SlashGear

PMA isn’t all about hulking DSLRs; there are point-and-shoot offerings too.  One such example is this, the GE G3WP, a 12.2-megapixel snapper whose party trick is being waterproof to depths of 10 feet.

In addition to shrugging off water like a nonchalant seal, the G3WP also has a 4x optical zoom (that looks to be internal), Auto Scene Detection and Pan-Capture Panorama.  The former bypasses a scene mode selection wheel and automatically figures out the best settings to use for each shot, while the latter creates panoramic photos simply by asking you to slowly pan across the scene.  It then intelligently snaps frames and sews them together. 

Previewing and reviewing is done on a 2.7-inch LCD with an ambient light sensor controlling backlight brightness, and the GE G3WP supports up to ISO 3200.  No word on pricing or availability.

Press Release:

Waterproof GE G3WP Camera Makes Big Splash

TORRANCE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–General Imaging invites you to dive right in and start snapping. The company has just released a new camera that loves the water.

General Imaging, the worldwide exclusive licensee for GE digital cameras, has launched its first-ever waterproof model, the G3WP.

GE cameras have always been a great fit for active lifestyles, but the fun new G3WP takes things to new depths. Waterproof to 10 feet, the G3WP is perfect for backyard pool parties or weekends at the lake. Rain in the forecast? No problem – take the G3WP with you. The camera is specially designed to keep moisture out.

“We’re very excited about this camera, because it opens up a whole new range of activities our customers can capture and preserve,” said Tom Haga, CEO of General Imaging. “Whether you’re going swimming or taking a walk in the rain, the G3WP is the perfect camera.”

The G3WP – part of the 2009 lineup of GE digital cameras – features a massive 12.2 megapixels of resolution, 4x optical zoom, and a 2.7-inch LCD screen that automatically adjusts to changes in ambient light.

As with the other cameras in the 2009 lineup, the G3WP offers Auto Scene Detection and Pan-Capture Panorama among its many advanced features. Auto Scene Detection automatically determines the appropriate scene type and optimizes exposure for sharp, vibrant pictures. Pan-Capture Panorama lets the user pan the camera across the scene while the engine automatically captures, determines overlap, and stitches the frames into a single panoramic picture.