The comparison shopper

Pentax K200D vs Sony A200 / A300; Weather resist SLR vs. Live-View

2008-03-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

In comparison with newest entry-level Digital SLR cameras such as the Nikon D60, the Sony A200, the Olympus E420 and old-fashion Canon Rebel Xti, the new Pentax K200D looks quite good. After Pentax K100D / K100 Super, this solidly constructed SLR camera with weather and dust resistant body can impress even advanced photographers, who are interested in serious cameras as the Canon EOS450 / Rebel Xsi or the Sony A300 / A350.
The Pentax K200 as a step-up of entry-level SLR
Sure, the Pentax K200D is strep of some cool features such as the Live-View mode (Olympus E420, Sony A300) and its ability for using AA batteries is a little questionable. However, the combination of high-speed aperture, in-body stabilization system, waterproof body ( it's a really cool feature, especially for my Sauna-blog), and low-noise high ISO means me much interesting that the Live View LCD, which only enables photographers to hold the camera away from their faces. Although the K200D designed mainly for family users and beginners, this SLR has a host of useful features and functions like any higher-class models.
Pentax K200D main features
- Shake Reduction feature incorporating a 10.2 megapixel CCD is compatible with any Pentax lens ever produced, including SDM lenses, minimizes the effect of camera shake
- Auto Picture and Scene modes offer shooting ease, while advanced modes, such as the Sv mode, allow photographers to grow with the camera
- 2.7 inch high resolution, wide view LCD panel allows easy review of pictures, while including enlarged menu lettering
- Weather and dust resistant body allows you to keep shooting even in harsh conditions
- Includes long life Energizer AA Lithium batteries for the perfect combination of long life and easy to find replacements
- Advanced 16-segment metering and 11-point AF, with 9 cross sensors, ensure perfectly exposed and focused images
- PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) image processing engine maximizes image properties and allows custom adjustment of image parameters
- Custom Image modes, with six preset options, offer superior control of how the PRIME processor develops images
- Enhanced Dynamic Range mode gives 200% more dynamic range
Optical Image Stabilizer
As in case of the Sony A200 (for more look at the previous post) and Olympus E510 / E420, main improvements comparing to previous Pentax K100 is in-body optical stabilization system. For more details about Olympus's SLRs look at Olympus SLRs: E330, E400, E410, E500 and E510. Can pop-cams fight vs. Nikon D80 or Canon XTi?. Pentax is using sensor shift stabilization (where the sensor is moving-shifting to compensate the movement of camera body) what means that you do not need an optically stabilized lens and can use any lenses you want. This mechanism shifts the position of the CCD image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force, while adjusting the shifting speed in proportion to the amount of camera shake detected by a built-in sensor. It offers a compensation effect, equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter-speed steps. Sure, the Pentax lens collection is not as big as Nikkor and Canon. In addition, its quality is an excellent and you can get more than enough from Pentax and do not look at some manufacturers as Sigma and Tamron.
Pentax K200D specifications
- 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 - 3872x2592 (10M), 3008x2000 (6M), 1824x1216 (2M) Quality levels: Best, Better, Good; Dust removal - Image sensor movement combined with SP coating
- Body-based, sensor shift Shake Reduction image stabilizer system - max 4 stops
- Pentax KAF2 bayonet stainless steel mount; Usable lenses - Pentax KAF2, KAF, and KA (K mount, 35mm screw mount, 645/67 med formats useable w/ adapter and/or restrictions)
- TTL phase-matching 11 point wide auto focus system, Focus modes - AF Single (w/focus lock), Manual, AF Continuous available in Action mode (including Auto Pict Action), Kids mode, Pet mode, P/A/S/M/B/Sv; Focus point adjustment - Auto, User-Selectable, Center; AF assist, via built-in flash
- Penta-Mirror viewfinder; Coverage (field of view) - 96%, Magnification - 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 - Optical diaphragm stop down, Digital
- 2.7” TFT colors LCD monitor, adjustable brightness, 230,000 pixel; wide angle viewable, approx 160 degrees horizontal/vertical
- Continuous Drive at 2.8 fps, up to 4 JPEG, 1.1 fps, RAW
- Retractable P-TTL popup flash, Guide number - 13 (100/m), Coverage - 28mm wide angle (equivalent to 35mm), Flash modes – TBA, Flash exposure compensation -2 to 1 EV in 1/2 steps
- Removable memory - SD, SDHC
- USB 2.0 hi-speed, DC input, cable switch, Video out - NTSC, PAL, Printer interfaces – PictBridge
- 4 AA (lithium, alkaline, NiMH rechargeable), Recordable images - Approx 1100 w/lithium (approx 550 w/ 50% flash use), Playback time - Approx 700 min; optional AC adapter
- ISO Sensitivity: Auto - 100-1600 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps), Manual - 100-1600 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps)
- TTL open aperture, 16 segment metering; Sensitivity range - EV 0-21 (ISO 100, 50mm f/1.4); Multi-segment, 16 segments; Center weighted, Spot, Exposure compensation - +/- 2 EV (1/2 or 1/3 steps); Exposure lock, Exposure bracketing, 3 frames, up to +/- 1.5 (1/2 steps) or +/- 1.0 (1/3 steps)
- Electronically controlled, vertical run, focal plane shutter; Shutter speed - 1/4000 to 30 sec, bulb available
- File Formats: RAW PEF/DNG, JPG (EXIF 2.21), DCF 2.0 (design rule for camera file system), DPOF, and Print Image Matching III
- Weight (inc. batteries) 690g - 24.3 oz w/lithium batteries (25.6 oz w/alkaline batteries), 22.2 oz without battery
- Dimensions 134 x 95 x 74 mm (5.3 x 3.7 x 2.9 in)
- Construction material - Reinforced plastic polymer shell around a rugged stainless steel chassis, operating temperature - 32-104 degrees F
Pentax K200D pros and cons
The same as the Pentax K10D an excellent weatherproof construction body with some features and great image quality makes the Pentax K200D very attractive for advanced users. However, its weight and dimensions give the best fit for next-level digital SLR cameras. In comparison with the Nikon D60 (522 g), Sony A200 (572 g) and Olympus E420 (440 g), the K200D with its 690 g body is not so good for family shooting. Moreover, for sport shooting where you need a fast frame rate and a long Tele lens, you should consider a speedy camera. However, for those who need an excellent picture quality the Pentax K200D is a right choice.
Pros:
- Goog and solid build quality, feels more expensive than any entry-level SLR
- Excellent image quality
- Good, low-noise performance at high ISO even at ISO 1600
- Weather sealed body
- Good 18-55mm Kit lens
- Very effective in-body image stabilization system
Cons:
- Small buffer at 2.8 fps, up to 4 JPEG, 1.1 fps, RAW
- Not so small and lightweight as I'd like
Conclusion
Looking through the Nikon D60 ($690 with 18-55mm Lens Kit, for any details look through Nikon D60 vs. Canon Xti, Sony A200, Pentax K200 and Olympus E510), Olympus E410 / E510 / E420 ($790 with 14-42mm Lens Kit), Sony A200 ($550 with 18-70mm Lens Kit) / A300 ($950), Canon Rebel Xti ($510) / Xsi ($1130 with 18-55mm Lens Kit), and of course the Pentax K200D it’s hard to find the worst camera as well as the best. All of these SLRs have some pros and some cons. Nevertheless, small 4/3 Olympus with excellent Zuiko lenses, famous Nikon and Canon, rich of features Sony etc. have they own users and admirers. For more look at Canon EOS400/XTi, Nikon D40x and Pentax K10 pros& cons; SLR over SLR-like triple benefits. As for the Pentax K200D, this SLR ($800 with 18-55mm Lens Kit) is good for traveling through dusty or damp climate countries. For those who rate the image, construction and lens quality highly than lightweight, Live View ability and brand name.

Sony A200 vs Pentax K200 or Nikon D60 – what’s new in Sony’s SLR

2008-03-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

This year brings some new and interesting gadgets to the entry level DSLR’s market. There are Nikon D60, Pentax K200D and Sony A200 with 10MP APS-C sensor, low image noise, very fast shutter lag numbers and any cool features such as image stabilizer system, anti-dust and even weather-sealed body (Pentax K200). As for Canon, its new Digital SLR – the EOS Digital Rebel Xsi with 12MP 22.2 x 14.8 mm CMOS sensor is a little higher to these three and it requires a special article. For more details look at Pentax K200D vs Sony A200 / A300; Weather resist SLR vs. Live-View.
Sony DSLR Alpha-200 main features
I am shooting with the Sony A100 for a long time and I felt its pros and cons on one's own back. Naturally, the appearing of Alpha 100’s upgrade version – the Sony A200 made me interest in its abilities. Let’s look around the gadget for better understanding what’s make the Alpha 200 speedy, low-noisy and much attractive than predecessor.
- Super Steady Shot in-camera image stabilization system offers from 2.5 to 3.5 stops of compensation
- Dynamic Range Optimizer: Normal DRO improves detail using standard gamma curves for fast shot-to-shot response time. Advanced DRO adjusts dynamic range area-by-area
- Bionz Image Processor
- Anti-Dust Technology
- Auto Pop-Up Flash with four main operating modes and a variable Slow-Sync function
- External, proprietary flash hot-shoe for Sony accessory flash units
- Built-in support for wireless TTL flash exposure with certain Sony flashes
- Eye-Start Auto focus System
- 9-Point Center Cross AF Sensor
- Auto and Manual focus options with Single and Continuous AF modes
- 40-segment honeycomb metering system, plus Center-Weighted and Spot metering options, with AE Lock function
- Scene Selection Modes: Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, Sunset and Night Portrait/Night View situations
- RAW and JPEG file formats
- Contrast, saturation, and sharpness adjustments
- Adjustable White Balance setting with presets and a manual option, as well as a full range of Kelvin temperature settings
- Index and Slide Show Display
- High-Resolution Thumbnails for Photo TV HD Viewing
- NTSC / PAL selectable video output signal, with cable included
- Function Guide Display
- Continuous Burst Mode at three frames per second
- "Storage-Class" USB 2.0 High-Speed interface
- USB 2.0 High-Speed cable and interface software for connecting to a computer and downloading images
- DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.2, Print Image Matching III and PictBridge compliant
What’s new in the Sony A200
As in case of the A100, the Sony A200 has a CCD-shift Anti-Shake platform (now named Super Steady Shot), Anti-Dust technology and Bionz image processor. What for Dynamic Range Optimizer, let’s look through the Sony A-100 review:
Sony’s Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) analyzes the captured image data and instantly determines the best exposure and color tonality of an image before JPEG compression. Unlike software optimization of a processed image, DRO is performed in the hardware. It is the first hardware-based DRO solution with the speed required for high-speed shooting.
In comparison with the Sony A-200 review, it is hard to understand what is new.
An evolved new D-Range Optimizer helps ensure even more beautifully balanced exposures in backlit situations. In Standard mode, it optimizes brightness and contrast for the image overall, and in Advanced mode, it optimizes each area of the composition separately to bring out maximum shadow and highlight detail. The D-Range Optimizer can be used on all image formats in all metering modes.
However, there is a fact that the new Alpha 200 is speedy, easy to use and has better image quality than the A-100, especially in low light situations. The Sony A200's high ISO of 3,200 has noise and softness due to noise suppression, but in case of the A-100, I have a nasty noise at ISO 400 and higher.
Sony Alpha 200 upgraded features include:
- Wider, 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD screen for easy playback viewing
- More compact body and an easily accessible mode dial
- Easy-to-use function menu (camera function display)
- Improved noise control for higher quality images
- Auto focus speed 1.7x faster than the A-100
- Improved predictive control performance
- Quieter shutter sound
- Automatic pop-up flash
- Battery life indicator that displays the percentage of battery life remaining so you know exactly when to recharge
Sony A200 specifications
- 23.6 x 15.8 mm Interline interlaced CCD sensor with Built-in fixed low-pass filter
- 10.8 million total and 10.2 million effective pixels
- 1.5x FOV crop
- Image size at aspect ratio 3:2 -- L size: 3872 x 2592 (10M), M size: 2896 x 1936 (5.6M), S size: 1920 x 1280 (2.5M)
- Aspect ratio 16:9 -- L size: 3872 x 2176 (8.4M), M size: 2896 x 1632 (4.7M), S size: 1920 x 1088 (2.1M)
- ISO Sensitivity: 100 to 3200
- 1/160 sec Flash X-sync
- RAW, RAW + JPEG, Fine, Standard image quality modes
- CompactFlash (Type I, Type II), Microdrive; Separately sold "Memory Stick Duo Adapter for CompactFlash Slot AD-MSCF1" is necessary for use with Memory Stick Duo / Memory Stick PRO Duo / Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo
- Long exposure Noise Reduction: On/Off selectable, available at shutter speeds longer than 1 sec., High ISO NR: On/Off selectable, available at ISO 1600 or higher
- Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane shutter type
- Shutter Speed at 1/4000 to 30 sec., Bulb
- 2.7-inch 230,000 pixels Clear Photo LCD Screen
- Optional VG-B30AM vertical grip accepts up to 2x NP-FM500H batteries
- Dimensions: 5.2 x 3.7 x 2.8in (133 x 95 x 71mm)
- Weight: No battery: 532 g (1.2 lb), 625g (22 ounces) with lens, battery, and card
Sony A200 pros and cons
Sure, the new Sony A-200 makes A100’s owners envious of some its features. At the same time, there are some A-100’s pros, which the new Alpha succeeded.
Pros:
- Inexpensive price
- Compact, solid feel body
- Excellent hands grip
- Great 10.2-megapixel sensor
- Function button makes access to commonly used functions easy
- Useful menu design
- Dynamic Range Optimization works well, preserving detail in highlights and shadows
- Excellent shutter lag numbers
- Very good low light / high ISO performance
- Eye-Start Auto focus System, fast auto focus
- Auto pop-up flash great for full-auto shooters
- Super Steady Shot image stabilization system works well, allows to use cheap, non- stabilize lenses
- Fast USB transfer speed
- Excellent battery life
However, nothing is perfect and as a majority of new gadgets, the Sony A-200 has some cons too.
Cons:
- Dynamic Range Optimization works well, but slow down the camera
- The same as A-100 kit (18-70mm and 75-300mm) lenses with well-known (slightly soft in corners and in macro performance) troubles
- Pop-up flash is a little slowly
- Slow startup
- Some Auto White Balance troubles in bright light
- Really excellent Carl Zeiss lenses costs so much, seemingly better to look at Olympus
Conclusion
The new Sony DSLR A200 is a good plodder for adequate price ($700 for Kit and $900 for double: 18-70mm and 75-300mm Kit). With its advanced features, the Sony A-200 would be winning. However, Nikon contrives to shoot without noise with the same Sony’s sensor as in case of D80, D300 and D60. For more details about the Nikon D60 look through my previous post. As for lack of a focus drive in the Nikon D60, it is not a trouble. There are many special designed Nikkor lenses with motors. Of course, it needs a lot of money, but not so much. Instead, the Pentax K200D with weather-sealed body seems me very interesting, especially for journeys. As for Canon Rebel XTi / EOS400, look through: Canon EOS400/XTi, Nikon D40x and Pentax K10 pros& cons; SLR over SLR-like triple benefits. In any case, an entry level SLRs choice is wide. So be it.

Nikon D60 vs. Canon Xti, Sony A200, Pentax K200 and Olympus E510

2008-03-24T10:08:00.000-07:00

After the Nikon D40 appearing in 2006 and its 10 megapixels latest upgrade – the Nikon D40x, the D60 is the third incarnation of Nikon's “cheap” entry-level SLR line, which replaced the first Nikon 'starter' model, the D50. Sure, this new digital SLR camera is a true Nikon with many good features. However, the fact that “Auto Focus only for AF-S or AF-I lenses” doubt whether makes D60’s users happy.
Nikon D60 vs. Canon Digital Rebel Xti, Pentax K200, Olympus E510 or Sony Alpha 200
There are a lot of not bad entry-level SLRs such as Canon EOS 400D, Sony A200 and Pentax K200D with many advantages, which can’t make the D60 beyond comparison. The latest Alpha digital SLR from Sony, the A200 has a ten-megapixel APS size CCD (from Sony), Super SteadyShot sensor-shift image stabilization system, three frames per second continuous shooting, Sony's Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) and a 2.7 inch 230,000 pixel LCD monitor for $700 with 18-70 mm kit lens. For any details look through Sony A200 vs Pentax K200 or Nikon D60 – what’s new in Sony’s SLR.
The Pentax K200D offers a host of user-friendly features and sophisticated functions such as weather-sealed body, CCD-based anti-shake and dust removal. This SLR has the same APS-C sized (23.5 x 15.7 mm) sensor with 10.2 million sensor photo detectors. For more: Pentax K200D vs Sony A200 / A300; Weather resist SLR vs. Live-View.
As for well-known Canon Digital Rebel Xti (EOS 400D), the 22.2 x 14.8 mm CMOS nine-point AF sensor from the EOS 30D, a new dust removal system which includes anti-static surface coatings, low-pass filter vibration and software based dust pattern removal are not many impressive than an anti-dust system that incorporates a self-cleaning sensor unit that shakes off dust, coupled with an airflow system designed to channel dust away from the D60’s sensor.
As for Olympus SLRs, it's better to look through Compare digital SLR cameras: Olympus E-1, E-400 vs. Nikon D80, D40x or Pentax K10D; 4/3” sensor rules in Pro hands.
Nikon D60 main features
Let’s look through D60’s cool features.
- 10 megapixel 23.6 x 15.8 mm sensor, Nikon DX format CCD (1.5x FOV crop)
- Nikon EXPEED* image-processing concept such as D300 and D3
- 12-bit A/D converter
- 3D Color Matrix Metering II, 420 pixel sensor
- Multi-CAM530 three-area AF sensor
- New Image sensor cleaning system
- Eye sensor, which turns off LCD display
- ISO sensitivity range 100 - 1600 plus HI 1; 3200 equiv
- 3.0 fps continuous shooting (slower with noise reduction enabled), unlimited in JPEG
- Large 2.5" 230,000 pixel LCD monitor with help suggestions
- Short shutter lag and viewfinder blackout
- Support for SDHC (SD cards over 2 GB in capacity)
- In-camera retouching
- USB 2.0 with PTP and Mass Storage device support
* The Nikon D60 uses EXPEED technology to maximize image quality and processing speed. These features designed to allow the optimisation and adjustment of images without the need for a computer. Image optimisation is achieved through functions like Active D-Lighting, which compensates for strong shadows, and the automatic correction of false eye colour when using the built-in flash. Creative features include the automated creation of stop-motion animation files from a sequence of images, and effects that simulate the use of optical filters to produce colour shading and sparkling highlights.
Nikon D60 differences from the D40x
- Image sensor-cleaning system
- Airflow control system
- Automatic defeat via Eye Sensor
- Automatically rotating user interface for using vertically orientated camera
- Stop motion movie playback function
- New stabilized kit lens AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR
- Active D-Lighting with dedicated button
- In-camera Raw processing
- JPEG retouches effects
Nikon D60 specifications
- 23.6 x 15.8mm CCD sensor
- 10.2 million effective, 10.8 million total pixels
- 3872 x 2592 -- Large, 10.0 MP; 2896 x 1944 -- Medium, 5.6 MP; 1936 x 1296 -- Small, 2.5 MP image sizes
- Equivalent in 35mm (135) format is approx. 1.5X lens focal length
- Eye-level penta-prism mirror single-lens reflex viewfinder
- 3 frames per second continuous shooting speed at full resolution
- 2.5" TFT LCD 230,000 pixel
- Combined mechanical and CCD electronic shutter 30 to 1/4000 sec (1/3 EV steps)
- USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed), Mass storage / PTP selectable, Video out, DC-IN (optional AC adapter) connectivity
- Nikon F mount lenses: AF-S and AF-I NIKKOR: All functions supported; Type G or D AF NIKKOR not equipped with an autofocus motor: All functions supported except autofocus; Type G or D AF NIKKOR not equipped with an autofocus motor: All functions supported except autofocus; IX-NIKKOR and AF-NIKKOR for F3AF not supported; Type D PC NIKKOR: All functions supported except some shooting modes
- Dimensions: 126 x 94 x 64 mm (5.0 x 3.7 x 2.5 in)
- Weight (no/inc. batt) 471 g (1.0 lb)/ 522 g (1.2 lb)
- Optional Accessories: ML-L3 Wireless Remote Control, Capture NX, Camera Control Pro 2, EP-5AC Adapter Connector, EH-5a AC Adapter, EG-D100Video Cable, CF-DC1 Semi-Soft Case, Speedlight SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, R1C1
- Supplied Accessories: EN-EL9 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MH-23 Quick Charger, UC-E4 USB Cable , DK-20 Rubber Eyecup, AN-DC1 Camera Strap, BF-1A Body Cap, DK-5 Eyepiece Cap, BS-1 Accessory Shoe Cover, Software Suite CD-ROM
Nikon D60 pros and cons
Of course, none of this information can give a full view on the Nikon D60. However, there are some pros and cons, whith can be usefull for buyers.
Pros:
- This is Nikon’s cheapest DSLR
- This is a Nikon camera that is a pleasure to use
- A very good kit lens
- Effective image stabilisation system
- Hight image quality with good sharp and contrast
Cons:
- No focus drive in a camera body as in case of the D40/D40x
- No exposure and white balance bracketing
Conclusion
First of all the D60 is a Nikon with its high quality of work, excellent ergonomics, lightweight body and great quality images. Sure, the Nikkor range of auto-focus lenses available for this camera is limited. However, 18-55 mm and 55-200 mm twin lens kit is more than enough for a majority of photographers. At the same time, there are many new lenses with in built focus motors from Sigma, Tamron etc. As for comparison with the Canon Xti (Canon EOS400/XTi, Nikon D40x and Pentax K10 pros& cons; SLR over SLR-like triple benefits), Pentax K200, Sony A200 and Olympus E510, all of these 10MP cameras have its own pros and cons, different prices and different lenses. For making a right choise, it is better to get acqainted with these Digital SLR cameras by youself. For it bother all salesmen you can rich. Let you trouble be their trouble.

Casio Exilim EX-F1 as fastest digital SLR-like camera with CMOS sensor, better than Canon S5 and Panasonic TZ3

2008-02-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

After SONY’s great ultra zoom camera – DSC-R1, the new Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is the next SLR-like camera with CMOS sensor. However, good guys from Casio made a clever step with this gadget. They do not want to run for useless mega pixels and put 6.6 million total pixels into 1/1.8 inch sensor. As a result, the Casio EX-F1 can shoot at an ultra fast speed - 60 frames per second.
Casio EX-F1 features
Let us look around Exilim EX-F1 features for better understanding, how this gadget can shoot speedy than a digital SLR camera. For more details look through Choosing a Digital SLR: Nikon D40s vs D300 or maybe FinePix S8000 vs Fujifilm S5 IS Pro.
6.6 Mega pixels with 12X Optical zoom
The EXILIM Pro EX-F1 incorporates a new high-speed CMOS sensor and high-speed LSI processor. After building in 6.0 million effective pixels and a 12X optical zoom, the developers focused on achieving a burst shooting speed capability that was hitherto unheard of. Using the camera ultra-high speed burst shooting for still images or its high speed movie recording mode, users can capture a split second’s movement with greater detail than before, allowing them to catch each decisive moment, and even motion that the human eye cannot ordinarily perceive.
60 fps - Burst Mode
Using the still image burst mode, users can shoot at an ultra fast 60 frames per second. In burst mode, the frame rate can also be varied from between 1 and 60 frames per second while shooting. Up to 60 shots can be taken at once, so 60 shots per second for one second, or five shots per second for 12 seconds, are possible.
Pre-record Still Images
Users can record images not just at the instant they press the shutter button, but before. Continuously recording at up to 60 images per second, a maximum of 60 images can be saved in the camera’s own buffer memory even before the shutter button is depressed. Even if users press the shutter a little late, they will still be able to catch that vital moment.
Slow Motion View
Users can take photographs while, in the monitor, the momentary action that is before their eyes is displayed in slow motion. It is just as if they have slowed down the passing of time. Users can unhurriedly observe the motion of the subject as they press the shutter, ensuring that they never miss that crucial moment.
Rapid Flash
It is possible while using flash to take up to 20 continuous shots at a speed of up to 7 frames per second, so even in low light, no more missed shots. In addition, the internal LED light allows high-speed burst shooting at between 10 and 60 frames per second.
High Speed Movie Recording Up To 1,200 fps
The EXILIM Pro EX-F1 can record high-speed movie footage of motion too fast for the human eye, for ultra slow motion playback. Users can select a recording speed of 300 fps, 600 fps or 1,200 fps. In addition, a Movie Button lets users quickly start movie recording without first switching from still image mode.
Full HD Movies
The camera features Full High-Definition movie recording capability. Users can record beautiful movies at a screen size of 1920 x 1080 pixels, at a rate of 60 fps. The Casio EX-F1 can be connected to an HD compatible television with a separately available HDMI cable to enjoy viewing movies.
Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 specifications
- Sensor: 1/1.8-inch high-speed CMOS Type CCD
- Pixels: 6.6 million total; 6.0 million effective
- Image sizes: 2816 x 2112, 2816 x 1872 (3:2), 2816 x 1586 (16:9), 2304 x 1728, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 640 x 480
- STD Movies: 640 × 480 (30 fps)
- HD Movies: 1920 × 1080 (FHD HQ/FHD Normal, 60 fields per second), 1280 × 720 (HD LP, 30 fps)
- Hi-Speed Movies: 512 × 384 (300 fps), 432 × 192 (600 fps), 336 × 96 (1200 fps)
- File formats: Still: RAW (DNG 1), JPEG (Exif Version 2.2), DCF 1.0 standard, DPOF compliant; Movie: MOV format, H.264/AVC, IMA-ADPCM (stereo)
- Lens: 12 lenses in 9 groups, including aspherical lens Approx. 36 to 432mm 35mm equiv. (12x Zoom) F2.7 (W) to 4.6 (T)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Operating Speed: High-speed Continuous Shutter: Maximum is 60 frames per second; Flash Continuous Shutter: Maximum is 7 frames per second
- 2.8-inch wide TFT color LCD (Super Clear LCD), 230,160 dots (959 × 240)
- USB/AV port, HDMI Mini Connector (output), hot shoe, external microphone jack, AC adaptor connection (DC-IN); USB : Hi-Speed USB
- Weight (no batt) 671g
- Dimensions 127.7 (W) x 79.6 (H) x 130.1 (D)mm
Casio EX-F1 pros and cons
Good
- Full resolution at 60 fps
- Hot shoe
- RAW format
- External mic jack
Bad
- The price at $999 is an excess for SLR-like ultra-zoom cameras
- Mono speaker
- Longest menus ever
- No optical image stabilization in Movie mode
Conclusion
In my opinion, Casio can make much more interesting SLR-like camera than Canon S5 IS or Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3. For more details look through Compare digital SLR-like cameras: from Canon S5, Olympus SP 560 and Sony H3, H9 to Panasonic FZ18 and Fujifilm S8000. What is more, the Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is a right choice for those, who need fast digital camera for pets, kids and sport shooting. Moreover, this gadget is not bad for those, who do not want to busy oneself with huge SLR cameras and swapping lenses. There is just one trouble: the Casio EX-F1 costs much more than the Canon S5 IS or even great Fujifilm S9600. However, I hope that declared price about $1000 should be reduced. Or else this gadget cannot be attractive for consumers.

Aiptek A-HD and GO-HD camcorders as the best choice for MySpace or YouTube

2007-12-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

Looking to the Aiptek GO-HD or A-HD it is a little hard to compare these small HD camcorders with some excellent gadgets such as Canon NV20, Panasonic SD1 or Sony CR7. However, even in comparison with Sanyo Xacti family as HD1 and HD2, the Aiptek GO-HD performs good movie quality, especially in low light situations. Though Sanyo HD1 or HD2 and Aiptek GO-HD and A-HD are similar gadgets, it is wrong to call Aiptek cams as a ‘knock-off’ of Sanyo HD camcorders. For more look through: Aiptek GO-HD vs Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1 or HD2.
Aiptek HD: $170 for 720P high definition video
The Aiptek GO-HD and A-HD uses a H.264 compression to achieve a 4.5 Mbps data rate, whereas the VPC-HD2 uses a MPEG4 compression to achieve a 9 Mbps data rate. The H.264 compression is much more computationally intensive than MPEG4 compression, so there must be something fundamentally different about these two camcorders. As for image quality, even though the Go-HD has half the data rate of the VPC-HD2, there are many users’ suggestions that the Aiptek Go-HD has an edge over the VPC-HD2. This fact with Aiptek’s very attractive prices makes the GO-HD for $250 and A-HD for $170 good value for money. For more details look through 12 main points for clever HD camcorder choosing.
Aiptek GO-HD key features
- 5 mega pixels CMOS sensor
- 3x Optical Zoom with Auto Focus
- 2.4" TFT rotational Color LCD Display
- 2-inch Macro Zoom for capturing 5cm close-up pictures or video clips
- Built-in LED lights for video recording in dark and low light situations
- Recharge Battery via USB, no need to remove battery from camera
- HDTV Component Output
- Removable Hard Disk and SD/MMC Card Reader
Aiptek GO-HD specifications
The GO-HD comprises 1280x720 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio at 30 fps using advanced H.264 technology. With a 3-x Optical Zoom and Auto-Focus, it can capture not bad quality movie.
- 3-x Optical Zoom lens, 7.5-21.5mm, F 3.6-6.7
- Movie Mode: 1280 x 720 Pixels (H.264) 30 fps, 720 x 480 Pixels (D1) 30 fps, 352 x 240 Pixels (CIF) 30 fps
- MOV Video Format
- Still Images: 2560 x 1920 pixels 5MP, 2048 x 1536 pixels 3MP
- Macro Mode: 5-30cm (at 1x fixed zoom)
- Normal Mode: 30cm - infinity
- LCD Display: 2.4” TFT Panel with 270° Rotation
- External Memory: SD Card Slot (256MB - 8GB)
- TV Out: HDTV (Component Out) NTSC/PAL Color System Supported
- Interface USB2.0
- Battery NP-60 1000mA Li-Ion battery
Aiptek GO-HD pros and cons
Pros:
- Low light video
- Sharp panoramic video
- Video light in addition to flash
- Remote with all options (record video, take picture, zoom, and navigate all menus)
- Good Macro mode
- Tripod mount is right below the lens, which is good for photo stitching
Cons:
- Zooming is loud with noticeable motor noise
- Audio is mono
- Cheap feeling
- Poor menu
- Complicated photo/video review (takes a couple of button click to go back and view recently taken footage)
- Battery goes down while it synchronize SD card
- No sequential action snapshot mode
- Can't lock focus and no manual focus
- Grip is awkward and difficult to hold and press buttons
- Date Time setting keeps be reset
- No Lens cover
Of course, the Aiptek GO-HD may not meet the needs of the prosumer enthusiast. However, as an inexpensive digital HD camcorder, which can takes still pictures and has a good 30 fps high definition movie mode, it is a very interesting gadget. For more details look through: Puppet Sanyo Xacti HD2 vs clever Canon HV20 or groovy JVC GZ-HD7: it's time to buy a HD-camcorder or wait?.
Aiptek A-HD key features
The A-HD performs 720P high definition video quality to provide a completely new high quality DV experience. One-touch recording allows you to capture stunning HD 1280 x 720 - 16:9 aspect ratio video clips at 30 frames per second with advanced H.264 technology. The Aiptek A-HD allows using up to 8GB of SD card storage to record longer video before having to upload to PC.
- 5 Mega-Pixel CMOS (2592 x 1944) sensor, up to 8MP with still images
- 2-x Digital Zoom
- AV-IN, Record at 720 x 480 (D1) for connecting to TV/VCR/DVD player to record video clips, pictures, and audio recordings
- HDTV Component Output
- Recharge Battery via USB, no need to remove battery from camera
Aiptek A-HD specifications
- Still Image 3200 x 2400 pixels (8MP), 2560 x 1920 pixels (5MP), and 2048 x 1536 pixels (3MP)
- Movie Mode: 1280 x 720 pixels (H.264) 30 fps, 720 x 480 pixels (D1) 30 fps, 352 x 240 Pixels (CIF) 30 fps
- MOV Video Format
- Macro Mode: 30-50cm
- Normal Mode: 50cm - infinity
- 2.4” TFT Panel with 270° Rotation
- Internal Memory: 6MB
- External Memory: SD Card Slot (256MB - 8GB)
- TV Out HDTV (Component Out) NTSC/PAL Color System Supported
- Interface USB2.0
- Battery NP-60 1000mA Li-Ion battery
- 2GB SD Card allows recording 60 min HD 1280 x 720 movie at 30fps
Conclusion
The Aiptek GO-HD and A-HD are not prosumer cameras such as Sony Handycam HDR-CX7 or Panasonic HDC DX1 / SD1, but they are great for carrying around all the time in a pocket like the Sanyo HD2. Moreover, for $170-250 instead of $800-1000 for CX7 and HDC-SD1, these gadgets can be really useful in some exotic situations, especially when a monkey mixes up your camcorder with a banana. Of course, these HD camcorders look like Christmas toys, but I will be glad to get one of them as a Christmas gift. As for ‘Youtubers’ and ‘Myspacers’, Aiptek GO-HD and A-HD may be not the best, but a cheap and good HD camcorder’s choice.

Panasonic DMC TZ3 vs Canon SX100 or Sony H3: the best Travel Zoom for $220

2007-12-20T10:12:00.000-08:00

Four models present the new digital compact camera type – the Travel Zoom: the Canon Powershot SX100, the Sony DSC-H3, Panasonic DMC-TZ2 and Lumix TZ3. This camera type is a compromise between SLR-like cameras with a big optical zoom as Canon S5 or FujiFilm S8000 and compacts as PowerShot A-series or Fujifilm F40 – F50fd. Travel Zoom cameras have the same small 1/2.5 – 1/2.33” sensors. However, their 10-x zoom lens is hiding into the body; it makes this camera type handy, especially for travelers.
For more details look through: Compare 10x SLR-likes: Sony DSC-H3, Panasonic TZ2 vs Canon SX100.
Panasonic DMC-TZ3 best features
Panasonic’s new DMC-TZ2 and DMC-TZ3 are the latest models of the Lumix TZ family of digital cameras, which is renowned for packaging a remarkable 10x optical zoom in a compact pocket body. I already compared the Panasonic TZ2 with the Canon SX100 and the Sony DSC-H3. However, the Lumix TZ2 with a small 6MP resolution sensor is hardly preferred to 8.1MP Sony H-3 and 8.3MP Canon SX100. At that time, the Panasonic TZ3 with 7.2MP sensor and most tight body is a prepotent rival. Try to put the Canon SX100 into your jeans pocket. In that case, the TZ3 looks much more preferable. For more ultra zoom cameras look through: Compare digital SLR-like cameras: from Canon S5, Olympus SP 560 and Sony H3, H9 to Panasonic FZ18 and Fujifilm S8000.
Panasonic TZ3 key features
- 1/2.35 inch sensor with 7.2MP, 8.5 million photo detectors
- 10x optical zoom 28-280mm (35mm equiv) Leica lens
- 4-x digital zoom
- Extra optical zoom (4:3: 12x for 5MP, 15x for 3, 2, 1, 0.3MP, 3:2: 12.6x for 4.5MP, 15x for 2.5MP, 16:9: 13x for 3.5MP, 15x for 2MP)
- 3-inch 230,000 pixels LCD monitor
- MEGA O.I.S. Optical Image Stabilizer
- ISO from 100-1,250 with ISO 3,200 Intelligent ISO Mode
- Automatic exposure
- Twenty scene modes
- Live Histogram
- Aspect ratio options
- White Balance fine-tuning feature
- Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
- Dual image display in playback
- 848 x 480 30 fps Movie mode
- Clipboard function for photographing maps, travel material
- Special Baby Scene Modes, Underwater Scene Mode/Optional underwater housing
- Shutter speed from 60 sec - 1/2,000 sec
- SD, SDHC, MMC compatible
- 13MB internal memory
- USB full speed connection
- Rechargeable Lithium battery and charger included
Some Lumix TZ3 differences from TZ2
Sensor: 1/2.35 " Type CCD, 8.50 million pixels total, 7.2 million effective pixels instead of 1/2.33 " Type CCD, 7.39 million pixels total, 6.0 million effective pixels
Max resolution: 3072 x 2304 instead of 2816 x 2112
Exposure bracketing: +/- 1/3 EV -1EV step, 3 frames
Continuous shooting: Full-Resolution Image, 3 frames/sec or 2 frames/sec
LCD: 3.0-inch 230,000 pixels Polycrystalline TFT instead of 2.5-inch 207,000 pixels
Weight (no batt): 232 g (0.51lb) instead of 222 g (0.49lb)
Dimensions: the same 105 x 59.2 x 36.7 mm (4.20 x 2.37 x 1.47 in)
Panasonic DMC-TZ3 pros and cons
Pros:
- 10x optical zoom with true 28mm wide angle
- Almost distortion-free lens
- Compact body for 10-x optical zoom camera
- Optical image stabilization
- Large high-resolution 3-inch LCD screen
- Easy to use, well-build pocket camera
- Simple mode for handing the camera off to the less experienced in the family
- Ability to limit ISO in Auto and Intelligent ISO
- Good Automatic White Balance
- Fast startup for a long zoom
- Not bad shutter lag
- Blazing shutter response with pre-focus
- 20 Scene Modes
- Special underwater housing
Cons:
- Anti-noise processing muddles detail, especially in reds
- Difficult LCD using in bright light
- High contrast in harsh outdoor images
- Limited low-light abilities
- Flash coverage is uneven at wide angle, and insufficient at telephoto
- Only average transfer speed
- Tripod mount at one corner is awkward
- Battery life could have been better.
- Lens cover seems flimsy.
- Lens thread to attach filters would have been nice
- Has a tendency to underexpose (use exposure compensation)
- Gets noisy at ISO400
- No ISO below 100
- Not zooming in Movie mode
Canon PowerShot SX100 key features
- 8.0MP 1/2.5 inch CCD, delivering image resolutions 3,264 x 2,448 pixels
- 10x zoom 36-360mm lens (35mm equiv)
- 2.5-inch 172,000 pixels flip-out and twist LCD display
- Optical image stabilization
- Manual focus mode with enlargement of focus area
- Face Detection
- Macro (close-up) lens adjustment
- 640 x 480 30 fps Movie mode
- Shutter speeds from 1/2,500 to 15 sec
- Automatic, Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual exposure modes
- Built-in flash with five modes plus an intensity adjustment
- Auto or High-Auto ISO setting or 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1,600, ISO equivalents
- Safety Manual Focus mode
- White balance adjustment with seven options
- Flash exposure compensation
- Safety flash exposure mode adjusts shutter speed / aperture to prevent blowouts
- Safety-shift function prevents poor exposures in shutter / aperture priority modes
- Auto ISO shift adjusts ISO sensitivity to prevent camera shake, with manual override possible
- Spot, Center-Weighted, and Evaluative Metering modes
- 1.3 fps Continuous Drive with two continuous shooting modes
- Long exposure (1.3+ sec) noise reduction
- Auto-Exposure and Flash-Exposure Lock
- SD/SDHC/MMC card (16MB SD card included)
- USB 2.0 computer connection
- Weight (inc. batteries) 316 g (11.1 oz)
- Dimensions 109 x 71 x 47 mm (4.3 x 2.8 x 1.9 in)
Canon SX100 pros and cons
Pros:
- Excellent Canon’s 10-x zoom lens with minimal lens distortion
- Good Optical image stabilization
- Face Detection AF / AE
- Accurate exposure metering
- Useful ISO range from 80 to 1,600
- Full manual exposure control
- Useful flip out and twist LCD
- Not bad low light performance
- Good macro mode
- Not so big shutter lag time
- Excellent battery life NiMH rechargeable
Cons:
- Not a pocket size
- Some chromatic aberrations
- A little under saturated images
- High contrast in harsh lighting
- Big shutter lag time with using a flash
Conclusion
In comparison with the Canon S5 IS the PowerShot SX100 with the same 1/2.5 inch sensor and practically the same image quality but not the same (a little cheaper) price at $240-260, the Panasonic TZ3 looks good. For more look at: Canon SX100 IS as a Powershot S5 IS killer. However, the SX100 is not a pocket camera (if you do not prefer a working or farmer clothes). In addition, the Panasonic TZ3 with a smaller body but a bigger sensor and price at $220-250 can be the best choice. Especially if you do not demand an outstanding image quality from a Travel Zoom, this camera is good value for money.

Fujifilm S8000 vs S700, S9600 or F40: Great zoom for SLR-like, great sensor for Compact

2007-12-18T05:13:00.001-08:00

Fuji Film digital camera guide can surprise any photographer with its features distribution. The small FinePix F40 has 1/1.6” Fujifilm SuperCCD HR sensor, whereas the cool 18x Fujifilm F8000 is satisfied with 1/2.35” ordinary chip. The groovy S9600 (with SuperCCD HR sensor) has not only a low light, still an infrared shooting advantage (in case of FinePix IS-1, look at this post), but it is content without an optical image stabilizer. As for Fujifilm digital SLR – the IS Pro and S5 Pro, there is 6MP 23 x 15.5 mm sensor, but with 12.3 million sensor photo detectors.
Finepix S8000 key features
I have already written about S8000 in my previous post. Like the Olympus SP-560 UZ and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18, the Fujifilm S8000fd is an ultra-long zoom with an 18x optical zoom range and a small 1/2.35 instead of 1/2.5” 8.0-megapixel sensor. However, Fujfilm has added a lot of value to the ultra long zoom with the FinePix S8000. As a result, the S8000fd with a little bigger sensor, very quick pre-focus shutter lag, and comfortable grip and especially with Fujinon’s Wide Angle Optical Zoom lens, looks prettier than the Olympus SP 560 and the Panasonic FZ18. Still taking into consideration my 18-x scepsis to using this telescope in a digital camera, I am trying to compare it with 10-x zoom cameras as the Fujifilm S9600 or the Fujifilm S5700. Let’s run through its advantages.
Fujifilm S8000 features
- 8-megapixel 1/2.35 " CCD
- 18x optical zoom Fujinon 27-486mm 35mm equivalent lens
- Max Aperture f/2.8 at wide-angle, f/4.5 a telephoto
- 5.1x digital zoom
- EVF viewfinder and 2.5-inch LCD with 230,000 pixels
- Shutter speeds from 4 seconds to 1/2,000 second
- Dual Image Stabilization uses a CCD shift mechanism and high sensitivity
- Compact body with ergonomic grip
- Programmed AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE, Manual exposure modes
- Scene modes: Portrait, Landscape, Sport, Night, Fireworks, Sunset, Snow, Beach, Museum, Party, Flower, Text, Auction
- Fujifilm's Face detection technology adjust focus and exposure
- Ultra High Sensitivity ISO from 64 to 6,400
- 58MB internal memory
- Dual memory card formats SDHC/SD/xD support
- Focusing modes include Normal (to 2.3 feet), Macro (to 0.3 feet) and Super Macro (to four inches)
- Continuous shooting options include Top 3, Long Period, Top 15 High Speed, and Top 15 Ultra High Speed
- White balance options include Auto, Preset (Fine, Shade, Fluorescent light (Daylight), Fluorescent light (Warm White), Fluorescent light (Cool White), Incandescent light), and Custom
- Live histogram
- USB Full Speed interface
- Four AA batteries for power
Fujifilm S8000 pros and cons
Pros:
- Powerful 18x optical zoom
- Dual Image Stabilization system with optical and digital image stabilization
- 1/2.35” 8MP sensor
- Fast Fujifilm face detection technology also sets exposure and flash
- High resolution 2.5-inch LCD
- Sharp and clear electronic viewfinder
- Natural Light and Natural Light with Flash shooting modes
- Two Scene mode options on the Mode dial with user-settable defaults
- Short pre-focus shutter lag
- Good Super Macro mode
- Excellent low light focusing without assist lamp
- Good battery life from AA batteries
Cons:
- High distortion and chromatic aberration as a result of the 18-x long-zoom lens, which is a little higher than average
- Corners are soft at telephoto
- Noisy images above ISO 400, blurred by heavy noise reduction
- No RAW mode
- Stiff control buttons
- Wobbly battery compartment door is hard to close
- MMC card is not supported
- High-speed burst modes record only reduced resolution images
- Warm and pinkish indoors auto white balance
- Poor printed results at mid to high ISO with oversaturated color
Fujifilm S700 / S5700 key features
The Fujifilm FinePix S700 / S5700 is the cheapest long-zoom digital camera model, and has the same features and options as the previous Fujifilm S5600. So not surprisingly it has many of the same controls. Its features include dual media slots (Secure Digital / MultiMediaCard and xD-Picture Card), 27MB internal memory, a 0.24" electronic viewfinder with a high 230,000-pixel resolution, and a 2.5" LCD display with the same resolution. In comparison with the S8000, the Fujifilm S700 has a smaller sensor size and does not have an optical image stabilizer. With regard to using a long 10-x zoom lens, this feature would be not superfluous. However, what do you want from $180’s camera.
FujiFilm S5700 / S700 features
- 7.1 mega pixels 1/2.5” sensor
- 10-x optical zoom 38-380mm F3.5 - F13.6 / 7 Fujinon lens
- 2.5” 230.000 pixels LCD
- Shutter speeds from 1 seconds to 1/1,000 second
- 27 MB internal memory
- 640 x 480, 30 fps movie mode
- xD Picture Card
- Weight (inc. batteries) 406 g (14.3 oz)
- Dimensions 106 x 76 x 81 mm (4.2 x 3 x 3.2 in)
- AA (4) batteries
Fujifilm S700 pros and cons
Pros:
- Not bad photo quality, low noise through ISO 400
- Good value for the price ($180-200)
- 10X optical zoom
- Solid, well-build body, fantastic handling
- Large 2.5" LCD display with a high resolution and a fluid frame rate and good visibility
- Good EVF 230,000 pixels with fast refresh rate 60fps
- AF-assist lamp, good (but slow) low light focusing
- Dual xD/SD memory card slot
- Full manual controls
- 640 x 480 30 fps movie mode
- Can use optical zoom and digital image stabilization in movie mode
- Histogram on manual record mode and play
- Macro and super-macro settings are very good
- Great battery life - 600 shots on a charge; uses AA batteries
Cons:
- Some corner blurriness, blown highlights
- Purple fringing is evident in nearly every shot, and at its worst in any images that are even vaguely "contrast"
- Trouble with Redeye correction
- Lens is slow at the wide-angle
- No optical image stabilizer
- Disappointing continuous shooting mode
- Sluggish shot-to-shot and image playback speed
- Poorly implemented manual focus feature
- Small electronic viewfinder
- Plastic tripod mount
- No USB 2.0 High Speed support
Conclusion
Of course, it is a bad idea to compare these SLR-like cameras. With their prices at $320-350 for the S8000 and $180-200 for the S700, with their 18-x instead of 10-x zoom lenses, they are at different camera levels. However, there is one more thing (first is the mfr) which unites the Fujifilm S8000 and the S700. These two are an amazing bargain in comparison with their SLR-like camera levels. Let the S8000 have a little smaller sensor and a little better lens, than the Olympus SP-560 or the Panasonic FZ18. Nevertheless, this 'a little' makes the Fujifilm S8000 as the best 18-x zoom digital camera. For more details look through Compare Fujifilm S8000, Olympus SP550, Panasonic FZ18 - nothing to S9100. Let the Fujifilm S700 have no optical image stabilizer. The great and expensive Fuji’s SLR-like camera – S9600 / IS-1 does not have it too. Instead, it has the same as Canon Powershot S5 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 1/2.5” sensor for its funny $180. As for 10-x zoom instead of 12-x, it is not such a big difference.
Apropos, the FujiFilm F40fd with its large sensor, great image quality, good small body and attractive price is a bargain too. Special thanks for FujiFilm.
As for another SLR-like cameras, look through: Compare digital SLR-like cameras: from Canon S5, Olympus SP 560 and Sony H3, H9 to Panasonic FZ18 and Fujifilm S8000.

Fujifilm F40fd vs FinePix F50fd, Canon IXUS 960 and PowerShot G9: no more expensive mega pixels for a Compact

2007-12-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

It is quite enough to look at some digital cameras, as the FinePix IS Pro, S700, IS-1, S9600 or an excellent digital SLR – FinePix S5 Pro so as to understand that Fujifilm is a great digital cameras manufacturer. Fujifilm camera’s color rendering favorably differ FinePix photo cameras from many others. This is an advantage of FujiFilm firm’s Super CCD HR image sensor. Unfortunately, this sensor is not the rule for all FinePix cameras.
The FinePix F40fd - to carry 1/1.6” sensor under one's heart
In my opinion, the Fujifilm F40fd is the best digital camera not only in Fuji’s F-series, but also in comparison with groovy S8000, F40 with its 1/1.6” sensor can produce a better image quality. As for FinePix F50fd, I already wrote that useless 12MP resolution makes this gadget a bit expensive while its images a little noisy. For more look through: Fujifilm F50fd vs FinePix S5 IS Pro: 12MP from digital compact it’s not the same as 12MP from SLR. Whatever advertising saying, the FinePix F40 is most successful digital compact more than the F50fd, and some Canon PowerShot great models as SD950, G9, SD870 or Nikon P5100. For any details look at: Compare digital compact cameras: from Canon A630 / G7 and Nikon P5000 to Canon G9 / A650 and Nikon P5100. Thanks for a good feature set for a fair $200 price.
Fujifilm F40fd key features
- 8.3 million pixels 1/1.6 inch Super CCD HR VI sensor
- Fujinon 3x optical zoom lens, F2.8-5.1, Equivalent to 36 - 108 mm on a 35 mm camera
- Face Detection Technology built-in to the camera’s processor
- Real Photo Processor II
- ISO 2000 sensitivity at full resolution (1600 selectable)
- Long-life battery (up to 300 shots)
- IR Communication (IR simple)
- VGA movie capture of 30 frames per second with sound
- Weight (inc. batteries) 181 g (6.4 oz)
- Dimensions 96 x 59 x 23 mm (3.8 x 2.3 x 0.9 in)
Fuji Film advanced technology
Fujifilm Real Photo Technology brings together CCD, processor and lens to deliver images of optimum quality that are rich in color, detail and sharpness and low in noise. Fuji film’s proprietary Super CCD HR VI is a unique octagonal shape, which means it has a larger surface area than traditional sensors, making it more sensitive to light. This gives Fuji film’s FinePix cameras their unique High ISO sensitivity ratings. It also means that faster shutter speeds can be used to capture images; combating image blur. The design of the Super CCD also makes it less prone to noise; the grainy, speckled effect that can occur, especially at higher ISO settings. The FinePix F40fd achieves ISO 2000 (1600 selectable) at full resolution, which means there is no trade off between ISO setting and image sharpness, or the size of the print that can be made.
The RP Processor II featured on the FinePix F40fd features double noise reduction. It has proven capability of delivering images with significantly less noise than some competing models at a lower ISO. Furthermore, Fuji film’s Fujinon lenses are the product of over seven decades’ R&D into lens technology; completing the triangle of lens, CCD and processor all optimized to work in harmony together. The result is photographs of unrivalled quality no matter what the subject or level of light.
Fujifilm F40fd pros and cons
Pros:
- Large 1/1.6” sensor, a little larger than S8000
- Face detection
- IrSimple concept is cool
- Fair $200 price
- 300-shot rechargeable battery
- xD and SD compatibility
- Sharp lens
- Low noise
- Subcompact size
- Great indoor pictures in low light
- Great high ISO capability
Cons:
- Ugly primitive menus
- Short 3-x lens
- Poor color performance
- Limited dynamic range
- Poor handling
- Slow, short burst mode
- IrSimple wireless impractical
- There are no Av or TV settings
- No optical viewfinder
FinePix F40fd user’s opinion
This F40fd is a beauty, nice looking and make excellent or very good vivid pictures, also at low light with 100, 200, 400 ISO's and without PP ready for big prints. The F40fd at less than $200 is a great value for money. IQ for shooting up to ISO 400 (handheld) at low light condition is acceptable. SD compatibility is a bonus. Colors are bright, particularly at the Landscape (blues and greens) and Portraits (sharp focus and good flash exposures) scenes. It has become a handy day-to-day or the second camera for advanced photographer.
Conclusion
The 8.3-megapixel Fujifilm F40fd has most useful resolution than others Fujifilm digital compacts. Moreover, in comparison with some Canon’s best cameras as PowerShot SD950, G9 and A640, the FinePix F40fd looks good. Its 1/1.6-inch sensor makes an excellent quality images and kept noise to a minimum and resolution to an optimum. At the same time, Canon with its new 1/1.7 inch 12MP sensor kept resolution to a maximum (4000 x 3000 pixels) but its noise is so far from an optimum. As for prices, $450 for the G9 or $350 for Canon A650 and SD950 are far from F40’ two hundred too. Look through: Canon PowerShot SD850 IS vs. SD950 IS or Canon Powershot G9, SD950 and A650. Finepix F40 has sharply focused and properly exposed pictures, thanks to Fuji’s Face Detection system and the vast ISO range. Unfortunately, the F40fd does not have a manual control or even a decent burst mode and its 3x zoom is very short, but it will suffice for consumers who want an automatic point-and-shoot to snap great pictures. With its price under $200, the Fujifilm F40fd can become the best choice as a Digital Compact.

Compare digital SLR cameras: Olympus E-1, E-400 vs. Nikon D80, D40x or Pentax K10D; 4/3” sensor rules in Pro hands

2007-12-15T03:42:00.000-08:00

I have already written that the Olympus SLR camera’s guide is not preferable over using a small 4/3 " (18.00 x 13.50 mm) sensor size. However, engineer’s opinion, which based only on physical properties, can be wrong in comparison with photographer’s opinion, which is based on his one's talent and personal experience. Moreover, collecting information about Olympus SLR lenses, I was envious of a great Olympus ZUIKO high quality lenses. For more about ZUIKO lenses look through Choosing digital SLR lenses: 28-75mm f2.8 vs 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3.
The Olympus SLR’s advantages: Pro photographer's personal experience
When I got a message from an Olympus SLR owner, where he preferred the E-1 and the E-400 to the Sony A100, Nikon D40 and even the Nikon D80, I was amazed. However, after viewing Gabriel Michel’s photos I see: this man knows beyond doubt about all of Olympus SLR’s advantages.
Look through Gabriel Michel article
In my opinion, to report from a camera we have to place it in the context, the experience. For what do we want to test this camera? I prefer to pick different shooting fields: sport, landscapes, street photography, portrait, studio and low light.
Sport photography:
The Olympus E-1 and E-400 suck because it has low continuous shooting (less than 3) and just 3 AF points. The E-1 is better than the E-400 because it can record 12 RAW images, thanks to its buffer. The E-3 is far different and can be considered, especially if you have some Olympus lenses.
Landscapes:
For this genre the Olympus E-1 has very good colors, excellent metering, but not so high dynamic range. However, the Olympus E-400 sucks. In my mind, only full frames or bigger sensors can record correctly landscapes. The difference between 4/3 and APS is not so important…but I prefer the Fuji S5 Pro for that photo field.
Street photography:
The Olympus E-1 is very good because sold with the very fast 14-54 (28-108mm) f/2.8-3.5. The shutter is one of the most silent I heard. It is well built and very solid. It is not afraid from the rain… The E-400 is also excellent because very small, light weighted but solid built, and can shoot at mid-high ISO. With a Zuiko OM lens (50 1.8 or 1.4 or 1.2, I will talk about the lenses later), the E-400 is even more small. The shutter is not as silent as the E-1s but it is not so bad.
Portrait:
The Olympus E-1 is good because its photosets are not small, and with a good lens (from Olympus of course ;-)), it's okay. Therefore, the portraits are sharp enough. Of course, the colors, skin tones are excellent. Olympus chose a great grey point to balance the colors; for me it is far better than the other brands. Be aware of its resolution, not more than 30 x 40 cm. The E-400 is just for beginners…as good as the Nikon D40x or the Canon EOS 400D thanks to its good kit lens.
Studio, for pro-use:
Unfortunately, the Olympus E-1's resolution sucks for big prints. E-400 can be okay but needs a pro lens. Be aware that the dynamic range is not as good as Nikon's…and not good at all.
Low Light:
In these situations the Olympus E-1 is bad, even with a fast lens, BUT, in a recent wedding (hey I'm a pro!) I had the Nikon D80 with its standard kit lens AND my Olympus E-1 with its "standard" kit lens; I had to shoot with my E-1 at ISO 800 and with the Nikon D80 at ISO 1600 in the church; the E-1's photos were less noisy but they had also less detail than the D80 ones. It is a question of choice… The E-400 is better than the E-1 at this point, but not as good as Canon, but not so different at Nikon D80/200, Pentax, and better than Sony Alpha 100 in my opinion.
The final very important thing about Olympus cameras are their versatility. Yeah you can mount Canon lenses, Nikon Lenses, M42 lenses, Zuiko OM lenses and some exotic ones! The 4/3 sensor permit that. In addition, the pictures with these lenses are often really good! For more info go to: http://www.wrotniak.net/photo/oly-e/index.html
http://www.biofos.com/
Verdict:
The Olympus E-1 is digital SLR camera for:
- Learning photography
- Semi-pros to junior pro
The Olympus E-400 is an SLR camera for:
- Street photography
- Beginners
- As a second body
As for me, the Olympus E-1 can be as interesting as…the Pentax K10D and the Nikon D80.
For me the E-400 is better than the Nikon D40x (except for dynamic range), the Pentax K100D Super (except for stabilization…), the Sony Alpha 100 (except for quality built) and the Canon EOS 400D (except for image quality).
To see Olympus photos go there: http://www.olympus-esystem.jp/gallery_e/
To look at some of my pix, it is here.
PostScript
Now I have a profound respect for any Olympus SLRs. It is necessary for me to look closely to Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10 and DMC-L1, which has the same as Olympus SLRs 4/3” sensor and an excellent Leica lenses. What is more, do not try to compare digital SLR cameras only by there physical properties. For more articles about digital SLR cameras comparison look through: Choosing a Digital SLR. In some situations the lens guide, lightweight or color rendering are much more important. In addition, the personal experience and talent allow the photographer much more than full frame sensor. Thanks for Gabriel Michel.

Canon PowerShot SD850 IS vs. SD950 IS: 12MP in titanium body or who is the Canon 950 IS

2007-12-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

When I am looking for a great image quality from an SLR-like or a Compact digital camera, first I focus my attention on the sensor size. However, most digital cameras as the Canon S5 IS or Powershot A720 have a small 1/2.5 inch chip. Alternatively, some cameras as Canon G9, SD950 IS or Fujifilm F50fd have a large (for a compact) 1/1.7 – 1/1.6 inch, but overburden with useless 12 extra pixels sensor. As a result, we have a price at $400-450 for noisy images.
For more about Fuji look at Fujifilm F50fd vs FinePix S5 IS Pro.
Looking for a great digital camera – pay attention to your own needs!
I doubt that any Canon G9 or SD950 owners are in need of a wallpaper printing (look through Canon Powershot G9, SD950 and A650). So why do they need the 4000 x 3000 resolution? Do not listen to the digital camera’s advertisement. Look for your needs, not the Canon. In addition, if you want to make a really right choice, it is better to forget about flagship models. There are some good cameras with adequate prices under groovy gadget’s level.
The Canon IXUS 950 IS – it’s not the same as the Canon PowerShot SD950 IS
Some Canon’s brothel with its digital camera names does not promote a good comparison. When I was talking about Canon Compacts with salesmen in the MBK center in Bangkok, they could not understand that there were some models for UK and some for US. Canon IXUS 950 or SD 950 -- what difference does it really make? However, there is one -- one hundred USD between these two. Therefore, let’s look around Canon Digital IXUS 950 IS (also known as PowerShot SD850) features for better understanding: why it has a biggest sale’s rating.
Digital IXUS 950 features
- 8.0 megapixels 1/2.5” CCD
- 4x optical zoom 35-140mm (35mm equivalent) UA lens with optical Image Stabilizer
- Eye-catching design with Touch Control Dial
- DIGIC III with Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Red-Eye Correction in playback
- Noise Reduction Technology
- 2.5” 230,000 pixels Pure Color LCD
- ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift
- 18 shooting modes including Creative Light Effect plus My Colors photo effects
- VGA Movies and Time Lapse Movie function
- User Defined Print/Share button
- Optical viewfinder
PowerShot SD 950 IS features
- 12.1 megapixels 1/1.7” CCD
- 3.7x optical zoom 6 mm - 133 mm zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer
- Titanium body with Touch Control Dial
- ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift
- DIGIC III with Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Red-Eye Correction in playback
- 2.5” 230,000 pixels Pure Color LCD with wide viewing angle
- 18 shooting modes including ISO 3200 scene mode and My Colors photo effects
- Extensive movie options including 1024 x 768 15 fps, Long Play and Time Lapse modes
- PictBridge and Print/Share compatible
- Optical viewfinder
Some Canon IXUS 950 differences from SD950
What can I say? If you are not crying for a titanium body and 15 fps XGA movie, it is better to buy the IXUS 950 for $250-270. Even more so, it has a little better lens, which is a much more important advantage for a photo camera than the XGA movie mode. In another case 4000 x 3000 resolution from IXUS 960 (also known as PowerShot SD950), comes to you for $370-390 with a not booked noise. It is quite good to know that 12MP cannot make an SLR from a Compact. As for body, with regard to a progress modern digital cameras have a short life. Is it necessary for a gadget, which becomes antiquated after next Christmas to have a titanium case?
For more details look through Canon SD1000 as IXUS 70 vs. SD 870 or IXUS 950 vs. SD 950: it’s easy to be lost there.
Some Canon Digital IXUS 950 pros and cons
Pros:
- Optical Image stabilization
- 4x optical zoom
- Face detection system really works
- Fast start-up with virtually no shutter lag if you pre-focus
- The wide lens lets you fit more people into your group photos
- Dependable auto white balance
- Flash recycles quickly when used to light up the average room
- Handy user’s interface
- Helpful Scene modes
- Good macro performance
- Category assignment is a time saver
- High ISO options
- Accurate LCD screen
- Good balance between sharpness and detail retention
- Good low light performance
- Printed results are quite good even at ISO 1,600
- A little smaller body than IXUS 960 / SD950: Dimensions 90 x 57 x 26 mm (3.5 x 2.2 x 1 in) instead of 96 x 96 x 28 mm (3.8 x 3.8 x 1.1 in)
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Optical viewfinder is not such accurate
- No digital zoom in Wide Screen shooting
- No manual control over aperture or shutter speed
- Some chromatic aberrations at wide-angle setting
- Noise at high ISO
- Flash coverage is uneven at wide angle
- Flash range is limited at telephoto setting at ISO 100
Specification
- 3264 x 2448 pixels max resolution
- Auto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 ISO rating
- AiAF TTL 9-point (with face detection)
- Focus range: Normal 45cm, Macro 2cm
- Shutter: Min 15 sec, Max 1/1600 sec
- Flash guide: 3.5 m (11.4 ft) 5 m
- Flash modes: Auto, On, Off, Slow, Manual (Red Eye On/Off)
- Exposure compensation: -2 to +2 EV in 1/3 EV steps
- Continuous Drive: 1.3 fps, unlimited
- SD/SDHC/MMC card storage type
- Weight (inc. batteries) 195 g (6.9 oz)
Conclusion
The Canon PowerShot SD850 IS (Digital IXUS 950 IS) is a handy Ultra Compact camera with very effective optical image stabilization, wide-angle lens and not so long shutter lag time. With its small case and not bad image quality, this pocket camera is a good purchase especially at a reasonable price. As for the Canon IXUS 960 IS (SD950 IS), I am not an enemy of any cool gadgets. However, in my opinion, if you want to buy a photo camera it is better to pay for good photos than for titanium body.

Fujifilm F50fd vs FinePix S5 IS Pro: 12MP from digital compact it’s not the same as 12MP from SLR

2007-12-10T23:08:00.000-08:00

After Canon’s 12MP cameras such as PowerShot G9, SD950 and A650 appearing, this mega pixels gross is not outstanding. However, the Fujifilm’s favorite SuperCCD HR sensor coupled with 1/1.6 inch size, which is not the rule for a digital compact camera, suggests to me some expectancies to an outstanding picture quality. Unfortunately, a small compact’s sensor, as Canon G9 / IXUS 960’s 1/1.7 inch chip plays dirty with Fuji F50 images too. For more details look through Canon Powershot G9, SD950 and A650: can 12MP make SLR from compact.
Fujifilm FinePix digital camera’s main advantages
After my contact with Fujifilm S5 IS Pro SLRs, I have impress by Fuji SuperCCD HR sensor’s color rendering. In addition to an adequate (in comparison with Canon’s G9 / SD950 $400-450 instead of $220-270 for F50) price, this compact would be the best choice as a pocket camera, especially with a great Fuji’s list of features. Look at Nikon D200 body gives birth to Fujifilm S5 Pro. Cheap D2Xs or how to win 12 megapixels from D200.
Fujifilm F50fd key features
- Dual Image Stabilization mode, which combines a mechanically stabilized CCD sensor with high ISO sensitivities for Total Anti-Blur protection; this combination of these two different approaches reduces the "blur"; effect from the photographer's hand-shake and subject movement even further to provide the highest quality digital pictures yet, with sharp, clean and clear results
- The Next Generation Face Detection 2.0 Technology, featuring Automatic Red Eye Removal, which can detect up to 10 human faces in a scene in as little as 5/100's of a second, correcting focus, exposure, and white balance automatically, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame
- Mimicking a professional photo studio setting, by using Face Detection and preset camera settings, Portrait Enhancer Mode minimizes fine lines and small skin blemishes for smooth, natural looking portraits
- Dual Shot Mode: In this selectable mode, the FinePix F50fd quickly shoots two images in rapid succession; one with the flash and one without – and saves both. This function lets the user perform a comparison at their convenience and select the most pleasing image.
- I-Flash (Intelligent Flash) detects subtle lighting differences within a scene and then varies the flash intensity accordingly, it also leverages the high sensitivity of the Fujifilm F50fd to enable the camera to use less flash, resulting in an image that displays pleasing, natural tones without a "washed-out"; effect
- Full Manual Photographic Control: gives users total control with manual adjustment options for camera settings: resolution, ISO, aperture, shutter speed, etc
- A new playback feature ‘GUI Micro Thumbnail’ that allows for viewing an index print on the LCD. Fujifilm F50fd will show up to 100 images in microform, then the control buttons are used to move over specific images and select them for quickly find a single image by being able to jump to particular segments of images in the time sequence
- Infrared communication via IrSimpleTM technology for fast, easy wireless image transfer to a compatible device
- Special Scene and Blog Modes: 16 pre-programmed scenes, including a special underwater scene mode for use with a special underwater casing. In the Blog mode, the FinePix F50fd copies and automatically reduces the size of copied images for easy posting to a blog, Web page or as an attachment to email for easy sharing with friends and family while maintaining the original file
- xD / SD / SD-HC Compatible slot: it accepts not only Fujifilm's traditional xD-Picture Cards but also Secure Digital (SD) and SD-High Capacity/SD-HC cards too
- Battery Life: Long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery, up to 230 shots
Fujifilm FinePix F50fd pros and cons
Still, after F50’s owners reply: “I immediately took it on a vacation, but was very disappointed when I downloaded the pictures to my laptop that evening. Almost all of them were noisy and grainy. None of them came out clear and crisp. Not even the auto shoots ones with plenty of daylight.” – I have recalled a bitter truth: nothing is perfect. Of course with its price, the Fuji F50fd can successfully compete with expensive Canon’s digital cameras as PowerShot G9, A650 and SD950. However, my favorite Canon A630 with 8MP 1/1.8 inch sensor, low noise images and an useful flip out and twist display is still unexcelled. Look through Choosing Digital Compact camera: Canon A650 vs A640, against A630.
Pros:
- Aperture and shutter priority exposure controls
- Sensor shift image stabilization
- Nice slim design
- Face detection that outperforms the versions offered by most of the competition
- Movie quality is quite good for such a small camera
- Good price for 12MP compact: $220-270
Cons:
- The camera is sluggish between shots
- Noisy images, even at lowest ISO
- No full-manual exposure mode
As the replacement for the Fujifilm F30/F31fd, which had great results in low light / high ISO performance, the FinePix F50fd has much more pixels, features etc. However, in case of the F30/F31fd its outstanding performance in low light was the result of clever resolution limited at 6MP. Unfortunately, in chase of useless 4000 x 3000-image size the F50 gets a useless image noise.
FinePix F50fd specifications
- 12 million effective pixels 1/1.6 inch Super CCD HR VII sensor
- Maximum image size: 4000x3000
- Dual Image Stabilization (High sensitivity + CCD shift)
- 35 - 105 mm (35 mm equiv), wide: F2.8 – 8, Tele: F5.1 – 8, 3x optical zoom lens
- 2.7-inch TFT screen with 230.000 pixels
- Face Detection 2.0 Technology built-in to the camera’s processor
- ISO 1600 sensitivity at full resolution
- 640 x 480 pixels VGA movie capture of 25 frames per second with sound
- Connectivity, USB 2.0 high speed, Video out, DC-in
- IR Communication (IR simple/IR SS)
- Micro thumbnail view (up to 100 thumbnails visible)
- 2 fps max 3 images; 5 fps max 12 images at 3MP
- Aperture and shutter priority modes
- Weight (no batt): 155 g (5.5 oz)
- Dimensions: 92.5 x 59.2 x 22.9 mm (3.6 x 2.3 x 0.9 in)
- Storage: xD-Picture Card, SD/SDHC card; internal memory - 25 MB
- Focus distance: normal: 60cm-infinity, macro: 5cm (wide)
Conclusion
In any case, the Fujifilm F50fd is a good compact with small and lightweight 'Aero' design body. Moreover, with its price, a great movie mode and Fuji’s riches of features this pocket gadget would be a good choice as the second camera or an easy digital compact for traveling. However, the megapixel’s race plays a mean joke on the FinePix F50fd. As a result, a ‘junior’ model -- the Fujifilm F40fd with the same sensor size but with only 8.3 million effective pixels for $200 is much more preferable. What is more, the FinePix F40fd can successfully compete with some Canon digital compacts as Canon SD1000 as IXUS 70 vs. SD 870 or IXUS 950 vs. SD 950.

Nikon D300 as a higher one to Canon 40D and even to sensor’s mommy – Sony Alpha

2007-12-08T04:46:00.000-08:00

After my terms of intimacy with the Nikon D300, I am looking to the Canon 40D and even to my favorite Sony A700 without being in transports of joy. Of course, Sony and Canon’s middle class SLRs are good, but D300 is excellent. This is a really high-middle SLR. However, Nikon D300’s price (abt. $1800 instead of $1300 for EOS 40D and $1400 for Alpha 700) is a little high too. For more details look through: Canon EOS 40D features, pros and cons. Let’s look through D300 features to gain a better understanding that this is a fair price.
Nikon D300’s main features
- New 12.3 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CMOS image sensor with integrated A/D converter and increased bit precision of selectable 14-bit NEF (RAW) output (mfr. Sony*)
- Rapid 8 fps (with optional MB-D10 vertical power grip) or 6 fps continuous shooting for up to 100 shots at full 12.3 MP resolution
- The EXPEED image processing system is at the heart of the Nikon D300 ability to capture and process high definition image data so quickly. The EXPEED system includes both hardware and years of Nikon image processing ‘know-how’. The Nikon D300 EXPEED system features 14-bit analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion with 16-bit image processing, both of which contribute to delivering results with Nikon’s signature ‘look and feel’ of rich accurate colors, smooth skin gradations and exceptional detail
- New Scene Recognition System (the same as the Nikon D3); which uses data from the 1,005-segment RGB sensor to track a moving subject along the plane of direction within the frame. Complementing the AF sensor data with the subject tracking data calculated from the RGB sensor makes it possible for the D300 to select focus with great speed and precision digital SLR advances
- Enhanced Color Matrix Metering II algorithms: metering data from the 1,005-segment RGB sensor is used for highlights areas detection; the range of brightness reproduces results of highlight analysis for more precise exposure control
- New 51-point AF system offers 15 cross-type sensors that maximize the potential of lenses with apertures as small as f/5.6, 3D Focus Tracking, 3 Dynamic AF modes using groups of 51, 21 or 9 points
- Large 3.0-inch LCD with 920,000 resolution, brightness adjustment, 170 degree ultra-wide viewing angle and tempered-glass protection; D300’s shooting information displaying on the rear LCD monitor or viewed in the traditional way on the camera's large top LCD panel and including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, buffer capacity, and AF area mode, is displayed in the monitor when the "Info" (Protect) button is pressed
- Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System with self-cleaning ultrasonic sensor unit minimizes degradation of image quality due to dust particles
- Rugged magnesium-alloy construction, advanced dust and moisture protection and a durable shutter mechanism tested to 150,000 cycles make the D300 a perfect choice for photographers who demand high performance and handling agility
- Faster start up, shorter shutter lag and viewfinder blackout versus the Nikon D200
* As for any speculations about using in the Nikon D300 the same as Sony A700 chip, it is a wrong idea. For more look at Sony Alpha A700: choosing a digital SLR for advanced amateurs
‘On board’ A/D converter as a rule for a good SLR
Just as in case of Canon 40D vs. 30D and Sony A700 vs. A100, the Nikon D300 is not a cosmetic upgrade, though in fact the D300 is virtually identical in appearance to the D200. And that's not the point that the SLR camera has a large 12MP CMOS sensor, a bigger 3 inch LCD with the Live view mode, world's first 51 focus points AF system, a self cleaning sensor with four active vibration points and an upgraded EXPEED processor. What is much important for me as for an engineer is the fact that now we have a sensor with not only extra 2MP, but with the analog-to-digital converter onto the chip. Finally, photographers have a new effective feature for a lower sensor noise without an extension of a sensor size. Moreover, it is a rule for middle-class SLRs. I have got a girl’s face from Nikon’s site and I am really impressed. As for putting 12 MP sensor into the Nikon’s body, there was such experience. It resulted in the Fujifilm S5 Pro with Fujifilm SuperCCD SR Pro 12.3MP sensor – look at: Nikon D200 body gives birth to Fujifilm S5 Pro. Cheap D2Xs or how to win 12 megapixels from D200
Nikon D300 specifications
- 23.6 x 15.8 mm, 12.3MP Sony’s new CMOS sensor
- 4,288 x 2,848 max resolution
- Dust-reduction system with Self-cleaning sensor unit, image dust-off data acquisition
- Sensitivity: ISO 200 to 3200 in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV with additional settings of approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 EV (ISO 100 equivalent) under ISO 200 and approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 EV (ISO 6400 equivalent) over ISO 3200
- CompactFlash (CF) Card (Type I and II, UDMA compliant), MicroDrive
- NEF 12-bit or 14-bit (uncompressed, lossless compressed or compressed RAW), TIFF (RGB), JPEG: JPEG baseline-compliant
- LiveView: Hand-held shooting mode: TTL Phase-difference AF with 51 focus areas (15 cross-type sensors), Tripod shooting mode: focal-plane contrast AF on a desired point within a specific area
- Viewfinder: SLR-type with fixed eye-level pentaprism; built-in diopter adjustment (-2.0 to +1.0 m-1)
- Auto focus: TTL phase detection, 51 focus points (15 cross-type sensors) by Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX auto focus module; Detection -1 to +19 EV (ISO 100 at 20 degree C/68 degree F); AF fine adjustment possible. Focal-plane contrast [in LiveView (Tripod) mode]
- Supports HDMI version 1.3a; Type A connector is provided as HDMI output terminal; simultaneous playback from both the HDMI output terminal and on the LCD monitor not available
- Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing AE-L/AF-L button
- When CPU lens is attached, lens aperture can be stopped down to value selected by user (A and M mode) or value selected by camera (P and S mode)
- NMEA 0183 (Ver. 2.01 and 3.01) interface standard supported with 9-pin D-sub cable (optional) and MC-35 GPS Cable (optional)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): Approx. 5.8 x 4.5 x 2.9 in. (147 x 114 x 74 mm)
- Weight: Approx. 1.82 lbs. (825 g) without battery, memory card, body cap, or monitor cover
- One EN-EL3e Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MB-D10 Multi-Power Battery Pack (optional) with one EN-EL4a, EN-EL4 or EN-EL3e Rechargeable Li-ion Battery or eight R6/AA-size alkaline (LR6), Ni-MH (HR6), lithium (FR6) batteries, or nickel-manganese ZR6 batteries, EH-5a AC Adapter (optional)
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Nikon D300 is a little heavy but it makes feel more of a camera. Of course, a camera has a good hand’s grip and feels great, which is to be expected from Nikon. The LCD screen is bright and has no motion blur. As for Live view mode, it is not continuous, as the camera must be focused before the screen will be enabled. It is not like a compact where images can be continuously taken with a screen. The D300 can be linked up to a PC and images viewed from its screen too when the camera is in tripod mode. As for comparison with the Canon D40 and the Sony A700, the Nikon D300 is not a digital SLR for beginners. This is an expensive device for some great lenses owners, such as 40D and A700. Therefore, especially with the price/quality ratio, this is a great SLR, but I would prefer the Sony A700 as Rebel XTi owner would prefer the Canon 40D. For more details about digital SLR cameras visit this page: Choosing a Digital SLR

Canon EOS 40D features, pros and cons

2007-12-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

There are three new middle level SLRs: the Nikon D300, the Sony A700 and the Canon 40D, which can make happy a majority of these brands users. What is more, there is a rumor about the new Pentax K20D, which would come in January. However, it is only a rumor whereas the Canon 40D is just on sale for $1300. Therefore, let us look through Canon 40D advantages and find its good and poor parts.
As for comparing with the Sony A700, look through Sony Alpha A700: choosing a digital SLR for advanced amateurs.
Canon EOS 40D features
- 6.5 fps, burst rate up to 75 consecutive JPEGs or 17 RAW images
- The latest-generation DIGIC III Image Processor
- New 9 cross-type sensors AF system with newest diagonal high-precision cross-type AF at center point with f/2.8 and faster lenses
- 10.1 megapixel CMOS Sensor (22.2 x 14.8 mm, an improved version of the one on the Rebel XTi), extensive noise reduction technology, 14-bit conversion
- EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Picture Style settings, Spot metering, Highlight Tone Priority for advanced in-camera image control
- Large 3.0-inch LCD monitor, advanced Live View Function with new options for reduced shutter time lag and quiet operation
- Strong, rugged build quality: magnesium-alloy exterior, shutter durability-tested to 100,000 cycles, top speed 1/8000, and top x-sync speed 1/250
- Wide range of accessories, including interchangeable focusing screens, extensive remote control options, new battery grip BG-E2N, new dedicated wireless file transmitter WFT-E3A
- Optional Wi-Fi "grip" supports wireless live view, image transfer to computer, and connection to GPS receivers or flash drives
- CompactFlash Type II slot
Canon’s old-fashion APS-C sensor with some cool advantages
Of course, there is something disappointing in fact that the new Canon 40D use the same as Rebel Xti sensor size and the same 10MP. However, it is not the same chip. The EOS 40D's CMOS sensor uses much of the new technology first seen in the EOS-1D Mark III. New mfr’s techniques mean each pixel is more sensitive to light, and less area between pixels is wasted on the sensor. The on-chip noise reduction electronics are also entirely new, and combine with the sensor's general design for less digital noise and better high-ISO performance. 14-bit A/D conversion means fine transitions from light to dark tones, and a significant drop in digital and shadow noise. As a result Canon 40D has larger, clearer, sharper and more detailed photos than Rebel Xti or Canon 30D. For more details about SLR cameras look through Choosing a Digital SLR: Nikon D40s vs D300 or maybe FinePix S8000 vs Fujifilm S5 IS Pro.
Pros:
- A set of useful new features such as Live View
- Retains the user-friendly design of its predecessors
- Continuous shooting speed: takes up to 17 RAW or 75 JPEG photos in a row at 6.5 fps
- Class leading build quality and weather-sealed body
- New 14-bit Analog-to-Digital converter
- Long-living BP-511A lithium-ion battery with 1100 shots per charge
- Prints are a touch sharper than the 30D
- ISO setting finally visible in the viewfinder
Cons:
- The same as the much cheaper EOS 400D resolution and sensor size
- Live view allows only manual focus
- Live view images are far softer than the actual photos
- Superfluous print button on body
- A useless small RAW format, which allows RAW capture at a quarter of the camera's resolution, typically 2.5megapixels at half the file size of a full-resolution RAW image
- CF memory cards only
Conclusion
A list of changes and improvements on the Canon 40D is actually long, beginning with a greatly built body. As for megapixels, just up from the 30D or Rebel XTi, it is a big step forward. Nevertheless, in comparison with Nikon D300 (23.6 x 15.8 mm) or Sony A700 (23.5 x 15.6 mm), Canon’s APS-C sensor size (22.5 x 15.0mm) is not impressive. For more details look through: Nikon D300 as a higher one to Canon 40D and even to sensor’s mommy – Sony Alpha. However, even with alleged Pentax K20D, which has a 14-megapixel sensor of the smaller APS-C size, a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter, a live-view LCD and the same weather resistance as the K10D, the Canon EOS 40D is a great SLR camera.

Sony Alpha A700: choosing a digital SLR for advanced amateurs

2007-12-01T23:45:00.000-08:00

Alpha A700 is the next digital SLR from Sony. As the Sony A100, this new camera is a direct descendant of Konica Minolta digital SLRs such as 5D / 7D and has a lot of famous KM’s features. This is a digital SLR for advanced amateurs with a strong magnesium alloy body, a large CMOS 12 MP sensor instead of A100’s 10MP CCD and in this case it is a descendant of the Sony DSC-R1 using a CMOS sensor. Though, DSC-R1 is only SLR-like digital camera (for more look at Canon PowerShot S5 vs EOS350D, Sony H9 vs A100; SLR-like cam never comes to SLR). With its 5 fps continious shooting, the new Sony A700 is close to any great SLRs as the Canon EOS 40D or the Nikon D200 (look at Nikon D200 body gives birth to Fujifilm S5pro).
Sony A700 main features
- 12.2 effective megapixel Sony Exmor 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS sensor with on-chip noise reduction
- Alpha mount support for Minolta and Sony lenses with 1.5X focal length conversion
- Super SteadyShot image stabilization system
- Rugged, weather resistant body
- Dust reduction system
- Ultra high resolution (922,000 pixels) 3-inch LCD display
- 5 fps continuous shooting
- Fully adjustable Dynamic Range Optimizer; user can bracket for DRO as well
- 11-point center dual cross autofocus system, EyeStart AF
- Dual memory card slots (CF + MS Duo), with the former supporting UDMA cards; CF1 / CF2 / MS Duo / MS PRO Duo / Microdrive
- HDMI output
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 142.2 x 109.2 x 83.8 mm / 5.6 x 4.3 x 3.3 in
- Weight (empty): 690 g / 24.3 oz

Sony A700 main differences from A100
- Sony A700 hands grip
After one year shooting with Sony A100, whose hands grip is really handy and cozy; the Sony A700 feels good with its high quality plastic and strong magnesium body. Just a little larger that A100, this SLR is creating an impression of a solid, high-level gadget, especially with its dust sealed body. With a battery grip, A700 gets a lot taller, but not much heavier. There are most of the right-hand rear controls with the Multi-selector joystick and Rear control dial. It costs about $350.
- New 12MP CMOS sensor
Sony describes a 12.2 megapixel CMOS sensor as "all new" and custom-designed for the A700. Its main feature is that Sony made much of the new sensor's integration of the 12-bit A/D converters right on the chip. This advantage of having the A/D converters right on the sensor is that there is no chance of noise pickup in the connections between the converters and the sensor readout cells. That is the greatest opportunity to reduce the sensor noice. As for any speculations about using in the Nikon D300 the same as Sony A700 chip, it is a wrong idea. Physically, the Nikon D300 produces images with the same number of pixels at 2,848, but 16 pixels wider 4,288 vs. 4,272 than those of the Sony A700. For more details about the Nikon D300 look through: Nikon D300 as a higher one to Canon 40D and even to sensor’s mommy – Sony Alpha
- Sony A700 Super SteadyShot upgrade
The new Sony A700 uses the same as the A100 sensor-shift image stabilization, but with a few improvements. One benefit of the more powerful BIONZ processor in the Sony A700 is improved performance in the anti-shake system. This should be translated into a better image stabilization performance, allowing slower shutter speeds than on the A100. Sensor-based image stabilization obviously involves some mechanical complexity in the camera body. As in case of the A100, A700 uses the Super SteadyShot actuator system as the basis of their anti-dust system.
- New shutter for Alpha A700
The shutter mechanism on Sony’s A700 is rated at 100,000 cycles with a maximum speed of 1/8,000 second. The corresponding times for the Sony A700 are 1/250 and 1/200 second instead of A100’s x-sync speed of 1/160 second when Super SteadyShot is turned off, or 1/125 second when it is turned on.
- Viewfinder’s upgrade
The Sony’s A700 viewfinder has a pentaprism design. It has a better brightness than in the pentamirror, which used in the Sony A100. It still covers 95% of the frame, but the magnification has been increased almost nine percent, going from 0.83 xs in the A100 to 0.9 xs in the A700. The eye point is 25mm from the eyepiece objective, 21mm from the surrounding eyepiece bezel, both numbers higher than those of the A100. This is a high eye relief, and reasonably comfortable for eyeglass wearers, although we found that we had to press our eyepiece lenses up against the bezel to see the full frame.
- 3 inch 922,000 pixels LCD
The new X-Fine 3.0" LCD has a high contrast and a wide-angle viewing. With 922,000 (640 x 480) pixels it has a resolution of 267 ppi. This new screen with extra resolution is impressive and very useful.
- Sony A700 Construction
The Sony A700, as a real Pro camera has a new magnesium-alloy body and frame as the Nikon D300 or Canon 40D (look at Canon EOS 40D features, pros and cons). With this feature, the A700 can compete with any low level pro SLRs from other mfrs. The new aluminum chassis is 5% lighter and three times stronger than the A100.
- Double slot for Memory cards
Sony’s first DSLR -- the A100 had a Compact Flash memory slot, and shipped with a CF to Memory Stick PRO Duo adapter. However, the Sony A700 sports two memory card slots, a Compact Flash Type I/II slot, and another separate one for Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. You can select between these slots manually for splitting storage of RAW and JPEG files between the two cards.
- The next BIONZ processor
This all-new version of the Bionz image processor is optimized for the new 12 MP CMOS sensor. It is claimed to boost speed and features a two-stage RAW noise reduction system. This combination of fast sensor and fast processor allows the A700 to offer 5 fps for up to 18 RAW 12MP files while the A100 turned out only 2.4 fps at 10 mega pixels. That is a solid 2.5x increase in RAW throughput.
Conclusion
First Sony’s A700 appearance makes a majority of Konika Minolta (Dynax 7D) fans and KM lenses owners happy. However, three new lenses for Sony Alpha are a little disappointing. I have waited for something as 28-75mm f2.8 or 12-24mm. Maybe the new kit – DT 16-105mm F3.5-5.6 is not bad, but it is better to have any great lenses with Sony firm instead of Sigma and Tamron. In any case, the Sony A700, that is sequential of the Alpha line, is a great digital SLR. As for me, I do not want to change my Sony A100 to A700 now. For more details look through: Sony A100 vs Nikon D80 more worthy than Sony A100 vs DSC-H9/H7. I want to buy the Sigma 12-24mm to Christmas and to wait for appearing of a next DSLR from Sony.

Choosing digital SLR lenses: 28-75mm f2.8 vs 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3

2007-11-30T02:11:00.001-08:00

The digital SLR camera choice is not only a brand selection. Choosing between Canon 40D, Nikon D40X, Sony A700, Fuji S5 Pro, Pentax K10D or Olympus E510 etc., you are getting a lens guide. It is better to know that after any lenses buying it should be hard to change your Canon to Nikon, because your favorite Canon 70-200mm f2.8 for $1,800 cannot join to Nikon D300’s body. What is more, there is a great difference between shooting with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Kit and 17-50mm f2.8 lenses.
- $1000 Sigma lenses for Nikon D40x or NikonD80
I was wondered a big popularity of shot-cut Nikon’s SLR D40 and 10-megapixels Nikon D40x. But when I was surfing in the Net and was talking with salesmen I saw that a lot of users want to have a small and cheap Nikon’s SLR. Other users were buying D40 such as second SLR (first is Nikon too). It is natural that majority of new Nikon’s users love their first SLR cameras. And it’s unreal to have some critical points from them. Especially it’s unreal to have some critical points from those who chose Nikon long time ago and bought second Nikon. But there are two bad points which were significant even for Nikon’s fans: the AF is not good on moving targets and the majority of Nikon’s lenses can’t work with D40 and D40x. Only special lenses are recommended for those SLRs.
- Olympus ZUIKO Super High Grade Lenses: from 7-14mm F4.0 for $1500 to 300mm F2.8 for $8000.
When I was looking for those excellent lenses I was thinking that its users never change Olympus SLR to Canon’s or Nikon’s. But it’s interchangeable lens series for professionals. In my opinion Olympus SLRs such as E410, E510 or previous models (excepting old E1) are not pro cameras. And developed for more advanced optical, precision technology and exquisite picture quality these lenses are much more expensive than SLR cameras. From other side I remember what pleasure I had while shooting with Sony’s 300mm F2.8 for $5999. In any case these devices are worthy of special attention.
- Olympus ZUIKO High Grade lenses: from 8mm F3.5 Fisheye to 50-200mm F2.8-3.5 Tele
There are: a high-quality standard zoom lens, diagonal Fisheye, super-telephoto zoom lens, large aperture medium-telephoto macro lens etc.
- Olympus Standard ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses: 35mm Macro up to 70-300mm Tele
There is infinitely much information concerning lenses for Canon and Nikon SLR cameras. It is easy to find even lenses for Sony DSLRs, inherited from Konica-Minolta. Instead Olympus lenses, which are not so famous among professionals and advanced photographers, appear less frequently in the Net. I can’t visit a trade delegates or an exhibition hall to test these lenses. I don’t have an Olympus camera body. However I am quite interested in comparing cameras and observing the market and trading trends. So I gathered a few reviews and prices of all best lenses and call your attention to the list.
- How to shoot with 10 great Sony Alpha lenses and not to be beaten by salesmen
A few days ago I was lucky to visit an exhibition with many groovy photo devices from various manufacturers. It was great because Sony guys allowed me to make use of many interesting gadgets for my Sony A100. What can I say; their method to conquer DSLR market by Alpha guide is very impressing. I already wrote that after Sony A100 the next big news from this manufacturer is the announcement of two professional additions: A-1 and A700.
- Choosing DSLR camera lenses: take a shoot before buying
For those who take Sony A100 as first DSLR camera and for those who look for easy life I advice the old fashion Konica-Minolta kit SAL-75300 - f/4.5-5.6 Telephoto Zoom Lens that costs $230. This compact, lightweight 4X zoom lens is of really great value and the ideal choice for travelers. It’s a good choice for covering outdoor activities and sports action, even in large stadium locations. Its wide zoom range of 112.5mm to 450mm (35mm equivalent) handles both middle-ground subjects and portraits shot from a relaxing distance, so people won’t be nervous -- even capturing intimate details and natural wonders close at hand.

Choosing a Digital SLR: Nikon D40s vs D300 or maybe FinePix S8000 vs Fujifilm S5 IS Pro

2007-11-29T23:09:00.001-08:00

A digital SLR camera purchasing is a grave step for a photografer. Before choosing between Nikon D40s, D80 or Nikon D300, Canon EOS 40D or EOS 400D and Fujifilm S5 / IS Pro or Sony A700 it’s better to know: are you ready to go? It is important to know SLR camera’s main distinctions from a digital compact and an SLR-like camera. Otherwise, it is possible to waste money for a useless gadget.
Digital SLR camera great advantages
- Physically large sensor: Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Full Frame - 36 x 24 mm, Nikon D40s - 23.7 x 15.6 mm instead of Fujifilm S8000 - 1/2.35 inch, Canon S5 IS – 1/2.5 inch 5.76 x 4.29 mm, as a result: higher ISO sensitivity, low noise
- Uses mirror and prism system and viewfinder, faster phase detection autofocusing, high quality viewing, as a result: no shutter lag, great shooting speed
- Swapping lenses and accessories for any photography case
- Hight quality body, long battery life
Digital SLR camera moot advantages
- More expencive, especially with lenses, flashs etc
- Less convenient than compacts, some bulky
- No support video clips with sound
- Require more photographic education to take advantage of the greater capabilities
A list of articles for digital SLR camera choosing
- Pentax K200D vs Sony A200 / A300; Weather resist SLR vs. Live-View
In comparison with newest entry-level Digital SLR cameras such as the Nikon D60, the Sony A200, the Olympus E420 and old-fashion Canon Rebel Xti, the new Pentax K200D looks quite good. After Pentax K100D / K100 Super, this solidly constructed SLR camera with weather and dust resistant body can impress even advanced photographers, who are interested in serious cameras as the Canon EOS450 / Rebel Xsi or the Sony A300 / A350.
- Sony A200 vs Pentax K200 or Nikon D60 – what’s new in Sony’s SLR
This year brings some new and interesting gadgets to the entry level DSLR’s market. There are Nikon D60, Pentax K200D and Sony A200 with 10MP APS-C sensor, low image noise, very fast shutter lag numbers and any cool features such as image stabilizer system, anti-dust and even weather-sealed body (Pentax K200). As for Canon, its new Digital SLR – the EOS Digital Rebel Xsi with 12MP 22.2 x 14.8 mm CMOS sensor is a little higher to these three and it requires a special article.
- Nikon D60 vs. Canon Xti, Sony A200, Pentax K200 and Olympus E510
After the Nikon D40 appearing in 2006 and its 10 megapixels latest upgrade – the Nikon D40x, the D60 is the third incarnation of Nikon's “cheap” entry-level SLR line, which replaced the first Nikon 'starter' model, the D50. Sure, this new digital SLR camera is a true Nikon with many good features. However, the fact that “Auto Focus only for AF-S or AF-I lenses” doubt whether makes D60’s users happy.
- Compare digital SLR cameras: Olympus E-1, E-400 vs. Nikon D80, D40x or Pentax K10D; 4/3” sensor rules in Pro hands
I already wrote that the Olympus SLR camera’s guide is not preferable over using a small 4/3 " (18.00 x 13.50 mm) sensor size. However, engineer’s opinion, which based only on physical properties, can be wrong in comparison with photographer’s opinion, which based on his one's talents and personal experience. Moreover, collecting information about Olympus SLR lenses, I at that time was envious of a great Olympus ZUIKO high quality lenses.
- Nikon D300 as a higher one to Canon 40D and even to sensor’s mommy – Sony Alpha
After my terms of intimacy with the Nikon D300, I am looking to the Canon 40D and even to my favorite Sony A700 without any transports. Of course, Sony and Canon’s middle class SLRs are good, but D300 is excellent. This is a really high-middle SLR. However, Nikon D300’s price (abt. $1800 instead of $1300 for EOS 40D and $1400 for Alpha 700) is a little high too. Let’s look through D300 features to gain a better understanding that this is a fair price.
- Canon EOS 40D features, pros and cons
There are three new middle level SLRs: the Nikon D300, the Sony A700 and the Canon 40D, which can make happy a majority of these brands users. What is more, there are some rumors about the new Pentax K20D, which would come in January. However, it is only a rumor whereas the Canon 40D just selling for $1300. Therefore, let us look through Canon 40D advantages for searching its good and poor parts.
- Sony Alpha A700: choosing a digital SLR for advanced amateurs
Alpha A700 is the next digital SLR from Sony. As the Sony A100, this new camera is a direct descendant of Konica Minolta digital SLRs such as 5D / 7D and has a lot of famous KM’s features. This is a digital SLR for advanced amateurs with a strong magnesium alloy body, a large CMOS 12 MP sensor instead of A100’s 10MP CCD and in this case it is a descendant of the Sony DSC-R1 using a CMOS sensor. With its 5 fps continious shooting, the new Sony A700 is close to any great SLRs as the Canon EOS 40D or the Nikon D200.
- Women’s reasons to choose Nikon D80
Choosing between SLR and SLR-like, comparing Nikon D80, D40x with Canon Rebel XTi or Sony A100, we look at their features, technical characteristics and think that is the main point.A lot of photographers look only at the name, opting for such brands as Nikon or Canon. For dome the criterion is the size of the camera. Some judge by lens set. Trying to understand advantages one can get purchasing a digital camera, I asked a well-known photographer what is the decisive point for her choice. And I got an answer which is a much more helpful advice for me than any reviews and summary tables featuring camera specifications.
- The summary table of Olympus SLR: E330, E500, E410 and E510 specifications
I did not even expect that Olympus SLRs are so popular with amateur photographers. I have made a thorough research and found out that many users highly appreciate Olympus SLR cameras’ light weight, small size and very rich feature set as if they are SLR-likes. The users are especially impressed by well-known ‘Live-View’ mode. Actually Olympus Digital SLR cameras have wealthy history. In order to observe the evolution of Olympus SLRs I’m publishing a summary table including all modern models from Evolt E330. Personally I see that they are rather competitive although I still have no idea why Olympus, Matsushita or Kodak engineers choose 18.00 x 13.50mm sensor size for them.
- Olympus SLRs: E330, E400, E410, E500 and E510. Can pop-cams fight vs. Nikon D80 or Canon XTi?
There are a lot of surprises in the modern digital photo cameras market. New excellent SLR devices such as Nikon D80, Canon EOS400D / Rebel XTi, Pentax K10D or Samsung GX10 and Sony A100 are attracting photographer’s attention very little. SLR-like all-in-one pop-devices such as 8 MP Canon PowerShot S5 etc. are much more interesting for customers than cheap Canon EOS350D / Rebel XT with the same 8 MP. And it’s not important for buyers that 22.2 x 14.8 mm SLR’s CMOS sensor can take much better images than than pop SLR-like cameras.
- Olympus E410 vs Nikon D40x, claim to Canon EOS400D XTi but really fight against Canon S5
New SLR from Olympus, EVOLT E410 is not likely to rock fancy of any advanced photographer. This camera has the same as E400 17.3x13.0mm, rather small, ten megapixel sensor, which (for some unknown reasons) allows Olympus guys to say:' Thanks to a powerful 10-megapixel Live-MOS sensor, you'll see more detail in your pictures than ever before. And you'll have the flexibility to crop and still produce large, detailed prints.' Of course this new result of Kodak and Matsushita marriage may be more interesting than Olympus' previous sensors. But my skepticism about its ability to make images with low noise still remains.
- Sony A100 vs Nikon D80 more worthy than Sony A100 vs DSC-H9/H7
My favorite Sony Alpha100 stacks up well against Nikon D80 and not just in savings of two hundred. Sony's advantages include self-cleaning CCD whereas D80 has software dust mapping but this takes both forethought and post-production trouble, on-the-fly dynamic range fixes. Nikon's D-Lighting can only boost shadows and only after the shot. Sony's CCD-based anti-shake can work with any lens whereas Nikon's Vibration Reduction is available in only a few lenses. The Sony's AF is slightly faster throughout the EV range, although the Nikon AF, still better in motion tracking, has more zones, and can focus down to EV -2. Their TTL flash capabilities are comparable. The Nikon has the clear advantage in image quality (10 percent higher resolution and awesome noise control-moderately low at ISO 3200, a sensitivity the Sony doesn't even have), better in-camera color controls, and a much bigger lens list. For Nikon D40x, Canon EOS400D / RebelXTI and Pentax K10D inf.
- Canon EOS400/XTi, Nikon D40x and Pentax K10 pros& cons; SLR over SLR-like triple benefits
Collecting and analyzing all good and bad features of newest and most interesting SLR cameras such as: Canon EOS400D / Rebel XTi, Nikon D80, D40x, Sony A100 and Pentax K10D, I planned to put them in one post. But these devices have so rich abilities that it’s impossible. A great amount of SLR’s information in the Net, my own experience and users opinions can’t place in one item. There is too much material and it shows that users’ admiration of SLR cameras is enormous. Therefore I have been reviewing SLR characteristic properties thoroughly and decided to devote a few posts to this photo issue. Don’t take seriously some SLR’s drawbacks because one is worth ten SLR-like advantages.
- SLR's price-cutting: $250's Canon XT vs. $500's Canon S5; 10 motives to spit upon SLR-like and buy cheap SLR
General photo amateurs' enthusiasm for universal devices such as SLR-like ultra-zoom cameras brings down the demand for Digital SLR cameras. Moreover we can thank SLR mfrs. for creating so many excellent SLR cameras to make a big competition among them. As a result prices for all SLR cameras go down. When I look through today's SLR camera prices I want to buy another Sony A100. Compare:
- Canon PowerShot S5 vs EOS350D, Sony H9 vs A100; SLR-like cam never comes to SLR.
I was surfing in the Net and trying to choose a lens for my Sony A100 when I saw Canon's general manager’s opinion on Canon new SLR-like camera, the PowerShot S5 IS. Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. said: 'With a broad range of features and a powerful ultra-zoom lens, it is no coincidence that the PowerShot S5 IS digital camera's look and feel evokes the sense of a small, lightweight SLR'. What a clever method to take great shoots. It's as easy as ABC! No more lenses, no more choosing between Sigma, Tamron and Sony. Why must I pay $350 for Sigma 18-200 or even $450 for Sony SAL if I can buy a SLR-like and 'its feel evokes' a SLR camera's master? But there are no easy ways in this live.
- Nikon D200, Nikon D80 and Fujifilm S5pro: for Pro, for Amateur and for Artist
First of all I must say that D80, D200 and S5pro are different cameras for different photographers. We should not get confused among enormous pro cams for making money and consumer cams for entertainment and taking pictures of children, domestic animals and some exotic places. The former must not shoot slower than latter must take good pictures. That’s it! There is just one snag! It is a photo-artist which can say: it is small even to Nikon D2Xs! Off course they can wait for new super SLR ‘guns’ such Sony A1 or mystical Nikon D3H with 18-20 megapixel sensor. But I think that it may be long waiting, especially for ‘secret’ D3H!
- Nikon D200 body gives birth to Fujifilm S5pro. Chip D2Xs or how to win 12 megapixels from D200
I have already written about some grimaces of modern Digital SLR market. In my previous posts I told you about marketing pros which have recourse to various tricks for selling us various gadgets and even give birth to the new SLR camera brand: ‘The Great Wall’! Marketing's extremely like some obscure operation factors which have numerous values. Of course the pixel gross is the best value to make it clear for consumers that they are in real need of a new camera. With the effervescent advent of any new SLR stars as: Canon EOS 400D, PentaxK10D, Sony A100, Nikon D80 and D200, Samsung GT10 and Olympus 'family' E330, E410, E400, E500 it’s hard to surprise anybody with a 10 megapixel sensor.
- Sony A100, Samsung GX10 and Pentax K10D as Canon XTi and Nikon D80’s bad dream
There are two great mfrs.: Canon and Nikon with such many DSLR cameras which are specialized only in their bayonet types. They give birth to more and more excellent cams. And there are great many mfrs around them which make lenses, flashes, batteries etc. only for brand masters. Not for photographers. Since you buy a body you must unite it with a lot of gadgets and it’s much more expensive than the cam itself. Then when the next level of shooting with Digital SLR is coming, you have to buy a new camera for your many-thousand dollars lenses and flashes etc., not for youself. As if you are interested in another mfrs. of SLR cameras, if its abilities seem more attractive to you, you are obliged to purchase only your own Canon or Nikon (right now: Sony or Samsung). You become a slave of your brand. Are you sure this is what you are dreaming about?
- Today: Nikon D2Xs vs Canon EOS-1D Mark III. Tomorrow: Sony A1 vs The Great Wall!?
Of course the situation with digital SLR cameras or HD camcorders isn’t as critical as two years ago. Today we have many excellent and not expensive devices at less than $1000: Nikon D80, Canon Digital Rebel Xti, Sony A100, Pentax K10D and Samsung GX10. We are offered a little from Panasonic-Leica marriage: Lumix DMC-L1. Somewhere we find Olympus with EVOLT models: E510, E410, and E400 etc. Moreover here are guys rambling about from Fuji with Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro (or S5 Pro) for$1300 in their backpacks. I think that Nikon is here, too because they not only “sharpen” their lens thread under Nikon F mount. They also “sharpen” their “teeth” for buying Nikon. It is globalization, men, f…ing globalization!
- Battle of the Giants. Sony’s ‘company’ Alpha tries to extort a piece of DSLR-market from Canon and Nikon
After the triumph of Sony A-100 the next big news from this manufacturer is the announcement of two additions: A-1 and A700. Sony started with A100 having taken the best innovations of Konica-Minolta a year ago. This first DSLR model ‘grew up’ from Konica-Minolta D5D including the latest devices: sensor, processor and others from Sony. It was very successful and the most available 10 megapixel DSLR camera on the market.
- The summary table of the most interestingt 6-7-8 megapixel DSLR camera specifications
I’ve included into this table only six DSLR cameras because the only difference between the K100D and K110D is that the K100D has Pentax's own CCD-shift type 'Shake Reduction' system, as the K110D does not. There are some differences between Pentax K100 – 110 and Samsung GX-1S or GX-1L but it’s not important.
- Nikon from D50 to D40, Panasonic DMC-L1 vs. Olympus E330 – which is great?
Once I was asked why I wrote only about 10 megapixel SLR cameras. I like to take pictures with Canon EOS 350D from time to time. I preferred Nikon 8700 with 8 megapixel sensor before. As I don’t need to print posters why do I want a bigger sensor size? When I happen to test a new Nikon D40 with 6 megapixel sensor a little later I examined it rather seriously. Of course, as for technical features it concerns Nikon D40 is a step backwards because some less important features are trimmed and a range of new ones is squeezed in the camera.
- The summary table of DSLR cameras specifications
For comparison I made a summary table of the most interesting 10-megapixel DSLR camera specifications. I know that it’s useful for people who are choosing their first SLR camera. But later I will make a summary table of 9/10-megapixel Compact cameras. In fact there are so many new attractive Compacts. And they have such cool opportunities.
- Some differences of 10-megapixel DSLR Cameras
- Sony A100 kit – it’s not an expensive DSLR camera for risky trips.
- Pentax K10D vs. Nikon D80 or vs. D200? Samsung GX-10 as Canon killer?
It’s happened! The new K10D is Pentax's first foray into the serious-amateur digital SLR market. It's bigger, tougher and richer in features than any Pentax digital SLR before it and it certainly carries a wide enough range of features to make the 'big name' brands worried. Headline features include a stabilized ten megapixel CCD, high quality image processing pipeline, dust and weather proof seals, 11-point AF, continuous drive in 3 fps, unlimited JPEG, 9 images RAW and some unique exposure modes. Shake Reduction includes CCD-shift system with permanent magnets and electronic magnet coils which can compensate in x, y direction and rotational similarly Sony’s 'Super Steady Shot’.
- DSLR 10 megapixel cameras: Nikon D80, Canon EOS400D, Sony A100 – what’s better to buy?
- One more preference of DSLR: low noise
- Want to take trendy photos, smear a background with DSLRs
- DSLR camera advantages
- Digital SLR camera: quick shooting for smart babies
- Choosing DSLR camera for travelers: Do we really need it?

Sony HDR-CX7 vs Panasonic HDC-SD5; choosing HD Sony SR5, SR7, SR300, JVC GZ7, GZHD3 it’s better to look at memory card models: CX7 and SD5

2007-11-28T02:39:00.000-08:00

Comparing HD camcorders, I cannot help saying about Sony Handycam: HDR-CX7, SR7, SR5, SR200E and SR300E etc. It uses 1 CMOS sensor instead of Panasonic’s 3CCD, the same 10x optical zoom lens and some Sony’s favorite features. However, there are no expensive extrapixels as SR300E’s 6MP in these SX7 and SR7 models. What is more, there is my favourite feature - recording to a memory card (HDR-SX7), which allows building a firm camcorder without moving parts. For more Sony HD models look through 7 new 1CCD HD camcorders from Sony – any reasons to buy some or to wait for 3CCD cams
Sony Handycam HDR-CX7
The Sony Handycam HDR-CX7 is a small and lightweight AVCHD high-definition camcorder with a 3.2 MP CMOS sensor, an optical image stabilizer and a great Carl Zeiss lens. It can record nearly three hours of full HD 1080 video on an 8GB Memory Stick PRO Duo media card in LP mode. Its weight and dimensions are close to Panasonic HDC-SD5, maybe a little bigger. It has one sensor system, but HDR-CX7 true 3.2 megapixels are the same what you need for a good capturing 1080i HD movie. The camcorder has an optical image stabilizer, which is a very useful feature, especially for a big 10x optical zoom. Sony CX-7 costs about $860-1100 and if you like Sony image colors this camcorder can be a good alternative for Panasonic HDC-SD5, although SD5 is a little cheaper ($740-820) and smaller. For more details about Panasonic's HD cams look through Panasonic HDC-SD5 vs HDC-SX5 or JVC GZ-HD3: choosing 3CCD HD camcorder
Sony HDR-CX7 features
- 1/3" CMOS Sensor (3200K Pixel)
- Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 10x Optical Zoom Lens
- 35mm Equivalent Optics/Lens: 40-400mm (16:9 Camera Mode), 49-490mm (4:3 Camera Mode), 40-400mm (16:9 Memory Mode) and 37-370mm (4:3 Memory Mode), f/1.8-2.9
- Filter Size: 37mm
- 20x Digital Zoom
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 2 lux (0 lux with NightShot mode)
- 252,000 Pixels (16:9) 2.7" Wide LCD Display
- HD Video: AVCHD; SD Video: MPEG2; Still Images: JPEG
- Audio: Dolby Digital 2/5.1 Channels
- Inputs and Outputs: Analog Audio/Video Output, USB Port, Digital Audio/Video Input and Output, HDMI, Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output and S-Video Output
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.8 x 5.3" (6.9 x 6.7 x 13.1 cm)
- Weight: 15 ounces (450 grams) with supplied battery
Sony Handycam HDR-SR7
The Sony HDR-SR7 AVCHD HD camcorder can record more than 22 hours of full HD 1080i video on its built-in 60GB hard disk drive, while the HDR-SR5’s 40GB hard drive can hold nearly 15 hours in LP mode. As the HDR-CX7, the Sony HDR-SR7 has a 3-megapixel sensor for full HD 1080i video and 6-megapixel for digital still photos and the same other features. In comparison with the HDR-SR5, which only has a 2-megapixel sensor for full HD video and a 4-megapixel for photo, Sony 7-series is much more preferable.
Sony HDR-SR7 features
- 1/2.9" 3200K Pixels CMOS Sensor
- Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar 10x zoom lens
- 35mm Equivalent 4:3 Camera Mode: 50.5-594mm, Memory Mode: 37-370mm; 16:9 Camera Mode: 41.3-485mm, Memory Mode: 40.4-404mm, F=5.1-51mm, f/1.8-2.9
- Filter Size: 37mm
- 80x Digital Zoom
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 2 lux (0 lux with NightShot mode)
- 2.7" 211K Pixels 16:9 Wide Hybrid Touch Panel
- HD: AVCHD, SD: MPEG2
- Composite, Component, USB 2.0 (via Handycam Station), mini HDMI
- Dimensions: 3.1 x 3.3 x 6.5" (78 x 84 x 165mm)
- Weight: 1.9 lbs (720g) with Battery
Conclusion
Comparing Sony HDR-CX7 with HDR-SR7 I would prefer a camcorder with a memory card. I have already written about using a HDD in camcorders. As for 60GB size, in my opinion it is a little complicated to record so many videos during a two-week trip. You will have to look through the camcorder instead your eyes all the time. Then SR7’s 3MP sensor is a little better than SR5’s 2MP. We need only 1980 x 1080 = 2 mega pixels for capturing a full HD movie, but some pixels are not superfluous for camcorder electronics. While, it seems to me that Panasonic HDC-SD5 with a smaller than Sony SX7 price, lightweight and advanced 3CCD system is a little better purchase. However, in comparison with expensive JVC HD camcorders such as JVC Everio GZ7 and JVC GZHD3, the Sony HDR-CX7 is a bit more attractive. As for JVC GZ7, look at Puppet Sanyo Xacti HD2 vs clever Canon HV20 or groovy JVC GZ-HD7: it's time to buy a HD-camcorder or wait?

Panasonic HDC-SD5 vs HDC-SX5 or JVC GZ-HD3: choosing 3CCD HD camcorder

2007-11-27T05:39:00.000-08:00

HD camcorders with 3CCD system use professional broadcasting equipment. However, Panasonic has already chosen this system for its consumer’s camcorders. There were great gadgets in NV-GS family such as GS400, GS250 and my favorite GS-200. Now we have some interesting HD camcorders: such as HDC-DX1, HDC-SD1 and two new models HDC-SD5 and HDC-SX5 with 3CCD and colors that are more accurate. What is more, there are some models without moving parts that record movie to Memory cards.
Panasonic 3CCD HD cam’s twofold benefits
There are some 3CCD HD camcorders from JVC: such as Everio GZHD3 or GZ7, but in my opinion, JVC camcorders are a lot of complicated in use (as Pro camcorders) and not so friendly as Sony or Panasonic. As for three sensors advantage, 3CCD is better than one for a good quality video. These chips record various colors in images. 3CCDs mean that there are three separate chips for each color: R, G, and B. With this feature we can capture much more accurate color performance.
JVC Everio GZHD3 features
- 1/5 inch CCD x 3 image sensors with 5.4 total megapixels
- Konica Minolta 10x optical zoom lens, Focal length/3.2-32mm f-stop/1.8-2.4
- 46mm filter Size
- Video format: MPEG-2 TS
- Audio format: MPEG-1 Layer2
- 2.8" Widescreen Clear LCD (207 k pixels) LCD Monitor
- SD/SDHC Memory Card
- Electronic image stabilization
- Dimensions (WxHxD) 3 x 3.2 x 6.1" (75 x 82 x 154mm)
- Weight 1.5 lbs (670 g) with battery
- 60GB Hard Disk drive for up to 5 hours of HD 1440 x 1080i MPEG2 movie recording at 30Mbps
- Data Battery allows you to check the remaining battery power and recording time
- Built-in video light automatically illuminates the scene when recording in a dim environment
- Includes Li-Ion battery and charger, AC adapter, USB and AV cables, lens cap, shoulder strap, remote control and Cyperlink HD editing software
What can I say about this JVC HD camcorder? I already wrote about JVC HD GZ7 in my previous post: Puppet Sanyo Xacti HD2 vs clever Canon HV20 or groovy JVC GZ-HD7: it's time to buy a HD-camcorder or wait? It costs $890-1120. It has my favorite 3CCD but I know many HDD camcorder users who are obliged to tremble with fear by using HDD quasi it is a contact mine. Moreover, an electronic image stabilizer is a bad feature for any camcorder. Maybe it is better to look at some Sony models. This mfr has a lot of HDD HD camcorders and, though they have 1CCD system, these gadgets are a little handy and have an adequate price. In any case, Panasonic’s HD camcorders are much more preferable for easy shooting.
Panasonic HDC-SX5 features
- 1/6 inch CCD x 3 Image Sensor (Total 560K x 3 pixels)
- Leica Dicomar 10x optical zoom lens, Focal Length 3.0 - 30 mm, F1.8 (Wide) / F2.8 (Tele)
- Filter Diameter 37mm
- 35mm Film Camera Equivalent 42.9 - 429 mm (16:9)
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Records onto 8 cm DVD Disc (-R/-RW/-RAM), SDHC/SD Memory Card
- Minimum Illumination 5 Lux (1/25 Low Light Mode), 1 Lux (Magic Pix Mode)
- Electronic Viewfinder 0.44" Wide EVF
- 2.7" Wide (300k Pixels) LCD Monitor at 170 degrees Wide Viewing
- 2-ch Stereo Zoom Microphone
- Video Recording Format HD: AVCH, STD: DVD Video Recording, DVD Video (Motion Image)/JPEG (Still Image)
- Flash: 1m - 2.5m (approx.)
- Video Compression HD: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264; STD: MPEG-2
- Outputs: HDMI, i.LINK, Component Video, S-Video
- Dimensions (H x W x D) 3.7’’ x 3.3'' x 5.9''
- Weight 1.20 lbs
As for HDC-SX5, it is a good camcorder with many useful features (such as Optical image stabilizer and an excellent Konica Minolta lens) but I have prejudiced to DVD HD camcorders. For more details look at 12 main points for clever HD camcorder choosing: from Canon HV20 through Sony SR300E to Panasonic SD1. 12 main points for clever HD camcorder choosing: from Canon HV20 through Sony SR300E to Panasonic SD1. Panasonic HDC-SX5 costs about $740-820.
Panasonic HDC-SD5 BNDL features
- 1/6" CCD x 3 Image Sensor (Total 560K x 3 pixels)
- Image Sensor (Effective) 16:9 -- 520K x 3
- Leica Dicomar 10x optical zoom lens, Focal Length 3.0 - 30 mm, F1.8 (Wide) / F2.8 (Tele)
- Filter Diameter 37mm
- Records onto SD/SDHC Memory Card
- Recording Format AVCHD
- Still Picture Recording 2.1 Megapixels 16:9
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Minimum Illumination 5 Lux (1/25 Low Light Mode), 1 Lux (Magic Pix Mode)
- Electronic Viewfinder 0.44" Wide EVF
- 2.7" Wide (300k Pixels) LCD Monitor at 170 degrees Wide Viewing
- 2-ch Stereo Zoom Microphone
- Flash: 1m - 2.5m (approx.)
- Video Recording Format: AVCH (Motion Image)/JPEG (Still Image)
- Recording Mode: HG (13 Mbps/CBR), HN (9Mbps/VBR), HE (6Mbps/VBR)
- Playback Mode: HG (13 Mbps/CBR), HN (9Mbps/VBR), HE (6Mbps/VBR)
- Audio Recording Format: Dolby Digital (Dolby AC3)/2-channel
- Recording Time: SDHC: 8GB: HG (80 min)/HN (120 min)/HE (180 min), 4GB: HG (40 min)/HN (60 min)/HE (90 min)
- SD Memory Card: 2GB: HG (20 min)/HN (30 min)/HE (45 min), 1GB: HG (10 min)/HN (15 min)/HE (22 min), 512MB: HG (5 min)/HN (7 min)/HE (10 min)
- Dimensions 2.6 x 2.6 x 5.3" (6.6 x 6.6 x 13.46 cm)
- Weight 0.75 lbs (0.34 kg)
Panasonic Palmcorder HDC-SD5 (such as HDC-SX5) HD camcorder comes bundled with a free Panasonic DVD burner (VM-BN1) included right in the box. Use the camcorder's USB Host function to connect directly to the burner with a USB cable (sold separately). You can also copy recordings from the SD Memory Card to a DVD disc, maintaining the original full-HD format, or use the included software to burn a full-HD recording from an SD Memory Card to a DVD disc on your PC.
Conclusion
In my opinion, Panasonic HDC-SD5 is the best purchase from these three. It costs about $760-800. For lack of moving parts, SD5 can be a great gadget for a journey.

12 main points for clever HD camcorder choosing: from Canon HV20 through Sony SR300E to Panasonic SD1

2007-11-26T06:55:00.000-08:00

HD camcorders are not outstanding gadgets now. Look through: Canon HV20 / HR10, Sanyo HD2 / HD1, JVC HD7, Sony HandyCam DCR-SR42E, SR62E, SR82E, SR200E and SR300, Panasonic HDC DX1 / SD1 and even cheap (under $300) Aiptek GO-HD. There are many famous mfrs and there are many great camcorders in the digital market. However, what is the difference between these camcorders and do you really need the gadget?
1. Are you ready to buy a HD camcorder?
- You can buy a HD camcorder if you are willing to pay much more for it than for a common cam. Maybe it is better to save money because even normal video is not bad at all, especially MiniDV format.
- Do you have a HD TV? If no and you are not planning to buy it tomorrow it is better to wait for new models and low prices. On the other hand, if you are a happy user of the large LCD monitor, it is a reason.
- Have you a really fast computer such as Core 2 Duo with 2GB expensive memory and a speedy Video Card ‘on board’?
- Are you ready to waste you money and free time to a lot of complicated Soft?
If you say yes to at least three points, you are a HD fan and we can go farther.
2. What HD camcorder type do you need?
- For better movie capturing, there is a MiniDV format, the same as for a Pro shooting. However, it is a complex process because only for an ordinary resolution movie I need 12GB free space on my PC and nearly eight hours for converting the movie to DVD. Moreover, you need a complicated Soft and FireWire (IEE 1394) connection.
- There are many AVCHD camcorders such as Sony DCR SR42, SR200, SR300 and Panasonic HDC-SD1 etc. with a Hard Disk drive. HDD camcorder is a good gadget, but it compresses in MPEG-2 and what is more, it is a little delicate, especially for a journey.
- As for HD camcorders with DVD disk such as Panasonic HDC-DX1 and Canon HR10, of course it is a useful device (you can play disks on your home DVD Player) but this forma is not enough for better quality movies.
- In my opinion, the best and handy is HD camcorder with the Memory Card such as Panasonic HDC-SD1. This gadget does not have any moving parts (nothing can break) but has a pocket size. It is easy to connect it to your PC and I think that after 16 GB cards we can wait for more.
3. What is the main feature for an HD camcorder?
- Which is better: Three CCD or one CCD HD camcorder? Three CCD is better than one CCD for a good quality video. These chips record the various colors in images. 3CCDs mean that there are three separate chips for each color: R, G, and B. With this feature we can capture a much accurate color performance.
- Which is better an optical or digital zoom? Optical zoom is much more important than digital zoom. Optical zoom actually uses the lens to enlarge an image so no quality is lost, while digital takes what you already have and makes it bigger. It is as if you take a magnifying glass and look at an object compared to taking a magnifying glass and looking at a picture of an object. The digital zoom will cause quality loss. Do not feel sorry for extra money for optical zoom. It is a useful feature, especially in a journey.
- As for sound, a good onboard stereo microphone is a plus, but if you are interested in sound, a microphone port is necessary. Then you can buy better shotgun microphones and stick it on your camcorder. If that is not the case and you are not planning to go the pro audio route, just look for a good onboard microphone. The best ones usually located on the front are stereo, and in prosumer cams. They are separated from the actual camera body. What for 5.1 sound, do you believe that it is a good idea to put five microphones into a camcorder’s body? This sound is made by the soft.
- Manual settings: If you want auto, any camera has it. If you want manual, many cams have it. It is good to use auto for "normal" settings. However, to use auto for lighting and movement fluctuates with distance, portraits, action shooting for one particular situation is hard. You should use manual instead, if possible. Auto in "normal" is different, because it changes accordingly to conditions. Nevertheless, chances are those your camera will probably come only with auto and little or no manual control at all. In this case, go ahead and use the settings.
- As for a sensor size and many pixels, it is better to have three large sensors as Sony HDR-FX7 with three 1/4 inch CMOS, but it cost $3500 and does not a useful size. The sensor captures 1,920 horizontal and 1,080 vertical pixels for 1080i HD and uses 2.76 mega pixels (1,920 x 1,440) in 4:3 mode and 2.07 mega pixels (1,920 x 1,080) in 16:9 mode. For a one-chip camcorder, it is good to have 3.2 MP sensors as Sony HDR-HC7. As for low-resolution (1,280 x 720) 720i HD movie, it is more than enough to use 1MP as Sony DSC-SR62E.
- If you are thinking about picture shooting and in need of 6-7 mega pixels sensor, it is a bad idea. The movie capturing process and camcorder’s lens work are not the same as photo camera shooting. Better to have a cheap compact for $150.
- As for resolutions: (1,920 x 1,080) 1080i or (1,280 x 720) 720i, this is your own choice. In addition, if you have a 720i TV and do not want to waste money for a full HD TV, maybe it is better to save money with economical purchase.
I put all links to my HD camcorders comparison’s articles below. Look through them I hope they can be useful for choosing. I will be glad to see your questions or opinions about any HD camcorders models. Feel free at my Comments directory.
- Aiptek A-HD and GO-HD camcorders as the best choice for MySpace or YouTube.
Looking to the Aiptek GO-HD or A-HD it is a little hard to compare these small HD camcorders with some excellent gadgets such as Canon NV20, Panasonic SD1 or Sony CR7. However, even in comparison with Sanyo Xacti family as HD1 and HD2, the Aiptek GO-HD performs good movie quality, especially in low light situations. Though Sanyo HD1 or HD2 and Aiptek GO-HD and A-HA are similar gadgets, it is wrong to call it as a ‘knock-off’ of Sanyo HD camcorders.
- Sony HDR-CX7 vs Panasonic HDC-SD5; choosing HD Sony SR5, SR7, SR300, JVC GZ7, GZHD3 it’s better to look at memory card models: CX7 and SD5
Comparing HD camcorders, I cannot help saying about Sony Handycam: HDR-CX7, SR7, SR5, SR200E and SR300E etc. It uses 1 CMOS sensor instead of Panasonic’s 3CCD, the same 10x optical zoom lens and some Sony’s favorite features. However, there are no expensive extrapixels as SR300E’s 6MP in these SX7 and SR7 models. What is more, there is my favourite feature - recording to a memory card (HDR-SX7), which allows building a firm camcorder without moving parts.
- Panasonic HDC-SD5 vs HDC-SX5 or JVC GZ-HD3: choosing 3CCD HD camcorder
HD camcorders with 3CCD system use professional broadcasting equipment. However, Panasonic has already chosen this system for its consumer’s camcorders. There were great gadgets in NV-GS family such as GS400, GS250 and my favorite GS-200. Now we have some interesting HD camcorders: such as HDC-DX1, HDC-SD1 and two new models HDC-SD5 and HDC-SX5 with 3CCD and colors that are more accurate. What is more, there are some models without moving parts that record movie to Memory cards.
- Aiptek GO-HD vs Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1 or HD2; $299 HD camcorder attacks HD market
This May a small company Aiptek made the cheapest HD camcorder which sells for $299 and can record a 720P (1280x720 resolution / 16:9 aspect ratio) image at 30 frames per second using advanced H.264 technology to SD cards. So Aiptek sets a new low price for HD camcorders and capitalizes on the public's appetite for HD video with making a cheap come-at-able HD device.
Of course this HD camcorder is a small toy but Sanyo HD1 and HD2 are not far from toys too. Moreover some Aiptek's features such as low-light shooting, macro mode and bigger LCD panel make GO-HD more interesting than 5 MP VPC-HD1. And if you want to have a puppet HD camcorder I think it's great to buy a three-hundred toy. The main thing is that we can get HD with a little money. Thanks for the Aiptek Company.
- Puppet Sanyo Xacti HD2 vs clever Canon HV20 or groovy JVC GZ-HD7: it's time to buy a HD-camcorder or wait?
It's impossible to talk about HD camcorders without mentioning Sanyo's Xacti family. These ultra-compact cams have vaguely gun-shaped design as Sanyo's other Xacti camcorders. But if you aren’t ready to pay abt. $990 you can look for a Canon's old model: the HV10 for $700. I think that Sanyo's family Xacti HD1 and HD2 can only compete with Canon PowerShot TX-1. It is also a groovy toy with a memory stick. But if you could wait a little, Canon will certainly make a Full HD camcorder with a memory card. This may happen tomorrow or later. But the HD-cam's race of Sony, Panasonic, Canon, JVC and Sanyo is surely occurring and this will end with some new interesting devices for rational money.
- 3 Canon’s HD camcorders: HV10, HV20 and HR10: is only PowerShot TX1 still groovy?
Canon is not only SLR, compacts and ultra zoom great camera manufacturer. There are a lot of interesting High Definition consumer video devices in his baggage. And with an excellent image quality and not expensive prices of these gadgets, Canon can compete with Sony’s and Panasonic’s best camcorders. I think that if the next step to the HD market Canon will make with Memory Stick camcorder, it can become a problem for other mfrs. Nevertheless it’s a little hard to make video with Mini DV now. While DVD format is just a little bad for a great HD performance, HDD camcorders are some delicate. But HD camcorders with cheap and big size memory cards can be really useful now. What about Canon PowerShot TX-1, it’s necessary to compare it with Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1 or HD2.
- Two new 3CCD High Definition AVCHD Camcorders from Panasonic - have we been waiting for these?
It has happened! Now we have two HD devices from Matsushita Electric with their traditional 3CCD sensors system. One model - HDC-DX1 can record and play DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD-R DL, DVD-R discs and SD/SDHC Memory Card. But it’s not only my opinion that DVD camcorders can’t make a high quality film because their processors are weak for that work. For example my PC with AMD Atlon XP+ 3000 needed about one night for encoding one film from MiniDV format to DVD. I think it is a problem for Matsushita engineers to build into the Panasonic HDC-DX1 something like the Core 2 Duo, although the HDC-SD1 is a more interesting camcorder. It has no moving parts in the recording section because SD-1 records to SDHC Memory Cards.
- 7 new 1CCD HD camcorders from Sony – any reasons to buy some or to wait for 3CCD cams
In my last post when I was talking about new Sony’s HD camcorders I spoke in favor of 3 chip cameras. You can ask why. To become a professional cameraman? It’s known that some 1CCD camcorders can have more pixels than 3CCD cams. Why shall we have three sensors? The answer is clear. Sensor in video camera works differently as the one in photo camera. In camera the most important is the size of the chip and then we consider about the pixel gross. Working with moving objects is more complicated. In 3CCD camcorders each color of three RGB color values is captured by one chip. This results in more accurate color information. Plus 3CCD systems is twice more sensitive. But this is only one instance where more is almost always better.
- Groovy news from Sony: five new HD-camcorders with hard disk drive! It’s time to die for our old video devices?
Sony announced some models of 2007 year: Sony Handycam DCR-SR42E, DCR-SR62E, DCR-SR82E, DCR-SR200E and DCR-SR300E in January. All of them rate like video cameras for travel fans. So it’s for me. I’m so “happy” because I paid abt. $1000 for 3CCD Panasonic only two years ago! And it was a really useful device for my favorite Thailand’ jorney.

Canon SD1000 as IXUS 70 vs. SD 870 or IXUS 950 vs. SD 950: it’s easy to be lost there

2007-11-25T11:58:00.000-08:00

Canon is the fastest digital compact cameras mfr. Look: PowerShot SD950, SD870, SD1000 as IXUS 70, SD850 as IXUS 950 and PowerShot G9, A720, A650, A640, A570, A560, A550 – they are only 2007 models. It is impressive but it is just a little complicated to choose the one. Therefore, for the right choice it is better to know exactly what you want from this digital camera. For more details look through Canon A650 vs A640, against A630 and From Canon A630 / G7 and Nikon P5000 to Canon G9 / A650 and Nikon P5100.
The ultra compact camera’s type
Of course, it is so cool to shoot with SLR but it is a little complicated and for many photographers this digital camera type is not preferable. SLRs are huge, expensive, need swapping lenses and the main thing is far from a majority of consumers need SLR’s pictures. I can say the same about SLR-like cameras, excluding picture quality. However, a chance to put a camera into a pocket is very attractive. In addition, we have PowerShot A-series (A720, A650 et.) and G-series as G9. But much more alluring is a smallest camera for a jeans pocket with bigger advantages. With a modern electronics, it is a reality. We have any Ultra compacts with 12 mega pixels sensor as SD 950 or 4x zoom lens as SD850. Unfortunately ultra compacts price ($400 for SD950) can be near any SLR’s models (Canon Rebel XT, Olympus E330 – E400).
Ultra-compact’s features
Is that so necessary, to have the 12MP sensor or an optical image stabilizer for an ultra compact? Most photographers can say ‘NO’. For those who do not agree to pay four hundreds for a toy gadget Canon made the Powershot SD1000 for about $165. In addition, it is not a toy camera.
Canon Powershot SD1000
Known as Canon IXUS 70 this small (86 x 54 x 19 mm (3.4 x 2.1 x 0.7 in), 175 g (6.2 oz) digital camera has ‘on board’ 1/2.5 inch 7MP sensor, 35-105mm 3x zoom lens, 9-points auto focus tape with Canon’s famous Face detection and can capture 640 x 480, 30 fps movie. What is more, it has 2.5 inch 230,000 pixels LCD, optical viewfinder, and build-in flash and continuous drive at 1.7 fps. It is not bad for a toy and looks like Canon A570 excluding a 4x zoom.
Images from the IXUS 70 look excellent in user’s tests, with accurate colors and plenty of sharpness, and rendering through Canon’s DIGIC III image processor. Maybe SD1000’s automatic white balance yield slightly yellowish images, but in most pictures, it is producing very neutral colors. I do not know, is it a con that IXUS 70 has no manual exposure controls, but with a small and solid body, good image quality, and not a poor feature set, this digital ultra compact can make a pleasure for a thrifty user.
Features
- Built-in flash with red eye reduction and slow synchrony options
- SD/SDHC compatible, with 32MB card included
- Rechargeable Lithium battery and charger included
- Software for Mac and PC; Windows Vista compatible
- Expanded ISO from 80-1600 (manual), with Auto, High, and Auto ISO Shift options
- Ten scene modes; Color Swap, Color Accent, effects, and multiple color options including Sepia, Black and White, and Vivid
- Adjustable contrast, sharpness, saturation, red, green, blue, and skin tones
- Shutter speeds from 15 seconds to 1/1500 second
- In-camera red eye correction in playback mode
- Evaluative, Center-Weighted, and Spot metering modes
- White balance adjustment with seven options, including a manual setting
- Custom /adjustable self-timer
Canon PowerShot SD870
This ultra zoom camera has a little more than SD1000 but already for $300. There is 8-megapixel 1/2.5 inch sensor, 28-105mm 3.8x zoom lens in a compact metal (93 x 59 x 26 mm (3.7 x 2.3 x 1 in), 165 g (5.8 oz) body. The SD870’s 28mm equivalent wide-angle lens makes it preferable for those who like to shoot in small rooms and any closed up area. With the new Digic III image processor, face detection, optical image stabilizer and other similar SD1000’s features as capturing 640 x 480, 30 fps movie etc Canon SD870 has 3.0" 230,000 LCD screen. Unfortunately, the SD870's optical viewfinder has been removed from this model, ostensibly to make room for the large LCD screen. To tell the truth an optical viewfinder becomes useful for ultra compact in at least two scenarios: when you want to conserve power, and when lighting conditions make it difficult to frame a shot with the LCD. Therefore, it is not a trouble. SD 870 is compatible with Canon portable printers, as well as PictBridge compatible, so is able to print to any printer that supports PictBridge directly, without the need for a computer in the middle.
Features
- 8.0 mega pixel sensor delivering 3,264 x 2,448 pixels
- 80-1,600 ISO sensitivity with ISO Auto Shift
- 15-1/1,600 second available shutter speeds
- F/2.8 maximum aperture
- SD/SDHC memory card capability
- Powered by Pack NB-5L lithium-ion Battery (rated at 270 shots per charge)
- In-camera editing, including cropping, digital red eye reduction, and color modes
- Auto-ISO Shift modes
- 16 Scene modes: Auto, Camera M (Manual settings), Special Scene (Portrait, Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Aquarium, Underwater, Indoor, Kids & Pets, Night Snapshot), Color Accent, Color Swap, Digital Macro, Stitch Assist
Canon PowerShot SD950
Known as Canon IXUS 960 this is an expensive ($450-480) digital camera with a large 1/1.7 inch sensor and a great many 12 mega pixels. It looks stylish and as the top of Canon's Digital Elph line, enclosed in a titanium shell (96 x 96 x 28 mm (3.8 x 3.8 x 1.1 in), 205 g (7.2 oz).
SD950 has a successful combination of a bright, 2.5-inch 230,000 pixels LCD screen and an eye-level viewfinder. The camera can capture a High Definition movie at 1024 x 768 resolutions, but unfortunately only in 15 fps. As a result, movies can be a little jumpy. The pleasure from using a large 1/1.7 inch sensor is deteriorated by some noisy images. I have already written about bad results of pumping extra pixels into the compacts sensors Canon Powershot G9, SD950 and A650: can 12MP make SLR from compact. In this case, we have useless 4000 x 3000 resolutions in chase of 12 mega pixels.
Features
- 3.7x optical zoom (35-133mm equivalent)
- ISO 80 to 3,200
- Shutter speed from 15 to 1/1,600 second
- Maximum aperture of f/2.8 at wide-angle and f/5.8 at telephoto
- Spot, Center-Weighted, and Evaluative exposure metering
- White balance adjustment with seven modes, including a Custom setting
- Built-in flash with seven modes
- SDHC/SD memory card storage
- Pure titanium shell sculpted in Canon's Perpetual Curve design
- DIGIC III image processor with face detection technology
- Adjustable ISO settings up to 1,600, plus Auto and ISO HI settings, and an ISO 3,200 Scene mode
- 16:9 Widescreen still image capture mode
- Five Movie modes with sound, with 1,024 x 768 XGA modes at 15 frames per second
- Continuous Shooting mode 1.5 fps
- 11 preset Scene modes
- USB 2.0 Hi-Speed / A/V cable for connection to a television set
- DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) and PictBridge compatibility
Conclusion
The best purchase from these three digital cameras in my opinion is the Canon SD1000 for its good (abt. $165) price, strong body and good picture quality. This gadget has an attractive price / quality ratio and can be a good gift at Christmas. As for the PowerShot SD870, its best selling feature is the large and lovely 3-inch LCD screen. Unfortunately, its wide-angle lens has a high chromatic aberration at 28mm. Canon Powershot SD950 can be preferable for those who are really in need of its pure titanium body sculpted in Canon's Perpetual Curve design with groovy but expensive features. As for another brands, there are some interesting and not expensive digital compacts from Fuji. For more look through Fujifilm F50fd vs FinePix S5 IS Pro: 12MP from digital compact it’s not the same as 12MP from SLR.

Compare 10x SLR-likes: Sony DSC-H3, Panasonic TZ2 vs Canon SX100

2007-11-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to satisfy any photographer’s needs, mfrs have made a new digital camera type. There are three new: Canon SX100, Panasonic TZ2 and Sony DSC-H3 are ultra zoom digital cameras, because they have a 10x zoom lens but it’s already not an SLR-like. What is more, these are budget digital cameras, because all of these gadgets cost under $300.
For more details look through: Panasonic DMC TZ3 vs Canon SX100 or Sony H3: the best Travel Zoom for $220.
Yet as ultra zoom, it still comes from SLR-like
Like the compact, these cameras fit the zoom into a body that is smaller than the usual SLR-like’s. At the same time, Sony H3 and Canon SX100 have usual for “Big brothers” Sony DSC-H9 and Canon S5 sensor size 1/2.5 inch with similar 8-8.3MP resolution. As for Panasonic TZ2, it has a bigger than DMC-H8’s 1/2.5” 7MP and a new 1/2.35 sensor with 7.4 million sensor photo detectors, much bigger than usual for a 6.0MP camera, and some of this extra ones may be used to accommodate the increased width of the wider formats while maintaining the same total pixel amount. It is quite good for a small TZ2 body: Weight (inc. batteries) is 260 g (9.2 oz), Dimensions 105 x 59 x 37 mm (4.1 x 2.3 x 1.5 in). As for others, Sony H3 weighs (with batt.) 380 g (13.4 oz) and dimensions 106 x 68.5 x 47.5 mm (4.2 x 2.7 x 1.9 in), Canon SX100’s weight (inc. batteries) is 316 g (11.1 oz), dimensions 109 x 71 x 47 mm (4.3 x 2.8 x 1.9 in). These are handy pocket gadgets that can be used in many situations, especially as a 'travel zoom'(for more look at my The Thai Tramp).
10x zoom lens for a pocket camera
What is satisfyingly, all of these cameras have an optical image stabilizer. Sony H3 is supplied with Zeiss-branded 38-380mm lens, Panasonic TZ2 has the advantage of a 28mm focal length at the wide end of the 28-280mm zoom, branded as Leica. In addition, Canon SX100 has own 36-360mm lens. As a result, using good quality lenses with adequate sensors (without overlade by 12MP as Canon G9, sensor) we have good picture quality for all cameras. Look at this TZ2 owner’s reply. It says by itself. “I was not even considering a Panasonic, much less a Lumix TZ2. I liked the lens on the TZ2 but I was not sure that Panasonic, with limited years of experience in digital, had the depth to produce a decent camera. It turns out I was wrong. The quality of the pictures is outstanding even at Auto mode.”
The comparison
As for Sony H3, it has generally good picture quality. The image noise is just a little smaller as Panasonic TZ2. It is maybe a result of Sony’s dynamic range optimization usage. Thanks to this feature, dynamic range is wide with good highlight and shadow details. However, the multi-zone auto focus system is making a trouble: an unacceptable number of photos will be out of focus. It is better to turn it out. Instead, Sony H3 is very speedy with a little shutter lag.
What for Canon SX100, I have already written about this gadget in the article: Canon SX100 IS as a Powershot S5 IS killer. It has similar to Panasonic TZ2 and Sony H3 picture quality, the same well-made body and face detection system as H3. However, it has one’s more accommodation -- the flip out ant twist LCD.
There is not continuous shooting from Panasonic TZ2 instead of 1.3 fps from Canon SX100 and 2 fps from Sony H-3. On the other hand, TZ2 has a high-resolution movie mode 848 x 480, 640 x 480 at 30/10 fps in place of Canon and Sony 640 x 480 at 30 fps.
To the general bad points of these three cameras, I can claim the viewfinder lack and poor resolution (172,000 pix) LCD. Nevertheless, there is a 2.5 inch size and after shooting with Nikon 8700’s 1.8” 134,000 display, I think that it is not so bad that viewfinder is absent. Of course, it makes difficulties for viewing images but in my opinion, it is better to look through pictures by PC.
Conclusion
The mfrs attention to the budget camera guide is a great thing. Moreover, it is acceptable that these gadgets are made in skillful manner. In any case, Canon SX100, Panasonic TZ2 and Sony DMC-3 can fight against many senior models such as Canon S5 IS, Sony DSC-H9 etc. In addition, with a good price / quality ratio these digital cameras can be preferable, especially as a new compact type.
I collect info about all digital cameras. Tell me what you need and we will find the one together. Feel at ease at Comments directory.

Compare digital compact cameras: from Canon A630 / G7 and Nikon P5000 to Canon G9 / A650 and Nikon P5100

2007-11-21T01:13:00.001-08:00

Choosing the most attractive digital compact camera as Canon A630, A640, A650 or PowerShot G7, G9, SD950 / SD850; Nikon P5000, P5100 and comparing it with some SLR-likes as Canon S5 / SX100 or Sony H9 / H3 it’s better to treat with respect to compact gadgets. Although this digital camera type is just a little gadget, it is able to make good pictures and sometimes costs about $500 like Canon G9.
Some SLR’s features in a compact
Digital compact can have some cool SLR’s features such as RAW format, Optical image stabilizer or mega pixels gross at 12MP but it has a small sensor (1/2.5 – 1/1.7 inch) and it’s not easy to make images without noise with it. However, it is necessary to consider a compact. It is not only a toy. It can serve as second camera for a cool Pro or can help your in some delicate situations. I am feeling respect to the compact from the moment I failed with SLR’s shooting in the Sauna (for more look through my Banya vs. Sauna or Spa). Trying to shoot in damp and hot steam room for my saunabanyaspa blog I nearly killed my Sony Alpha. Instead, my pocket Canon PowerShot A95 did not overwarm and let me take great pictures in the steam chamber.
Conclusion
It is worth knowing to consumers that not all compact characteristics are really useful in amateur shooting. Therefore, if you do not want to waste money for a toy camera with useless abilities, it is better to pay attention to its features. You have to know precisely what you want from this camera. Otherwise, you will get into difficulties when you choose a dray-horse to come to a horse race.
I put links to articles about comparing various compact cameras below. There is some advice how to make a good purchase and not to waste money. If you become interested, I will be glad to see your replies and answer all your questions. Please post your questions and opinions to the Comments directory.
List of articles for digital compact cameras choosing
- Fujifilm F40fd vs FinePix F50fd, Canon IXUS 960 and PowerShot G9: no more expensive mega pixels for a Compact
It is quite enough to look at some digital cameras, as the FinePix IS Pro, S700, IS-1, S9600 or an excellent digital SLR – FinePix S5 Pro so as to understand that Fujifilm is a great digital cameras manufacturer. Fujifilm camera’s color rendering favorably differ FinePix photo cameras from many others. This is an advantage of FujiFilm firm’s Super CCD HR image sensor. Unfortunately, this sensor is not the rule for all FinePix cameras.
- Canon PowerShot SD850 IS vs. SD950 IS: 12MP in titanium body or who is the Canon 950 IS
When I am looking for a great image quality from an SLR-like or a Compact digital camera, at first I focus my attention on the sensor size. However, most digital cameras as the Canon S5 IS or Powershot A720 have a small 1/2.5 inch chip. Alternatively, some cameras as Canon G9, SD950 IS or Fujifilm F50fd have a large (for a compact) 1/1.7 – 1/1.6 inch, but overburden with useless 12 extra pixels sensor. As a result, we have a price at $400-450 for noisy images.
- Fujifilm F50fd vs FinePix S5 IS Pro: 12MP from digital compact it’s not the same as 12MP from SLR
After Canon’s 12MP cameras as PowerShot G9, SD950 and A650 appearing, this mega pixels gross is not outstanding. However, the Fujifilm’s favorite SuperCCD HR sensor coupled with 1/1.6 inch size, which is not the rule for a digital compact camera suggest me some expectancies to an outstanding picture quality. Unfortunately, a small compact’s sensor, as Canon G9 / IXUS 960’s 1/1.7 inch chip plays dirty with Fuji F50 images too.
- Canon SD1000 as IXUS 70 vs. SD 870 or IXUS 950 vs. SD 950: it’s easy to be lost there
Canon is the fastest digital compact cameras mfr. Look: PowerShot SD950, SD870, SD1000 as IXUS 70, SD850 as IXUS 950 and PowerShot G9, A720, A650, A640, A570, A560, A550 – they are only 2007 models. It is impressive but it is just a little complicated to choose the one. Therefore, for the right choice it is better to know exactly what you want from this digital camera.
- Canon SX100 IS as a Powershot S5 IS killer
Canon PowerShot SX100 IS as the first digital camera in the new budget SX series would make happy a lot of Canon’s fans who do not want to waste money on cooll and useless features. The very fact of SX series appearance says that Canon inc. at last swung its face to consumers. Moreover, this is a bold step, because this new PowerShot SX100 can compete not only with Canon’ A-series digital cameras: such as A650 or A720, but famous S5 IS.
- Choosing Digital Compact camera: Canon A650 vs A640, against A630
Modern Canon 1/1.8 " (7.18 x 5.32 mm) sensor A-series replaced the double-digit A-series, which had an excellent compact, such as 5 megapixels, 3x zoom Powershot A95 (August 2005).
There were 4x 5MP A610 and 7MP A620 in 2005, 8MP and 10MP A630 and A640 in 2006 and the latest 12MP model Canon A650 with 6x zoom lens. I am using A95 and A630 as my second cameras for a long time and I can say that to shoot with these two is a pleasure.
However, there is an adequate 8-megapixel sensor, which allows selling Powershot A630 for a good price and making this compact the best purchase in the digital market.Unfortunately, we can get great new digital compact cameras from Canon ink. only after the speedy completion of the project of developing CMOS sensors for compact models.
- Nikon Coolpix P5100 vs P5000: it’s better to look at Canon A630
The Coolpix P5100 appearance is one more cause for mfrs’ wild enthusiasm, not consumers’. Nikon right after Canon with G9, A650 put into P5100 model 1/1.72 inch sensor more than 12 mega pixels. It is possible that after slightly disappointing P5000’s selling, Nikon solves this problem in style: more pixels and spit upon the image quality. However, this method cannot make from P5100 a cadet of D3 and D300 DSLR models. It may be not so prestigious to shoot with Canon A630 as G9, P5100 or P5000. However, it is a truly Compact with a good image quality for fair money. As for prestige, it should be better to buy Canon’s Tele or Wide-angle converters for saving money and having fun.
- Canon Powershot G9, SD950 and A650: can 12MP make SLR from compact
Canon’s new 12.1 megapixels digital cameras G9, SD950 and A650 were announced this August as flagship models with wild enthusiasm about their cool advantages. Of course, some its features as Optical Image Stabilizer, DIGIC III processor, Canon’s Face Detection AF/AE/FE or RAW mode are not bad and sometimes are realy useful. However, I think that $500 for compact is the same excess as 12 megapixels in a 1/1.7” sensor. Therefore, if you want to buy digital compact without extra features for extra money, it is better to look at the Canon Powershot A630 with 1/1.8 inch 8MP sensor, vari-angle LCD screen, full range of the same as G9 etc. accessories for abt. $270. Pay attention to its owner’s opinion: “It is a real bargain! The A630 is easy to use, with bright lens, very sharp and good quality images (80-200 ISO).Fantastic quality for the price!”
- Canon PowerShot G9, digital compact camera with RAW, Hot-shoe, Wide and Tele
The Canon PowerShot G9 introduced in August 2007 as high-end compact digital camera with large 1/1.7 inch sensor and rich of features. Unfortunately, this new ‘combination of advanced features’ costs abt. $500 and with some accessories its price can touch in any SLR cameras. As for image quality and other Canon G9 abilities, there are some problems:
- Noisy images at ISO 400 and very noisy at high ISO
- Focusing problems in lowlight, especially with zooming
- No optical zoom in movie mode
- Short battery life
Off course, there is nothing perfect, but in an attempt to 12 mega pixels Canon lost sight of some useful abilities.
- 4 newest compacts: DSC-S800, DMC-FX100, IXUS 950 IS and Coolpix P5000; Panasonic’s sensor race: Compact vs. SLR.
4 new enthusiast compact cameras have appeared in May. I pay attention to these equipped gadgets because they are packed with high-end features. Some of these specialties such as: optical image stabilizer, 1/1.72-inch large sensor and powerful image processor used to distinguish great SLR cameras. But now beautifully designed luxurious all-metal bodies are filled up with these groovy features. And compact cameras become more and more interesting as hi-tech innovations. I find some mfrs.’ desire to chase consumers’ attention deflects them from its course. As a result we have 12, 2 megapixel sensor compact cam such as new Lumix FX-100.

Canon SX100 IS as a Powershot S5 IS killer

2007-11-20T03:19:00.000-08:00

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS as the first digital camera in the new budget SX series would make happy a lot of Canon’s fans who do not want to waste money on cooll and useless features. The very fact of SX series appearance says that Canon inc. at last swung its face to consumers. Moreover, this is a bold step, because this new PowerShot SX100 can compete not only with Canon’ A-series digital cameras: such as A650 or A720, but famous S5 IS. Fore more details look through: Choosing Digital Compact camera: Canon A650 vs A640, against A630 and Canon PowerShot S5 IS.
Canon SX100 useful features
I have already chucked the stones to Canon inc. for making its expensive and great megapixel cameras. However, the advent of the Powershot SX100 impressed me as it is a digital camera with really useful abilities for fair money (abt. $280). Let us look through SX100 features:
- 10x optical zoom lens, 36 – 360mm (if somebody needs more, there is a Wide-angle or Tele converters)
- Optical Image Stabilizer as distinct from 6x Powershot G9 one is useful here
- 8.0 Megapixels 1/2.5 inch sensor
- DIGIC III image processor
- Face Detection Technology
- Canon’s total anti-blur solution with ISO 1600, Auto ISO Shift and optical Image Stabilizer
- Improved Red-Eye Correction in playback
- 2.5 inch LCD screen
- 18 shooting modes including full manual control
- Digital Tele-Converter, which adds a constant zoom to every shot – 1.6x or 2.0x depending on the image size selected
- Safety Zoom, which protects the image from interpolation at high levels of digital zoom, allowing users to extend zoom magnification without sacrificing image quality
In my opinion, some camera features are not so important because any PC photo editors or some photographers (it is about Face detection) can do with pictures much more. Nevertheless, for many photographers it is a good advantage.
SX100 user’s opinion
Because of the balanced price/quality ratio, we can see some replies like this:
- This is camera for those who do not want the size or expense of the G9 but need more features than a pocket cam has. It feels good in the hand and has very easy to reach buttons for your most often accessed settings. The images are very good and easy to review on the awesome screen.
- Canon SX100 IS is a good value for money. This is an easy to use digital camera, clever for capturing great pictures and movies.
Of course, this digital camera does not permit its users “to look like a Pro”. It is hard to shoot with SX100 in a sport hall during a basketball game, but it can take pictures not worse than $400’s G9.
Compare Canon SX100 IS with Powershot S5 IS
In comparison with well-known S5, I pick out some SX100’s pros and cons (for more look at Canon PowerShot S5 IS’s pros and cons):
The good:
- small size and light weight; 109 x 71 x 47 mm (4.3 x 2.8 x 1.9 in), 316 g (11.1 oz) instead of 117 x 80 x 78 mm (4.6 x 3.2 x 3.1 in), 550 g (19.4 oz)
- good price at $250-280 instead of $380-400 for S5
- The same as cool S5: 8MP 1/2.5 inch sensor and the Optical image stabilization system, which is unusual for cheap compact
The bad:
- 36 – 360 mm 10x zoom inst. 36 - 432 mm, 12x zoom lens
- 172,000 inst. 207,000 LCD Pixels
- Aperture range F2.8 - F4.3 inst. F2.7 - F3.5 / F8
- Flash guide at 3.0 m (9.8 ft) 0 m inst. 5.2 m (17 ft) 2 m
- Say ‘NO’ to Hot-shoe
- Continuous Drive 1.3 fps inst. 1.5 fps
- There is no a viewfinder
- Lack of in-camera editing capability
Conclusion
After a great many of expensive and groovy digital ultra zoom and compact cameras such as Olympus SP-560, Panasonic FZ18, Fujifilm S8000, Sony DSC-H9 and $500’s Canon G9 with 18x zoom lenses, huge 12 megapixels sensors, 3 inch LCD etc. finally we have an adequate digital camera with adequate price. What is more, the Canon Powershot SX100 announced as a first sign in the new and not expensive SX series of great value ultra-zoom digital compact cameras. Moreover, most likely that SX appearance will force other manufacturers to make something the same. At last, we can have budget digital SLR-like cameras from Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Panasonic etc. and any more from Canon.
I collect info about all digital cameras. Tell me what you need and we will find the one together. Feel at ease at Comments directory.

Compare digital SLR-like cameras: from Canon S5, Olympus SP 560 and Sony H3, H9 to Panasonic FZ18 and Fujifilm S8000

2007-11-19T00:53:00.000-08:00

Comparing newest ultra zoom SLR-like cameras such as Canon PowerShot S5 IS, Fujifilm S8000 / IS-1 / S5700 / S9600, Panasonic FZ-18 / FZ-8 / FZ-50, Sony DSC-H3 / H7 / H9 and Olympus SP-560 / SP550 with old Nikon 8700, Fujifilm S9000 or Sony DSC-R1 I come to the disappointing conclusion that newest are lousy. I am a real digital cameras’ fan and there are so many gadgets, which have run through my hands, but I would not like them to upgrade any of my old gadgets. Moreover, I am advising to my friends, who are in need of a new compact or ultra-zoom camera to buy 2006 or even 2005’s models. Dancing with modern digital cameras, a majority of their mfrs are notin need of making fair gadgets with good picture quality. They are making money. Therefore only marketing specialists, not engineers ruling the ball in the digital market. They are stick into the new cameras some useless but expensive features and feign them as necessary for shooting. And so, if you do not want to waste your money do not trust advertising. Remembe that digital camera serve for picture making only. In addition, the main things in a camera are the sensor and the lens together. Therefore, if you put a great lens for a shitty sensor, you will get a shitty image.
I put links to articles about comparing various SLR-like cameras bellow. There is some advice how to make a good purchase and not to waste money. If you become interested, I will be glad to see your replies and answer all your questions. Please, post your questions and opinions to the Comments directory.
- Casio Exilim EX-F1 as fastest digital SLR-like camera with CMOS sensor, better than Canon S5 and Panasonic TZ3.
After SONY’s great ultra zoom camera – DSC-R1, the new Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is the next SLR-like camera with CMOS sensor. However, good guys from Casio made a clever step with this gadget. They do not want to run for useless mega pixels and put 6.6 million total pixels into 1/1.8 inch sensor. As a result, the Casio EX-F1 can shoot at an ultra fast speed - 60 frames per second.
- Panasonic DMC TZ3 vs Canon SX100 or Sony H3: the best Travel Zoom for $220
Four models present the new digital compact camera type – the Travel Zoom: the Canon Powershot SX100, the Sony DSC-H3, Panasonic DMC-TZ2 and Lumix TZ3. This camera type is a compromise between SLR-like cameras with a big optical zoom as Canon S5 or FujiFilm S8000 and compacts as PowerShot A-series or Fujifilm F40 – F50fd. Travel Zoom cameras have the same small 1/2.5 – 1/2.33” sensors. However, their 10-x zoom lens is hiding into the body; it makes this camera type handy, especially for travelers.
- Fujifilm S8000 vs S700, S9600 or F40: Great zoom for SLR-like, great sensor for Compact
Fuji Film digital camera guide can surprise any photographers with its features distribution. The small FinePix F40 has 1/1.6” Fujifilm SuperCCD HR sensor, whereas the cool 18x Fujifilm F8000 is satisfied with 1/2.35” ordinary chip. The groovy S9600 (with SuperCCD HR sensor) has not only a low light, still an infrared shooting advantage (in case of FinePix IS-1), but it is content without an optical image stabilizer. As for Fujifilm digital SLR – the IS Pro and S5 Pro, there are 6MP 23 x 15.5 mm sensor, but with 12.3 million sensor photo detectors.
- Compare 10x SLR-likes: Sony DSC-H3, Panasonic TZ2 vs Canon SX100
In an attempt to satisfy any photographer’s needs, mfrs have made a new digital camera type. There are three new: Canon SX100, Panasonic TZ2 and Sony DSC-H3 are ultra zoom digital cameras, because they have a 10x zoom lens but it’s already not an SLR-like. What is more, these are budget digital cameras, because all of these gadgets cost under $300.
- Canon SX100 IS as a Powershot S5 IS killer
Canon PowerShot SX100 IS as the first digital camera in the new budget SX series would make happy a lot of Canon’s fans who do not want to waste money on cooll and useless features. The very fact of SX series appearance says that Canon inc. at last swung its face to consumers. Moreover, this is a bold step, because this new PowerShot SX100 can compete not only with Canon’ A-series digital cameras: such as A650 or A720, but famous S5 IS.
- Olympus SP-560 vs SP-550; 18x SLR-like with E410’ processor and 826mm Tele converter
Olympus was the first manufacturer who gave birth to 18x zoom SLR-like camera. It was Olympus SP-550 with some new features: a handy body but a small and noisy 1/2.5” sensor. I don’t know if it sells successfully but some mfrs followed Olympus SP-550’s example. As a result we can see the appearance of new ultra-zoom cameras such as: Panasonic FZ18, Fujifilm S8000 and again Olympus with SP-560. Let’s look through this model and designate how good this upgrade is.

- Compare Fujifilm S8000, Olympus SP550, Panasonic FZ18 - nothing to S9100
This September Fujifilm made its fans a little happier by releasing a new SLR-like with a groovy 18x zoom lens, S8000. David Troy, Senior Product Manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. says: “By styling advanced DSLR features in a compact, easy to use digicam, we’re offering users the tools to capture photos you would swear were captured by a pro.” Let’s analyze which features of Fujifilm S8000 make us happy and force us to throw away our favorite DSLRs, compacts and even camcorders.
- Panasonic FZ18 vs. Fujifilm S8000 or Olympus SP-550; Compare 18x SLR-likes
What will happen if you stick a prefect Leica lens to the 1/2.5 inch sensor? You will waste $400 for a doubtful pleasure to have an 18x zoom on the small and noisy sensor. Besides you can participate in new SLR-like camera race with Fujifilm S8000, Olympus SP-550 UZ and cool-and-clever Panasonic FZ18. If you think that taking up the race is for your shooting accommodation it’s a wrong idea. This is running for your money. But if some time before we were running for mega pixels, now we are running for the ultra-mega-super optical zoom.
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 as cheaper alternative for Canon PowerShot S5 IS
The colossal photographer’s interest in SLR-like cameras such as Canon PowerShot S5 IS (it’s much more than Canon XTi/400D) told me than two reasons such as:
- you don’t need to change lenses so sensor remains hermetically sealed and clean,
- you can compose real time on the LCD monitor or the LCD viewfinder (including a real time histogram),
are much more important for users than high speed, image quality and other SLR’s advantages. Unfortunately Canon S5’s price is abt. $500 and willy-nilly I’d like to look for cheaper ultra-zoom camera with the same abilities.
- Choosing a SLR-like; DSC-H9 and H7 are Sony rival team against Canon S5
Sony introduced two new 8-megapixel DSC-H9 and DSC-H7 models in February 2007. Sony’s new SLR-like models must replace previous ultra-zoom cameras DSC H2 and H5.These new models both have 8.1 megapixel sensors, HDTV output, stabilized zooms and in the H9 there is Night Shot technology for, apparently, shooting in total darkness. New Sony’s SLR-like cameras have automatic face detection technology, without which any camera is now some outdated. These new cameras are strengthened with cool features like HD outputs, a 3-inch and flip-up LCD screen (only in case of H9) so that you can shoot comfortably from nearly any position etc. consequently their prices are strengthened too. So I have made a thorough research to find out everything about advantages and disadvantages concerning these two cameras.
- Canon PowerShot S5 IS’s pros and cons
I don’t really care which label my camera has: Sony, Nikon, Panasonic or Canon. Most modern electronic devices have great quality which is based on the same China components. Therefore the fact that Canon PowerShoot S5's appearance generated considerable publicexcitement surprises me a lot. What of it if so? If Canon gave birth to a new SLR-like digital camera, do all of us take off our pants and run around? In search of any groovy Canon S5 feature, which makes me so happy that I start running with naked ass, I call at some photo stores or go surfing in specialized sites in the Net. Unfortunately there were not many happy Canon S5 owners in the Net and only one shop where I could hold on and test this device pressing, twisting it and shooting with it and get a little information about it. But I can make a compilation of PowerShot S5 IS pros and cons.
- Canon PowerShot S5 vs EOS350D, Sony H9 vs A100; SLR-like cam never comes to SLR.
I was surfing in the Net and trying to choose a lens for my Sony A100 when I saw Canon's general manager’s opinion on Canon new SLR-like camera, the PowerShot S5 IS. Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. said: 'With a broad range of features and a powerful ultra-zoom lens, it is no coincidence that the PowerShot S5 IS digital camera's look and feel evokes the sense of a small, lightweight SLR'. What a clever method to take great shoots. It's as easy as ABC! No more lenses, no more choosing between Sigma, Tamron and Sony. Why must I pay $350 for Sigma 18-200 or even $450 for Sony SAL if I can buy a SLR-like and 'its feel evokes' a SLR camera's master?
- 7 best SLR-like’s specification table; Sony DSC-H5 as a cheap & clever choice
I’ve already talked about my friend’s intention to choose ultra zoom. He bought the Sony DSC-H5 for $350. And his reasons are: it’s a great camera with a big LCD and with everything you need. However, it’s a rule for the modern digital market to fill up a cam with a lot of features which you never need or use. Its manual looks like a novel and nobody can read it entirely. What about new models such as Sony DSC-H7/H9? He says that he wants to have a good digital cam but doesn’t want to pay extra money for latest models. The newest ones do not mean the best and especially it does not mean the cheapest. I think that it’s a clever method of attacking the shopping to wait for a tomorrow's model to buy today's one. Of course, with new models’ appearances you can calculate on a discount. Now he is happy and I’m happy too because he promised me to lend this gadget for a few days for shooting in sauna.
- Choosing SLR-likes compare Panasonic DMC-FZ8, Olympus SP-550 and Fujifilm IS-1/S9600. Good, expensive and very expensive.
Our next stop is Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ8 with 1/2.5 " 7.1 MP sensor 3072 x2304, 36 - 432mm Image stabilization 12x zoom lens from Leica, 2.5” LCD. It costs $300. Taking the piece of cake between high-end compacts (10 MP FZ50 or R1) and DSLR, Panasonic’s DMC-FZ8 offers useful and not expensive SLR-like high quality cameras. Why don’t you buy it if the price suits you and you become a photographer during your trips and want to shoot outdoor pictures and your family? The weight, inc. batteries, is 340 g (12 oz), which is convenient. After 10.1-megapixel (3648 x 2736) LUMIX DMC-FZ50 with Optical Image Stabilizer featuring (12x) optical zoom (equivalent 35 - 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC lens for five hundred dollars, FZ8 is a clever step, especially after a huge DSC-R1.
- Choosing Digital zoom cam: Canon PowerShot S5 IS can fight with Sony DSC-H9 or H7; Canon, you really can?
Two days ago my friend asked me what camera to buy for home and nature shooting. He has a dog, a wife and owns a beautiful house with a nice garden. On the hand he has $300-500 for a photo camera and does not have any idea what cam he wants. On the other hand I am a friend of his, an electronic devices fan. And I got an excellent chance to check my talent as the comparison shopper.
First of all I sent him to the superstore with one mission: to hold for some time all digital cameras which he can examine from salesmen. And before shop guys will see that my friend does not want to buy any cam he can test ‘hand grip’ of the most compacts, SLR-like cams and my favorite DSLRs.
- The summary table of the best SLR-like camera specifications
I don’t know who gives rise to SLR-like cameras. May be this strange kind of photo devices was born because some marketing experts wanted to have a new piece of digital camera market. Some opticians may have created such an excellent universal lens that forced them to build a special camera for it. But now we see this sort of cameras for people who are ready to have a cool and big device without any SLR complexities. For those who want to capture a moment without changing (and buying) lenses. It is interesting that Canon and Nikon made their best SLR-like cameras in 2004. But Sony and Panasonic (with there lenses manufacturers Carl Zeiss and Leica) are showing activity in SLR-like market right now. I have made that table because it’s impossible to talk about photo cameras while not mentioning SLR-like ones. However when I hold Sony DSC-R1 in my hands I recall old machine gun advertisement: Better means to get back at neighbors!

Choosing Digital Compact camera: Canon A650 vs A640, against A630

2007-11-18T02:18:00.000-08:00

Modern Canon 1/1.8 " (7.18 x 5.32 mm) sensor A-series replaced the double-digit A-series, which had an excellent compact, such as 5 megapixels, 3x zoom Powershot A95 (August 2005).
There were 4x 5MP A610 and 7MP A620 in 2005, 8MP and 10MP A630 and A640 in 2006 and the latest 12MP model Canon A650 with 6x zoom lens. I am using A95 and A630 as my second cameras for a long time and I can say that to shoot with these two is a pleasure.
Some “good points” about Powershot A650
As for Canon A650, I already used abuse in my previous posts and now I give this possibility for one of its users:
I bought this to upgrade from the PowerShotA570 that is an excellent camera, but the bigger chip and bigger zoom of the Canon A650 made me its owner. At first, I thought I must have been doing something wrong, but no, there is a lot of noise at anything over base ISO. Especially starting at ISO 125 and up it is much nosier than the Canon A570 and frankly ruins any gains from the 12-mega pixels. There is also more pronounced lag time between shots. While the dynamic range is better than my A570 (probably due to the larger chip), the noise was just too much to ignore. For the price it is not worth it, so back to the store it went. I am happy with cheap Powershot A570 except for the long flash delay and blown out highlights. For more details about Powershot A650 look at: Canon Powershot G9, SD950 and A650: can 12MP make SLR from compact.
Canon A650 advantages
To tell the truth I can sign to each word. As for A650’s advantages, let’s look through and compare it with A640 / A630. To start with, it is helpful to look at this user’s scream: “Please, we do not ask for more pixels, we ask for better quality!”
- 12.1 megapixels
- 6x optical zoom
- Total anti-blur solution with optical Image Stabilizer, High ISO Auto and Auto ISO Shift
- 2.5” vari-angle LCD with real-image zoom optical viewfinder
- DIGIC III with Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Red-Eye Correction in playback
- 21 shooting modes including full manual control and Long Play VGA movies
- Optional accessories including lenses and waterproof case
Comparing A650 with A640 / A630, we can find a 6x zoom lens forced by an image stabilizer and nothing more important exsept the price (abt. $380-470).
Canon A640 advantages
-10.0 Megapixels
- 2.5” vari-angle LCD screen and real-image optical viewfinder
- 4x optical zoom
- DIGIC II, iSAPS, 9-Point AiAF, FlexiZone AF/AE
- Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom
- 21 shooting modes
Canon PowerShot A640 ($290-380) has more pros than cons. Although it has high resolution at 10 megapixels, but that will not be necessary for most users of this camera. A majority of photografers do not need to create life-size posters.
Canon A630 advantages
There were the same as A640 pros:
- Good noise control
- Clever analog display
- Clear help system
- Comfortable grip
- Flip out LCD monitor with wide view
- Flash exposure compensation
- Manual control
- Great movie mode
- Price about $245 - 260
For more look through Nikon Coolpix P5100 vs P5000: it’s better to look at Canon A630.
However, there is an adequate 8-megapixel sensor, which allows selling Powershot A630 for a good price and making this compact the best purchase in the digital market.Unfortunately, we can get great new digital compact cameras from Canon ink. only after the speedy completion of the project of developing CMOS sensors for compact models. Canon has already invested $451 million for building a new CMOS production factory in Japan. ‘The new plant will have roughly the same annual production capacity as another factory in Kanagawa which can churn out 3 million CMOS chips a year. The CMOS chips will be used in both single lens reflex (SLR) models as well as in some compact models. For more details look through: Canon PowerShot with CMOS sensor: SLR-like vs. SLR or instead? and Canon vs. Sony: 5 billion more for better ultra-zoom with CMOS sensor.
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