Sony has launched two new compact and light weight Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 Digital Cameras which are claimed to be world’s smallest interchangeable lens digital cameras and these digital cameras offers DSLR picture quality and responsive shooting.

Sony NEX-5 Digital Camera

The Sony NEX-5 camera also features a tough yet light-weight magnesium body, making it the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital camera. Both Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 Digital Camera features big and bright 7.5cm (3”), Xtra Fine LCD display that tilts up or down for comfortable viewing in any shooting position displaying images and camera settings.

Featuring in-lens Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation for clearer handheld images, the E 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 zoom (SEL1855) is a perfect travel partner. The Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 digital camera are available in kit form with either lens, or as a double-lens kit that provides even greater shooting versatility. Both the Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 digital camera offers HD video recording featuring a dedicated Movie REC button.

Both camera can shoot HD video with stereo sound as compact MPEG4 files that are ideal for PC storage and web sharing. The Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 digital cameras are the first digital cameras featuring Sweep Panorama allowing users to shoot Panoramic picture with camera swinging side-to-side or up and down.

Key Features of Sony NEX series digital camera

* DSLR picture quality and responsive shooting
* World’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital camera (NEX-5)
* 14.2 effective megapixels Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor
* Video Shooting (NEX-5) -  AVCHD: max. 1920 x 1080i, 17Mbps, MP4: max. 1440 x 1080i, 12Mbps
* Video Shooting (NEX-3) – MP4: max. 1280 x 720 p, 9Mbps
* 1080i HD movie recording (NEX-5) with stereo sound, fast and silent autofocus
* Intuitive new interface with Help Guide and Shooting Tips
* E-mount lens system compatible with DSLR lenses (with optional Mount Adaptor)
* Sweep Panorama with 3D capability
* 7.5cm (3”) Wide type XtraFine TruBlack LCD (921k dot resolution), angle adjustable 80 degree up/45 degree down
* Memory Stick Pro Duo, Pro-HG Duo; SD memory card, SDHC memory card, SDXC memory card
* HDMI out port
* USB 2.0 port

Product Price
Both these models, the Sony NEX-5 is priced at $775 while Sony NEX-3 has price tag of $ 650.

Lumix G

Panasonic has today introduced three new interchangeable lenses for its LUMIX G Series of cameras, viz. LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH (H-H014) and LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS100300) and the world’s first interchangeable 3D lens, the H-FT012.

The lenses, all based on the Micro Four Thirds System standard, are compact while featuring high optical performance and are compatible with Panasonic’s LUMIX DSLMicro cameras, such as the newly-announced Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera.

H-FT012 interchangeable 3D lens

The new H-FT012 interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 lens features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses that are then processed with a 3D image processing system.  Panasonic’s advanced technologies in optical technology, image processing systems, and lens barrel design, allow the 3D lens to be compact.

Panasonic’s new 3D-capable interchangeable lens allows instant 3D shooting (35 mm camera equivalent: 65 mm), without time lag between left and right images – even when shooting objects in motion.  LUMIX G 14 mm / F2.5 ASPH Lens Panasonic LUMIX G 14 mm / F2.5 ASPH is the world’s lightest interchangeable single focal length lens that features a 14mm (35 mm camera equivalent: 28 mm) wide angle and F2.5 brightness with sharp, high contrast image rendering.

The LUMIX G 14 mm lens system combines six lenses in five groups, including three aspherical lenses, for a finished product that is compact with an overall length of 20.5mm.

LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. Lens

The new handheld telephoto zoom lens LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. can photograph ultra-telephoto zoom shots at 300mm (35 mm camera equivalent: 600 mm), but is light enough to carry easily for everyday distance shooting, like sporting events.

The telephoto zoom lens LUMIX G VARIO 100-300 mm combines 17 elements in 12 groups including an ED lens. The LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012) has suggested retail price of $249.95 and LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH (H-H014) lens for $399.95 while LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS100300) lens would be available for $599.95 .

Panasonic Lumix today announced the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera, a hybrid touch-control camera featuring full High Definition (HD) video recording and compatibility with the world’s first interchangeable 3D lens. The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera is company’s revolutionary new addition to LUMIX G Series of Digital Single Lens Micro (DSLM) cameras that deliver professional-level features and performance in a compact and easy-to-use camera body.

Panasonic Lumix DMG GH2

The LUMIX DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera combines features for both the videographer and photographer, making it a true hybrid digital camera. A dedicated button on the top of the camera lets users instantly record videos while shooting photos without changing any extra settings. Building on its successful predecessor, the Panasonic LUMIX GH1 DSLM Camera can now record full HD 1920 x 1080 videos in smooth 60i, doubling the sensor output from 25p/24p to 50p/60p.  Other video features in the LUMIX GH2 include:

• New Cinema mode: Record video with rich cinema-like gradation .
• New Variable Movie mode: Record video in variable frame rate – 80, 160, 200 and 300 percent – speeding up or slowing frames for more creative videos.
• Still photos at (16:9): Instantly take a 14MP photo, while recording videos and also save a frame of video as a photo during playback.
• HDMI output: Monitor images on a separate screen while still recording video.

The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera includes a new 16.05-megapixel multi-aspect LIVE MOS sensor that delivers higher image resolution and improved signal-to-noise ratio. The LIVE MOS sensor also allows high speed burst shooting at 5 frames per second in full resolution using a mechanical shutter. The new Venus Engine FHD processor in combination with the Live MOS sensor manages multiple signals at a high speed, making it possible to record high resolution consecutive shots and full HD video recording.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera also features intuitive touch-control operation, made popular with the Panasonic LUMIX G2 for its outstanding usability in shooting and playback and combines the easy-to-see free-angle Intelligent LCD with the newly developed Multi Aspect Wide Screen LVF (Live View Finder) for more comfortable shooting from any angle. The LUMIX DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera is equipped with a large 3.0-inch 460,000-dot high-resolution Intelligent LCD Touch the subject on the LCD to adjust AF.

The new large, bright Multi Aspect Wide Screen LVF in the LUMIX GH2 features:

The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera can shoot in 3D (35mm camera equivalent: 65mm) when used with the world’s first interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012), also announced today.

Panasonic’s new compact 3D lens for the Panasonic Lumix GH2 Micro System features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses that are then processed with a 3D image processing system.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 DSLM Camera also features new additions to the iA mode including Intelligent D-range Control for optimized exposure of an image and Intelligent Resolution for better-balanced sharpness in images for printing at larger sizes.

Olympus E5

Olympus today announced the launch of the Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera, the flagship model of the Olympus E-System series of interchangeable lens type digital SLR cameras that promises the outstanding imaging capability with ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses.

The Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera is the new flagship model of the Olympus E-Series digital SLR camera lineup. The new Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera, offers highest Image quality available from any of our cameras, made possible by a 12.3-megapixel High-Speed Live MOS Sensor that maximizes the superior imaging potential of ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses together with the “TruePic V+” image processing engine with new “Fine-Detail Processing” technology.

The Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera also offers high reliability thanks to a rugged magnesium-alloy body, dust/splash-proof construction, and high-power Dust Reduction System.

Like the Olympus E-3 Digital SLR Camera, the new Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera features a dust- and splash-proof body that makes extensive use of seals and is made of lightweight but rigid magnesium alloy. The Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera features “TruePic V+” image processing engine with new Fine-Detail Processing technology which enhances the sense of detail and resolution, maximizing the potential of the 12.3-megapixel High-Speed Live MOS Sensor to deliver pictures that are sharper and clearer than ever before.

The E-5’s maximum shutter speed is 1/8000 sec., with flash synchronization at 1/250 sec. 720p HD Movie Recording and HDMI Output

The Olympus E-5 Digital SLR Camera allows HD-quality movie recording with the widescreen 16:9 (1280 x 720, 30 fps) aspect ratio, as well as with the standard 4:3 (640 x 480, 30 fps) ratio.

The electronic image stabilization mechanism is built into the body so it can stabilize movie images and reduce camera shake regardless of the lens used.

Manual controls (exposure, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity) and Art Filters can also be used when shooting movies. The camera can be connected to an HDMI-equipped TV set via a commercially available HDMI–HDMI Mini cable to view high-quality HD movies and still images.

* The world’s fastest AF with 11 Point-Full-Twin Cross AF Sensors

* High-speed shutter of 1/8000 sec., High-speed sequential shooting of 5 frames/sec.

* Responsive Live View shooting featuring imager AF compatible with any Four Thirds System lens and High-Speed Imager AF

* 720p HD movie and HDMI output for high-quality image

* Underwater white balance control

* 2-frame and 7-frame AE bracketing functions added

* Multiple-exposure function to superimpose current view on top of previously captured image

* Built-in flash with Commander function for wireless off-camera flash synchronization

* Durable high-speed shutter tested to 150,000 releases

Olympus has today announced the introduction of the Olympus PEN E-P2 black-on-black kit, which for the first time, clad stylish retro black metal body complemented by a black M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 17mm lens and a black FL-14 flash in an exclusive, limited availability kit.

olympus cameras

Just like the original, the Olympus PEN E-P2 Kit blends high-quality still images like those taken with a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) with High Definition (HD) video, stereo linear PCM audio recording and In-Camera Creativity inside an ultra-portable body.

The kit includes the PEN E-P2 Body, black M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 17mm lens, black FL-14 flash, USB Cable, Video Cable, Li-Ion Battery Pack, Li-Ion Battery Charger, Shoulder Strap, OLYMPUS software CD-ROM, Manuals and Registration card.

The stylish retro black metal body of the new Olympus E-P2 may be reminiscent of a traditional rangefinder – but there’s nothing traditional about this powerful new camera from Olympus.

The Olympus E-P2 is a 12.3-megapixel interchangeable lens camera, and it blends the high-quality still images of a DSLR with High Definition (HD) video, stereo Linear PCM audio recording and in-camera creativity – all inside an ultra-portable, easy-to-use body.

“The PEN E-P2 kit’s edgy black styling gives the camera a discreet, more professional look. Perfect for photographers who want to capture the action without being a distraction,” said Katie Roseman, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Photo enthusiasts will appreciate the camera for its excellent image quality, HD video, creative functions and high-end stereo sound, while design aficionados will relish its sleek black profile.”

Price and Availability
The black Olympus PEN E-P2 kit will cost $999.99 and will be available at select photo specialty stores beginning in October, 2010.

fuji digital camera

Fujifilm has announced the launch of its most impressive line of high speed, high performance D-SLR-styled digital cameras with the introduction of the new FujiFilm FinePix HS10 Digital Camera  in India market that is an 10 megapixel digital cameras with powerful Fujinon 30x optical long-zoom lenses (world’s first) and and cutting edge full 1080p HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) movie recording.

With a range that would require at least two or three bulky lenses on an SLR to capture the same zoom capabilities, the FujiFilm FinePix HS10 Digital Camera’s built-in Fujinon 30x Wide-Telephoto zoom lens encompasses nearly every photographic requirement in a single compact unit. The FujiFilm FinePix HS10 Digital Camera features a twist-barrel manual zoom control that enables photographer to make precision adjustments, and zooming is faster and more accurate than comparable powered zoom lenses in the same class of camera.

The new FujiFilm FinePix HS10 Digital Camera boasts of class-leading Fujinon 30x optical zoom lens that covers a uniquely versatile 24-720mm (equivalent on a 35mm camera) range from true wide-angle to ultra telephoto. The FujiFilm FinePix HS10 DSLR style Digital Camera also offers sweeping landscapes, interiors and large group shots and distant sports or wildlife action, and in addition to the impressive zoom capabilities, the Fujinon lens ensures optical quality across the entire range.

The FujiFilm FinePix HS10 Digital Camera offers 10.2 megapixel effective resolution and includes 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS image sensor. High Speed, High Defination : Whether one is shooting stills or movie clips, the FinePix HS10’s cutting-edge sensor and processing technologies open up a range of high speed capture modes and unique shooting possibilities. The FinePix HS10’s unique Best Frame Capture Mode continuously records images from the moment the focus is activated, then saves up to seven shots captured before the shutter button is released.

Full 1080p HD Movie Capture : The FujiFilm FinePix HS10 camera also features a full HD 1080p HD movie mode with stereo sound, and the camera’s mini HDMI portallows users to easily display ultra clear high definition photographs and movies on high definition televisions.

High resolution LCD screen / Electronic Viewfinder: The FujiFilm FinePix HS10 Digital Camera provides the flexibility of framing shots using the high quality electronic viewfinder or the large, bright 3.0-inch 230,000 dots color LCD monitor which allows about 97% coverage for shooting, and 100% coverage for playback. The camera offer high resolution image playback and a fast frame rate of 60 fps.

FujiFilm FinePix SH10 Digital Camera Key Features

As the camera pans across the scene (left/right or up/down), the FinePix HS10 captures a series of shots in rapid succession. Motion Remover: Remove moving subjects from bad shots. Multi-Motion Capture: Previously only possible with highly specialized equipment, this mode captures 5 images of a moving subject in rapid succession and combines them into a single composite image containing multiple sharply-captured views of the subject motion.

Multi-Frame Image Stabilization: The FinePix HS10 digital camera combines high and low ISO exposures of the scene being photographed to reduce blur caused by camera shake without significantly increasing image noise.

Combined with Fujifilm’s image processing expertise the new sensor produces stunning richly detailed low noise images, even when shooting in very low light.

The FinePix HS10 digital camera also allows the use of high shutter speeds in daylight required when shooting at telephoto end of the FinePix HS10’s 30x optical zoom, or when attempting to capture fast-moving subjects, producing clear, sharp output even at higher ISO settings.

The FinePix HS10 also offers these additional features:

• 3.0” High-Contrast Tilting LCD and Electronic View Finder: The FinePix HS10 is fitted with a high contrast 230K-pixel 3.0” LCD and Electronic View Finder. • Combined RAW/JPEG shooting: The FinePix HS10 has the ability to shoot both a RAW and JPEG shot simultaneously.

Fujitsu FinePix HS10 Digital Camera Key Specifications
* 10.3 Megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS
* 28mm Wide-angle lens
* Fujinon 30x optical zoom lens, F2.8 (Wide) – F5.6 (Telephoto)
* 3.0-inch, Approx. 230,000 dots, color LCD monitor, Approx. 97% coverage for shooting, and 100% coverage for playback
* CCD-shift image stabilisation
* Full 1080p HD stills and movie recording
* 1,920 x 1,080 pixels (Full HD) / 1,280 x 720 pixels (HD) / 640 x 480 pixels / 320 x 240 pixels (30 frames/sec.) with stereo sound
* Up to ISO 6400 sensitivity; Auto / Equivalent to ISO 64 / 100 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 / 3200
* Scene Recognition Auto (SR Auto)
* 45MB Internal Memory
* SD, SDHC memory card slot
* Targeting AF
* Face Detection technology
* NEW Smile & Shoot Mode
* NEW Blink Detection
* Natural light with flash
* Panoramic shooting
* NEW Auto Image Rotate
* Micro thumbnail view
* USB 2.0 High-speed
* Powered by 4 x AA batteries includes
* 4x AA type alkaline batteries (included)
Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (sold separately)
Lithium batteries (sold separately)
* Dimension – 130.6 (W) x 90.7 (H) x 126.0 (D) mm / 5.1 (W) x 3.6 (H) x 5.0 (D) in.
* Weight – 636 gms

Price and Availability
The Fujitsu FinePix SH10 Digital Camera is available at a retail price of $550 with one year warranty. Visit www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/s/finepix_sh10/index.html for more details on this product.

Nikon has released the D7000 mid-level digital SLR. Housed in a magnesium alloy body, the feature-rich camera incorporates a 16.2Mp CMOS sensor, faster ‘Expeed 2′-branded processor, 921k dot 3.0″ LCD and can record 1080p full HD movies. It features the company’s latest 39-point AF system with 3D tracking and 2,016 pixel RGB metering sensor. It will start shipping with the 18-105mm VR kit lens from October 2010 at a retail price of $1499.95. We’ve had a pre-production D7000 in the office for long enough for us to prepare an full hands-on preview looking at the camera, its features and where it’ll sit in the range.

DSLR Nikon D7000 Full HD Video

Meet the new Nikon D7000, a camera ready to go wherever your photography or cinematography takes you. Experience stunning images with sharp resolution and smooth tonal gradation, thanks to the 16-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor and a powerful EXPEED 2 image processing engine. Take advantage of its wide ISO range of 100 to 6400 (expandable to 25,600) and its incredibly low levels of noise. Expect your images tack-sharp and accurately exposed, thanks to the camera’s 39-point AF and Scene Recognition System using a 2,016-pixel RGB matrix metering sensor. And with an approx.  0.052-second release time lag and approx. 6 frames-per-second shooting, you won’t miss a moment.

You’ll see exactly what you’re capturing with the approx. 100% frame coverage viewfinder, and for those who want to shoot both stills and movies, the D7000’s D-Movie capabilities now include Full HD 1080p capture with full-time autofocus and manual exposure. All of this advanced imaging technology is kept safe beneath the magnesium alloy covering the top and rear chassis of a compact body, whose sealing has been severely tested against moisture and dust. The D7000 is ready to shoot indoors and out, and at 150,000 cycles tested, the camera’s durable shutter unit helps you keep shooting. Combine all this with the unmatched NIKKOR lens lineup and Creative Lighting System and you have everything you need to explore your imagination to its fullest. Where can creative freedom like this take you? Find out, with the D7000.

Stunning image details: 16.2 effective megapixels

Whether you want to make large prints or crop tightly in an image, the D7000 delivers the resolution you need. At its heart is a DX-format CMOS image sensor with 16.2 effective megapixels, optimally engineered to gather more quality light through sharp NIKKOR lenses.  Coupled with 14-bit A/D conversion (12-bit selectable), the D7000 produces stunning images that are richer in tone and detail than previously possible in DX format. The A/D conversion happens within the sensor, thereby maintaining exceptional image integrity without sacrificing shooting speed or energy efficiency. Combine these with the agile DX format and its signature 1.5x focal length telephoto potential and you can begin to see where this kind of shooting power can take you.

Improved image quality and speed: EXPEED 2 image processing engine

Sometimes you want to capture the subtle tones of a sunset. Other times you want to freeze the action. The D7000 delivers both, thanks to the newest generation of image processing engine, EXPEED 2, which performs multiple tasks with more speed and power. Expect smoother tonal gradations, even in difficult shadows and highlights, for a greater sense of depth in your images. Shoot continuously at 6 frames per second so you can capture the action you’ve been missing. Focusing performance such as face recognition in Live View mode is also further improved, letting you concentrate on your composition.

Standard ISO 100 to 6400, expandable to ISO 25600 equivalent
With improved pixel quality of the image sensor comes a wider ISO range from the DX-format — ISO 100 to 6400 has now become standard with the D7000, enabling you to handle a wider range of lighting situations: from the bright and sunny outdoors to low-lit evenings and interiors. Nikon’s renowned noise reduction technology has been upgraded even further. Throughout the range, the D7000 delivers sharp images with minimized color noise. And thanks to the higher processing speed, even when High ISO noise reduction is activated, you can keep shooting continuously without stress. Quality high-ISO performance can also enhance a lot for movie shooting, allowing you to capture the mood of a scene using only available light.

Capture Full HD 1080p D-Movie with full-time autofocus and manual exposure
The D7000 welcomes in a new era of movie capture: Full HD 1080p and movie editing functions for exceptional cinematic reproduction and quality. In addition to smooth-moving images, the camera can compensate for distortion and other image-degrading problems. Besides auto exposure mode, the D7000 offers manual exposure mode, which locks in the exposure value when shooting scenes with varying contrast levels, such as when panning from a bright window to a dark interior. Aside from a built-in monaural microphone, the D7000 incorporates an external microphone jack for high-quality stereo sound recording options.

Improved quality in highlight and shadow: Active D-Lighting
Nikon’s exclusive Active D-Lighting offers the ability to preserve details in the highlights and shadowy areas of images shot in high-contrast scenes.
Whether you’re dealing with bright skies and a dark foreground or deep shadows where you can’t use a flash, the EXPEED 2 image processing engine renders those scenes with smoother tones — even at its highest settings. Simply select Auto in Active D-Lighting mode and the camera can adjust to the scene’s contrast levels or bracket them into three frames of varying strength levels. Even when Active D-Lighting is activated, you can still maintain the continuous shooting rate.

DSLR Nikon D7000 Rear Full HD Video

Now even more precise: The Scene Recognition System
The D7000 incorporates a built-in exposure-metering sensor with a far larger pixel count than any other D-SLR camera before it. The 2,016-pixel RGB sensor reads the scene’s brightness and colors more accurately, and then applies this reading to optimize not only exposure, but also autofocus, white balance and i-TTL flash calculations — all in mere milliseconds prior to the actual exposure. With more pixels, the D7000 can recognize even smaller subjects — both moving and stationary. The newly improved Scene Recognition System delivers better photographs in every way.

Wide-area coverage, powerful 39-point AF
The D7000’s strategically positioned 39 AF points cover a significantly wide area of the frame, giving you flexible compositional possibilities. The nine AF points in the center utilize powerful cross-type sensors — especially useful when you need tack-sharp focus such as with portraits and macro work. And unlike other manufacturers’ systems, the D7000’s nine cross-type sensors work with all AF NIKKOR lenses f/5.6 or faster. The D7000 offers a variety of AF area modes, including dynamic-area AF using 9, 21, 39 points. Switch between the three, depending on the predictability of your subjects’ movement, and the selected AF point and surrounding points will track your intended subject automatically.

There is also 3D tracking, which continuously follows moving subjects within the 39 AF points, indicating the activated AF point in the viewfinder. Utilizing Nikon’s Scene Recognition System, Auto-area AF properly judges the main subject within 39 AF points and focuses on it. Therefore, no matter what the situation or composition calls for, the D7000’s autofocus system will be ready to meet your focus needs.

39-point AF & 2,016-pixel RGB sensor
Stay focused on what matters most.

Sophisticated AE with highlight analysis
After the incredibly accurate 2016-pixel RGB sensor reads a scene’s lighting information such as brightness and colors, the D7000 cross-references what it sees with imaging data from 30,000 real-world shooting situations. This way, the renowned 3D Color Matrix Metering II delivers exposure results that are faithful to how you see light and shadow interplay, even in difficult lighting situations. This intelligent metering technique also delivers exceptionally accurate i-TTL flash exposures, and it all happens within milliseconds for both speed and precision.

Informed auto white balance (AWB)
Based on its massive collection of shooting data compiled from various light sources, the D7000’s intelligent AWB algorithm renders white as truly white — even when shot under a wide range of light sources, including the difficult mercury vapor lighting. The D7000 also carries another AWB mode that maintains incandescent warmth in your images.

Contrast AF for live view and D-Movie
Live View and D-Movie users can rejoice, because with the D7000, face-priority AF is now faster and more powerful than ever. Up to 35 people can be. For moving subjects such as pets, subject-tracking AF keeps them in focus. Normal-area AF is recommended for pinpoint focus and wide-area AF for handheld shooting. All are effective both for Live View shooting and movie recording.

Nikon D7000 Digital-SLR Camera Key Specifications :

• Single-lens reflex digital camera
• Nikon F mount Lens Mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts)
• 16.2 Megapixel Effective Resolution
• 23.6 x 15.6 mm CMOS Image Sensor
• 4,928 x 3,262 pixels maximum image size
• Memory Card Slot – SD (Secure Digital) memory cards, SDHC and SDXC compliant
• ISO 100 to 6400, can be set up to approx. 2 EV (ISO 25600 equivalent) above ISO 6400; auto ISO sensitivity control available

Movie Recording Nikon D7000 Full HD Video:

• [NTSC] 1,920 x 1,080; 24p – 1,280 x 720; 30p – 1,280 x 720; 24p – 640 x 424; 30p
• [PAL] 1,920 x 1,080; 24p – 1,280 x 720;25p – 1,280 x 720;24p – 640 x 424; 25p
• Movie File format/Video compression: MOV, H.264/MPEG-4
• 3-inches 921,000 dot, TFT LCD with brightness adjustment
• Battery; One rechargeable Li-ion battery EN-EL15
• Dimension – 132 X 105 X 77mm
• Weight – 690 gms

The NIKON D7000 Digital-SLR Camera including the versatile AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR image stabilization lens, is expected to be available in mid October 2010 at the price of $1499.95  with one year warranty.

Canon announces the latest addition to its renowned L-series of professional lenses, the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens, designed to meet demands of professional photographers that allows performance excellence with a versatile zoom range and superb image quality in a robust and compact design.

canon 400

The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto lens is the 5th generation in Canon’s 400mm f/2.8 series and the successor to the current EF 400mm introduced in 1999, and have become famous for their exceptional sharpness, contrast and color fidelity.The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens will appeal to nature, wildlife and sports photographers. The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens is the lightest lens in its class, offering unrivalled mobility due to an incredible 28% reduction in weight of 1.5KG, compared to its predecessor, while the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM offers photographers an 8% weight reduction.

Manufactured using the very best optical components, the new Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens mark a significant step forward for Canon’s L-series, which is already renowned for its outstanding quality. The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens feature 16 elements in 12 different groups, using high performance fluorite lens elements that correct chromatic aberration to deliver high resolution and high contrast shots of the best possible quality – allowing photographers to capture images rich with edge-to-edge detail. There is an optical elements that also feature Canon’s latest Super Spectra Coatings, optimised for both the position and type of each lens element.

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens also feature Canon’s new Image Stabilizer system, providing outstanding results when the photographer is moving around and when capturing moving subjects. A 4-stop advantage in Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens offers greater image quality during handheld shooting, allowing users to shoot at speeds up for four times slower than normally required with minimal additional blur.

The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens features fast, quiet Auto Focusing (AF) powered by a ring-type USM, a new dedicated AF algorithms and a new high-speed CPU. Developed in line with Canon’s philosophy for the elite L-series, the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens boasts of a refined design and feature a new design layout, with carefully-positioned controls that improve operation in everyday use.

Key Featues

• Focal length and maximum aperture: 400mm 1:2.8
• Lens Construction (elements/groups): 17/13
• 9 diaphragm blades
• Maximum apertures – 32
• 400mm f/2.8 ultra-high-performance super-telephoto lens
• Part of Canon’s acclaimed L series
• 4 stop Image Stabilizer
• 3 IS modes
• Durable, rugged design
• Enhanced image quality
• Quiet and fast autofocus
• Weight – 5,370 gms

The new Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens would be available starting December 2010 for an approximate retail price of $11,000.

Canon L-series of professional lenses, the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens, designed to meet demands of professional photographers that allows performance excellence with a versatile zoom range and superb image quality in a robust and compact design. The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto lens is the 6th generation of a venerable family of Canon 300mm f/2.8 lenses that began in 1974, and have become famous for their exceptional sharpness, contrast and color fidelity.

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens will appeal to nature, wildlife and sports photographers. The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens is the lightest lens in its class, offering unrivalled mobility due to an incredible 28% reduction in weight of 1.5KG, compared to its predecessor, while the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM offers photographers an 8% weight reduction. Manufactured using the very best optical components, the new Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens mark a significant step forward for Canon’s L-series, which is already renowned for its outstanding quality.

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens feature 16 elements in 12 different groups, using high performance fluorite lens elements that correct chromatic aberration to deliver high resolution and high contrast shots of the best possible quality – allowing photographers to capture images rich with edge-to-edge detail.

There is an optical elements that also feature Canon’s latest Super Spectra Coatings, optimised for both the position and type of each lens element. Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens also feature Canon’s new Image Stabilizer system, providing outstanding results when the photographer is moving around and when capturing moving subjects.

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens features fast, quiet Auto Focusing (AF) powered by a ring-type USM, a new dedicated AF algorithms and a new high-speed CPU. The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens also boasts of a robust weatherproof design that makes this lenses suitable for use in extreme conditions when paired with a weatherproof EOS body.

Key Featues

• 300mm f/2.8 high-performance super-telephoto lens
• Part of Canon’s acclaimed L series
• Durable, rugged and lightweight
• 4 stop Image Stabilizer
• Enhanced image quality with SWC coating
• 3 IS modes
• Quiet and fast autofocus
• Weight – 5,370 gms

The new Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Super-Telephoto Lens would be available starting December 2010 for an approximate retail price of $7,000 .

canon lens fish, eyewide angle fisheye, canon ef fisheye

Canon today announces the latest addition to its renowned L-series of professional lenses, the Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens, the world’s first fisheye zoom lens that offers both circular and full frame images, thanks to an extreme wide-angle focal range of 8-15mm and allows performance excellence with a versatile zoom range and superb image quality in a robust and compact design.

Replacing the Canon EF 15mm f/2.8 fisheye, the new Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens is the latest addition to Canon’s L-series range of professional lenses, providing outstanding image quality, constant aperture throughout the zoom range and a robust design for reliable shooting in challenging weather conditions.

When Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens is paired with Canon’s full-frame DSLR bodies, such as the Canon EOS 5D DSLR Mark II Camera or the EOS-1Ds Mark III camera, professional photographers can choose to capture circular or full-frame fisheye images, allowing them to view a scene in a completely new and unique way.

The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens offers, either full frame or circular fisheye images when used with cameras with a 24x36mm (full frame) sensor behaving like two separate specialist lenses. When used with EOS bodies featuring APS-C or APS-H sensors, the Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens produces a more traditional, full frame fisheye view.

Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens has ‘C’ and ‘H’ markings which can be found next to the zoom operation ring, indicating the wide-angle zoom position where vignette-free shooting is possible with either sensor, allowing photographers to achieve optimum results with any EOS body.

The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens boasts 14 lens elements in 11 different groups, including one aspherical and one Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) element to correct chromatic aberration and produce high-quality, high-contrast shots with excellent colour reproduction.

All lens elements in Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens have been covered with Canon’s Super Spectra Coating the effectively curb ghosting and flare caused by strong light sources .

The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens also offers exceptional build quality and it includes environmental protection, allowing photographers to shoot in harsh conditions, including in the extremes of the desert or rain-forest.

As part of the all L-series range from Canon, the Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens too is supplied with a lens hood ET-73B and lens case LP1424 as standard. The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Zoom Lens is also supplied with a dedicated lens cap, lens pouch and a felt-lined lens hood EW-77 for use when using the zoom at the 15mm setting, preventing lens flare.

Key Featues
* 14/11 Lens construction (elements/groups)
* 7 diaphragm blades
* Circular or full frame Fisheye zoom lens
* Part of Canon’s acclaimed L series
* Durable and rugged design
* Quiet and fast autofocus
* Full-time manual focusing
* Easier lens cleaning
* Weight – 540 gms

Price and Availability

The new Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens would be available starting next year January 2011 for an approximate retail price of $1,400.

Canon today announces the latest addition to its renowned L-series of professional lenses, the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens, offering performance excellence with a versatile zoom range and superb image quality in a robust and compact design.

Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6L IS USM

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens offers a 4.3x telephoto zoom range of 70-300mm, with a variable aperture of f/4-5.6. The compact (143mm) design also features the build quality that photographers have come to expect from Canon’s acclaimed L-series lenses.

Featuring two ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements and a floating lens group, the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens captures stunning high-contrast, high-resolution images with low levels of chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range.

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens is also equipped with a 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer, that has been specially designed for the lens’ specific focal length range and which works to counteract image blur, which can occur during handheld shooting, or at slow shutter speeds.

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens is equipped with a ring-type USM AF motor, which in combination with the independent lens CPU and advanced AF algorithms to enable users an accurate, reliable focusing in all conditions.

As with all Canon L series lenses, the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens also allows full time manual focus override, allowing photographers to manually focus, even when the AF motor is engaged. The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens also offers exceptional build quality and it includes environmental protection, allowing photographers to shoot in harsh conditions, including in the extremes of the desert or rain-forest.

As part of the all L-series range from Canon, the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens is supplied with a lens hood ET-73B and lens case LP1424 as standard.

Key Features

* Focal length 70-300mm
* Lens Construction 19 elements/14 groups
* High performance telephoto zoom lens
* Part of Canon’s acclaimed L series
* 4 stop Image Stabilizer
* Two UD elements
* Highly resistant to dust and water
* 8 blade circular aperture
* Quiet & fast autofocus
* Compatible with a tripod collar
* Weight – 1050 gms

Price and Availability

The new Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Lens would be available starting October 2010 for an approximate retail price of $1,500  approx.

Dslr Alpha, Dslr Zoom, Ratings Camera

Sony has today announced the launch two Digital SLR Single Lens Translucent mirror camera,  Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital-SLR Cameras which are first-ever digital cameras to employ Translucent Mirror Technology and allows full 1080p HD movie recording.  Light, compact Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR cameras are first-ever digital cameras to employ Translucent Mirror Technology showcase an innovative optical system that opens up dramatic new shooting possibilities.

Sony SLT-A55V Digital SLR Cameras offers 16.2 megapixel resolution featuring APS-C Exmor” HD CMOS with 16.7 million total pixels with 4912 x 3264 pixel maximum still picture resolution while Sony SLT-A33 camera offers 14.2 megapixel resolution featuring APS-C “Exmor” HD CMOS with 16.7 million total pixels allowing maximum 4592 x 3056 pixel maximum still picture resolution.

The Sony A33 Digital-SLR camera features professional-grade continuous shooting at 7 fps and visibly faster, more accurate focus in Live View and HD Movie modes. The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR cameras features ground-breaking Translucent Mirror Technology that allows high-speed shooting with the SLT-A55V camera at up to 10fps and with SLT-A33 camera at up to 7fps, in Continuous Priority AE mode.

The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR cameras also features a newly developed 15-point phase-detection autofocus system that assures rapid, accurate AF tracking, keeping even moving subjects in sharp focus during continuous shooting. This enables the Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR cameras to capture split-second action or fleeting nuances of expression with portrait subjects.

The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR cameras are equipped with large sensor size Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor that lets photographers capture stunning, cinematic HD video footage with beautiful background defocus (bokeh) effects.

The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR Cameras also introduces for first time Quick AF Full HD movie shooting function. The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR Cameras enable exciting new possibilities for framing and viewing highest-quality video and still images. Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR Cameras allows tilting and swivelling freely (to maximum 270 degrees) for comfortable framing at any shooting angle, the bright 7.5 cm (3.0-inch) (16:9) Xtra Fine LCD offers superb detail and contrast.

The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR Cameras also features a precision electronic viewfinder with 1.15 million dot resolution that delivers a clear, bright image with 100% frame coverage. The Sony SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 Digital SLR Cameras are compatible with the full range of over 30 A-mount interchangeable lenses and offer SteadyShot INSIDE. The Sony SLT-A55 camera is also the first ? The new Sony SLT-A55V would be available in US for $749.99 and SLT-A33 Digital SLR Single Lens Translucent mirror camera is priced for $649.99 and would be available from September 2010.

Dslr Alpha, Alpha Camera, Alpha Dslr Camera

Sony today introduced its newest addition to DSLR family, the SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera that offers full 1080p HD video recording and leverages Sony’s Exmor  APS HD CMOS sensor to make it easier to get the best shot.  Along with the SONY DSLR-A580 digital-SLR camera, also announced today, the SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera model is one of the only DSLR cameras with Multi-frame Noise Reduction, Sweep Panorama mode, 3D Sweep Panorama and Full HD 1920×1080 60i video capture.

At the heart of SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera is a new-generation Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor image processor. Together with the latest iteration of Sony’s powerful BIONZ imaging processor, it supports high-speed continuous shooting plus a sophisticated range of digital image compositing and processing functions. This 14.2 megapixel SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera offers the same features of its predecessor, the innovative Sony DSLR-A550, which introduced Quick AF Live View, 7fps continuous shooting and Auto HDR to the step-up DSLR class.

DSLR cameras with three new DSLR lenses:  a  Carl Zeiss® Distagon T* 24mm F2 ZA SSM (model SAL24F20Z), a DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (model SAL35F18) and an 85mm F2.8 SAM (model SAL85F28). The SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera is compatible with the full ? Thanks to the large, high-resolution Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor, SONY DSLR-A560 camera makes it possible to capture stunning HD movie clips with beautiful background defocus (‘bokeh’) effects.

The SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera enable exciting new possibilities for framing and viewing the highest-quality still images and video. The SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera feature 3D Sweep Panorama function that allows photographers to capture detail-packed extra-wide panoramas with a huge field of view. models, data from a burst of three frames at bracketed exposure values is automatically combined in SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera, creating a single image with extended highlight and shadow detail.

SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera Key Features

* Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with built-in flash

* Sony ? lens, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lens

* Exmor APS HD CMOS 14.2 effective megapixels (approx.)

Exmor APS HD CMOS 16.2 effective megapixels (approx.) 580

* BIONZ image processor

* ISO 100 – 12800 (Extended: ISO 25600 in Multi-Frame NR Mode)

* HD Movie Recording:

MP4: 1440 x 1080 (16:9) (29.97 fps / Average bit rate 12 Mbps) / 640 x 480 (4:3) (29.97 fps / Average bit rate 3 Mbps)

* MemoryStick PRO Duo / PRO-HG Duo / SD memory card / SDHC memory card / SDXC memory card

The new SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera would be available from October 2010 for $650 (( body only), or $750 with 18-55mm kit lens.

Sony today introduced its newest addition to DSLR family, the SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera that offers full 1080p HD video recording and leverages Sony’s Exmor  APS HD CMOS sensor to make it easier to get the best shot. Along with the SONY DSLR-A560 Digital-SLR Camera, also announced today, the SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera model is one of the only DSLR cameras with Multi-frame Noise Reduction, Sweep Panorama mode, 3D Sweep Panorama and Full HD 1920×1080 60i video capture.

Sony DSLR A580 Digital Camera

At the heart of SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera is a new-generation Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor image processor. Together with the latest iteration of Sony’s powerful BIONZ imaging processor, it supports high-speed continuous shooting plus a sophisticated range of digital image compositing and processing functions. This 16.2 megapixel ONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera offers the same features of its predecessor, the innovative Sony DSLR-A570, which introduced Quick AF Live View, 7fps continuous shooting and Auto HDR to the step-up DSLR class.

DSLR cameras with three new DSLR lenses:  a  Carl Zeiss® Distagon T* 24mm F2 ZA SSM (model SAL24F20Z), a DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (model SAL35F18) and an 85mm F2.8 SAM (model SAL85F28).

The SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera is compatible with the full ? Thanks to the large, high-resolution Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor, SONY DSLR-A580 camera makes it possible to capture stunning HD movie clips with beautiful background defocus (‘bokeh’) effects. The SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera enable exciting new possibilities for framing and viewing the highest-quality still images and video. The SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera feature 3D Sweep Panorama function that allows photographers to capture detail-packed extra-wide panoramas with a huge field of view. models, data from a burst of three frames at bracketed exposure values is automatically combined in SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera, creating a single image with extended highlight and shadow detail.

SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera Key Features

• Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with built-in flash
• Sony ? lens, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lens
• Exmor APS HD CMOS 16.2 effective megapixels (approx.)
• BIONZ image processor
• ISO 100 – 12800 (Extended: ISO 25600 in Multi-Frame NR Mode)
• HDMI Connector and BRAVIA Sync
• HDMI mini connector (Type C), BRAVIA Sync (Sync menu), PhotoTV HD
• HD Movie Recording:
• AVCHD: 1920 x 1080i (16:9) (59.94i recording, 29.97 fps image sensor output / Average bit rate 17 Mbps)
• MP4: 1440 x 1080 (16:9) (29.97 fps / Average bit rate 12 Mbps) / 640 x 480 (4:3) (29.97 fps / Average bit rate 3 Mbps)
• LCD Display – 7.5cm (3-inch) TFT (Xtra Fine LCD) with 921k dot resolution; 2-way tilting mechanism
• 3D Sweep Panaroma
• MemoryStick PRO Duo / PRO-HG Duo / SD memory card / SDHC memory card / SDXC memory card
• Dim – 37 x 104 x 84mm (W/H/D)
• Weight – 599 gms

The new SONY DSLR-A580 Digital-SLR Camera would be available from October 2010 for $650 (body only), or $750 with 18-55mm kit lens.

The Carl Zeiss Distagon T 24mm F2 SSM (model SAL24F20Z), DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (model SAL35F18) and 85mm F2.8 SAM (model SAL85F28) lenses will be available in October for about $1,250, $200, $250 respectively.

Canon Eos Digital Slr, Canon Eos Cameras, Canon Slr Digital Camera

Canon tonight unveiled its update to the long serving EOS 50D. The EOS 60D  catches up to recent Canon DSLRs with 1080p, H.264-encoded video and an 18-megapixel sensor. It also brings a first for any Canon DSLR in the form of a swivelling LCD: the three-inch display can move horizontally, vertically and at angles to help shoot photos in difficult positions.

Control both during and after the shoot has also changed. The 60D now has a new Multi-Control Dial that tucks a directional pad and a select button inside the regular quick control dial, making it not only faster to use the camera but to shoot vertically without disrupting the layout. Photographers can now handle some RAW processing and effects filters with captured photos, including color space, noise reduction and correction for barrel distortion or vignetting. Images can be resized on the spot, and the filters bring tricks such as tilt-shift or induce a deliberately soft focus. All edits create second copies and won’t damage the original image.

Canon Eos Digital Slr, Canon Eos Cameras, Canon Slr Digital Camera

The camera still has a familiar sensitivity of up to ISO 12,800, a nine-point autofocus system and a three-inch, one-megapixel preview LCD. Increasing the resolution has slowed the camera’s continuous shooting mode from 6.3FPS to 5.3FPS, but it still shoots faster than the Rebel T2i’s 3.7FPS. A 63-point metering system also represents a major upgrade from the 50D’s 35-point grid, and the viewfinder now provides a slightly larger 96 percent coverage. The electronic level from the EOS 7D makes an appearance here as well, although storage has moved away from CF and towards SD/SDHC/SDXC.

Canon Eos Digital Slr, Canon Eos Cameras, Canon Slr Digital Camera

Canon plans to ship the EOS 60D at the end of September as a body-only version for the same $1,099 as its predecessor and with an 18-135mm, f3.5-5.6 kit lens for $1,399. A new battery grip designed to match the 60D, the BG-E9, arrives at the same time for $270.

Nikon Digital Camera, Nikon SLR Camera

Nikon has today introduced its latest Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera, which is an entry level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera featuring 14.2 megapixel digital sensor offering full 1080p HD video recording. The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera is equipped with a new CMOS image sensor developed by Nikon and a new image-processing engine that enable capture of high-definition images exhibiting superior image quality, and a Guide mode that allows users to capture images just as they intended.

To respond to concern of users advancing to a digital-SLR camera, Nikon began equipping its entry level digital-SLR cameras with a Guide mode that displays instructions for the most basic camera operations for shooting, image playback and editing and the application of camera settings, in the camera monitor.

The first camera to be equipped with Guide mode was the NIKON D3000 Digital-SLR Camera released in August 2009. This function has proven to be very popular with users. A new DX-format CMOS image sensor developed by Nikon and the new image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, have been adopted for this new NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera, enabling capture of images exhibiting excellent image quality and definition.

The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera has also inherited Guide mode from the D3000, with the addition of more options and assist images that make the camera easier to understand and operate. The D3100 is also equipped with a live view function that allows the user to frame images in the monitor, and the D-Movie function that provides support for high-definition movie recording.

While the D3100 offers authentic digital-SLR camera performance, it is also an extremely lightweight digital-SLR camera from which even beginners can expect beautiful images that accurately reflect their shooting intent.

NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera Key Features

A new DX-format CMOS image sensor and image-processing engine, EXPEED 2

The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera is equipped with a new Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor and a new image-processing engine, EXPEED 2, both developed by Nikon. The CMOS image sensor offers an effective pixel count of 14.2-million pixels (D3000: CCD image sensor with 10.2-million effective pixels) and enables capture of high-definition images exhibiting superior image quality with extremely detailed rendering and rich tones.

The D3100 camera also makes the most of its standard sensitivity settings up to ISO 3200 (D3000: ISO 100–1600) and additional increases up to HI 2 (ISO 12800 equivalent), with shooting under dim lighting, such as in the evening or indoors, as well as with sports scenes of rapidly moving subjects.

EXPEED 2 is Nikon’s new image-processing engine, developed by refining the concepts, know-how and technologies regarding digital images that Nikon has spent years cultivating. It maximizes the performance of the CMOS image sensor to suppress noise in still images and movies and produces images that faithfully reproduce vivid colors.

A refined Guide mode that is even easier to use

Guide mode has been refined to make most camera operations even easier, from shooting to image playback and editing to the application of camera settings, regardless of the user’s skill level.

Assist images

The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera displays assist images that show the effect of various camera settings, giving users an idea of the results they can expect with specified settings. For example, when “Soften backgrounds” is selected and an aperture value is specified, the assist image displayed in the monitor changes to show the effect that aperture setting will have on images. This allows users to confirm that images will appear as they intended prior to shooting and reduces the number of unsuccessful shots.

Live view mode

By simply rotating the live view switch, the view through the lens is displayed in the monitor, enabling immediate live view recording. This makes shooting feel more like shooting with a compact digital camera, easing the transition to digital-SLR for beginners. In addition, various information such as the shooting mode, time remaining (movie mode) and battery indicator, can be shown in the live view display.

D-Movie for recording and editing full-HD movies and AF-F (full-time servo AF) focus mode for movie recording

The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera is equipped with the D-Movie function that enables recording of stunning Full HD, 1080p resolution (1920×1080) movies (with monaural sound) by simply pressing the movie-record button. Users can record cinematic quality 24p video clips, or shoot at 24 or 30 frames-per-second at 720p, ideal for sharing online.

Movies can be recorded with the same aperture and other settings applied in Guide mode, and movies that take full advantage of the characteristics of individual interchangeable lenses, whether wide-angle, telephoto or fisheye, can be recorded for movies that are only possible with a digital-SLR camera.

In addition, the camera also offers an AF-F (full-time servo AF) focus mode for movie recording. When AF-F mode is enabled, the camera focuses continuously during movie recording without the need for holding the shutter-release button down halfway. The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera also offers in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to save a single frame as a still image or delete unnecessary portions from the beginning or end of movie files.

Sharing and Editing Video Clips

Sharing and editing video clips is also easier than ever, as the D3100 records movies in the versatile H.264 AVCHD codec (.mov file). While playing movies back in the camera, users are able to edit recorded videos by clipping footage from the beginning or end of a movie.

High Definition movies and stills can be shared with family and friends on an HD television via HDMI output, and control slideshows and video using the HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) interface that is a part of most modern remote controls from HDTV manufacturers. Additionally, the D3100 is compatible with the new SDXC memory card format to store large amounts of photo and video data so users can shoot multiple scenes without interruption.

Scene auto selector built in

The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera is equipped with the scene auto selector function. When live view mode is enabled in Auto or Auto (flash off) mode, the camera automatically analyzes the scene and selects the appropriate shooting mode from Portrait, Landscape, Close up or Night portrait.* This function allows users achieve the intended images while leaving all settings up to the camera.

Other functions and features new to the Nikon D3100 SLDR Camera

* Equipped with a face detection function capable of detecting up to 35 human faces
* Operation has been improved with the addition of an independent movie-record button and release-mode selector. In addition, the rubber grip provides a better fit.
* Equipped with a Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) bus that enables remote control playback of images and movies recorded with the camera when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV
* Equipped with a new exposure compensation algorithm for greater flexibility and performance with NEF (RAW) processing
* The new ViewNX 2 software is bundled with the D3100

The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera also incorporates Nikon’s Integrated Dust Reduction System, which offers a comprehensive solution that combats the accumulation of image-degrading dust from the camera’s image sensor. The shutter is tested to 100,000 cycles for maximum durability, ensuring years of captured memories.

Nikon has also introduced the ideal companion to the D3100, the brand new AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm VR lens, which gives users super-telephoto zoom capability. This is a perfect complementary lens when combined with the AF-S 18-55mm VR kit lens, and is great for capturing images of sports and wildlife around town or on vacation.

Price and Availability
The NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera including the versatile AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, is expected to be available in mid September 2010 at the price of $699.99 (Rs. 32, 633 approx.) with one year warranty.

Nikon Corporation has today announce the release of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens that is compatible with Nikon FX-format digital-SLR cameras. This FX-format mid-telephoto prime (fixed focal length) lens offers maximum aperture of 3.5 – 5.6 for simple and enjoyable photography.

he NIKON AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens is a 10.7X super-telephoto lens that covers a broad range of focal lengths from the wide-angle 28mm to telephoto 300mm.

This lens is also equipped with the VR II vibration reduction mechanism. Nano Crystal Coat has been deposited on some lens elements for fine, clear images, and the lens is equipped with Nikon’s latest vibration reduction mechanism, VR II.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens Features

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens offers A 10.7X, high-performance and high-power zoom lens covering focal lengths from 28mm to 300mm.

This single 10.7X lens covers a broad range of angles of view, making it extremely practical for shooting at a variety of focal lengths, from wide-angle landscape shots to telephoto shooting.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens is compact in size and quite light weight that makes it very portable.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm Lens features built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four steps.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens is also equipped with two VR modes, Normal and Active, the vibration reduction function responds to a variety of shooting scenes.

This lens features f/5.6 maximum aperture at the maximum telephoto position enables capture of bright images.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens is also equipped with two ED and three aspherical lens elements for superior optical performance.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Lens also offers Nikon’s internal focusing (IF) system that has been adopted with no increase in the length of the lens and the Nano Crystal Coat has been adopted to significantly reduce ghost and flare.

The lens is equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing and includes two focus modes, M/A (autofocus with manual override) and M (manual).

A zoom lock has been adopted to prevent the lens from extending due to its own weight.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens Specifications

• Focal Length -  28-300mm
• Max App. – f3.5 – 5.6
• Min App. – f/22, f/38
• Lens Construction – 19 elements in 14 groups (2 ED and 3 aspherical lens elements)
• Angle of View – 75°–8° 10′ (53° –5° 20′ with Nikon DX-format D-SLR cameras)
• Dimension – Approximately 83mm (maximum diameter) X 114.5mm (distance from the camera’s lens-mount flange)
• Weight – 800 gms

Price and Availability

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Primary Lens will be available in September 2010 at about the same time when NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera is released.

Nikon VR, Nikkor Lens

Nikon Corporation has today announce the release of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens that is compatible with Nikon FX-format digital-SLR cameras. This FX-format mid-telephoto prime (fixed focal length) lens offers maximum aperture of f/4 for simple and enjoyable photography.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens is a 5X standard zoom lens with a fixed maximum aperture of f/4 throughout its entire zoom range.

Nano Crystal Coat has been deposited on some lens elements for fine, clear images, and the lens is equipped with Nikon’s latest vibration reduction mechanism, VR II.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens Features

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens is A 5X standard zoom lens with a fixed maximum aperture of f/4 through the full 24mm to 120mm range of focal lengths.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens features a 5X standard zoom lens that offers superior function and performance.

This zoom lens has a high reproduction ratio that is both practical and functional for professional and advanced amateur photographers. It consistently demonstrates excellent rendering performance.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm also includes built-in vibration reduction (VR II) offering camera shake compensation equivalent to a shutter speed increase of approximately four steps.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens is quipped with two VR modes, Normal and Active, the vibration reduction function responds to a variety of shooting scenes.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens also features Nikon’s internal focusing (IF) system that has been adopted with no increase in the length of the lens and the Nano Crystal Coat has been adopted to significantly reduce ghost and flare.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Lens is also equipped with two ED and three aspherical lens elements for superior optical performance, and includes two focus modes, M/A (autofocus with manual override) and M (manual)

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens is also equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet auto-focusing.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens Specifications

* Focal Length -  24-120 mm
* Max App. – f/4
* Min App. – f/22
* Lens Construction – 77mm snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-77, Rear Lens Cap, Bayonet Hood HB-53, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1218
* Angle of View – 84°–20° 20′ (61° –13° 20′ with Nikon DX-format D-SLR cameras)
* Dimension – Approximately 84mm (maximum diameter) X 103.5mm (distance from the camera’s lens-mount flange)
* Weight – 710 gms

Price and Availability

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Primary Lens will be available in September 2010 at about the same time when NIKON D3100 Digital-SLR Camera is released.

Leica 18420 X1 12.2MP CMOS APS-C digital camera is equipped with a CMOS sensor of APS-C format, similar to those used in digital SLR cameras semi-professionals. Along with an all-purpose Leica Elmarit 1:2.8 / 24 mm lens, largesensor especially for this class of camera offers superb image quality with no need to fear comparisons with professional cameras. In addition to its technical specifications and a wide range of setting options ranging from manual operation of automatic features, the Leica X1 is an ideal partner for quality conscious and creative photographers. Compact form of the camera makes it a constant companion spontaneously to capture unique moments in life.

Leica 18420 X1 features a 12.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor, since each individual pixel has a large area sensor receives more light, the low noise level ensures a high dynamic range and accurate color differentiation. The cut thesensor factor is 1.5, compared with 35-mm film format, which means that the fixed mount Leica Elmarit 1:2.8 / 24 mm Leica lens X1 lens becomes a universal story , effective (35-mm equivalent) focal length of 36 mm. This is a true classic among the main objectives and has captured many iconic images.

Leica 18,420 X1is characterized by clean lines and a very focused design. The simplicity of its design, with a focus on pure substance and a compact, handy form, reminiscent of the cameras at the legendary M. Combined with its renowned beauty, the rugged, all metal and the tactile experience of its high quality leather finish that the X1 a Leica true.

Leica 18,420 X1has clear, intuitive functions thanks to its simple operating concept. For photography without complications, the X1 offers many automatic features ranging from accurate auto focus auto exposure. When set, these photographers security functions perfectly exposed, sharp images with the push of the shutter. This allows the user to concentrate on the creative aspects of composition and framing.

The Ricoh GXR features optional modules that allow the lens and sensor to be interchanged together. The camera body itself doesn’t contain a lot beyond the LCD display, connectivity for an optional external viewfinder, slots for battery and flash card plus internal memory, a flash strobe and hot shoe, microphone and speaker, plus the various control buttons and dials. The meat of the camera – its lens, sensor and (one presumes) image processor – are to be found in the modules. At launch, two lens/sensor modules are offered for the Ricoh GXR. One provides a 3x optical zoom range from 24mm to 72mm equivalents with an aperture varying from f/2.5 to f/4.4 across the zoom range, while the other has a fixed focal length equivalent to 50mm, with maximum aperture of f/2.5

Each lens module has benefits and limitations compared to its alternative. The smaller and lighter zoom lens module offers sensor shift image stabilization, allows sensitivities as low as ISO 100 equivalent, can focus as close as one centimeter, enables a Zoom Macro scene mode, and offers battery life of 410 shots. On the flip side though, it uses a much smaller 1/1.7″ CCD image sensor with a slightly lower resolution of ten megapixels, almost halves the burst rate to 1.6 frames per second in JPEG mode, requires noise reduction to be applied at ISO 800 or above, doesn’t allow shutter speeds faster than 1/2000 second, and doesn’t offer high-definition movie recording or industry-standard 24 fps framerates. Flash range with this module is 20cm – 4.5m at wide angle, and 15cm – 2.7m at telephoto.

The 50mm-equivalent lens module meanwhile uses a much larger APS-C image sensor with slightly higher twelve megapixel resolution, increases the burst rate to three frames per second in JPEG mode, allows shutter speeds as fast as 1/3200 second, allows noise reduction to be disabled at all resolutions, and enables HD movie recording (1,280 x 720 pixels), although the 30 frames per second rate is replaced by 24 fps. To achieve this, it trades away the mechanical image stabilization, has a minimum sensitivity limit of ISO 200, won’t focus closer than seven centimeters, increases body weight by 98 grams and depth by 32.7mm, and drops battery life by almost a quarter to 320 shots. Flash range with this module is 20cm to three meters.

As for the magnesium alloy camera body itself, it is dominated on its rear by a 3.0″ LCD display with high 920,000 dot resolution, placing it in the region of 640 x 480 pixels, with three dots per color. A built-in flash strobe offers six modes including red-eye reduction, and offers 2.0EV of flash exposure compensation plus manual strength control in twelve steps from full to 1/64th of full power. Images are stored on SD or SDHC cards, or in approximately 86MB of built-in memory. File formats include Adobe’s .DNG Raw and JPEG compressed still images, as well as OpenDML compliant Motion JPEG AVI movies. Connectivity includes NTSC / PAL standard definition and HDMI high-definition video via a Type-C Mini HDMI connector, plus USB 2.0 High-Speed data transfer. Power comes from a 3.6 volt DB-90 Lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Body size without a module attached is 113.9 x 70.2 x 28.9 mm, and weight is 160 grams body-only without a module.

The unusual module-based design is intended to offer several main benefits. By combining lens and sensor into one item, Ricoh can ensure the sensor and lens designs are complementary to each others’ requirements. The design also allows size and weight benefits over interchangeable lens cameras with fixed sensors – zoom lens size can be kept down by reducing the size of the image circle to that of a smaller sensor, while a relatvely compact prime lens can use a larger sensor with better light-gathering capability. Finally, with a sealed module, dust can be kept away from the sensor – at least, for lenses with internal focusing and either fixed focal lengths, or an internal zoom design.

For lenses with an external focusing or zoom mechanism, the design could have the exact opposite effect however. The action of zooming or (to a lesser extent) focusing such a lens moves air (and with it, dust) into and out of the lens barrel – and once that arrives on the sensor, there’s no way to manually clean it back off inside a sealed module. This is the normal state of play for compact fixed-lens digicams, but offers a potential limitation as compared to Micro Four Thirds and digital SLR cameras where the sensor can be easily cleaned. Bundling lens and sensor together in a single module also means that every lens purchase must also include a sensor – commonly one of the most expensive components in an APS-C camera. It also means both parts must be replaced if one fails outside the warranty period. Likewise, as advancements in rapidly evolving sensor technology appear, they can’t be used with any current lens for the system, and will necessitate new lens purchases when appropriate modules become available. The design also means more complex electronic connections – instead of passing only data to and from the lens to pass power, enable autofocusing, aperture adjustment, correction of lens defects, etc., the design requires that the power, still image / video data, live view stream, flash control, etc. must all be passed between module and body. There’s also an element of potential confusion in the fact that basic camera functionality like still image and movie resolutions, available shutter speeds, etc. changing depending on which module is mounted.

Ricoh is not the first company to experiment with offering interchangeable modules at retail, which couple a lens and sensor into a single package for connection to a camera body. That honor goes to Minolta’s DiMAGE EX1500, offered some eleven years ago – and interestingly, also having debuted with the choice of a 3x zoom module, or a fixed focal length module. In Minolta’s case, the camera wasn’t successful enough to cause the company to offer any further lens / sensor modules, and only two accessory modules were ever offered for the camera – a flash hot shoe module and a MetaFlash module for 3D photography, both of which plugged in between the camera body and lens / sensor module. The DiMAGE EX1500 also offered a capability not found in Ricoh’s camera – the camera body and module could be connected by a short cable, allowing the lens to be pointed in a different direction to that of the attached display.

While US pricing hasn’t been officially announced, the camera and both modules have already appeared in the inventory of reputable US retailers. US street pricing is a rather steep $550 for the camera body without a module. Street pricing for the 50mm-equivalent lens module with APS-C sensor is $830, and the 24 – 72mm equivalent zoom lens module with 1/1.7″ sensor is another $440. That brings the total cost for the system without optional external viewfinder to $1,820, leaving Ricoh with something of a challenge, when two cameras offering not dissimilar combined specifications can be purchased together for several hundred dollars less.