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| Panasonic - Digital Camera | Lumix® DMC-FS15A | 12.1 Megapixel, 5.0x Zoom - Blue |
| Lumix |
| product code; part number; part no; model number; model no DMC-FS15A |
Lumix ▪ Panasonic ▪ DMC-FS15A ▪ P/037988984722
1 year limited warranty
Updated 2/19/2009 11:34:14 PM UTC (274 days, 7 hours, 15 minutes ago) | |
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| Click to enlarge this Panasonic product. | | |
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| 500x500 | 0.24 MP | 500x500 | 0.24 MP | 500x500 | 0.24 MP |
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| The 12.1 megapixel DMC-FS15 features a 29mm wide-angle Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with a 5x optical zoom. Panasonic has enhanced the Intelligent Auto Mode (iA) on the DMC-FS15 from the previous FS models to now include AF tracking and Intelligent Exposure functions in addition to Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Face Detection. AF Tracking enables the user to “lock” the focus onto a moving subject. The camera then automatically tracks the subject as it moves, keeping it in focus without the need to hold the shutter button halfway down. Additionally, Intelligent Exposure helps capture natural-looking images by suppressing blocked shadows and blown highlights. It continually monitors the light source in the shooting environment and automatically activates the backlight compensation function if it detects the light source is behind the subject. Other features of the FS models include a Venus Engine IV processor, which enables an advanced processing system and quick response times. An intelligent LCD screen detects light conditions and automatically adjusts the brightness levels for viewing in sunlight and helps to preserve battery life. The new Photo Frame mode lets the user put attractive borders around photos, so when printed, they look like postcards in picture frames. Also, the new My Scene setting lets the user assign their most frequently used Scene modes to the setting, and with a simple switch, access that scene instantly. The FS-Series is also capable of recording WVGA (848 x 480) motion pictures at 30 frames per second in 16:9 wide-screen format, as well as standard VGA (640 x 480) format. 
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| Camera Type |
Compact |
| KEY FEATURES |
. |
| Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode |
Optical Image Stabilizer
Intelligent ISO Control
Face Detection
Intelligent Scene Selector (Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Macro)
Digital Red Eye Correction
iA Direct Button |
| Camera Effective Pixels |
12.1 Mega Pixels |
| Optical Image Stabilizer |
MEGA O.I.S. (Auto/Mode1/ Mode2) |
| Optical Zoom |
5x |
| Image Sensor |
1/2.33-inch / 12.7 Total Megapixels / Primary Color Filter |
| Digital Zoom 1 |
4x (Max. 20.0 x combined with Optical Zoom without Extra Optical Zoom) (Max.39.1x combined with Extra Optical Zoom) |
| Focal Length |
f=5.2-26.0mm (29-145mm in 35mm equiv.) |
| Lens |
LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR
7 elements in 6 groups
(3 Aspherical Lenses / 4 Aspherical surfaces) |
| PERFORMANCE FEATURES |
. |
| Conversion Lens Compatibility |
No |
| Focusing Area |
Normal: Wide 50cm - infinity
Macro / Intelligent AUTO : Wide 5cm / Tele 50cm - infinity |
| AF Metering |
Face / AF Tracking / Multi (11pt) / 1pt |
| Focus |
Normal / Macro, AF Tracking (On / Off), Quick AF (Always On) |
| AF Assist Lamp |
Yes |
| ISO Sensitivity |
Auto /100 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 (High Sensitivity Mode : Auto(1600 - 6400) ) |
| White Balance |
Auto / Daylight / Cloudy / Shade / Halogen / White Set (Selectable at Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Sports, Baby, Pet, High Sensitivity, Highspeed Burst, Photo Frame mode) |
| Exposure |
Program AE |
| Exposure Compensation |
1/3 EV Step, ± 2 EV |
| Backlight Compensation |
Yes (only in Intelligent AUTO mode) |
| Auto Bracketing(AE) |
+/- 1/3 EV ~ 1EV step, 3 frames |
| Light Metering |
Intelligent Multiple |
| Dedicated Button/Mode Switch |
[Recording] / [Playback] |
| Shooting Mode (Mode Dial)/Rec. Mode |
Intelligent AUTO, Normal Picture, MySCN, SCN, Motion Picture |
| Scene Modes |
Portrait, Soft Skin, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial Photo |
| ShutterSpeed/Shutter System |
8-1/2000 sec
Starry Sky Mode : 15, 30, 60sec. |
| Self Timer |
2sec, 10sec |
| Auto Review |
1sec, 2sec, Zoom, Hold |
| Review |
No |
| Color Mode |
Standard, Natural, Vivid, Black & White, Sepia, Cool, Warm |
| Recording Format |
Still Image: JPEG (DCF / Exif2.21)
Motion picture: QuickTime Motion JPEG |
| Image Quality |
Fine/Standard |
| 4:3 Aspect Ratio (Still Image) |
4000 x 3000(12M)/ 3264 x 2448 (8M EZ) / 2560 x 1920 (5M EZ) /
2048 x 1536 (3M EZ) / 1600 x 1200 (2M EZ) / 640 x 480 (0.3M EZ) |
| 3:2 Aspect Ratio (Still Image) |
4000 x 2672(10.5M) / 3264 x 2176 (7M EZ) / 2560 x 1712 (4.5M EZ) / 2048 x 1360 (2.5M EZ) |
| 16:9 Aspect Ratio (Still Image) |
4000 x 2248(9M) / 3264 x 1840 (6M EZ) / 2560 x 1440 (3.5M EZ) / 1920 x 1080 (2M EZ) |
| Motion Image (4:3 Aspect Ratio) |
VGA: 640 x 480 pixels, 30fps (Motion JPEG)
QVGA: 320 x 240 pixels, 30 fps (Motion JPEG) |
| Motion Image (16:9 Aspect Ratio) |
WVGA: 848 x 480 pixels, 30 fps (Motion JPEG) |
| CONVENIENCE FEATURES |
. |
| Unlimited Consecutive Shooting 2 |
1.7 frames/sec |
| Intelligent Exposure |
Yes |
| Digital Red Eye Correction |
Yes |
| Easy Zoom/Zoom Resume/Motion Zoom |
No |
| Still Image Recording with Audio |
No |
| Audio Dubbing |
No |
| Real-time Histograms |
No |
| Composition Guide Lines |
Yes (1 pattern) |
| Built-in Memory |
approx. 50MB |
| Scene Mode Help Screen |
Yes |
| Flip Animation |
No |
| Travel Date/World Time |
Yes/Yes |
| Text Stamp/Date Stamp |
Yes |
| Built-in Flash Type/Mode |
Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off
0.3 - 5.3m (Wide/ISO Auto), 1.0 - 3.0m (Tele/ISO Auto) |
| External Flash |
No |
| Viewfinder |
No |
| LCD Monitor |
2.7" TFT Screen LCD Display (230K dots)
Field of View : approx. 100%
AUTO Power LCD mode, Power LCD mode, High-Angle LCD |
| Playback Mode |
Normal Playback, Slideshow, Category Playback, Favorites Playback |
| OSD Language |
English,German,French,
Italian,Spanish,Polish,
Czech,Hungarian,Russian,
Chinese(Traditional),Chinese(Simplified),
Netherlandic,Thai,Korean,
Turkish, Portuguese, Arabic,
Persian, Japanese, Swedish,
Danish, Finnish |
| Recording Media |
Built-in Memory
SD Memory Card
SDHC Memory Card
MultiMediaCard (Still image only) |
| Microphone |
Mono |
| Speaker |
Yes |
| Interface |
AV Output (NTSC/PAL, NTSC only in N.America) / USB2.0 Full speed |
| Color |
Silver |
| Power Supply |
ID-Security Li-ion Battery Pack (3.6V, 940mAh) (Included)
AC Adaptor (Input: 110-240V AC) (Optional) |
| Battery Life 3 |
330 pictures (CIPA standard) |
| ACCESSORIES |
. |
| Included Software |
PHOTOfunSTUDIO v3.0
ArcSoft (MediaImpression / Panorama Maker)
USB Driver, QuickTime |
| Standard Accessories |
Battery Pack (AA Alkaline Batteries x 2), AV Cable, USB Connection Cable, Hand Strap, CD-ROM |
| Multi-Aspect |
No |
| Aperture |
F3.3 - 5.9 / Iris Diaphragm (F3.3 - 8 (W) / F5.9 - 8 (T)) |
| Focus Range Display |
Yes |
| Quick Menu |
Yes |
| Continuous Shooting Mode |
Full-Resolution Image, 1.8 frames/sec Max. 5 images (Standard mode), Max 3 images (Fine Mode),
High-speed Burst Mode: approx. 5.5 frames/sec (recorded in 3M for 4:3, 2.5M for 3:2, 2M for 16:9) |
| Focus Icon Select |
Yes |
| Macro Zoom |
Yes |
| Orientation Detector |
Yes |
| Aspect Ratio |
4:3 / 3:2 / 16:9 |
| Thumbnails/Zoomed Playback |
12,30-thumbnails / Max 16x |
| Calendar Display/Dual-Image Playback |
Yes / No |
| Set Favorites/Rotate Image |
Yes / No |
| Playback Motion Picture |
Yes (Motion JPEG) |
| Slideshow Mode |
All Still Images / Favorites / Category
BGM Effect (Natural / Slow / Swing / Urban / OFF) |
| Delete Image |
Single / Multi / All / All except Favorites |
| DPOF Print Setting/Set Production |
Yes / Yes |
| Resize/Trim/Aspect Conv./Leveling |
Yes / Yes / No / No |
| PictBridge Support |
Single / Multi / All / Favorites / DPOF |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) |
2.14'' x 3.82'' x 0.85'' |
| Weight |
Approx. 0.26 lb lbs | |
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| Tips & Resources ► |
| Panasonic Photo Gallery (Explore the Panosonic photo gallery to see the creative power and versatility of Lumix® cameras. Renowned photographers show you firsthand just how beautiful digital photographs can be.). |
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| News, Reviews, and Tips & Techniques |  |
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| Panasonic Lumix GF1 reviewed |
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The typical Micro Four Thirds review seems to come down to a matter of tradeoffs -- size and convenience for a bit of a drop from the image quality and performance of a real DSLR. The GF1 doesn't break that trend, but it has some pretty nice things to offer for the inquisitive interchangeable lens shopper. The most notable feature when put up against its direct competition, the E-P1, is the GF1's built-in pop-up flash, and the primary drawback of both of these cams versus their regular Micro Four Thirds counterparts is the lack of an eye-level viewfinder, though the GF1 does offer a pricey hot-shoe mounted approximation. As for images PhotographyBLOG says the camera gets "almost everything right," and video doesn't look bad neither -- a couple samples are after the break. The camera is no ultra-compact, but it seems another good proof for the existence of Micro Four Thirds as a DSLR alternative.Continue reading Panasonic Lumix GF1 reviewedFiled under: Digital CamerasPanasonic Lumix GF1 reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 10/12/2009 3:29 AM (40d 3h 19m ago) |
| Casio's Exilim EX-Z450, EX-Z280 and EX-Z90 compacts invoke more Zzzs |
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The EX-Z450 above is Casio's new Exilim Zoom flagship model, but you'll be forgiven for confusing it for its predecessor the Z400. Their spec sheets are almost identical: both come with 4x optical zoom, 12 megapixel sensor, 720p / 24 fps video, and Exilim Engine 4.0 -- hell, even the max ISO setting is identical at 3200, and you can upgrade that 'for free' since nobody expects your highest settings to be usable anyway. What's new? An autofocus for the ages, apparently, as the sole difference is a new Intelligent AF feature that automatically adjusts focus and exposure for photographic subjects, human or otherwise. The Z90 shrinks those innards into a more portable package, but drops to 3x zoom in the process. The two cameras are expected in early October for $199 and $149, respectively. They'll be joined by the unpriced Z280 shooter that misses out on the auto-detect magic, but gains a wide-angle 26mm lens. Full frontal shots of each camera after the break. [Via Impress] Read - Exilim Zoom EX-Z450 Read - Exilim Zoom EX-Z280 Read - Exilim Zoom EX-Z90Continue reading Casio's Exilim EX-Z450, EX-Z280 and EX-Z90 compacts invoke more ZzzsFiled under: Digital CamerasCasio's Exilim EX-Z450, EX-Z280 and EX-Z90 compacts invoke more Zzzs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 8/18/2009 6:17 PM (94d 12h 31m ago) |
| Pentax debuts waterproof Optio WS80 alongside P80 and E80 point-and-shoots |
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Not turned on by Pentax's recently released Optio W80? How's about a colorful variant for $50 less? This fine evening, the waterproof Optio WS80 is being unveiled alongside two other entirely less enchanting point-and-shoots. The $249.95 WS80 (shown above) looks about as natural as a waterproof camera can, arriving this September in "his-and-her designs" with a 10 megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, a sub-1-inch thick body, 2.7-inch LCD and the ability to withstand depths of up to five feet (lackluster, we know). Still, the ability to snag underwater video at 720p is a real boon, and there's even face detection, shake reduction and sensitivity modes as high as ISO 6400. As for the other guys, the Optio P80 gets things going with a 12.1 megapixel CCD, 2.7-inch LCD, 720p (30fps) movie mode, face detection, shake reduction, a 4x wide-angle optical zoom lens (equivalent to 27.5 - 110mm focal length) and support for AA batteries. It's expected to ship this September for $199.95 in black, pearl and mint hues. Finally, the low-end E80 is pretty much the same as the P80 save for its 10 megapixel sensor, 15fps 720p movie mode and 3x optical zoom lens with a focal length equivalent to 32 - 96mm. It should also ship in September for $129.95. Check the full releases and specification sheets after the break... if you dare.Gallery: Pentax debuts waterproof Optio WS80 alongside P80 and E80Continue reading Pentax debuts waterproof Optio WS80 alongside P80 and E80 point-and-shootsFiled under: Digital CamerasPentax debuts waterproof Optio WS80 alongside P80 and E80 point-and-shoots originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 8/05/2009 11:23 PM (107d 7h 25m ago) |
| Samsung PL70 and PL55 bring 12 megapixels to the unwashed masses |
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Promising to allow the differently rich consumer a chance to experience "the latest and most advanced digital imaging technology" (of 2008), Samsung has today announced two new entry-level cameras. While the headline features -- 12.2 megapixel sensor and 5x optical zoom -- are identical, the PL70 (SL720 here in the US) comes with a 3-inch LCD screen, 28mm wide-angle lens and an optical image stabilizer, whereas the PL55 (SL502 for us Yanks) makes do with 2.7-inches, 35mm and digital image stabilization. The senior model also records video at 720p ( 640 x 480 for the PL55) and boasts the nifty ability to search images by a person's face. The usual scene, face, smile and blink detection is available on both cameras, while pricing is set at $229.99 and $149.99, respectively, for the August-bound shooters.Gallery: Samsung PL70 and PL55 digital camerasFiled under: Digital CamerasSamsung PL70 and PL55 bring 12 megapixels to the unwashed masses originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 7/14/2009 4:21 PM (129d 14h 27m ago) |
| Pentax goes deeper with Optio W80 |
| | (Credit: Pentax)
There's been an explosion of waterproof and rugged cameras and camcorders this year, and Wednesday Pentax added one more to the list (though it's been making them since 2003). The Optio W80 is a water/dust/shock/freezeproof 12-megapixel camera with a 2.5-inch LCD selling for less than $300.
The W80 can apparently survive an impressive dunk: down to 16 feet for up to two hours. It'll also take a decent fall of up to 3.3 feet and keep working in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
On top of its "proofing," the W80 has fairly good camera specs, too. The internal lens has a zoom range of 5x and is wide angle, too, at 28mm. It records 720p, HD-quality video at 30fps. It also has the expected convenience features such as face, smile, and blink detection; auto scene recognition; and a bunch of other automatic shooting options.
About the only thing missing is optical image stabilization; the W80 only has Pentax's digital Pixel Track SR, which though it's good, still degrades photo quality.
... |
| | 7/08/2009 11:04 PM (135d 7h 44m ago) |
| Get 64GB CompactFlash--via 4 microSD cards |
| | (Credit: PhotoFast)
Admittedly, CompactFlash cards are no longer as popular as they were when digital photography first started. These days, most digicams use SD/SDHC media, while mobile phones mainly accept the physically smaller microSD format for storing data.
This is why I'm puzzled as to the reason PhotoFast ... |
| | 7/08/2009 11:04 PM (135d 7h 45m ago) |
| Olympus' compact E-P1: A breath of fresh air |
| | The Olympus E-P1 with its small 17mm lens attached.(Credit: Olympus)
The Olympus E-P1 camera, a hybrid designed to combine advantages of both compact cameras and SLRs, is a welcome arrival in a digital camera market struggling to find new directions.
The small and light camera that debuted Tuesday features interchangeable lenses and relatively large sensor that endow SLRs with flexibility and higher image quality, but it's also got a small body of a compact camera. It has the potential to appeal to SLR owners who want something smaller and to compact camera owners who want something better, if Olympus can convince people to surmount a significant obstacle, price.
Like most hybrids--gaming laptops, for example, or bicycles with aspects of both road bikes and mountain bikes--the E-P1 sacrifices specialization for versatility. But the digital camera market is saturated, and the E-P1 is a promising member of a newer camera breed.
There are a handful of competitors with similar aspirations. Canon's G10, the newest in its G series of high-end compact cameras, is one example. Nikon's GPS-enabled P6000 is another, though, like the G10, it doesn't have an interchangeable lens. And Panasonic's G1 and GH1, which employ the same Micro Four Thirds lens and sensor standard as the E-P1, are probably closest.
The biggest knock against these cameras is price. Their relatively large sensors--especially those in the Micro Four Thirds cameras--cost a lot to manufacture, and fast electronics and high complexity just make things worse. Few people are willing to spend more than $300 on a camera, much less the hybrid cameras.
Brace yourself for some sticker shock. ... Originally posted at Underexposed |
| | 7/08/2009 11:04 PM (135d 7h 45m ago) |
| Get a 4GB Eye-Fi wireless SD card for $59.99 |
| | Though still pricey, the 4GB Eye-Fi card is now a much better deal.(Credit: Eye-Fi)
I really dig Eye-Fi memory cards, which wirelessly beam photos from your digital camera to your PC (and/or an online sharing service). But I always thought they were overpriced.
They still are, but at ... Originally posted at The Cheapskate |
| | 6/22/2009 8:42 PM (151d 10h 6m ago) |
| Olympus E-P1 now available for pre-order |
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You might've noticed this already, but for those out there who share our lust for Olympus' E-P1 "digital Pen," but haven't done too much digging, consider this a public service announcement. The retro-chich micro four thirds camera is now available for pre-order from a handful of online retailers, with several different packages to choose from based with various body color (silver or white) and lens color (silver or black) combinations. Looks like it'll still cost you about $750 if you want body only, but really, at this point we don't know why you wouldn't pay an additional Ulysses S. Grant and grab a lens with it. Ready to smash that E-P1 piggy bank a bit early? You've got plenty of retailers willing to help you out there, but don't feel too pressured, there's still a little bit of time to decide before the July launch.Read - AdoramaRead - AmazonRead - B&HRead - J&RFiled under: Digital CamerasOlympus E-P1 now available for pre-order originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 22:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/22/2009 8:33 PM (151d 10h 15m ago) |
| Budget shopping tips: Point-and-shoot digital cameras |
| | Panasonic's FX150 is nearly a year old, but it's currently an amazing deal.
There are so many snapshot cameras available that it can actually be a fairly miserable experience shopping for one. Add in concerns about pricing and you're likely going to continue using your camera phone as your primary point-and-shoot for digital photos.
Finding the right camera at the right price is easier if you start by asking yourself two questions: how will I use the camera and how will I use the photos? These are important for determining what type of user you are and how little you can expect to spend without being disappointed with your choice.
Check out our full digital camera buying guide to help determine what specs will meet your needs. Then, use the tips below for finding the best deal on your new camera. Happy hunting.
Eliminate features
There are three key components most people look for when picking a camera: megapixels, LCD size, and zoom range. Current entry-level models start at 10 megapixels for the most part, which is plenty of resolution for snapshot prints of 8x10 or smaller. The common LCD size on these models is 2.5 inches, and they typically have a 3x or 4x zoom. Features on these cameras usually include basic face detection, a dozen scene modes, a low-resolution movie mode, a full automatic mode, and a program auto mode giving you controls for ISO, white balance, light metering, and focus. (Here are some good examples.)
Any additional features start to drive the price up--in other words, they are things used to upsell you to another model. So if you don't think you'll ever want to control shutter speed or aperture settings, don't need a 3.5-inch touch-screen display, you won't be using the movie mode for anything except YouTube clips, or a 10x zoom will get you way closer to your subject than you want to get, feel free to skip them.
... |
| | 6/11/2009 4:11 PM (162d 14h 37m ago) |
| Casio megazoom has extreme battery life* |
| | (Credit: Casio)
Casio joined the list of manufacturers with a pocketable megazoom Thursday with the announcement of the EX-H10. In retail around mid-July, the $299.99 12-megapixel camera is fronted by a wide-angle 24mm lens with a 10x zoom with CCD-shift image stabilization in a body that's 0.96-inch thick and weighs only 5.8 ounces. Even more impressive, though, is Casio's battery life claim of a 1,000 shots on a single charge.
That number comes courtesy of low energy requirements of the the multi-CPU Exilim Engine 4.0 circuitry and operational controls coupled with a high-capacity battery. Usage is based on CIPA standards calculated with the LCD monitor on; a full zoom back and forth every 30 seconds; the flash used every two shots; and the power cycled every 10 shots.
Underneath it all it's still a typical Casio camera, too, with a gazillion Best Shot scene modes (OK, just 38, but that's still a ridiculous amount), high-speed shutter continuous shooting, and 720p HD movie capture at 24fps.
... |
| | 6/11/2009 4:10 PM (162d 14h 38m ago) |
| Casio's EXILIM EX-H10 ultra-compact gets 12.1 megapixels 10x closer |
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Casio's just pushed another 10x zoom compact camera into the market with its EXILIM EX-H10. Here we've got a 24-mm wide-angle lens stabilized by a 12.1 megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD-shift sensor with up to ISO 3200 sensitivity, a 3-inch LCD, and the ability to grab Motion-JPEG video at 720/24p. EXILIM 4.0 image processing and a 10 frames per second burst mode for 1,280 x 960 pixel images too in a point-and-shoot measuring just 102.5 x 24.3 x 62-mm. Watch for it to hit Japanese retailers first starting next month for ¥40,000 (about $400). Pink rear-end after the break.Continue reading Casio's EXILIM EX-H10 ultra-compact gets 12.1 megapixels 10x closerFiled under: Digital CamerasCasio's EXILIM EX-H10 ultra-compact gets 12.1 megapixels 10x closer originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 6/11/2009 3:52 PM (162d 14h 57m ago) |
| Jazz up your shower curtains with custom photos |
| | (Credit: Photo Shower Curtain)
Here's a new way to exhibit your photos, if not yourself in the buff. Photo Shower Curtain has a service that prints pictures onto shower curtains that you can hang in your bathroom. If you're wondering whether the ink will fade after a hot ... |
| | 6/03/2009 4:33 PM (170d 14h 15m ago) |
| Sony Cyber-shot W180 and W190 cameras feature awesome digital zooms |
| |
Sony just announced a pair of Cyber-shot cameras in Europe. Both offer Sony's smile shutter technology, 3x zoom stabilized with SteadyShot, 2.7-inch LCD, a claimed ISO 3200 sensitivity, and 7 automatic scene selection modes. The W180, though, has a 10.1 megapixel sensor to the 12.1 megapixels of the W190 (pictured). Oddly, Sony's pushing the 17x/18x digital zoom capabilities on these -- something we haven't seen hyped for a few years:Pristine picture quality is further enhanced by the high-quality 3x optical zoom lens. Smart zoom boosts maximum magnification to a frame-filling 18x for W190 and 17x for W180 for even more dramatic close-ups. In other words, these cams are targeting entry-level consumers prone to enjoying a Big Mac and tattle-rag while shopping instead of doing any real pre-purchase research. Available starting July in silver, black, and red for "an outstanding value." Backside front, after the break.Continue reading Sony Cyber-shot W180 and W190 cameras feature awesome digital zoomsFiled under: Digital CamerasSony Cyber-shot W180 and W190 cameras feature awesome digital zooms originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 May 2009 03:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/28/2009 4:05 PM (176d 14h 43m ago) |
| Latest cameras that do HD video |
| | (Credit: Kodak)
I still remember a conversation I had a couple years ago with a digital camera product manager about movie recording in his company's cameras and why it was limited to clips only 30 seconds long. His response was "our research tells us consumers don't use the movie mode or don't even know it's on their camera so it's really not a concern for us." YouTube and other video-sharing sites weren't exactly a secret at that time so the answer--regardless of research--seemed pretty off to me.
Since then, camera makers have been steadily rolling out improvements to movie recording. The main thing they've gone after--no surprise--is resolution. Slapping "HD" on a camera is the video equivalent of megapixels. Put "full HD" on a model and you'll really grab some attention. Squeeze an HDMI jack on the camera and you're in even better shape to sell some units to consumers interested in getting one product that takes good photos and videos and can play them back instantly on an HDTV.
One of the biggest missteps in this quest for the perfect movie mode, however, seems to be whether you get use of the optical zoom while recording. Kodak was one of the first, if not the first to add HD capabilities to its cameras. Its longest megazoom, the EasyShare Z980, is currently under review and like most of its other cameras features HD-quality movie capture with full use of its 24x zoom lens.
So, is a good movie mode crucial to a purchase decision these days or is it just one more thing manufacturers can slap on the box to up-sell you?
See the latest reviews of digital cameras in all types and sizes that capture HD video after the break.
... |
| | 5/22/2009 8:33 PM (182d 10h 16m ago) |
| Eye-Fi's 4GB WiFi Video cards now with more options for Internet regret |
| |
You know that video mode you haven't used since first bought your compact point and shoot? Right, the one that does 720p HD video if you've purchased a camera within the last 6 months? Well, Eye-Fi's back to remind you that it's now selling its $99 Eye-Fi Explore Video (with geotagging) and $79 Eye-Fi Share Video SDHC cards nationwide. They've also enabled video sharing with Picasa, Photobucket, and SmugMug in addition to Flickr and YouTube. The result is dead-simple, un-edited direct-to-internet video sharing without the need for a tethered computer. Of course, these cards work equally well for dumping your films and photos over WiFi to your Mac or PC at home -- but why live your life in a bubble?Filed under: Digital Cameras, Wireless, StorageEye-Fi's 4GB WiFi Video cards now with more options for Internet regret originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 May 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/05/2009 3:38 PM (199d 15h 11m ago) |
| Ritz Camera store liquidations start Saturday |
| | In case some of you missed this Thursday, Ritz Camera--and by association Wolf and Kits Camera among others--is shutting down more than 300 stores around the U.S. as part of a court-supervised bankruptcy reorganization. This of course means stock liquidation sales, which will begin Saturday, April 4.
As ... |
| | 4/20/2009 9:20 PM (214d 9h 29m ago) |
| Panasonic expands Lumix FS line: DMC-FS12, DMC-FS62 and DMC-FS42 |
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We tell ya, that Panasonic FS line sure knows how to expand. Just months after we saw a few more added to the mix, the point-and-shoot Lumix family is growing yet again with three new members. Kicking things off is the 12.1 megapixel DMC-FS12, which boasts a 4x optical zoom, optical image stabilization, 2.7-inch LCD, a WVGA (848 x 480) movie mode and digital red-eye correction. The 10.1 megapixel DMC-FS62 packs most of the same features, though it does step down to a 2.5-inch LCD. Finishing up the trio is the DMC-FS42, a 10.1 megapixel shooter that does most everything the FS62 does save for the omission of optical image stabilization and a few other minor exclusions. The whole lot is expected to arrive soon in a variety of hues, though precise pricing and availability details are still missing.Gallery: Panasonic expands Lumix FS line: DMC-FS12, DMC-FS62 and DMC-FS42Filed under: Digital CamerasPanasonic expands Lumix FS line: DMC-FS12, DMC-FS62 and DMC-FS42 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/18/2009 1:09 AM (217d 5h 40m ago) |
| Eye-Fi's 4GB WiFi SDHC cards start to ship out |
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Nah, Eye-Fi's latest Secure Digital cards still aren't nearly as capacious (nor as cheap) as other alternatives on the market, but good luck getting that free-after-rebate 8GB SDHC card from IAWANNA Corp. to upload images via a wireless hotspot. We pinged the company today to see if the company's 4GB Explore Video and Share Video SDHC models were shipping out, and we were informed that orders placed over the web were indeed leaving the docks. If you're not kosher with handing $99.99 or $79.99 (respectively) over through the intertubes, both devices will splash down in stores starting on April 19th.Filed under: Digital Cameras, Wireless, StorageEye-Fi's 4GB WiFi SDHC cards start to ship out originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 07:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/09/2009 4:47 PM (225d 14h 1m ago) |
| Ritz Camera store liquidations start Saturday |
| | In case some of you missed this Thursday, Ritz Camera--and by association Wolf and Kits Camera among others--is shutting down more than 300 stores around the U.S. as part of a court-supervised bankruptcy reorganization. This of course means stock liquidation sales, which will begin Saturday, April 4.
As ... |
| | 4/07/2009 5:00 PM (227d 13h 48m ago) |
| Electronics innovation on track, despite the recession? |
| | The Wall Street Journal is out this morning with an analysis showing that, as major U.S. companies are cutting jobs and wages, many (including many consumer electronics companies) are still spending on innovation. Big U.S. companies spent nearly as much on research and development in the dismal last quarter of 2008 as they did a year earlier, even as their revenue fell 7.7%, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis. (Registration and a subscription is required to read the Wall Street Journal article online.) The sampling looked at 28 of the largest U.S. R&D spenders, excluding deeply troubled auto makers and the drug industry, where R&D spending is dictated by government requirements. The takeaway: On the one hand, the study suggests the flow of innovative new electronics products may not diminished by the recession as much as feared back in January, when electronics editor Paul Reynolds posted that "it's hard to imagine that the many job cuts announced by electronics sector, and the rumors of more to come from the likes of Sony, won't in some way affect development of new products." The WSJ analysis, which begins on page one of today's paper and turns to a full inside page, points out that many companies have “learned from past downturns that they must invest through tough times if they hope to compete when the economy improves.” It includes a cautionary comparison from the last major recession, when Apple boosted R&D spending even as their sales dropped while Motorola cut theirs by 13 per cent. The result: Apple launched the first iPods in the midst of the recession, and later saw its sales soar, while Motorola lost ground in developing sequel products to its hit RAZR cellphone, eventually losing ground. However, the piece also cautions that "the robust R&D spending may be temporary," and may in part reflect how long it can take to cut corporate budgets, including those for innovation. Also, the WSJ notes that some R&D is being retooled to deliver safer, short-term... |
| | 4/06/2009 4:03 PM (228d 14h 46m ago) |
| Panasonic DMC-GH1 Micro Four Thirds shooter with 1080p video landing April 24th |
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While we patiently wait for the Micro Four Thirds format DMC-GH1 with 1080p video to pop for purchase, we have to feed on whatever retail crumbs we can grub off Panasonic. As usual, our Japanese camera overlords will have first dibs on this ¥150,000 (less than $1,500 when it arrives Stateside) bundle that includes a 14-140mm lens starting April 24th. Think about it; we've gone from zero to four HD-capable video DSLRs in six months. Ok, ok, three-plus actually, since Micro Four Thirds cams are technically not DSLRs due to the lack of an internal mirror and prism -- just humor us with with GH1's interchangeable lens mount, DSLR-sized sensor, and bevy of manual controls ok? Geesh.[Via PC World],Filed under: Digital CamerasPanasonic DMC-GH1 Micro Four Thirds shooter with 1080p video landing April 24th originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 3/27/2009 3:54 PM (238d 14h 54m ago) |
| PMA 2009's photo finish |
| | (Credit: Matthew Fitzgerald/CNET)
For what it's worth, the consensus about the 2009 Photo Marketing Association show seems to be that it wasn't as bad as everyone expected. The mood was low-key, many of the booths were half empty, and several manufacturers were notably absent--like Adobe and Epson--while others only had meeting rooms.
Nonetheless, several announcements managed to generate some buzz, and most of the manufacturers I spoke with agreed that their business-to-business business at the show was quite productive. Despite the economy, tons of new products debuted, partly because planning takes place 6 to 12 months out. So it's likely that the first real signs of contraction will appear with the fall product lines. And, in fact, at least one manufacturer has already changed its dSLR release plans in preparation for tough times.
A random walk through PMA
The biggest hits of the show seemed to be Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-HX1, a CMOS-based megazoom with a novel shooting mode that creates panoramas on the fly as you pan across the scene, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1, a video-capture enabled version of its interchangeable-lens G1. What has everyone excited about the camera is how much control you have over depth of field when... |
| | 3/10/2009 9:42 PM (255d 9h 6m ago) |
| Eye-Fi releases two SD cards, iPhone app |
| | Eye-Fi, maker of memory cards that can automatically upload photos and video to the Web, announced Tuesday its two new video-uploading SD memory cards called Eye-Fi Share Video and Eye-Fi Explore Video.
(Credit: Eye-Fi)
These two 4GB cards are capable of uploading photos and video clips to more than 20 ... |
| | 3/04/2009 5:38 PM (261d 13h 10m ago) |
| Eye-Fi's Wi-Fi no longer video shy |
| | (Credit: Eye-Fi)
Eye-Fi's now ready to unleash its next generation of Wi-Fi SD cards on the point-and-shooting public. The Eye-Fi Share Video and Eye-Fi Explore Video cards, first announced at CES, extend the capabilities of their predecessors to support uploading video directly to YouTube and Flickr via Wi-Fi.
While ... |
| | 3/03/2009 5:07 PM (262d 13h 41m ago) |
| High-end ideas reshape compact-camera market |
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Compact-camera manufacturers have begun testing the waters with a wealth of high-end features as they search for new ways to gain revenue, market share, and recognition.
In earlier digital photography days, a camera with an extra megapixel of resolution, face recognition, or image stabilization could stand apart from the herd. But now that herd has grown larger, most folks who'll buy a digital camera already have done so, the economy has put consumer spending on ice--and camera makers are making some bolder bets with high-end features.
Among them: Nikon's built-in GPS support to record where a photo was taken, Casio's high-speed video, and the Micro Four Thirds camera system from Panasonic and Olympus.
Photos: Compact cameras race ahead of the pack
View the full gallery
Premium features aren't an easy sell. They tend to appeal to market niches rather than the mainstream. Early implementations are often rough around the edges. And it's hard enough to convince people to buy a new camera, much less one with the higher price of premium features.
But winning those customers can have a good payoff with better profit margins. And that's critical in this day and age. Market research firm IDC expects that after years of growth, the shipments of digital cameras will decline in 2009.
"It's crowded, and it's getting crowdeder," IDC analyst Ron Glaz said of the digital camera market. "We're anticipating that with the slowdown in economy and disposable income, we'll start seeing consolidation of the vendors." In other words, even though something in the neighborhood... |
| | 2/13/2009 4:30 PM (280d 14h 19m ago) |
| Better JPEG standard due in 2009 |
| | digg_url = 'http://digg.com/tech_news/Better_JPEG_standard_due_in_2009';
JPEG XR, an image format created by Microsoft that promises a number of advantages over JPEG, has cleared a key standardization hurdle.
The Joint Photographic Experts Group, which standardized the original and still ubiquitous JPEG format, sent JPEG XR to the "final phases of ... Originally posted at Underexposed |
| | 2/10/2009 5:35 PM (283d 13h 13m ago) |
| Panasonic FX48 camera both wide and slim |
| | (Credit: Panasonic)
Coming to a store near you (or possibly far if you shop online) in April is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX48, an ultracompact camera with a wide-angle 5x f2.8-5.9 25-125mm-equivalent lens. The 12.1-megapixel camera also has the company's Mega O.I.S. optical image stabilization ... |
| | 1/30/2009 4:41 PM (294d 14h 7m ago) |
| Panasonic touch-screen camera gets megapixel bump |
| | (Credit: Panasonic)
The new Lumix DMC-FX580 is a lot like the FX48 (that Panasonic also announced Tuesday). Both are 12.1-megapixel cameras (up from the previous gen's 10.1 megapixels) with a wide-angle 5x f2.8-5.9 25-125mm-equivalent lens with optical-image stabilization. Many other features are the same, too. ... |
| | 1/30/2009 4:41 PM (294d 14h 7m ago) |
| Thin body, wide lens, big screen: the Panasonic Lumix FS25 |
| | (Credit: Panasonic)
For the reasonably low price of $249.95 this April, Panasonic will be offering up a 12.1-megapixel ultracompact camera with a 5x f3.3-5.9 29-145mm-equivalent lens, a large, 3.0-inch LCD that automatically adjusts to lighting conditions, and optical image stabilization.
Dubbed the Lumix DMC-FS25, it'... |
| | 1/30/2009 4:40 PM (294d 14h 9m ago) |
| Digital photography's missing manual |
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New York Times tech columnist and camera critic David Pogue attempts to take the mystery out of digital photography in O'Reilly Media's new release, David Pogue's Digital Photography: The Missing Manual.
In fairly concise, jargon-free terms, Pogue works to explain shooting, editing, and organizing pictures, and distributing ... |
| | 1/30/2009 4:39 PM (294d 14h 10m ago) |
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| Sony's T900 is very good except when it's not |
| | (Credit: Sony)
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T900 is one of those cameras that you pay more for because of its coolness. A camera so small you'll likely forget it's in your pocket, yet it has all the latest "auto" features Sony has in its point-and-shoot arsenal, a 12-megapixel resolution, ... |
| | 6/12/2009 3:34 PM (161d 15h 14m ago) |
| Ask Engadget: Best small camera (with good video) under $600? |
| | We know, you were hoping to just glance over today's hottest articles in the world of consumer electronics, and along comes this: something that actually asks a little of you. Trust us, it'll be alright, and hey -- after you've replied, you can send in a question of your own to ask at engadget dawt com. "The family and I are headed to Walt Disney World in June for the first time. I have a Canon Digital Rebel and a Canon GL1, but really do not want to haul either or both of them to the Magic Kingdom with us. So, the question is: what is the best camera that does great stills and video and is super small? Under 600 bones preferably. Thanks!" No Rich, thank you for making us all envious. Be sure to take the advice that'll surely flow in comments below and send us picture postcards while waiting in line to ride the Tower of Terror for the fourty-third time. (Seriously, do not miss Tower of Terror.)Filed under: Ask Engadget, Digital CamerasAsk Engadget: Best small camera (with good video) under $600? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 May 2009 00:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 5/08/2009 3:11 PM (196d 15h 38m ago) |
| Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 gets unboxed, takes some test shots |
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Wow, it's been a great day for camera nerds -- the Nikon D5000 got a ship date, the Canon Rebel T1i started arriving in stores, and now the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1's been unboxed. That's a hat trick of hotly-anticipated DSLRs* right there, and the GH1 might be the most anticipated of the bunch. Sadly for would-be importers, the Japanese version here can't be set to display English menus, but we can still gawk at the pretty pictures, including an amazing shot of the lens cap entitled "The Engadget Product Photo Effect." Hit the read link for the full set, including some test shots. *Yes, we know GH1's not technically a DSLR -- what would you call it? [Thanks, Guillermo]Filed under: Digital CamerasPanasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 gets unboxed, takes some test shots originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
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| | 4/26/2009 4:30 PM (208d 14h 18m ago) |
| Tests show ups and downs of Four Thirds cameras |
| | Panasonic's DMC-G1(Credit: Panasonic)
DxO Labs on Tuesday released new sensor test results for three cameras--Panasonic's $670 G1 and Olympus' $540 E-520 and $450 E-410--that show both the advantages and disadvantages of the Four Thirds standards the companies use.
The Four Thirds system governs image sensor sizes and the mounting mechanism for interchangeable lenses on the companies' SLR cameras, and the companies announced a new variation called Micro Four Thirds for smaller cameras that have SLRs' interchangeable lenses but not SLRs' "reflex" mirror, which directs light through an optical viewfinder before a shot is taken.
Four Thirds SLRs have a smaller sensor than lower-end SLRs from market leaders Nikon and Canon, which poses image quality challenges because there's less surface area to gather light. However, the sensor size is the same for Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds, which means that cameras using the latter have a much larger sensor than typical compact cameras have.
... Originally posted at Underexposed |
| | 1/30/2009 4:37 PM (294d 14h 11m ago) |
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