Pentax has launched the Optio M60, a 10 megapixel compact camera with a 5x optical zoom. It's got all the features you'd expect, including revised face detection technology that can locate the faces of the best part of a coach-party. The lens covers a range equivalent to 36mm - 180mm, so lacks any wide angle. The camera does offer an Auto Picture mode that automatically selects the scene mode it thinks most relevant for the shot being taken, helping to make the most of 8 of its scene modes.
July 30th, 2008 – PENTAX UK is pleased to announce the launch of the new PENTAX Optio M60, a feature-filled digital compact camera that is lightweight and equipped with advanced, easy-to-operate functions. The Optio M60 can be used widely by anyone in a variety of situations, and is equipped with the latest scene mode recognition function allowing for easy and convenient capturing of high-quality images.
The M60 is the latest model in the PENTAX Optio M series of digital compact cameras, which have been highly acclaimed for their small, lightweight bodies and enhanced functions. In addition to a metal exterior that gives it a sense of sophistication, the M60 is loaded with an impressive optical 5X zoom, a large LCD monitor, easy-to-understand operability, and approximately 10.0 megapixels. Furthermore, the Optio M60 makes taking great pictures even easier by leaving it up to the camera to determine specific settings. This is made possible thanks to the strengthened face recognition function and advancements to the convenient “Auto Picture” function unique to PENTAX, where the camera automatically detects the conditions of the subject and selects the optimal scene mode. The camera is also available in three different colours, allowing users to select their favourite.
Major Features
1. Advanced Auto Picture mode that lets the camera automatically select the scene mode
Improvements have been made in the recognition performance of the Auto Picture mode, which is a convenient function unique to PENTAX, where the camera automatically selects the optimal scene mode when pointed at the subject. Through the addition of Candlelight to the conventional scene modes of Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Standard, Flower, and Sport, a total of 8 scenes can now be recognised with the Optio M60, which is the greatest for this series. It is now possible to leave everything up to the camera and take beautiful photos of a wide variety of scenes easily and without hassle.
2. High-speed Face Recognition function takes only 0.03 seconds
The Optio M60 is equipped with the Face Recognition AF & AE function, which is useful when taking photos of people, as it automatically sets the focus and exposure. In addition to increasing to 32 the number of faces that can be detected at once, the detection time has been reduced to an impressive 0.03 seconds. The Optio M60 is also supplied with easy to use applications such as Smile Capture, which automatically distinguishes smiles and takes photos, and Blinking Detection, which is a function that warns the photographer if the subject blinked at the moment the shot was taken.
3. New design that pursues a sophisticated texture
The Optio M60 features a new design that is unique down to the texture of each part. Aluminum alloy, which has a certain sophisticated feel and look to it, is used for the body’s exterior. Different colours are used for the decorative ring around the lens that match the body colour. By using parts with a beautiful luster for the grip and the upper surface of the body, the Optio M60 becomes as much an accessory as a state of the art camera technology.
4. Optical 5X zoom lens
Within a compact body that fits into the palm of your hand, the Optio M60 is equipped with an optical 5X zoom lens, with an angle of view equivalent o approximately 36mm to 180mm in 35mm format. It is now possible to zoom in further when taking photos of landscapes, commemorative photos and portraits. The Optio M60 also features an Intelligent Zoom function that extends the zoom range without compromising the optical zoom’s image quality, enabling highmagnification zoom photography, equivalent to a maximum of approximately 28.5X.
5. High sensitivity Digital SR mode that reduces camera shake and subject blurring
The Optio M60 features Digital SR (shake reduction) mode, which can reduce camera shake and subject blurring during still-image photography. This mode automatically adjusts the image sensor sensitivity up to a maximum of ISO 6400, in accordance with the subject’s brightness to permit the fastest shutter speed possible to capture a sharp, clear image with minimal blurring.
6. Approximately 10.0 effective megapixels for high-definition images
For the Optio M60, the effective pixel count was increased to a higher definition of approximately 10.0 megapixels. In addition, clear and high-quality images are realised through a high-performance PENTAX lens. Clear prints, with exceptional detail are possible even when photos are stretched out to large sizes.
7. Other features
1) Large, 2.5-inch LCD monitor of approximately 230,000 dots, with a wide viewing angle for easy viewing even from diagonal directions
2) Digital Wide mode merges two shots into one image in the camera, for ultrawide- angle expressions equivalent to a focal length of approximately 28mm in 35mm format
3) Panorama mode for composing photographs into one panoramic picture
4) Movie recording function with shake reduction enabling high image quality rivaling camcorders
5) Mode palette provides quick access to 24 shooting conditions and 15 playback modes
6) Frame composite function allows photographers to shoot and create images with decorative frames; there are 80 built-in styles to choose from
7) Auto-Macro allows for close-up photography as near as 10cm, without changing the normal focusing mode
8) Date and Time imprint function for easy image categorising
9) Approximately 36.5MB of built-in memory
10)FotoNation’s red-eye compensation function for flash shots
11)Includes the ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewer/image management software that supports Windows VistaTM
12)Support PictBridge, DPOF functions, Eixf Print, and PRINT Image Matching III
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Pentax launches Optio M60
Sony announces Cyber-shot DSC-T700 and DSC-T77
Sony has launched the Cyber-shot DSC-T77 and DSC-T700 ultra-compact digital cameras. Replacing the DSC-T70 and T300 respectively, both maintain the 10-megapixel sensor of their predecessors. The T77 is Sony’s thinnest model and has a 3-inch touch panel LCD screen. The T700 has all the features of the T77 plus 4GB of internal memory and a hi-resolution 3.5-inch wide touch panel. The T700 has a photo album-like database and is aimed at enthusiasts who want to store, display and share their images easily with others.
SAN DIEGO , Aug. 7, 2008 – Sony is making the grade with the introduction of the stylish Cyber-shot® DSC-T700 and DSC-T77 digital cameras with “intelligent” shooting functions.
The 10-megapixel T77 camera is Sony’s thinnest model at less than 5/8 of an inch with a 3-inch, 16 x 9 touch panel LCD screen. It features updated intelligent scene recognition technology, Smile Shutter™ and face detection technologies with child and adult priority, as well as high sensitivity shooting (up to ISO 3200), eleven scene modes, and in-camera image management.
The T700 model earns extra points as a “photo album in your pocket.” It has all the features of the T77 unit plus 4GB of internal memory that can store nearly 1,000 full-resolution or 40,000 VGA-quality photos; a 3.5-inch, wide touch panel Xtra Fine LCD™ screen for photo-like viewing (210 pixel-per-inch resolution) with high contrast and wide-angle viewing; and a thin profile (slightly more than 5/8 of an inch) so it can easily slip into a pocket or purse.
“Sony is taking the lead in developing “intelligent” cameras so that taking great pictures is an automatic function and not a complicated process,” said Phil Lubell, director of digital camera marketing at Sony Electronics. “This is part of our effort to enhance the camera experience for customers by offering new functionality.”
Substance and Style
While rich in technologies, style was a key factor in the development of both cameras, said Lubell. They feature a newly-developed Carl Zeiss® lens that integrates a 4x optical zoom and Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization, yet achieves a slim form factor. They will also be available in a wider selection of color options than previous T-series cameras.
Both cameras feature updated intelligent scene recognition technology that can now select up to eight different scene modes, including macro, portrait and landscape modes.
This technology also includes a new anti-blink function in portrait mode that will virtually make closed-eyed photos an “old school” memory. The cameras will automatically take two shots and then determine whether the subject(s) have closed eyes using their advanced face detection technology. They will only record images with open-eyed subjects. If both pictures have subject(s) with closed eyes, the cameras will record one and display a warning so you can try again.
Sony’s Smile Shutter technology has also been improved. It is easily accessible as a “smiley face” icon, which is now a permanent fixture on the camera’s LCD screen in record mode, and can be toggled off and on at the touch of a finger. And during smile capture, auto focus and zoom functions are available, as well as the ability to take a limitless number of shots.
Not One, But Two Photo Libraries in Your Pocket
The T700 camera is ideal for anyone who wants to have what Lubell calls “bragging” photos of their kids, pets, vacation or sports highlights with them at all times.
Owing to the model’s internal database , thousands of photos can be searched in-camera by event, date, smile or face, including children and infants; displayed in calendar or chronological views; organized in folders; and shared as slide shows or fun scrapbooks.
Unlike previous models, this one allows you to store and manage images on both its 4GB internal memory and an optional Memory Stick® media card. You can maximize the number of pictures stored on the camera with the bundled Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software application and its new PC Synch feature.
This new feature lets you downsize images from full-resolution to VGA and export them back to the camera’s internal photo album. The application operates intelligently with the camera so you can shoot more photos. It will only detect, downsize and export the new shots. This allows you to store literally thousands of your favorite photos in the camera
It is also possible to export photos shot by other cameras or archived on other media into the camera.
The PMB Portable software inside the camera lets you easily upload photos or videos to popular social networking sites like YouTube™ (a trademark of Google Inc.) using an internet connection with any compatible PC via the supplied USB cable. It even has pre-programmed sites in the camera.
The camera also has a scrapbook function that automatically creates simulated scrapbook pages. Now you can share, print or save your scrapbooks unlike previous models.
http://www.dpreview.com/news/0808/08080701sonyT77T700.asp
Nikon launches Coolpix S560, S610, S610C and S710
Nikon has announced four new Coolpix S-series ultra compact cameras. The S560, S610, S610c and S710 offer a variety of zoom ranges and megapixel counts. The S710 offers a 14.5 megapixel sensor and an optically stabilized 3.5x zoom starting at 28 mm equivalent. The S610 offers 10 megapixes and 4x stabilized zoom, while the 'C' version is the world's first to boast the easy-connect WiFi Protected Setup certification. All are available in a variety of colors such as "Urban Black" and "Sakura [cherry blossom] Pink."
Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 7 August 2008 –Nikon Europe is proud to announce the introduction of four new COOLPIX compact cameras: the S610, the S610C, the S710 and the S560. The new cameras cater to everyone’s tastes and needs. Both the S610 and S610C are incredibly fast, with the world’s fastest start-up time in their class*, 10 effective megapixels and a wide-angle 4x zoom. The S610C’s wireless LAN connectivity makes uploading pictures to the internet easy. The S710 has a massive 14.5 effective megapixels, a range of high-performance functions such as a possible 12 fps shooting and, with a sensitivity range up to ISO 12800, delivers sharp and detailed pictures in even the most demanding environments. The S560 is the world’s smallest in its class and with superior portability, a 5x zoom lens and advanced features such as Smile Mode, the S560 is the perfect family choice. All cameras feature Nikon’s proprietary EXPEED image-processing system and high-quality NIKKOR lenses. And all four models are housed in durable metal bodies, in a range of colours, with sleek lines that look good anywhere.
Mark Pekelharing, Product Manager Consumer Products at Nikon Europe B.V: “These four new COOLPIX cameras represent the latest in style, design and quality and offer all superb imaging quality. There’s the friendly pricing of the S560, the S710’s outstanding quality and performance, the connectivity and image sharing options of the S610C and the remarkable speed of the S610. Whatever your preference, there’s a COOLPIX for you.”
COOLPIX S610C and S610Besides their stylish design, the S610C and S610 have the fastest start-up times in their class*. Their easy operation makes them simple to get to know. Both cameras offer advanced features that include Scene Auto Selector, a first for Nikon COOLPIX models. With this setting the camera automatically selects the most appropriate Scene Mode such as portrait, landscape, night setting, or close up. Photographing moving subjects such as children or pets is extremely easy with the Active Child Mode setting that automatically keeps moving subjects in sharp focus. Smile Mode, which automatically takes a picture when the person in focus smiles, means you’ll never miss that loving smile again. The S610C is the world’s first compact camera compliant with WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which makes for effortless and secure connectivity to Wi-Fi routers to allow quick and easy on-line storage and sharing of digital pictures via Nikon’s my Picturetown.
Thanks to small, elegant aluminium bodies with sharply-cut contours both cameras are good-looking. And to make sure framing shots is easy, both have a large 3-inch TFT monitor and four functions to reduce blur: Lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR), high ISO (up to 3200), Best Shot Selector and Motion Detection. The S610C will be available in Black and retail as of [TBD] September for a MSRP of €319. The S610 will be available in Titanium Silver and Deep Red and retail as of 29 August for a MSRP of €299.
COOLPIX S710 The S710 is a top quality, high-performance digital camera with 14.5 effective megapixels. It includes a 3.6x optical zoom covering a wide-angle 28 mm, four exposure modes (P/S/A/M) to allow users to fully control the camera settings or leave it up to the camera to decide the best settings and Scene Auto Selector. Four anti-blur features ensure sharp images at all times, even for objects on the move: lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR), a sensitivity range up to ISO 12800, Best Shot Selector and Motion Detection. Thanks to its Face-priority AF, it can recognise up to 12 faces, so that you’ll not be disappointed again when shooting that group photo. Selecting a shot is easy with its extra-large 3-inch wide-viewing angle TFT monitor with anti-reflection coating. It has a robust exterior design with highly-durable stainless steel body. With advanced features and superior portability, this is the camera for those looking for a compact camera that offers top-level images in a sophisticated design. The S710 will be in Urban Black, Titanium Silver and Deep Red retail as of mid-September for a MSRP of €329.
COOLPIX S560The S560 is an attractively-priced yet high-quality compact digital camera with 10 effective megapixels, 5x NIKKOR zoom lens and a large 2.7-inch wide-viewing angle TFT monitor. Designed with ease of use in mind, the camera offers numerous features to make life easier. Thanks to its high sensitivity it can be used in almost any setting. Scene Auto Selector does the work by automatically choosing the appropriate settings whether shooting a portrait, landscape or fast action. And in Smile Mode, the camera detects the subject’s face and focuses, and automatically releases the shutter when the subject smiles. It even includes a blink warning for when a subject has blinked during exposure. The high-quality aluminium body comes in three colours: Warm Silver, Sakura Pink and Black. The S560 will be available for retail as of end-August for a MSRP of €249.