, to improve detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, or Advanced DRO, to adjust dynamic range area-by-area for the greatest precision.

Anti-Dust Technology

Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera - so to keep the CCD imager cleaner for better pictures, the α DSLR-A200 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.

Auto Pop-Up Flash

In Auto or some scene selection modes, the camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed to help you shoot more effectively. Flash is cancelled in Landscape, Sport or Sunset modes and in “Flash Off” position on the Exposure Mode dial.

Eye-Start Autofocus System

It begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye - so unlike some DSLR cameras that don’t start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A200 never slows down your ability to catch fast action.

9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor

A fast focus motor and improved focus control help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, with predictive focus control that automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject.

Flexible, Accurate Exposure Control

A 40-segment honeycomb sensing system provides multi-pattern measuring for superior exposure control accuracy - and you can also select center-weighted or spot metering modes. You’ll also have 6 preset White Balance control settings and RGB Histogram display to check color balance.

Scene Selection Modes

Along with auto exposure, the α (alpha) DSLR-A200 gives you scene selection modes to optimize camera performance for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations.

Creative Style Settings

To express your creativity and personal taste, you can adjust contrast, saturation and sharpness settings for any of 8 finishing styles - including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B & W and Adobe RGB modes.

2.7” Clear Photo LCD Screen

A large built-in screen with anti-reflective coating makes it easy to read camera setup menus even in bright sunlight and improves image quality when you check your shots.

Index and Slide Show Display

To quickly review your photos, the alpha DSLR-A200 can display 4, 9 or 25-frame index views - or present automatic slide shows with fade-in/fade-out effect.

Function Guide Display

On-screen menus are intuitive and easy to use - and a simple Camera Function Display can be activated and operated with one hand using the Fn (Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.

Continuous Burst Mode at 3 Frames Per Second

To capture action more effectively, the α (alpha) DSLR-A200 offers continuous JPEG shooting up to the limit of your flash memory card - plus RAW Burst Mode (up to 6 shots) with intelligent buffer management to allow more shots to be captured without waiting for the buffer to clear.

Stamina Battery Power

You can take up to 750 shots on a fully charged NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM battery - and you’ll be able to see about how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.

High-Capacity Media Options

For conveniently storing and sharing your images, the Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A200 accepts CompactFlash Type I/II media and Memory Stick PRO Duo media via an optional adaptor.

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Older Post:

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A700 12.24 MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 07:26:00 +0000

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A700 12.24 MP

Price

12.24 MP Exmor Imaging Sensor

A newly designed APS-C size CMOS imager with on-chip noise-canceling before and after A/D conversion provides over 12 million pixels, drawing out the full image description power of the Sony alpha DSLR-A700’s high-performance lenses and providing spectacular detail for making big prints. Advanced on-sensor A/D conversion yields rich tonal reproduction with high signal-to-noise ratio.

Professional Lenses and Accessories

The Sony DSLR-A700 accepts a superb array of precision optics, including new Sony wide-aperture zoom lenses that perform brilliantly over a broad range of focal lengths, Sony “G” Series lenses with advanced motorized autofocusing, amazingly bright Carl Zeiss T coated lenses, and over 16 million Minolta a-mount lenses sold worldwide - plus professional-quality flash units and system accessories to expand your creative horizons.

Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization

Built-in technology moves the image sensor in response to camera shake, enabling every lens to benefit from automatic blur reduction - and provides an advantage of up to 4.0 shutter speed steps to sharpen images in lower light, for hand-held shots that would normally require a tripod.

Bionz Image Processor

At the heart of the α (alpha) DSLR-A700 DSLR camera is the advanced Sony Bionz Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry that improves camera response time, screens out noise before RAW data conversion, handles Dynamic Range Optimization processing and prolongs battery life.

Dynamic Range Optimizer

To recover details in dark or bright areas of the picture, the α (alpha) DSLR-A700 provides multiple levels of Dynamic Range Optimization: Standard mode, to improve shadow detail using standard gamma curves; Advanced Auto mode, allowing you to select any of 5 DRO correction levels, or DRO Advanced Bracketing, that automatically takes three shots at different DRO levels with a single shutter press.

Continuous 5 Frames-Per-Second Advance at 12.24 MP

The high-speed processing power of its Bionz engine, a quick-response coreless motor to drive the shutter, and dual mirror stoppers to prevent mirror bounce - they all enable the α (alpha) DSLR-A700 to capture action more effectively at either 5 or 3 frames per second, even shooting at full 12.24 MP resolution. You can also shoot continuously to the limit of available memory in JPEG Fine and Standard modes.

Advanced Pentaprism Viewfinder

With a bright focusing matte, an optical glass prism and glass lenses that prevent ghosts inside the finder, the α (alpha) DSLR-A700’s viewfinder image makes it easier to see your subject, compose your shot and adjust focus manually.

Eye-Start Autofocus System

The α (alpha) DSLR-A700 begins its precision autofocus adjustments the moment you bring your eye to the viewfinder - so you’ll be ready to catch the perfect moment.

11-Point Center Dual Cross AF Sensor

A newly developed Sony AutoFocus system with a large f2.8 sensor improves your ability to frame the subject and capture moving subjects with greater focusing precision - and a focus drive clutch lets you switch seamlessly between auto and manual focusing by pressing a simple button.

Super-Accurate Exposure Control

A 40-segment honeycomb sensing system provides multi-pattern measuring for superior exposure control accuracy in a wide range of lighting conditions.

Simple Camera Control Menus

Even with all its high-tech features, the α (alpha) DSLR-A700 is amazingly simple to operate - and a quick press of the Function (Fn) button switches the LCD display from standard menu information to a new Quick Navigation screen for camera setup via joystick and forward-back controls. The menus are easy and intuitive - and memory function lets you save and recall personalized camera settings.

Creative Custom Settings

The α (alpha) DSLR-A700 is designed to bring out your creativity with a wide range of auto preference settings, including four basic image styles (Standard, Vivid, Neutral and Adobe RGB) and three style-box memory settings for quick setup in special events like weddings and competitive sports.

Easy-to-Use Exposure Mode Dial

The α (alpha) DSLR-A700’s top-mounted dial gives you quick access to Program Auto, Aperture priority, Shutter-speed priority, Manual and full Auto exposure setting modes - as well as six scene selection modes that optimize camera focus, exposure, brightness, contrast and other settings for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports Action, Sunset and Night View/Portrait scenes.

Quick Setting Recall

The “C” button allows you to make changes more quickly by calling up Creative Style settings, Exposure compensation, Flash compensation and many more operating modes and camera functions.

Stamina Power

To give you confidence for long shootng sessions in the field, the α (alpha) DSLR-A700 can take up to 650 shots on a fully charged NP-FM500H InfoLithium battery - with indication in percentage of about how much battery power remains.

Built-In Flash

The Sony DSLR-A700 flip-up flash covers a wide focal range, synchronizes at 1/250 sec., supports red-eye reduction and slow flash features as well as manual flash mode to set flash intensity. A wireless flash signal is available for external flash synchronization.

Anti-Dust Technology

Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera - so to help keep the CMOS imager cleaner for better pictures, the Sony alpha DSLR-A700 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the imager's filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the sensor to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.

Rugged Magnesium Alloy Body

The α (alpha) DSLR-A700 is built to very high standards of durability and performance - so you can shoot on location in difficult conditions with confidence that your equipment can handle the challenge.

Xtra Fine 3.0” LCD Screen with 921k Pixels

With almost 1 MP performance, it’s like having a high-resolution photo viewer built into your camera - and the α (alpha) DSLR-A700’s amazing photo-quality screen displays sharp, bright images even outdoors with a wide viewing angle so you can share photos more easily.

PhotoTV HD Viewing with HDMI Output

The α (alpha) DSLR-A700 provides direct HDMI output to your Bravia HDTV and other compatible HDTV screens, so you can view and share photos in breathtaking clarity and detail. You can choose between standard 3:2 and widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio - and with new Bravia HDTV models, photos are automatically optimized in sharpness, gradation and color reproduction for HD display.

Wireless Remote Control

For shooting as well as viewing convenience, Sony supplies a multi-function wireless remote control with the α (alpha) DSLR-A700 - allowing you to control HDTV photo viewing and trip the shutter by remote to put yourself in the picture.

Versatile Recording Formats

Images can be captured in RAW, cRAW (optimized for fast action), RAW+JPEG and three JPEG modes (Extra Fine, Fine and Standard), for greater versatility in every digital photo application.

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Older Post:

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A350 14.2 MP CCD

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 18:08:00 +0000

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A350 14.2 MP CCD

Price

14.2 MP CCD Resolution
The highest pixel resolution in its class (as of January 2008), for spectacular image detail for making big prints and tight crops. An advanced APS-size CCD imager developed by Sony expands dynamic range and minimizes noise more effectively for clear, sharp photos even at high sensitivity setting (up to ISO 3200).

Live Preview of Your Subject
The DSLR-A350’s Live Preview mode links you and your subject on a large 2.7” LCD screen, for a familiar point-and-shoot style -- with super-quick AF response and accurate exposure control to help you catch the perfect moment. In Live Preview mode, the camera bypasses the optical pentaprism mirror to create a live “eye-to-eye” view on the LCD of loved ones, children, pets and fast-changing scenes.

Tiltable 2.7” Clear Photo LCD Plus Screen
A large built-in screen with 2-way angle tilt provides a sharp, clear view of your subject and tilts up or down for low-angle or high-angle monitoring in situations where you want a child-level or overhead shot.

Continuous Shooting While Viewing
The DSLR-A350 lets you shoot continuously at up to 2 frames per second while you see your subject in the large 2.7" LCD viewfinder, so you never lose track of the action. In JPEG mode, you can shoot up to the limit of your flash memory card; in RAW Burst Mode you can capture up to 4 shots, with intelligent buffer management to allow more shots to be captured without waiting for the buffer to clear.

Smart Teleconverter 2X Zoom
At the touch of a button you can zoom in electronically on your subject, reproducing pixels on a 1:1 basis with no degradation in picture quality. One touch zooms in at 1.4X, the second touch advances to 2X zoom -- creating the 35mm equivalent of a 200mm telephoto effect with the DSLR-A350’s standard 18-70mm zoom lens.

Expanded ISO Sensitivity
A broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the DSLR-A350 to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light -- with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.

Super SteadyShot In-Camera Image Stabilization
Because image stabilization is built into the DSLR-A350, every lens benefits by an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 exposure steps. This allows you to shoot effectively with minimum blur even in low light without flash -- or adjust exposure control for smaller lens aperture to increase depth of field and bring both foreground and background into sharp focus.

Bionz Image Processor
The “brain” of the α (alpha) DSLR-A350 is the advanced Sony Bionz Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, improved white balance and exposure control, and expanded D-Range Optimizer capabilities. With 2-channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster.

1200-zone Evaluative Metering
Information from the image sensor dedicated to Live View is divided into 1200 zones of luminance and RGB color information. In addition D-Range Optimizer technology contributes to judge the scene and then determine the optimum exposure to reproduce images with a more natural look.

Dynamic Range Optimizer
To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the DSLR-A350 provides Dynamic Range Optimizer at two levels: Normal DRO, to improve detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, or Advanced DRO, to adjust dynamic range area-by-area for the greatest precision.

Anti-Dust Technology
Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera -- so to keep the CCD imager cleaner for better pictures, the DSLR-A350 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.

Auto Pop-Up Flash
The camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed, to help first-time DSLR photographers shoot more effectively. Auto Pop-up works in Auto mode and some scene selection modes; Flash is cancelled in Landscape, Sport or Sunset modes and in “Flash Off” position on the Exposure Mode dial.

Eye-Start Autofocus System
It begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye -- so unlike some DSLR cameras that don’t start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony DSLR-A350 never slows down your ability to catch fast action.

9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor
A fast focus motor and improved focus control help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, with predictive focus control that automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject.

Scene Selection Modes
Along with auto exposure, the DSLR-A350 gives you scene selection modes to optimize camera performance for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations.

Creative Style Settings
To express your creativity and personal taste, you can adjust contrast, saturation and sharpness settings for any of 8 finishing styles -- including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B & W and Adobe RGB modes.

Index and Slide Show Display
To quickly review your photos, the DSLR-A350 can display 4, 9 or 25-frame index views -- or present automatic slide shows with fade-in/fade-out effect.

High-Resolution Thumbnails for PhotoTV HD Viewing
The DSLR-A350 automatically creates high-resolution thumbnail images for viewing on Sony’s BRAVIA HDTV in optimized PhotoTV HD mode, with image format adjustable for standard 3:2 or widescreen 16:9 display.

Function Guide Display
On-screen menus are intuitive and easy to use -- and a simple Camera Function Display can be activated and operated with one hand using the “Fn“(Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.

Stamina Battery Power
In optical viewfinder mode, you can take up to 730 shots on a fully charged NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM battery -- and you’ll be able to see about how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.

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Older Post:

Sony Alpha DSLR-A900 24.6 MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 05:12:00 +0000

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A900 24.6 MP

Price

35mm full frame 24.6MP Exmor CMOS image sensor
The A900 features a 35mm full frame Exmor CMOS image sensor that is approximately 2.35x larger than the APS-C sized sensors found in many DSLR cameras. The result is a larger capture area, improved wide angle performance, and tighter depth of field control. In addition, its 24.6MP resolution maximizes the resolving power of your existing lenses and delivers sharper, higher contrast photos.

SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization
Building on years of expertise, Sony has developed the world’s first body-integrated image stabilization solution for a full frame DSLR. The SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilizer actually shifts the image sensor to compensate for camera shake without sacrificing image quality. The compensation effect is equal to as many as four shutter speed steps, giving you more creative freedom when shooting in low light. And, because it is integrated into the camera body, SteadyShot INSIDE technology works with all compatible α (alpha)system lenses.

Dual BIONZ processors for up to fast 5fps performance
The A900 harnesses the power of Dual BIONZ image processing engines to deliver true-to-life images with ultra-low noise and continuous shooting at up to 5 fps.

Ultra bright, 100% coverage glass pentaprism viewfinder
A large, ultra bright glass pentaprism viewfinder provides you with amazing clarity and high optical performance for tighter focus control. In addition, it offers viewfinder magnification of 0.74x, allowing you to see an image nearer to its actual size, as well as 100% field coverage for detailed framing work.

Intelligent Preview Function
The Intelligent Preview function allows you to see the effects of manual adjustments to exposure value, shutter speed, aperture, Dynamic Range Optimizer and White Balance before you take the shot, so you can determine the optimum settings before you take the shot, instead of losing time to trial-and-error.

3.0” Xtra Fine LCD (921K pixels)
Review your images in stunning detail on the 3.0” Xtra Fine LCD display (921k pixels). With photo-quality resolution of 270ppi(pixels per inch), you can identify any necessary focus or exposure corrections at the time of capture, rather than discovering them when you transfer your images to your PC.

PhotoTV HD viewing w/ HDMI output
The Sony A900 provides direct HDMI output to your BRAVIA HDTV and other compatible HDTV screens, so you can view and share photos in breathtaking clarity and detail3. Additionally, PhotoTV HD capable BRAVIA HDTVs will automatically optimize display settings, such as sharpness, gradation, and color to display your images in a way that more closely matches the natural look of printed photographs3.

Precise and fast 9-point AF system w/ 10 point assist
A high-performance autofocus system uses 9 focus points (center dual-cross type) and 10 assist points to deliver fast and precise focusing.

Flagship design
The A900 features an impressive design befitting a premium flagship model. The simple form eschews ornamentation and exudes competence, while the iconic pentaprism design element conveys superior optical performance. The A900 also incorporates a distinctive cinnabar-colored ring circling the lens mount – a design element shared across every α (alpha) DSLR camera.

Rugged magnesium alloy shell
The body of the A900 is entirely covered in a die-cast magnesium alloy shell, providing a rugged feel and surprisingly light weight.

Moisture/dust-resistant design
Sealed viewfinder optics and rubber gasket surrounds on all buttons, dials, and switches help resist the entry of dust and moisture into the camera, and allow for safe use in a wide range of environments.

Battery Performance
A supplied InfoLITHIUM lithium-ion battery provides long-lasting performance, allowing you to capture approximately 880 images on a single charge.

Durable Shutter Design
The shutter mechanism in the A900 is designed to achieve shutter speeds up to 1/8000 seconds and proven for 100,000 cycle operation.

Dual Card Slots
The Sony A900 features a dual card slots and accepts both CompactFlash and Memory Stick Duo Media (sold separately).

40-Segment Multi-Pattern Metering
A 40-segment multi-pattern metering system provides superior exposure control accuracy in a wide range of lighting conditions.

Dynamic Range Optimizer
To recover details in dark or bright areas of the image, the A900 provides multiple levels of Dynamic Range Optimization: Standard mode, to improve shadow detail using standard gamma curves; Advanced Auto mode, allowing you to select any of 5 DRO correction levels, or DRO Advanced Bracketing, which automatically takes three shots at different DRO levels with a single shutter press.

On-Chip Column A/D Conversion
Analog-to-digital signal conversion is performed by the full frame Exmor CMOS image sensor.

Dual Noise Reduction Processing
In addition to digitizing analog signals, the full frame Exmor CMOS image sensor also performs both analog and digital noise reduction. This on-chip dual noise reduction process aids in the high speed transfer of noiseless digital signals.

F2.8 Sensor
The autofocus system in the A900 features a highly accurate F2.8 sensor for improved focus precision when using lenses faster than F2.8.

Updated Image Data Converter SR3
Updated Image Data Converter SR3 software improves your workflow with faster RAW file processing and improved image correction.

APS-C Size Capturing
In addition to full frame image capture, the A900 can also crop images to the APS-C size format, allowing the use of lenses designed specifically for APS-C sized image sensors.

Viewfinder magnification of 0.74x
Viewfinder magnification of 0.74x lets you see your subjects nearer to actual size.

Eyepiece Shutter
The A900 includes a built-in eyepiece shutter which can be shut to help shield against entering light and prevent exposure errors.

AF Micro Adjustment
AF Micro Adjustment allows you to fine tune focus for various lenses6. The A900 can store adjusted focus values for up to thirty lenses.

Mirror Lockup Mode
Mirror Lockup Mode raises the main mirror before exposure to reduce vibration at shutter release, resulting in better performance during long exposure shots of fireworks, stars, etc.

2EV Exposure Bracketing (3 exposures)
The Sony DSLR A900 allows you to bracket up to three exposures in 2.0EV-step increments.

Rubberized Grip
Sony drew upon its extensive experience designing and building heavy professional broadcasting camcorders to develop a rubberized grip that allows you to hold the A900 with comfort and confidence.

Image Data Lightbox software
The Image Data Lightbox software included with your α (alpha) DSLR helps you browse, rate, and compare your images, making it easier to select your favorites for further processing.

Remote Camera Control
Remote Camera Control allows you to control your A900 from your PC.

Picture Motion Browser (PMB) Software
Sony Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software provides a simple and intuitive way to sort and archive your image collection, as well as perform common editing operations and output to data disc or the Web.

Convenient Button Placement
Concentrate on your shooting and make adjustments on the fly thanks to convenient button placement. The ISO and White Balance adjustment buttons are located on the top of the camera body near the shutter button for easy thumb operation.

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Older Post:

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A300K 10.2 MP CCD

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:24:00 +0000

Sony Alpha α DSLR-A300K 10.2 MP CCD

Price

For first-time DSLR users, Sony combines superb 10.2 MP quality, a high quality DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens, and Live Preview in a large tilting 2.7" LCD monitor for point-and-shoot simplicity. You'll have super-quick AF response, continuous shooting speed up to 3 fps with viewfinder and up to 2 fps in live view mode, plus high sensitivity (ISO 3200) for great low-light shots. What's more, you get simple controls, Creative Style settings and in-camera Super SteadyShot image stabilization that work with every Sony, Carl Zeiss and legacy Minolta a-mount lens. Stamina power for up to 730 shots, Auto Pop-up Flash and many more features make DSLR model an excellent choice for your favorite new hobby.

10.2 MP CCD
Superb image quality gives you great DSLR shots right from the start, with a large APS-size CCD imager developed by Sony to expand dynamic range, and minimize noise more effectively for clear, sharp photos even at high sensitivity setting (up to ISO 3200).

Live Preview of Your Subject
The DSLR-A300’s Live Preview mode links you and your subject on a large 2.7” LCD screen, for a familiar point-and-shoot style - with super-quick AF response and accurate exposure control to help you catch the perfect moment. In Live Preview mode, the camera bypasses the optical pentaprism mirror to create a live “eye-to-eye” view of loved ones, children, pets and fast-changing scenes.

Tiltable 2.7” Clear Photo LCD Plus Screen
A large built-in screen with 2-way angle tilt provides a sharp, clear view of your subject and tilts up or down for low-angle or high-angle monitoring in situations where you want a child-level or overhead shot.

Continuous Shooting While Viewing
The DSLR-A300 lets you shoot continuously at up to 3 frames per second while you see your subject in the viewfinder, so you never lose track of the action. In JPEG mode, you can shoot up to the limit of your flash memory card; in RAW Burst Mode you can capture up to 6 shots, with intelligent buffer management to allow more shots to be captured without waiting for the buffer to clear.

Smart Teleconverter 2X Zoom
At the touch of a button you can zoom in electronically on your subject, reproducing pixels on a 1:1 basis with no degradation in picture quality. One touch zooms in at 1.4X, the second touch advances to 2X zoom - creating the 35mm equivalent of a 200mm telephoto effect with the DSLR-A300’s standard 18-70mm zoom lens.

Expanded ISO Sensitivity
A broad sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 3200 enables the DSLR-A300 to capture beautiful color images even in very dim light - with High ISO Noise Reduction technology that reduces picture noise artifacts at high-sensitivity ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 settings by eliminating noise from RAW data after analog-to-digital conversion.

Super SteadyShot In-Camera Image Stabilization
Because image stabilization is built into the DSLR-A300, every lens benefits by an advantage of from 2.5 to 3.5 exposure steps. This allows you to shoot effectively with minimum blur even in low light without flash - or adjust exposure control for smaller lens aperture, to increase depth of field and bring both foreground and background into sharp focus.

Bionz Image Processor
The “brain” of the α (alpha) DSLR-A300 is the advanced Sony Bionz Image Processor, using hardware-based Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuitry to enhance images with rich tonal reproduction, improved white balance and exposure control, and expanded D-Range Optimizer capabilities. With 2-channel data transfer from CCD to processor, your camera can also respond faster.

1200-zone Evaluative Metering
Exposure information from the image sensor dedicated to Live View is divided into 1200 zones of luminance and RGB color information. In addition D-Range Optimizer technology contributes to judge the scene and then determine the optimum exposure to reproduce images with a more natural look.

Dynamic Range Optimizer
To improve results with backlit subjects and recover details hidden in shadows or lost in glare, the DSLR-A300 provides Dynamic Range Optimizer at two levels: Normal DRO, to improve detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time, or Advanced DRO, to adjust dynamic range area-by-area for the greatest precision.

Anti-Dust Technology
Changing lenses in a DSLR can allow dust to enter the camera - so to keep the CCD imager cleaner for better pictures, the DSLR-A300 utilizes both static-free anti-dust coating on the CCD filter and anti-dust vibration that automatically shakes the CCD to dislodge dust each time the camera is shut off.

Auto Pop-Up Flash
The camera flash automatically pops up and fires when needed, to help first-time DSLR photographers shoot more effectively. Auto Pop-up works in Auto mode and some scene selection modes; Flash is cancelled in Landscape, Sport or Sunset modes and in “Flash Off” position on the Exposure Mode dial.

Eye-Start Autofocus System
It begins precision autofocus adjustments the moment you raise the camera to your eye - so unlike some DSLR cameras that don’t start focusing until the shutter button is half-pressed, the Sony DSLR-A300 never slows down your ability to catch fast action.

9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor
A fast focus motor and improved focus control help bring images into sharp definition more quickly, with predictive focus control that automatically calculates the position of a fast-moving subject.

Scene Selection Modes
Along with auto exposure, the DSLR-A300 gives you scene selection modes to optimize camera performance for Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations.

Creative Style Settings
To express your creativity and personal taste, you can adjust contrast, saturation and sharpness settings for any of 8 finishing styles - including Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night View, Sunset, B & W and Adobe RGB modes.

Index and Slide Show Display
To quickly review your photos, the DSLR-A300 can display 4, 9 or 25-frame index views - or present automatic slide shows with fade-in/fade-out effect.

High-Resolution Thumbnails for PhotoTV HD Viewing
The DSLR-A300 automatically creates high-resolution thumbnail images for viewing on Sony’s BRAVIA HDTV in optimized PhotoTV HD mode, with image format adjustable for standard 3:2 or widescreen 16:9 display.

Function Guide Display
On-screen menus are intuitive and easy to use - and a simple Camera Function Display can be activated and operated with one hand using the “Fn” (Function) button and controller button to adjust Flash mode, Autofocus mode, White Balance, Metering mode, AF area and D-Range Optimizer.

Stamina Battery Power
In optical viewfinder mode, you can take up to 750 shots on a fully charged NP-FM500H InfoLITHIUM battery - and you’ll be able to see about how much power remains in percentage increments, so you can keep shooting in confidence.

High-Capacity Media Options
For conveniently storing and sharing your images, the α (alpha) DSLR-A300 accepts CompactFlash Type I/II media and Memory Stick PRO Duo media via an optional adapter.

Advanced Lenses and System Accessories
Sony’s α (alpha) system gives you everything you need to expand your creativity in DSLR photography: precision Sony DT zoom lenses and specialty lenses, Sony “G” Series lenses with advanced motorized autofocusing, amazingly bright Carl Zeiss lens designs, and professional-quality flash units.

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Older Post:

Sigma SD14 Digital SLR Camera 14MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 02:49:00 +0000

Sigma SD14 Digital SLR Camera 14MP

Sensor: Foveon X3 Pro 14M CMOS Image Sensor; 20.7 x 13.8 mm
Photodetectors: 14.1 million (2652 x 1768 x 3)
Effective pixel locations: 4.6 million (2640 x 1760)
Image sizes: 4608 x 3072 (Super High) - Interpolated; 2640 x 1760 (High); 1776 x 1184 (Medium); 1296 x 864 (Low)
Image formats: Foveon X3 RAW (.X3F, 12-bits per photodetector); JPEG (Fine, Normal, Baisc compression)
Lens mount: Sigma SA mount
Field of view crop: 1.7x
Autofocus: TTL phase detection, 5 area; operating range: 0 to 18 EV
Lens servo: Single Servo AF; continuous Servo AF with motion prediction function; Manual
Sensitivity: ISO 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 (extended mode)
Metering: 8-segment evaluative, center, center-weighted average
Metering range: 1 - 20 EV
Exposure mode: (P) Program AE, (A) Aperture-Priority Auto, (S) Shutter-Priority Auto, (M) Manual
Exposure compensation: +/-3 EV in 0.3 EV steps
AE lock: Dedicated AEL button
AE bracketing: Three images; compensation steps: 0.3 - 3.0 EV
Shutter type: Vertical travel metal focal plane shutter; electronically controlled through entire speed range
Shutter speed: 30 seconds to 1/4000 second, Bulb (up to 30 seconds)
Depth-of-field preview: Button, stops-down lens aperture
X-Sync shutter speed: Up to 1/180 second
Shooting modes: Single frame; continuous shooting; self-timer 10 seconds; self-timer 2 seconds
Continuous mode: High: 3 frames per second (fps) for 7 frames; Medium: 3 fps for 12 frames; Low: 3 fps for 24 frames
White balance: Auto, Sunlight, Shade, Overcast, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash, Custom
Sync contact: Hot-shoe, X-contact only (also has dedicated Sigma link contact)
Flash control: STTL automatic flash exposure; only Sigma EF-500 DG Super SA, EF-500 DG ST SA flash units
Built-in flash: Pop-up; Guide number 11; coverage approximately 17 millimeters
Viewfinder: Pentaprism viewfinder; eyepoint 18mm; magnification 0.9x; frame coverage 98%; diopter adjustment: -3 to +1.5 dpt
LCD monitor: 2.5-inch TFT LCD, 150,000 pixels, 100% frame coverage
Connectivity: USB 2.0, video out
Storage: CompactFlash Type I/II
Power: Lithium-Ion battery BP-21, AC adapter (optional)
Dimensions: 144 x 107 x 81 millimeters (5.7 x 4.2 x 3.2 inches)
Weight (without battery): 700 grams (1.5 pound)
What's in the box: Sigma SD14 digital SLR, Lithium-ion power battery BP-21, battery charger BC-21, USB cable, video cable, neck strap, eye cap, body cap, eyepiece cap, SIGMA Photo Pro 3.0 CD-rom, SD14 instruction manual

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Older Post:

Canon Rebel XT Digital SLR Camera 8MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 20:43:00 +0000

Canon Rebel XT Digital SLR Camera 8MP

Digital AF/AE SLR
Recording medium: CF card type I and II
Image format: 0.87 x 0.58 inches / 22.2 x 14.8 millimeters
Compatible Lenses: Canon EF lenses including EF-S lenses (focal length conversion factor: equivalent to approximately 1.6x indicated focal length compared to 35mm format)
Lens Mount: Canon EF mount
Image Sensor: High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate color CMOS sensor
Total pixels: Approximately 8.2 megapixels, 8.90 effective pixels
Aspect ratio: 2:3 (vertical:horizonrtal)
Color filter system: RGB primary color filter
Low-pass filter: Fixed position in front of the image sensor
Recording format: Design rule for camera file system JPEG and RAW 2.21 compliant
Image format: JPEG and RAW (CR2)
File size: JPEG: UP to approximately. 3.3 MB (3456 x 2304), RAW: approximately 8.3 MB (3456 x 2304)
Folders: Automatic setting
File numbering: Continuous numbering, auto reset
Image-processing parameters: Standard parameters plus up to three custom processing parameter sets and monochrome can be set
Interface: USB 2.0 hi-speed
White balance: Auto, preset (daylight, shade, cloudy/twilight/sunset, tungsten light, white fluorescent light, flash), manual (custom: read off photo quality gray card or white subject)
Viewfinder: Eye-level SLR (with fixed pentamirror)
Coverage: Approximately 95 percent vertically and horizontally (against JPEG Large)
Magnification: 0.8x (-1 diopter with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint: 21mm
Dioptric adjustment correction: minus 3.0 to 1.0 diopters
Focusing screen: Fixed
Mirror: Quick-return half mirror (Transmittance: reflection ratio of 40:60, no mirror cut-off with lenses up to EF 600 millimeters F4)
Viewfinder information: AF points, AE lock, FE lock, AEB in progress, flash ready, improper FE lock warning, high-speed sync, flash exposure compensation, red-eye reduction, shutter speed, bulb, FE lock, processing data, built-in flash recycling, aperture, exposure level display (exposure compensation, manual exposure level, AEB level, flash exposure compensation, red-eye reduction lamp on time display), max burst during continuous shooting, AF/MF focus confirmation, CF card full, CF card error, no CF card
Depth-of-field preview: Enabled with depth-of-field preview button
Eyepiece shutter: None (provided on strap)
Auto focus (AF): TTL-CT-SIR with AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF points: 7
AF working range: EV 0.5 - 18 (at ISO 100)
Focusing modes: One-Shot AF, predictive aI servo AF, AI focus AF (automatically selects one-shot AF or aI servo AF selected according to shooting mode), manual focusing (MF)
AF point selection: Automatic selection, manual selection
Selected AF point display: Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist beam: Intermittent firing of built-in flash, effective range: approximately 13.1 feet/4 meters at center, approximately 11.5 feet/3.5 meters at periphery
Metering modes: Maximum aperture TTL metering with 35-zone SPC. Evaluative metering, Partial metering at center (approximately 9 percent of viewfinder), center-weighted average metering
Metering range: EV 1 to 20 (at 68 degrees F/20 degrees C with 50 millimeter F1.4 lens at ISO 100)
Exposure control systems: Program AE (shiftable), shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, automatic depth-of field AE, full auto, programmed image control modes (portrait, landscape, close-up, sports, night portrait, flash off), E-TTL II autoflash program AE, and manual
ISO speed range: Equivalent to ISO 100 to 1600
Exposure compensation: Up to plus or minus 2 stops in 1/2 or 1/3-stop increments. Manual exposure compensation, AEB (auto exposure bracketing)
AE lock: Auto: operates in one-shot AF mode evaluative metering when focus is achieved; Manual: enabled with AE lock button (No AE lock in basic zone modes)
Shutter type: Vertical-travel, mechanical, focal-plane shutter with all speeds electronically-controlled
Shutter speeds: 1/4000 to 30 seconds in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments, bulb, X-Sync at 1/200 seconds
Shutter release: Soft-touch electromagnetic release
Noise reduction for long exposure: Set with C. Fn-02
Self-timer: 10 second delay
Remote control: Remote control with RS-60E3 terminal or wireless remote controllers RC-1/RC-5
Built-in flash: Auto pop-up, retractable, built-in flash in the pentaprism
Guide number: 13 (at ISO 100 in meters)
Recycling time: Approx. 3 seconds
Flash-ready indicator: Flash-ready indicator lights on in viewfinder
Flash coverage: Up to 17 millimeters focal length (equivalent to 27mm in 35mm format)
EOS external flash or dedicated speedlites: E-TTL II autoflash
Drive modes: Single, continuous, self-timer/remote control
Continuous shooting speed: Approximately 3.0 frames per second (with battery pack NB-2LH, at Tv=1/250 seconds for all recording qualities)
Maximum burst during continuous shooting: 14 shots (large/fine)
LCD monitor: TFT color LCD monitor
Screen monitor size: 1.8 inches
Pixels: Approximately 115,000 pixels (displayed pixels)
Brightness control: 5 levels settable with menu's LCD brightness
Image display format: Single image, 9-image index, magnified zoom, auto play, auto play right after shooting
Highlight alert: In the single image with information display mode, the highlighted portions containing no image information with blink
Image protection and erase: A single image can be protected or unprotected; A single image or all images stored in a CompactFlash card can be erased if they are unprotected
LCD monitor language: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Italian, Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Japanese
Battery: Battery pack NB-2LH (x1)
Dimensions (W x H x D): 4.98 x 3.71 x 2.63 inches / 126.5 x 94.2 x 64 millimeters
Weight: 17.1 ounces / 485 grams
Operating temperature: 32 to 104 degrees F / 0 to 40 degrees C; 85 percent or less humidity
Len (included): EF-S 18 to 55mm f3.5 to 5.6 USM
Focal length and maximum aperture: 18 to 55mm 1:3.5-5.6
Lens construction: 11 elements in 9 groups
Diagonal angle of view: 75 degrees 20 yards to 27 degrees 50 yards
Focus adjustment: Inner focusing system with Micro USM
Closest focusing distance: 0.28 meters / 0.92 feet to infinity
Zoom system: Rotating type
Filter size: 58mm
Maximum diameter x length, weight : 2.7 x 2.6 inches, 6.07 ounces / 69 x 66.2 millimeters, 190 grams

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Canon EOS 50D DSLR Camera 15.1MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 19:55:00 +0000

Canon EOS 50D DSLR Camera 15.1MP

Digital single-lens reflex AF/AE camera with built-in flash
Image sensor size: 22.3 x 14.9mm
Compatible lenses: Canon EF lenses (including EF-S lenses)
Lens mount: Canon EF
Sensor type: High-sensitivity, high-resolution, large single-plate CMOS sensor
Effective pixels: Approximately 15.10 megapixels
Total pixels: Approximately 15.5 megapixels
Aspect ratio: 3:2 (horizontal: vertical)
Color filter system: RGB primary color filters
Low-pass filter: Fixed position in front of CMOS sensor
Dust deletion feature: Yes
Recording format: Design rule for camera file system 2.0
Image type: JPEG, RAW (14-bit Canon original), sRAW, RAW+JPEG
File size: Large/fine: 5 MB (4752 x 3168); large/normal: 2.5 MB (4752 x 3168); medium/fine: 3 MB (3456 x 2304); medium/normal: 1.6 MB (3456 x 2304); small/fine: 1.7 MB (2352 x 1568); small/normal: 0.9 MB (2352 x 1568); RAW: 20.2 MB (4752 x 3168); RAW+large/fine: 20.2+5 MB (4752 x 3168); sRAW 1: 12.6 MB (3267 x 2178), sRAW 2: 9.2 MB (2376 x 1584); sRAW 2+large/fine: 9.2+5 MB (2376 x 1584)
Recording functions: With WFT-E3A attached, image recording to the WFT-E3A will be possible as follows: standard, automatic switching of recording media, separate recordings according to image-recording quality, recording images having the same size
Backup recording: Enabled with WFT-E3A attached
File numbering: Consecutive, auto reset, manual reset
Color space: sRGB, Adobe RGB
Picture style: Portrait, landscape, neutral, faithful, monochrome, user defined 1-3
Image processing type: Auto, daylight, shade, cloudy, tungsten light, white fluorescent light, flash, custom, color temperature setting
Auto white balance: Auto white balance with image sensor
Color temperature compensation: White balance correction: +/-9 stops in full-stop increments; white balance brackeing: +/-3 stops in full-stop increments
Viewfinder type: Eye-level pentaprism
Coverage: Approximately 0.95x (-1m with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint: Approximately 22mm
Focusing screen: Interchangeable (Ef-D: grid lines, EF-S: point of focus, EF-A: standard focusing screen)
Mirror: Quick-return half mirror
Depth-of-field preview: Yes
Autofocus type: TTL-CT-SIR AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF points: 9
Metering range: EV 0.5 to 18
Focusing modes: Auto, one-shot AF, predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, manual
AF point selection: Automatic, manual
Selected AF point display: Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist beam: Small series of flashes fired by built-in flash
Metering modes: 35-zone full-aperture metering: evaluative, partial (9 percent of viewfinder at center), spot (3.8 percent of viewfinder at center), center-weighted average
Metering range: EV 1-20
Exposure control: Program AE (shiftable), shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, depth-of-field AE, creative auto, full auto, programmed image control modes (portrait, landscape, close-up, sports, night portrait, flash off), manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash program AE
ISO speed: Automatically set: ISO 100 to 6400 (in 1/3-stop or 1-stop increments); basic zone modes: ISO 100 to 3200 set automatically; extension settable: ISO 12800; high-tone priority settable: ISO 200 to 1600
Exposure compensation: Manual: +/-3 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments
AE lock: Auto and manual
Shutter type: Veritcal travel, mechanical, electronically controlled focal-plane shutter
Shutter speeds: 1/8000 to 1/60 second, X-sync at 1/250 second; 1/8000 to 30 second, bulb
Shutter release: Soft-touch electromagnetic
Self timer: 10- or 2-second delay
Remote control: Yes, with N3-type terminal
Flash type: Retractable auto pop-up
Flash metering: E-TTL II autoflash
Recycling time: Approximately 3 seconds
Flash-ready indicator: Viewfinder icon
Flash coverage: 17mm lens angle of view
FE lock: Yes
Flash exposure compensation: Up to +/-2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments
Compatible flash: EX-series Speedlites
Drive modes: Single, high-speed continuous, low-speed continuous, and self-timer
Continuous shooting speed: 3 shots/second to 6.3 shots/second
Live View shooting modes: Live View, remote Live View (with a personal computer installed with EOS utility)
Live View focusing: Manual, autofocus
LCD monitor: 3-inch TFT color LCD
Resolution: Approximately 920,000 pixels
Coverage: Approximately 100 percent
Brightness adjustment: 7 levels
Interface languages: 25
Display format: Single image, single image + image-recording quality/shooting information, histogram, 4- or 9-image index, magnified view (approximately 1.5x to 10x), rotated image (auto/manual), image jump (by 10/100 images, index screen, by shooting date, by folder), slide show (all images/selected by date/folder)
Image protection: Yes
Erase: Single, check-marked images, or all (except protected images)
Compatible printers: PictBridge
Printable images: JPEG compliant to design rule for camera file system and RAW/sRAW images
Interface: USB 2.0, NTSC/PAL selectable, HDMI mini out
Battery: Rechargeable battery pack or AA alkaline batteries
AC adapter: ACK-E2 adapter kit sold separately)
Camera width: 5.7 inches
Camera height: 4.2 inches
Camera depth: 2.9 inches
Weight: 25.7 ounces (body only)
Warranty: 1 year

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Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4 Lens

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:12:00 +0000

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4 Lens

An essential tool with a focal length that closely replicates the visual perspective of the human eye when used with an FX-format D-SLR. Nikon’s optical expertise and modern technological advances, such as the Silent Wave Motor, help to deliver outstanding operation that is critical for Nikon FX and DX-format photographers who demand the pinnacle of photographic performance.

Ideal for travel, event, environmental and general photography in a wide variety of conditions, the new AF-S 50mm f/1.4 lens combines a superb optical formula with an ultra-fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, making it destined to become an instant classic in this digital age. This compact lens continues the tradition of NIKKOR precision optics to provide photographers with sharp, high-resolution images and the ability to focus as close as 1.5 feet for added versatility. The integration of an ultra-compact Silent Wave Motor ensures fast, whisper-quiet operation.

The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G teams perfectly with the low noise at high ISO sensitivity performance of Nikon D-SLRs such as the D3 and new D700 cameras. When used on a Nikon DX-format digital SLR camera, the new AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G provides an ideal portrait picture angle, approximating that of a 75mm lens in use on a FX-format D-SLR or 35mm SLR camera.

A newly developed optical formula effectively corrects sagittal coma flare and coma aberration, delivering astonishing image quality and allowing more users to realize their creative vision with vivid clarity. Instances of lens flare and chromatic aberration are further suppressed through the use of Nikon’s exclusive Super Integrated Coatings, which also help ensure vividly accurate color balance. The rounded diaphragm opening combined with the nine-blade aperture contributes to a substantially more natural appearance of out-of-focus background elements.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens is scheduled to be available at Nikon dealers beginning December 2008.

Nikon D90 DSLR Camera 12.3 MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:37:00 +0000

Nikon D90 DSLR Camera 12.3 MP

Details

Image sensor format: DX
Image sensor type: CMOS
Sensor size: 15.8 x 23.6mm
Total pixels: 12.9 MP
Effective pixels: 12.3 MP
Image area (DX format): Large: 4288 x 2848; medium: 3216 x 2136; small: 2144 x 1424
Top continuous shooting speed at full resolution: 4.5 frames per second
Continuous shooting options: CH: up to 4.5 frames per second; CL: up to 4 frames per second
LCD monitor size: 3 inches diagonal
LCD monitor type: Super density
Monitor resolution: 920,000 pixels
Angle of view: 170-degree wide viewing angle
Monitor adjustments: 7 brightness levels
Shutter type: Electronically controlled, vertical-travel focal plane
Slowest shutter speed: 30 seconds in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV
Fastest shutter speed: 1/4000 second in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV
Bulb shutter setting: Yes
Lowest standard ISO sensitivity: 200 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV
Highest standard ISO sensitivity: 3200 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV
Lowest expanded ISO sensitivity: Lo-1 (ISO 100 equivalent)
Highest expanded ISO sensitivity: Hi-1 (ISO 6400 equivalent)
Expanded ISO sensitivity options: Lo-1 (ISO 100 equivalent) in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV; Hi-1 (ISO 6400 equivalent) in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV
Storage media: SD, SDHC
Storage system: JPEG: JPEG-baseline compliant, can be selected from size priority and optimal quality; AVI
File system: Compliant with DCF 2.0, DPOF, Exif 2.21
Exposure modes: Programmed auto (P) with flexible program, shutter priority auto (S), aperture priority auto (A), manual (M), auto
Advanced scene modes: Portrait, landscape, close-up, sports, night portrait
Exposure metering system: 420-pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering II, center weighted, spot
Metering range: 1: 0 to 20 EV (matrix or center-weighted metering); 2: 2 to 20 EV (Spot metering, ISO 100 equivalent, f/1.4 lens)
Exposure meter coupling: CPU
Exposure compensation: +/-5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2, 1
Exposure lock: Yes
Exposure bracketing: Yes, 2 or 3 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1, or 2 EV
Shutter release modes: Single frame (S), continuous low speed (CL) at 1 to 4 frames per second, Live View (LV), self-timer, continuous high speed (CH) at 4.5 frames per second
Movie modes: HD 1280 x 720 at 24 fps, VGA 640 x 424 at 24 fps, QVGA 320 x 216 at 24 fps
White balance: Sun, shade, fluorescent, incandescent, flash, preset, fine tune by Kelvin color temperature setting, auto, auto (TTL white balance with 420-pixel RGB sensor), 7 manual modes with fine tuning
White balance bracketing: Yes, 2 or 3 exposures in increments of 1, 2, or 3
D-lighting bracketing: 2 exposures
Playback functions: Full frame, zoom, slideshow, pictmotion, histogram, shooting data, highlight point display, auto image rotation, sound playback, D-movie playback, thumbnail (4, 9, 72 segments), calendar
Interface: High-speed USB, NTSC, HDMI
Lens mount: Nikon F bayonet mount
Compatible lenses: DX AF Nikkor, D-G-type AF Nikkor, AF Nikkor, AL-P Nikkor, non-CPU AI Nikkor (supported functions may vary)
Picture angle: 1.5
Viewfinder frame coverage: Approximately 96 percent
Viewfinder eyepoint: 19.5
Reflex mirror: Quick-return type
Viewfinder magnification: Approximately 0.94x
Depth-of-field control: Yes
Autofocus system: Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus module with TTL phase detection, 11 focus points (including 1 cross-type sensor) and AF-assist illuminator (range of approximately 0.5 to 3 meters)
Focus modes: Single-servo AF (S), continuous-servo (C), manual (M) with electronic rangefinder, Live View autofocus (face priority, wide area, normal area)
Focus lock: Yes
Picture control: Standard, neutral, vivid, monochrome, 9 user-customizable settings, portrait, landscape
In-camera image editing: Trim, D-lighting, color balance, image overlay, filter effects, monochrome, color balance, NEF (RAW) processing, quick retouch, straighten, distortion control
Built-in flash: Yes
External flash shoe: Yes
Nikon Creative Lighting System compatibility: Yes
Flash sync speed: Up to 1/200
FP high-speed sync: Up to 1/4000
Flash sync modes: Front-curtain sync (normal), slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync
Accessory shoe: Yes
Self-timer: 2, 5, 10, 20 seconds
World time setting: Yes
Date, time, and daylight savings time settings: Yes
Battery type: Rechargeable lithium-ion
AC adapter: EH-5a
Battery charger: MH-18a
Image comment: Yes
Battery life: 850 shots (CIPA)
Tripod socket: 1/4-20
Supplied software: Software Suite CD-ROM
Supplied lens: AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
Focal length: 18 to 105mm
Zoom ratio: 5.8x
Maximum aperture: f/2.5 to f/5.6
Minimum aperture: f/22 to f/38
Autofocus: Yes
AF-S (silent wave motor): Yes
Compatible formats: DX, FX in DX crop mode
Vibration reduction: Yes
Distance information: Yes
ED glass elements: Yes
Super-integrated coating: Yes
Aspherical elements: Yes, 1
Manual/auto focus mode: Yes
Minimum focus distance: 1.48 feet
Maximum angle of view: 76 degrees
Minimum angle of view: 15 degrees at 20 feet
Lens elements: 15
Lens groups: 11
Maximum reproduction ratio: 1:5
Mount type: Nikon F-Bayonet
Filter type: 67mm screw on
Lens attachment size: 67mm
Lens dimensions: 3 inches in diameter, 3.5 inches long
Camera width: 5.2 inches
Camera height: 4.1 inches
Camera depth: 3.0 inches
Weight: 22 ounces (camera), 14.8 ounces (lens)
Warranty: 1 year

Filters Improve Your Digital Photographs

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:23:00 +0000

Filters Improve Your Digital Photographs
by Stan Pontiere

If you look around at photographers today, you will notice that almost none of them are using filters. There is an exception to this, however, if you are watching a professional photographer at work, there is rarely a time when he is not using a filter on his camera. Filters are one of the easiest ways to improve your digital photographs.

I am not telling you that you should go out and buy $200 in filters that you will probably never use. But, there are three filters that are really a must have in your gadget bag. They are a UV1, UVA, and a polarizing filter. They are both inexpensive and will add an extra dimension to your digital photographs.

The UV1 filter is primarily used to filter out excess ultraviolet light. It is ultraviolet light that is the primary cause of that bluish cast that you get in your scenic photographs. By adding a UV1 filter to your camera when taking scenic photos, you will eliminate or nearly eliminate that bluish haze that ruins so many photographs.

The second filter that you should carry is a UVA filter. This filter is also used to reduce ultraviolet light but it also has a slight warming effect. In both daylight and flash pictures, you may notice that skin tones often have a slightly bluish cast. As a UVA filter has a slight warming effect, it will very effectively give you much more natural skin tones. You may occasionally want to also use this filter in place of a UV1 filter in your scenic photographs.

The polarizing filter is the real star of these three filters. Many photographers call it their "National Geographic" filter. If you have ever worn polarizing sunglasses, you have probably marveled at how rich the colors are when wearing them. Polarizing filters and sunglasses work by eliminating diffuse reflections thereby allowing the full rich natural colors to come through. If you pick up a old copy of National Geographic, you are almost always amazed at the rich blue skies and bright fluffy clouds in their photographs. That rich blue comes from the use of the polarizing filter. By eliminating the diffuse reflections in the sky, the rich natural blue of the sky creates a dramatic photograph. One note of caution, because of the nature of polarized light, your automatic exposure setting might be incorrect. To overcome this, you might have to use manual exposure settings or EV value correction. The nice thing about a digital camera, is that you will be able to review your shot and make the necessary corrections immediately.

Filters are both inexpensive and take up very little room and the resultant improvement in your digital photos make it well worth the investment. You probably won't find filters at the bit-box stores but, any good camera shop will have a wide selection. By the way, while your at the camera shop, pick up a good lens cleaning kit. Handkerchiefs and tissues paper will ultimately ruin your lens. Each time you use them, it produces minor scratches on your lens and degrades the quality of your image.

Photography: Monochrome With Photoshop

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:35:00 +0000

Photography: Monochrome With Photoshop
by David Bigwood

As a freelance I have to capture the images that magazines want and 99 plus% want everything in glorious colour. So, as I no longer have a darkroom, the only way for me to satisfy my craving for black and white is to convert suitable colour images to monochrome using my trusty computer.

Grayscale Mode
The simplest and quickest way was how I started and that was just to change the mode in Photoshop from RGB to Grayscale. I opened the picture, went to 'Image' in the Menu Bar and selected 'Mode' then selected 'Grayscale' from the drop down menu. This brought up a dialogue box asking if I wanted to discard all colour information. I clicked 'OK' and the job was done. I was then able to adjust the monochrome image to my liking. It couldn't get any easier. 'Easy-peasey,' as Jamie Oliver would say.

So, with the image open, go to 'Image>Mode>Grayscale' then 'Discard color information'.

In Photoshop Elements the process is the same.

Desaturate Method
As easy is the use of the 'Desaturate' command. With the original colour picture open, go to 'Image' select 'Adjustments' and 'Desaturate' from the drop down menu. The result is very similar to the Grayscale method and can also be achieved by going to 'Hue/Saturate' and reducing the 'Saturation' slider to -100.

'Image>Adjustments>Desaturate'

In Photoshop Elements, go to 'Enhance>Adjust color>Remove color'.

Channel Mixer Method
Now we come to a slightly more complicated method but one that gives a higher control than the previous two. Once again, with the original colour picture open, go to 'Image' and select 'Adjustments' then select 'Channel Mixer' from the drop down menu. This will bring up the Channel Mixer dialogue box with sliders for the Red, Green and Blue channels. When opened the sliders will be set for 100% red and 0% for the other two channels. Before you do anything, select the Monochrome box at the bottom left of the dialogue box. Then have a look at the image with 100% for each of the other two colours in turn and 0% for the rest. The results will depend upon the majority of colours in the original. You may find that one of the channels suits you perfectly, in which case you can ignore the other two by leaving them at 0 and click on 'OK'.

However, it will probably be the case that you can get a better result by mixing bits of each channel. I start generally by reducing the Red to about 50 or 60 and increasing Green to 20 to 30 and the Blue to whatever makes up 100 - you don't have to end up with 100 but the results are normally better if you do. Once I have made the initial changes, it is a matter of trial and error to come up with the best result.

The Constant slider allows adjustments of the finished image - sliding to the left produces a darker result and to the right, a lighter one. I have found that I rarely adjust this.

There is no equivalent in Photoshop Elements.

LAB Mode
Another method that produces generally good results is to use the LAB Mode. With the colour image open, go to 'Image' and select 'Mode' then choose 'Lab color'. In the Layers Window, select 'Channels' which will give you four channels, LAB, Lightness, A and B. Go to channel A and select it all then delete it. Repeat this for channel B and then go to the Lightness channel. Go to 'Image>Mode>Grayscale' click 'OK' in the dialogue box that asks whether you want to discard the other channels and you have a monochrome image to adjust to your satisfaction.

There is no equivalent in Photoshop Elements.

Any one of the completed operations above will provide me with a useable monochrome image of the particular colour image that I selected to begin with. However, all require additional work to make them into more than just a basic monochrome picture.

As you have seen, and as with so many operations in Photoshop, it is possible to get to an end result in various ways and the ones I have outlined are not the only ones that will provide a conversion to monochrome. Some swear by one method or another but I find that while I have a tendency towards the channel mixer method, there are times when it doesn't produce the result I am after. Then I will try one of the alternative methods and am pleased that I know more than one. And, sometimes, I find an interesting result that I was not expecting and that takes me down a path that I was not anticipating.

5 Tips to Make Your Digital Photography Better

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:07:00 +0000

5 Tips to Make Your Digital Photography Better
by John Peters

Think about composition
Always try your best to compose your pictures correctly at the time you take the photo, ensuring you crop tightly and remove unwanted elements from your photo. Many people are tempted not to worry about composition, thinking that they'll simply edit the photo on their computer. However, cropping your image on the computer reduces image detail, and your pictures lose sharpness and overall quality.

Get close to your subject, fill the frame
A common mistake made by beginners is allowing the subject to get lost in the background. If you're taking a photo of someone, get as close to them as possible. You can do this by moving closer to them or by using your optical zoom. Don't be afraid to zoom in to remove distracting backgrounds.

Avoid placing the subject dead centre
One of the easiest ways of ensuring a boring photograph is to the place your subject exactly in the centre of the photo. One way around this is to mentally divide your image into thirds, and place your subjects along these imaginary one-third lines. You'll be surprised at what a difference this can make.

Draw the viewer into the photo
Want to create photos that draw the viewers into photo? One technique is to use leading lines, such as roads or fence lines, natural frames, such as door ways, to lead the viewer's eye to the subject.

Consider lighting when taking a photo
Many beginners overlook that lighting plays an important part in photography. While the professionals can afford the latest lighting equipment, there's a lot that a beginner can also do to make their photographs special. Try taking photographs at different times of day - the early morning in particular offers opportunities for taking dramatic images. When indoors try using window light. Avoid taking photos in harsh, bright conditions, particularly in the middle of the day.

HDD Digital Camcorders Features

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:39:00 +0000

HDD Digital Camcorders Features
by Bob Brown

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or hard drive or fixed disk drive digital camcorders do not need tapes or discs on which to record data - they record right onto the internal hard drive. The hard drive inside them is usually similar in size to the hard drive in a laptop computer. The video data can then be transferred to your computer and can be made into DVD's quite easily.

Because HDD camcorders uses compression to store huge amounts of video data, they can record from five to seven hours, depending on the size of the hard drive. And that is just the amount they can record in the high-quality setting. In the low-quality setting, they can record up to thirty-seven hours. The recording quality of these types of camcorders is usually quite high, so that you wind up with very good quality videos.

They are smaller and more compact than other types of digital cameras and they have no moving parts, so there is a lot less chance of mechanical breakdown. And a lot of these cameras come with anti-shock shield that protects the hard drive if the camera is dropped. The camera has a sensor in it that can actually tell if the camera has been dropped. In an effort to help you take better pictures, they also come with image stabilization to correct the image if your hand is shaking.

A lot of these cameras come with anti-shock shield that protects the hard drive if the camera is dropped. The camera has a sensor in it that can actually tell if the camera has been dropped. In an effort to help you take better pictures, they also come with image stabilization to correct the image if your hand is shaking.

If you were to actually run out of storage space on a HDD camcorder, they usually come with a memory slot, in which you could use a memory card.

With HDD camcorders, you can easily search through your different video segments, deleting and rearranging footage without rewinding or fast-forwarding. You can sort your videos into categories with icons.

These types of camcorders are often more expensive than other kinds of digital camcorders, but they are a great option.

How To Produce A Better Digital Photo

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 22:34:00 +0000

How To Produce A Better Digital Photo
by Ronald Firquain

Digital photographic cameras are so small now that they fit neatly and securely in a shirt pocket. For that reason people tend to take more pictures than people that use old film. And are more popular than film ones. And stores in compressed format. Another myth is with more mega pixels have bigger light sensors also known as CCD. Always compare and look at all the important features that make good pictures not just mega pixels. One of the benefits that is so attractive is the ability to see your results immediately, and delete a photo if you are not happy with it, at zero cost. The benefits are enormous, and advances in software have quickly overcome the weaknesses of early photography. Cameras have changed the world of photography forever. And have become so advanced that almost all now have aperture and shutter speed settings, not to mention amazingly powerful optical zoom lenses. They have revolutionized photography, with a whole generation of new photographers inspired to take up taking pictures. Due to the decrease in usage of ordinary snap shots with the old dark room method which is very much time consuming latest methods of photography they have become more popular. And are so small now that they fit neatly and securely in a shirt pocket.

People tend to take more snap shots than people that use old film. Ask family members and friends if they have cameras and maybe camcorders and if they might bring them along to film the wedding. Most store snap shots in compressed format. Have changed the world of photography forever. And have become so advanced that almost all now have aperture and shutter speed settings, not to mention amazingly powerful optical zoom lenses. They have revolutionized photography, with a whole generation of new photographers inspired to take up taking photos. Most measure subject distance automatically using acoustic or electronic techniques, but it is not customary to say that they have a range finder. Main Concept And Evolution When it becomes common, a question many photographers asked was whether their film could be converted to digital.

SLR cameras are generally larger than the point and shoot, but will have a lot more options, both in settings and accessories like interchangeable lenses and external flashes. Read digital camera ratings on the unit as well as on other units as well, whether those are also under. Before you purchase Canon EOS 400D, make sure that you research and compare it with other models. With cameras, being so affordable these days adding an image to your auction page is easier than ever. However, in the age of digital cameras, these main features are available on nearly all, should the owners take the time to learn how to use them. Bigger CCD sensors are more expensive to manufacture and correspondingly then one that use bigger CCD sensors are more expensive. And are great devices for capturing digital photos though they only work as long as their battery is not empty. The LCD is often hard to view in bright light, so they also may have optical viewfinders that let you see a no electronic version of the frame. You probably can handle several different exposure modes and lets you set exposure yourself. 5 Focus controls Most have an automated system for sharply focusing your images. And can however be set to use lower resolution usually in order to save on disk space since lower resolution photos result in smaller photo files.

For the most part camera are replacements of the old film. Many come with software to help you manage your pictures. With becoming more and more popular photo printing services and providers of free prints too introduced new photo paper sizes. These Digital SLR camera support live feed to the LCD by using one of two techniques. Are getting cheaper; they pack more power with higher memories and higher resolution. The Best ones are easy to use the best one is not only to take great pictures, but they take these pictures easily. Each person who wants to record the family memories on there computer will be happy to know that they can use the best camera and get photos that pros would be proud of for their publications. The best them have improved so much that even the pros are using these great machines. So many memories that will remain treasures for generations. Because, amateurs and professionals have different needs when buying a camera, but there is information for both groups that will help them compare. Fortunately, there are many tools that consumers can use to compare before making any purchase. And are capable of capturing sound bytes and video besides taking stills. The new camera do produce better photos but not just because they have more mega pixels but mainly because they just got better and better over the years.

New Canon Security Camera has 40x Optical Zoom

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 01:37:00 +0000

New Canon Security Camera has 40x Optical Zoom

The Canon VB-C60 features the industry's most powerful 40x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom. The camera's advanced auto focus system achieves smooth, immediate focus. The VB-C60 ultra-long zoom is able to maintain edge-to-edge tonal accuracy and clarity through the entire zoom range. The camera also features a wide angle lens, with a 56° horizontal field of view.

The high-precision aspherical lens allows for high resolution video in a variety of conditions. Colors remain true due to use of low dispersion glass. The bright F1.6 diameter lens combined with high-sensitivity CCD provides optimal contrast even in low light.

The infrared lens coating minimizes ghosting due to infrared rays and increases night mode sensitivity. The lens system is built upon Canon video camera technology to provide high quality continuous video capture that is equipped to handle diverse lighting conditions and temperatures throughout the day.

Books - Excerpt: Digital SLR Cameras and Photography for Dummies by David D. Busch

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:23:00 +0000

Books - Excerpt: Digital SLR Cameras and Photography for Dummies by David D. Busch

Book: Digital SLR Cameras and Photography for Dummies

Today, the digital SLR (or dSLR) has become such a hot item among people who take pictures that virtually everyone, including your grandmother, probably knows that SLR stands for single lens reflex. However, your Nana - or you for that matter - might not know precisely what single lens reflex means. It's a camera (film or digital) that uses a marvelous system of mirrors and/or prisms to provide bright, clear optical viewing of the image you're about to take - through the same lens that is used to take the picture.

The key thing to know is that a dSLR is a very cool tool for taking photos electronically.

Welcome to the chapter that tells you exactly how smart you were when you decided to upgrade from whatever you were using previously to the future of digital photography. You find out how a digital SLR will transform the way you take and make pictures, why the strengths of the dSLR are important to you, and why the few downsides really don't matter. Getting in on the ground floor is great, and I tell you why.

dSLR: dNext Great Digital Camera

If you've already made the jump to a digital SLR, you've discovered that the dSLR lets you take pictures the way they were meant to be taken. After using other film or digital cameras, anyone interested in taking professional-looking photos notices why dSLRs stand out:

You can view a big, bright image that represents (almost) exactly what you'll see in the final picture. No peering through a tiny window at a miniature version of your subject. No squinting to compose your image on an LCD viewfinder that washes out in bright sunlight. Nor do you have to wonder whether you've chopped off the top of someone's head or guess how much of your image is in sharp focus.

A dSLR responds to an itchy trigger finger almost instantly. Forget about pressing the shutter release and then waiting a second or two before the camera decides to snap off the shot. Unlike most point-and-shoot digital cameras, dSLRs can crank out shots as fast as you can press the button.

You have the freedom to switch among lenses - such as an all-purpose zoom lens, a super-wide angle lens, an extra-long telephoto lens, a close-up lens, or other specialized optic - quicker than you can say 170-500mm F5-6.3 APO Aspherical AutoFocus Telephoto Zoomexpialidocious. (Best of all, you don't even have to know what that tongue-twister of a name means!)

Just be prepared to succumb to lens lust, a strange malady that strikes all owners of dSLRs sooner or later. Before you know it, you'll find yourself convinced you must have optical goodies like the lens shown in Figure 1-1, a telephoto macro lens that's absolutely essential (you'll think) for taking photos of butterflies from enough of a distance to avoid scaring the timid creatures away.

If you're ready to say sayonara to film, adios to poorly exposed and poorly composed pictures, and auf Wiedersehen to cameras with sluggardly performance, it's time to get started.

The sections that follow (as well as other chapters in this part) introduce you to the technical advantages of the digital SLR and how to use the dSLR's features to their fullest. When you're ready to expand your photographic horizons even farther, Parts II, III, and IV help you master the basics of digital photography, go beyond the basics to conquer the mysteries of photo arenas such as action, flash, and portrait photography, and then discover how you can fine-tune your images, organizing them for sharing and printing.

Improving Your Photography with a dSLR

The differences between digital SLRs and the camera you were using before you saw the light will depend on where you're coming from. If your most recent camera was a point-and-shoot digital model, you know the advantages of being able to review your photos on an LCD an instant after you took them, and you also know the benefits of fine-tuning them in an image editor. If you're switching to a digital SLR from a film SLR, you are likely a photo enthusiast already and well aware that a single lens reflex offers you extra control over framing, using focus creatively, and choosing lenses to give the best perspective. And, if you're making the huge leap from a point-and-shoot non-SLR film camera to a digital SLR, you're in for some real revelations.

A digital SLR has (almost) all the good stuff available in a lesser digital camera, with some significant advantages that enable you to take your photo endeavors to a new, more glorious level of excellence. Certainly, you can take close-ups or sports photos with any good-quality film or digital camera. Low-light photography, travel pictures, or portraits are all within the capabilities of any camera. But digital SLRs let you capture these kinds of images more quickly, more flexibly, and with more creativity at your fingertips. Best of all (at least for Photoshop slaves), a digital SLR can solve problems that previously required working long hours over a hot keyboard.

Despite the comparisons you can make to other cameras, a digital SLR isn't just a simple upgrade from a conventional film camera or another type of digital camera. A dSLR is very different from a film SLR, too, even though some vendors offer film and dSLRs that look quite a bit alike and share similar exposure metering, automatic focusing, and other electronics. If you look closely, you find that the digital SLR camera is different, and how you use it to take pictures is different.

In the sections that follow, I introduce you to the advanced features and inner workings so that you can begin getting the most out of your dSLR.

Composing shots with a more accurate viewfinder

With non-SLR cameras, what you see isn't always what you get.

Theoretically, the LCD on the back of a point-and-shoot digital camera should show exactly what you'll get in the finished picture. After all, the same sensor that actually captures the photo produces the LCD image. In practice, the LCD might be difficult to view under bright light, and it's so small (a few LCDs are only 1.5 inches diagonally) that you'll feel like you're trying to judge your image by looking at a postage stamp that's gone through the wash a few times.

The view through a non-SLR camera's optical viewfinder is likely to be even worse: tiny, inaccurate enough to make chopping off heads alarmingly easy, and with no information about what's in focus and what is not.

More advanced cameras might use an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is a second, internal LCD that the user views through a window. EVFs provide a larger image that's formed by the actual light falling on the sensor and can be used in full sunlight without washing out. However, they might not have enough pixels to accurately portray your subject and tend to degenerate into blurred, ghosted images if the camera or subject moves during framing. They also don't work well in low light levels. An EVF is a good compromise, but not as good as a dSLR for previewing an image.

A digital SLR's viewfinder, in contrast, closely duplicates what the sensor will see, even though the image is formed optically and not generated by the sensor itself. It's all done with mirrors (and other reflective surfaces) that bounce the light from the lens to your viewfinder, sampling only a little of the light to measure exposure, color, and focus. As a result, the viewfinder image is usually bigger and brighter - from 75 percent to 95 percent (or more) of life size using a dSLR "normal" lens or zoom position, compared with 25 percent or smaller with a point-and-shoot camera's optical or LCD viewfinder. You see 95 percent of the total area captured, too.

Check out Figure 1-2 and decide which view of your subject you'd rather work with. Even the 2.5-inch LCD on the point-and-shoot model in the upperleft corner is difficult to view in bright light; the electronic viewfinder in the upper-right corner can be fuzzy, making it hard to judge focus. The digital SLR's big bright viewfinder (bottom) is, as Goldilocks would say, just right.

A dSLR shows you approximately what is in sharp focus and what is not (the depth-of-field), either in general terms (all the time) or more precisely when you press a handy button called the depth-of-field preview. Your digital SLR viewing experience is likely to be more pleasant, more accurate, and better suited for your creative endeavors.

Flexing the more powerful sensor

Digital SLR sensors are much bigger than their point-and-shoot camera counterparts, and this gives them a larger area for capturing light and, potentially, much greater sensitivity to lower light levels.

A dSLR's extra sensitivity pays off when you want to

Take pictures in dim light.
Freeze action by using shorter exposure times.
Use smaller lens openings to increase the amount of subject matter that's in sharp focus.

Within the Canon digital camera line alone, you find digital SLRs with 22.2-x-14.8mm to 24-x-36mm sensors (the size of a 35mm film frame). Some of Canon's digital point-and-shoot cameras use a sensor that measures only 7.8 x 5.32mm. Put in terms that make sense to human beings, the dSLR sensors have 8 to 20 times more area than their Lilliputian sensor-mates. Figure 1-3 gives you a better idea of the relative sizes.

If you think of a sensor as a rectangular bucket and the light falling on it as a soft drizzle of rain, you see that the larger buckets are going to collect more drops (or the particles of light called photons) more quickly than the smaller ones. Because a certain minimum number of photons is required to register a picture, a larger sensor can collect the required amount more quickly, making it more sensitive than a smaller sensor under the same conditions.

In photography, the sensitivity to light is measured by using a yardstick called ISO (International Standards Organization). Most point-and-shoot digital cameras have a sensitivity range of about ISO 50 to ISO 100 (at the low end) up to a maximum of ISO 400 (at the high end). Fuji has introduced a compact digicam with its SuperCCD sensor that includes two light-sensitive areas per pixel, and it boasts an ISO 1600 maximum sensitivity, but virtually all other non-SLR cameras top out at ISO 400.

REMEMBER

In contrast, digital SLRs - with their more sensitive sensors - commonly have ISO settings of up to ISO 800. Many are capable of ISO 1600 or even ISO 3200. There's a downside to this extra speed, as you see in the section "Reducing noise in your photos," but in general, the added sensitivity is a boon to people who want to shoot photos in dim light, take action pictures, or need to stretch the amount of depth-of-field available.

Reducing noise in your photos

Noise is that grainy look digital photos sometimes get, usually noticeable as multi-colored speckles most visible in the dark or shadow areas of an image. Although you can sometimes use noise as a creative effect, it's generally a bad thing that destroys detail in your image and might limit how much you can enlarge a photo before the graininess becomes obtrusive.

The most common types of noise are produced at higher sensitivity settings. That's because cameras achieve the loftier ISO numbers by amplifying the original electronic signal, and any background noise present in the signal is multiplied along with the image information. As you see in the Figure 1-4, a relatively low ISO value of 200 produces an image that's virtually free of the noise, but jumping the sensitivity to ISO 1600 produces a lot more noise - even though a person used a digital SLR for both pictures.

REMEMBER

One reason why point-and-shoot digicams rarely have ISO settings beyond ISO 400 is that the noise becomes excessive at higher ratings, sometimes even worse than you see in the lower example at right. However, you can boost the information that the bigger dSLR sensors capture to higher ISO settings with relatively lower overall noise. I've used digital SLRs that had less noise at ISO 800 than some poor-performing point-and-shoots displayed at ISO 100. Obviously, the larger sensors found in dSLRs score another slam-dunk in the noise department and make high ISO ratings feasible when you really, really need them.

Noise doesn't always result simply from using high ISO settings: Long exposures can cause another kind of noise. Although some techniques can reduce the amount of noise present in a photo (as you discover in Chapter 2), by and large, digital SLR cameras are far superior to their non-SLR counterparts when it comes to smooth, noise-free images.

REMEMBER

Thanks to the disparity in size alone, all sensors of a particular resolution are not created equal, and sensors with fewer megapixels might actually be superior to higher-resolution pixel-grabbers. For example, most older 6-megapixel dSLRs produce superior results to the newest 8-megapixel non-SLR digicams. I've seen results from one $3,500 4.3-megapixel pro-level dSLR that run rings around the best images possible from an $800 EVF model with an 8-megapixel sensor. So no matter how many megapixels a point-and-shoot camera's sensor can hoard, that sensor isn't as big as a dSLR's. And when it comes to reducing noise, the size of the sensor is one of the most important factors.

Reclaiming depth-of-field control

Depth-of-field is the range over which components of your image are acceptably sharp. In general, being able to control the amount of depth-of-field is a good thing, because having more or less depth-of-field gives you creative control over what is sharp and what is not. You might prefer to zero in on a specific subject and let everything else remain blurry. Or you might want to have everything in your frame as sharp as possible.

To understand how dSLR cameras give you more control over depth-of-field, you need to understand the three factors that control this range, which I outline in Table 1-1.

Point-and-shoot digital cameras offer very little control over depth-of-field, because, unless you're shooting an extreme close-up (see Factor 1 in Table 1-1), virtually everything is in sharp focus (despite Factor 2). This condition (which can be a bad thing if you're trying to use focus selectively) is due to Factor 3: Non-SLRs use that tiny sensor, which calls for lenses of a much shorter focal length.

So, a point-and-shoot digital camera might have a 7.5mm to 22.5mm 3X zoom lens that provides a slightly wide-angle to slightly telephoto field of view. A digital SLR with the largest (24 x 36mm) sensor might need a 35mm to 105mm zoom to provide the same perspective.

Yet, depth-of-field is dependent on the actual focal length, not the equivalent. So that point-and-shoot camera's lens, even at its longest telephoto position, provides more depth-of-field than the dSLR's same-perspective zoom at its widest angle. So much is in focus with a non-SLR digital camera that, in practice, you have very little control over depth-of-field, except when shooting close-up pictures from very short distances.

Even if you're shooting relatively close with a point-and-shoot camera, as in Figure 1-5, judging and using depth-of-field can be tricky. The house in the background is too sharp, and because this particular digicam didn't have great close-up capabilities, the ice-covered berries in the foreground aren't sharp enough. Shooting the same scene minutes later with a dSLR equipped with a macro lens shows how control over depth-of-field can be used creatively to isolate a subject (see Figure 1-6).

Because of the longer focal lengths mandated by the dSLR's larger sensors, these cameras offer the photographer an important creative tool.

In Chapter 6, I explain depth-of-field in more detail.

Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera 10.2MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 02:32:00 +0000

Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera 10.2MP

Features

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Vibration Reduction lens
2.5-inch LCD screen - horizontal and vertical orientation are detected automatically
Continuous shooting at 3 fps; Active Dust Reduction System with Airflow Control
Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards

Details

Sensor: 10.2 MP
Image Resolution: 3872 x 2592
Storage Media: SD/SDHC Memory Card
Compressed Format: JPEG
Compressed Format: NEF (RAW)
LCD Monitor: 2.5-inch
LCD Pixels: 230,000 pixels
LCD Coverage: 100%
Shutter Speed: 30 - 1/4000 sec.
Light Metering Method: Spot
Light Metering Method: Matrix metering
Light Metering Method: TTL
Light Metering Method: Center Weighted
Exposure Modes: Auto
Exposure Modes: Manual
Exposure Modes: Landscape
Exposure Modes: Portrait
Exposure Modes: Close-up

Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR Camera 10.1MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 16:59:00 +0000

Canon EOS 40D Digital SLR Camera 10.1MP

Features

10.1 MP CMOS sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality poster-size prints
Large 3.0-inch LCD display with enhanced Live View and broadened color gamut
6.5 frame-per-second continuous shooting capability -- for bursts of up to 75 Large/Fine JPEGs or 17 RAW images
sRAW mode; 35-zone metering system; integrated Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit
Powered by BP-511A, BP-511, or BP-512 lithium-ion battery pack; stores images on CF cards

Details

Type: Digital AF/AE SLR Camera
Recording medium: CF Card Type I and II and external media (USB v2.0 hard drive, via optional wireless file transmitter)
Image format: 0.87 x 0.58 inches (APS-C size sensor)
Compatible lenses: Canon EF, EF-S, TS-E, and MP-E
Lens mount: Canon EF mount
Lens focal length conversion factor: 1.6x
Image sensor: High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate CMOS
Pixels: Approximately 10.10 megapixels
Total pixels: Approximately 10.50 megapixels
Aspect ratio: 3:2 (horizontal: vertical)
Color filter system: RGB primary color filters
Low-pass filter: Fixed position in front of CMOS sensor
Recording format: DCF 2.0 (Exif 2.21); JPEG, RAW, and RAW+JPEG simultaneous recording possible; multiple options for recording images on memory card
Image format: JPEG, RAW (Canon CR2)
File size: JPEG/large: approximately 3.5 MB (3,888 x 2,592); JPEG/medium: approximately 2.1 MB (2,816 x 1,880); JPEG/small: approximatley 1.2 MB (1,936 x 1,288); RAW: approximately 12.4 MB (3,888 x 2,592); sRAW: approximately 7.1 MB (1,936 x 1,288)
Folders: Automatically created by camera
File numbering: Continuous, auto reset, manual reset
Color space: Selectable between sRGB and Adobe RGB
Interface: USB 2.0 high-speed mini-B port; NTSC/PAL for video output
White balance settings: Auto, daylight, shade, cloudy, tungsten, white fluorescent light, flash, custom WB setting, user-set color temperature
Auto white balance: Yes, taken from imaging sensor
Personal white balance: White balance bracketing: 3 consecutive images written to CF card for each firing of shutter; up to +/- 3 levels in 1-step increments; white balance shift: blue/amber bias and/or magenta/green bias +/- up to 9 levels; manually set by user
Viewfinder type: Eye-level SLR with solid glass pentaprism
Coverage: Approximately 95 percent
Magnification: 0.95x (-1 dpt with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint: Approximately 22mm
Dioptric adjustment correction: -3.0 to +1.0 diopter
Mirror: Quick-return half mirror (transmission: reflection ratio of 40:60)
Viewfinder information: AF (AF points, focus confirmation light), Exposure (shutter speed, aperture, ISO speed, AE lock, exposure level, spot metering circle, exposure warning), Flash (flash ready, flash exposure compensation, high-speed sync, FE lock, red-eye reduction light), Image (monochrome shooting, maximum burst, white balance correction, CF card information)
Depth-of-field preview: Enabled with depth-of-field preview button; possible in Live View function
Eyepiece shutter: None
Autofocus type: TTL-CT-SIR AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF points: 9 cross-type AF points, including center AF point; fully functional with f/5.6 or faster lenses
AF working range: EV -0.5 to 18
Focusing modes: Autofocus (One-Shot AF, Predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF), manual
AF point selection: Automatic, manual
Selected AF point display: Superimposed red illumination in viewfinder; also visible on top or rear LCD panel when AF point select button is pressed
AF-assist beam: Intermittent firing of built-in flash
Metering modes: 35-zone TTL full-aperture metering: evaluative, partial, spot, center-weighted average
Exposure control systems: Program AE (shiftable), shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, auto depth-of-field AE (non-shiftable), full auto (non-shiftable), programmed image control modes, manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash program AE
ISO speed range: Equivalent to ISO 100 to 1,600 (in 1/3-stop or whole increments)
Exposure compensation: +/- 3 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-half increments
AE lock: Auto: applied in One-Shot AF mode with evaluative metering when focus is achieved; manual: by AE lock button in all metering modes
Shutter type: Vertical-travel, mechanical, focal-plane shutter with all speeds electronically controlled
Shutter speeds: 1/8,000 to 30 seconds (1/3-stop increments); X-sync at 1/250 of a second
Shutter release: Soft-touch electromagnetic
Self-timer: 10-second and 2-second delay
Remote control: Canon N3 type terminal
Flash type: Auto pop up, retractable, built-in flash in pentaprism
Guide number: 13/43
Recycling time: Roughly 3 seconds
Flash-ready indicator: In viewfinder
Flash coverage: 17mm lens focal length
Flash metering system: E-TTL II autoflash
LCD monitor: 3-inch TFT color
Pixels: Approximately 230,000
Coverage: 100 percent
Brightness control: 7 levels
Image display format: Single image, 4-image index, 9-image index, jump, magnified zoom (approximately 1.5x to 10x), histogram, AF point display, auto rotate, rotate; live view: view image before shooting on LCD monitor; live histogram and live simulation of exposure level possible with C.Fn IV-7-1
Highlight alert: In the single image display and info display, over-exposed highlight areas will blink
Protection: Single or all images in memory card
Erase: Single image, select images, all images in CF card or unprotected images
Direct printing from camera: Yes, with Print/Share button
Compatible printers: CP and SELPHY compact photo printers, PIXMA photo printers, and PictBridge-compatible printers (via USB cable, included with camera kit)
Settings: Print quantity, style (image, paper size, paper type, printing effects, layout), trimming, tilt correction (compatibility varies, depending upon printer in use)
Power source: Dedicated battery pack, AC adapter
Number of shots: Approximately 1,100 images (normal shooting, no flash); approximately 800 images (50 percent flash use)
Battery check: Automatic
Item width: 5.7 inches
Item height: 4.2 inches
Item depth: 2.9 inches
Item weight: 26.1 ounces

Canon Rebel XSi Digital SLR Camera 12MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 02:45:00 +0000

Canon Rebel XSi Digital SLR Camera 12MP

Features

12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor captures enough detail for poster-size, photo-quality prints
Large 3.0-inch LCD display; includes Canon's EF-S 18-55mm, f3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens
DIGIC III image processor provides fast, accurate image processing; improved Autofocus and framing rate
EOS Integrated Cleaning system, plus Dust Delete Data Detection in included software
Stores images on SD/SDHC memory cards

Details

Sensor: 12.2 Megapixel
Image Resolution: 4272 x 2848
Storage Media: SD/SDHC Memory Card
Compressed Format: JPEG
Compressed Format: RAW
Focus Mode: Manual focus
Focus Mode: One-shot AF
Focus Mode: AI Focus AF
Focus Mode: AI Servo AF
Focusing Range: EV -0.5-18 (at 73°F/23°C, ISO 100)
LCD Monitor: 3.0-inches
LCD Pixels: 230,000 pixels
LCD Coverage: 100%
Shutter Speed: 1/4000 sec. to 1/60 sec.
Shutter Speed: X-sync at 1/200 sec.
Light Metering Method: Evaluative
Light Metering Method: Partial metering

Pentax K20D Digital SLR Camera 14.6MP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:51:00 +0000

Pentax K20D Digital SLR Camera 14.6MP

Features

14.6-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for poster-sized prints
2.7-inch LCD display
Dust-proof, water-resistant construction
Comprehensive Dust Removal system
New Live View function
Capture images to SD/SDHC cards

Details

Brand: Pentax
Model: 19381
Optical Sensor Resolution: 14.6 MP
optical sensor technology: CMOS Unknown modifier
maximum aperture range: n/a Unknown modifier
Lens Type: interchangeable
optical sensor size: 15.6 x 23.4mm Unknown modifier
Included Flash Type: Pop-up flash
Display Size: 2.7 inches
light sensitivity: ISO auto (100-3200) Unknown modifier
Image types: JPEG, RAW
Shooting Modes: Portrait, Landscape, and Vibrant modes, each with gamut radar and fine adjustment of saturation, hue, contrast, and sharpness. Monochrome includes adjustment for filter effects Unknown modifier
Exposure Control Type: shutter-speed-priority, manual, automatic, aperture-priority
Viewfinder Type: Optical
Width: 5.6 inches
Depth: 2.8 inches
Height: 4 inches
Weight: 1.6 pounds

Pentax K200D Digital DSLR Camera

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 01:42:00 +0000

Pentax K200D Digital DSLR Camera 10.2MP

Features

10.2-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for poster-sized prints
Includes 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 lens
Large, 2.7-inch wide-view LCD monitor
Dust-proof, water-resistant construction; comprehensive Dust Removal system
Capture images to SD/SDHC cards

Details

Brand Name: Pentax
Model: 19554
Optical Sensor Resolution: 10.2 MP
optical sensor technology: CCD Unknown modifier
Optical zoom: 3 x
maximum aperture range: F/3.5-5.6 Unknown modifier
Minimum focal length: 18 millimeters
Maximum focal length: 55 millimeters
Lens Type: Zoom lens
optical sensor size: 15.7 x 23.5mm Unknown modifier
Included Flash Type: Pop-up flash
Display Size: 2.7 inches
light sensitivity: ISO 100-1600 Unknown modifier
Image types: JPEG, RAW
Shooting Modes: Auto Picture, Picture (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action, Night Scene Portrait, Standard Flash-Off), Scene (Night Scene, Surf & Snow, Food, Sunset, Kids, Pet, Candlelight, Museum), Program, Sensitivity Priority, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Meter Unknown modifier
Exposure Control Type: Candle, Night scene with portrait, Kids, Landscape, Portrait mode, Action, Macro, Museum, Surf & snow, Pet, Food, Night scene, Sunset
Viewfinder Type: Optical
Width: 5.2 inches
Depth: 2.9 inches
Height: 3.7 inches
Weight: 1.4 pounds