And that’s just the beginning of the specs. Let’s look at each of them individually. So going back to the SZ-31MR, it has a 16-megapixel sensor and an eye-popping 24x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Lens. It also packs in a Multi-Recording feature that allows users to take photos and video simultaneously. There’s functionality for movie and image stabilization, and it offers full HD video and HDMI control for 1080p playback. It will be available in April for around $400.

For the TG-820 iHS (pictured), it’s all about durability. Olympus promises that it sets a new benchmark for “Waterproof, Shockproof, Freezeproof, Crushproof and Dustproof performance.” The 12-megapixel sensor and TruePic VI image processor, originally developed for DSLRs, offer fantastic image quality. That’s good to know if you ever need a crystal clear shot while 220 pounds of weight are being applied to your camera. Yep, it can withstand 220 pounds of force. This one will be available in March for around $300.

And finally the E-M5 is the first of a new series for Olympus, the OM-D brand designed to meet the needs of advanced photographers. The device has a 16.1-megapixel sensor, the world’s fastest autofocusing system, the world’s first 5-axis image stabilizer, and a touch-screen OLED display. This high-end camera will sell in April for between $1,000 and $1,300.

Beyond the massive sensor resolution and full frame, the Nikon D800 also offers superior video quality, up to 1080p/30/25/24 with the option of shooting at 720p/60/30/25/24. Footage can be stored on both CF and SD cards as both slots are provided. Autofocus is expected to be identical to the D700 and D3, which means a 51-point AF with 3D Focus Tracking.

The Nikon D800 will begin shipping a few weeks after it’s announced on February 7. Also gearing up for an unveiling are Nikon’s new Coolpix cameras, which will be announced on February 2. The Nikon D4 will and two new DX lenses will likely be introduced later on in February or March.

“At the same time as we have created our digital business, we have also already effectively exited certain traditional operations, closing 13 manufacturing plants and 130 processing labs, and reducing our workforce by 47,000 since 2003. Now we must complete the transformation by further addressing our cost structure and effectively monetizing non-core IP assets. We look forward to working with our stakeholders to emerge a lean, world-class, digital imaging and materials science company” Antonio M. Perez, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kodak

In the meantime, Kodak has managed to organize $950m of debtor-in-possession credit, with Citigroup stepping in with an 18-month deal. The company will use that money to settle its old debts and restructure moving forward.

In the meantime, Kodak will continue to sell its existing range, honor warranties and refunds, and work with suppliers.

Kodak has set up a specific site discussing the Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, Kodak Transforms, to explain what customers, investors and partners might need to know about the process. Yesterday, the company began what now appears to have been the first step in clawing back cash: suing Samsung over digital imaging patents.

The five patents named in the lawsuit include US Patent No. 6,292,218, US Patent No. 7,210,161, US Patent No. 7,742,084, US Patent No. 7453,605, and US Patent No. 7,936,391. All of which involve the capturing of digital images and transferring of the images over a cellular or wireless network. It’s not clear, however, which Samsung devices are specifically being singled out.

The iconic photography brand is rumored to be on the verge of bankruptcy. It has been attempting to sell off its patent trove to raise enough cash to stay afloat and to transition into a printer company. It’s recent lawsuits appear to be part of its patent marketing efforts to show that it still has some useful IP in its portfolio.

[via Forbes]

In “normal” mode, the Nikon1Dx rapid-fire shutter sounds rather similar to my 1D Mark IV. It’s loud and intriguing while the Canon 1Dx is slightly toned down from its predecessor. With pictures captured in largest jpeg format, we were told the Canon tipped 412 images before hitting the buffer while Nikon managed just half of that.

Nikon D4 D-SLR

Canon 1DX D-SLR

We aren’t certain of the buffer pipeline, and the factor of CF, as both storage compartments are locked and sealed. The reps have no knowledge of what cards are being used for the demo, but with a Dual Digic 5 image processor dedicated for image processing and a Digic 4 for AF and metering as opposed to a single EXPEED 3, despite higher pixel count, the 1Dx is clearly a winner here.

The new cameras will certainly be the benchmark for London 2012 Summer Olympics sport photographers.

The lawsuit claims that Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod as well as HTC’s smartphones and tablets use image transmission technology that infringe on Kodak’s patents, which it has already licensed to over 30 companies, including Samsung, LG, Motorola, and Nokia. It claims to have had numerous discussions with Apple and HTC on the matter but was unable to reach a satisfactory agreement.

The company is requesting the ITC to ban the importation of the infringing Apple and HTC devices, but says that its primary interest is not in disrupting the product flow but to obtain fair compensation. With rumors that Kodak is heading into bankruptcy and attempting to sell its patent trove to stay afloat, this could be a last-ditch effort to market its intellectual property.

[via Cult of Mac]

Practically all of the settings for previous G series cameras are still available on the G1 X, so those looking to upgrade shouldn’t be too unfamiliar with it. But the only real reason to upgrade would be for the 4x optical zoom and the wide-angle 28mm lens. And of course, the improved sensor.

It’s hard to get past the $800 price tag, but it offers a pivotable viewing touchscreen that many other cameras lack. It takes full HD 1080p video and has a built in face detection system. The shooter should be available in February, and an exact date hasn’t quite been announced.

The WB850F (pictured above) is a world-class travel camera boasting a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, 21x zoom, and Full HD 1080p video capture, while the WB150F features a 14.1-megapixel sensor and 18x zoom. The ST200F has a 16-megapixel sensor, 10x zoom, and is extremely compact and pocketable.

The DV300F is Samsung’s new DualView offering that features a 1.5-inch front-facing LCD viewer, perfect for self-portraits. And for the line-up’s camcorders, there’s the compact QF20 that features a swivel viewer and Full HD 1080p video recording.

Images and video captured can be directly uploaded from the cameras to Facebook, Picasa, or Photobucket through Samsung’s Social Sharing feature. The images can also be saved to Samsung’s free AllShare Play cloud storage or Microsoft’s SkyDrive as well as emailed to family and friends using the camera’s onscreen keyboard to type in messages.

Additional features include Samsung’s Remote Viewfinder that lets your remotely compose a shot via a connected smartphone. Photos on the cameras can also be automatically backed up directly to your home PC. Pricing and availability for the new lineup have not been announced yet.

This new line of models are being pumped up to a 20 percent improvement over the last set of Canon video cameras in the low-light department with Canon’s own HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor. They’ve all got improvements over the past set in more than one category, each having the ability to export content directly to a hard-drive with no additional computer in-between, and the select models have the ability to work with Relay Recording which brings you seamless uninterrupted video recording, non stop, from one memory source to another and to another. Each has built-in memory features such as HD-to-SD Downconversion, this creating two files for you, one in the original HD and another moved down to a smaller format for easier transfer and upload.

VIXIA HF M-series

Each of the new line is 15 percent smaller than the 2011 models, is able to record in full HD 1920 x 1080, and has a Genuine Canon 10x HD video lens. Each of the three models has a flat touch 3.0-inch panel LCD screen, and both the VIXIA HF M52 and VIXIA HF M50 have a lovely 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory. All three, the VIXIA HF M52, VIXIA HF M50 and VIXIA HF M500 will be available in March for prices of $749.99, $649.99 and $549.99, respectively.

VIXIA HF R-series

For the VIXIA HF R32, VIXIA HF R30 and VIXIA HF R300, you’ve got a set of budget models that are still able to record in Full HD 1920 x 1080 and are 21 percent smaller than their R-Series predecessors. Their “Genuine Canon HD Video Lens” allows for 51x Advanced Zoom, they’ve each 3.0-inch full-flat Touch Panel LCD screens, and all have a 3.28-megapixel Canon Full HD CMOS Image Sensor. Both the R32 and the R30 record to 32GB and 8GB of internal storage respectively, while the R300 is able to record directly to its SDXC-compatible slot for memory cards. All three of these models will be available in March, the R32 for $549.99, the R30 for $449.99, and the R300 for $349.99. Great deals to be had!

Also note that they look relatively similar, images of the M52 and M32 below:

Specs on the Nikon D4 leaked back in December, revealing that the new full-framed DSLR will feature a 16.2 megapixel sensor, 11fps shooting, and 102,400 native ISO, expandable to 50 and 204,800. The camera will get new storage capability with a CF card slot and a XQD memory card slot. These details aren’t confirmed, but we certainly won’t have to wait long to find out.

The event for this Friday, January 6, in Hong Kong is limited to the press with an actual public viewing likely to happen later. For folks in the US, an official press release with all the details should hit by midnight EST on January 5. The new products introduced at this event could start shipping in about 30 days after the announcement.

Olympus confirmed the $1.1bn hit in its financial reports today, re-filing five years of results with what the company says is the correct set of figures versus the falsified numbers inserted by previous execs. There’s now just 46 billion yen ($589m) in Olympus’ bank account, and Japanese analysts believe the firm is ripe for takeover.

Still, Fujifilm is keeping coy on the speculation. CEO Shigetaka Komori told reporters last month that it was “too early to discuss Olympus issues” during the period where the third-party panel put together to look into the company’s business affairs was still investigating the fraud.

There’s a redesigned grip and casing, with improved texture for easier grip, while Panasonic is also pretty proud of its customization options, including two user-configurable settings options on the mode dial, two buttons and two menu tabs that can be preset to each photographer’s most commonly used features. 12800 ISO and touch-autofocus is supported, along with the ability of the camera to reconfigure a focus-lock if the subject moves while the shutter release is half depressed.

A built-in flash is present and an optional external viewfinder supported – the tilt-shift Live View Finder DMW-LVF2, (approximately 1.4x and 1,440,000-dot equivalent, 100-percent field of view) - while a dust removal system promises to keep your lens clean. An integrated level and 11-percent longer battery life than the LUMIX G3 round out the key specs.

Both black and silver versions of the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GX1 will go up for grabs in mid-December, with the body-only option priced at $699.99. There’ll also be a range of kits, including the DMC-GX1-X with the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S (H-PS14042) lens for $949.99, while the DMC-GX1-K with the 14-42 standard zoom will be $799.99.

That potentially makes the new LUMIX interesting even to those who aren’t really bothered by 3D stills or video. We’ve seen other cameras and camcorders capable of snapping still shots while video recording is taking place, but the still images are generally lower resolution than normal and are reliant on the same zoom/focus/exposure/etc settings of the video recording. By fitting two completely separate sensors, however, Panasonic has made it possible for independent settings for photo and video.

A dedicated 2D/3D switch on the back toggles between the modes, and there’s Panasonic’s quad-CPU Venus Engine for intelligent noise reduction and other post-processing. Continuous shooting can take place at up to 8 fps (without auto-focus) or 4 fps (with auto focus) in full resolution.  Both AVCHD and MP4 video formats are supported, with primary control via a 3.5-inch touchscreen.

Panasonic expects the LUMIX DMC-3D1 to go on sale in December, priced at $499.99.

Sony has a new tiny screen that will be used inside some of its cameras like the NEX series and possibly inside DSLR cameras. The tiny little OLED screen is only 0.7-inches wide and is called the ECX322A. The coolest part about the screen is the serious resolution it offers with 1280 x 720 allowing the viewfinder to offer 720p HD resolution.

The little screen offers 87% of the NSTC color gamut and has a 0.01ms response time and 200 cd/m2 brightness. The new display uses the same OLED and color filter architecture that Sony has been using in the older and lower res half-inch XGA ECX331A display already in its DSLR and NEX line.

[via OLED-info]

The biggest change for usability is a new menu system that makes the settings plain language rather than numerical. That means you can change settings on the fly much more easily. The new camera gets an 11MP image sensor, 2x sharper glass lens, a 3.5mm stereo external mic input, and a mini HDMI port. The image processor inside the camera is also 2x faster and it has an integrated battery warmer for longer life in cold temperatures. The camera also has improved professional level low light performance and can take 10 11MP images in a burst with a photo ever 0.5 seconds in timelapse mode.

The cam has more modes with Full 170-degree, Medium 127-degree, Narrow 90-degree FOV in 1080p and 720p Video. That means you can take video in more resolutions without the fisheye effect many find annoying. The camera also offers 120 fps recording in WVGA, 60 fps in 720p, and 48fps in 960p, with 1080p only getting 30fps. The camera is compatible with all existing accessories and supports Wi-Fi video and photo preview via the GoPro app. The camera comes in HD Hero2 Outdoor edition, HD Hero2 Motorsports Edition, and HD Hero2 Surf edition versions at $299.99 each. The original camera now sells for $199.99 to $239.99 depending on the version.

Rather than just an auto-settings mode, Smart Photo Selector couples that with capturing multiple versions of the same frame, allowing different configurations to be tested and the best shot identified. The 1 Series cameras will automatically pick out whichever shot they believe is the best, but the user can also pick from a choice of five frames:

“When a “can’t miss” photo opportunity arises, users can switch to the Smart Photo Selector mode which uses the camera’s pre-cache to start shooting and storing images. All of these images are analyzed within the camera, and the best photo is selected based on a number of factors including exposure, focus and advanced facial recognition. While the camera suggests the best image, five frames are recorded, providing the user a choice of their favorite photo” Nikon PR

Questioned as to whether Nikon worried about Canon’s potential plans for a mirrorless camera range of its own, Kusakari said the company “do not fear it.” Earlier this year, Canon’s European head of consumer imaging argued that mirrorless cameras were what companies turned to when their DSLR ranges failed, though refused to deny long-standing rumors that Canon had a compact interchangeable lens model on the roadmap.

The Nikon J1 is the most affordable option, priced from $649.95 with a 10-30mm lens kit. It has a 73-point AF system that switches between phase and contrast AF depending on which will give the best results, 10fps continuous shooting with AF or up to 60fps with AF locked. It also debuts Nikon’s Motion Snapshot system, which “unites a frozen still image with a slow-motion movement set to a built-in audio soundtrack to create a portrayal of an occurrence with maximum impact.” On the back there’s a new ‘F’ button to call up all the settings of the current mode, along with a 3-inch LCD display, and there’s a pop-up flash too.

The Nikon V1, meanwhile, will be $899.95 with the same 10-30mm lens kit, but adds a 1.4m dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a mechanical shutter button. There’s also a Multi-Accessory Port for attaching accessories – Nikon namechecks the SB-N5 compact speedlight and the GP-N100 GPS module – while a stereo input can be used to boost audio quality when filming movie clips.

As for the lenses, the standard model is the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (27-81mm 35mm equivalent). Nikon will also offer the NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 lens (81-297mm equivalent) and the 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 pancake lens (27mm equivalent). The 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 (27-270mm equivalent) power zoom is targeted at those filming videos, and is Nikon’s first powered zoom. There’s also the FT-1 F-mount adaptor for legacy NIKKOR lenses in the pipeline, though the company hasn’t said when it will be released.

Both cameras will go on sale in the US on October 20.

Alternatively, if you prefer quality not frame rate quantity, there’ll apparently be up to Full HD capture too. Nikon’s EXPEED 3 processor is expected to be onboard, along with an F-mount adapter and both phase and contrast autofocus detection. Both will have a 2.7x crop factor in addition to what tipsters have suggested will be “innovations not yet seen in any other cameras.”

The V1 and J1 will be broadly identical, though the J1 will offer an integrated flash while the V1 will swap that for a built-in high-resolution EVF (electronic viewfinder) along with a multifunction accessory port for hooking up an external flash or GPS dongle. Neither model will have a traditional flash hot-shoe, however.

Apparently four lenses will be offered initially, ranging from a 10mm f/2.8 pancake, thoguh a 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens, a 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 VR and finally a 30-110mm VR. Minor aesthetic details will distinguish between each camera, and Nikon will supposedly be pushing the J1 at least in a variety of colors.

[via Twitter]

The DIGIC 5 image processor in combination with the HS System’s high-sensitivity image sensor, means users will be able to capture more brilliant images and videos even in low-light conditions. The High-speed burst lets users capture up to eight frames in one snap, and the Intelligent IS or Image Stabilization reduces blur. And lastly, full HD means that the two new cameras can now capture video in 1080p.

The PowerShot S100 features all of the above and offers a 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor. It has a 24-120mm wide angle lens with 5x optical zoom, a 3-inch wide LCD screen, and GPS capabilities for EXIF image data. Its f/2.0 lens along with an ISO of up to 6400 allow for great low-light performance and pleasant bokeh. The S100 is super compact and comes in two colors of black or silver.

The PowerShot SX40 HS also features the above upgrades along with a 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor, but packs 35x optical zoom. It has a 24mm-840mm lens, an ISO of up to 3200, a 2.7-inch wide swivel LCD, and takes on a larger DSLR-like form factor.

Both cameras are priced at $429.99 with the more compact S100 to be available in November and the larger SX40 HS to be available in late September. For more details, visit the Canon product page.

Besides the amazing 18x optical zoom, the Optio RZ18 also features a 16-megapixel sensor and multiple Pentax Shake Reduction image stabilization technologies, including sensor-shift SR for sharp images even when there’s less light. It has a 3-inch LCD display with HVGA resolution and a 9-point autofocus with a 4cm super macro mode.

Additionally, the Optio RZ18 features several shooting modes and scene modes as well as special effects filters and face detection. The camera is also capable of capturing widescreen 720p HD video at 30fps. Priced at $299.95, the Optio RZ18 is set to launch in October.

[via Marketwatch]

The AW100 is the first rugged Nikon point and shoot. It’s waterproof, freeze proof, and shockproof with a 16MP backside illuminated CMOS sensor and 1080p video capture. The camera will ship in September for $379.95. The S1200pj has a little projector built-in that has 20 lumens of brightness and it will work with the iPhone and other iOS devices. It has a 14.1MP resolution, 5x optical zoom, and records 720p movies. The rear LCD is 3-inches and it will ship in September for $429.95.

The S8200 is a 16.1MP camera with a 3-inch screen and 14x optical zoom. It records 1080p video and has continuous burst shooting at 6fps. Shipping is set for next month for $329.95. The S6200 will sport 16MP, 10x optical zoom, 720p video recording, and a 2.7-inch screen. Shipping is next month for $229.95. The S100 is a 3.5-inch screen smartphone with 16MP and 5x optical zoom with 1080p recording and will ship in September as well for $299.95.

What she needs is a real digital camera that can survive drops. A modder has taken a normal digital camera and created just that using the Sugru material to ruggedize the camera. I have never heard of Sugru before, it’s a material that is like modeling clay that won’t slump over and is bouncy because it’s made from silicone.

The builder took the material, molded it into bands that would protect the camera, yet leave controls accessible, and then gave it to a kid. Apparently, the Sugru material is bouncy enough to keep the camera alive if it is dropped. The builder says that the only tricky part is making the Sugru bands for the camera. Check out the finished product in the video below.

[via Instructables]

The GPS does more than just geotag images though; it has a Landmark Navigator feature that will help the photographer find their exact location. The lens is a 15x optical zoom wide-angle that has an intelligent digital zoom mode. The lens is the 35mm equivalent of a 24-360mm lens. The intelligent digital zoom feature promises to boost sharpness when the digital zoom is used for better quality.

The image sensor is a backside illuminated CMOS unit with good low light performance. The camera knows when the subject is moving and will change ISO and settings automatically to reduce blur. The GPS mode shows you where famous landmarks are in relation to the user’s current position. The rear LCD is 3-inches wide.

[via Fujifilm]

Ricoh recently announced it was purchasing Pentax to expand its consumer digital camera business, specifically in the lightweight interchangeable lens camera department. But that doesn’t mean that Ricoh will discontinue its own GXR series cameras, which are preferred by some for the ability to swap out not only the lens but also the camera sensor so that they can better adjust for varying shooting conditions.

The new GXR module is called the A12 and it uses a 12.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with a Leica M mount. It also comes with its own focal plane shutter so that it can be used instead of the camera’s electronic shutter. The module is expected to become available on September 9, priced at $649.

[via Electronista]

The camera has a 16MP image sensor and has an external dial for access to common settings and modes like program, shutter, aperture priority, and manual. The dial also has a spots for two custom modes along with scene modes, and creative control mode. The camera has a dedicated button for recording video and changing to video recording without having to change modes. The G3 has integrated flash and a hotshoe for connecting optional camera flash devices.

Other features of the camera include an eye-level electronic viewfinder with a high resolution 1.44m-dot image that covers 100% of the field of view. The rear LCD on the camera is a touch sensitive 3-inch unit that allows things like touch to focus on an area. The camera has 23 auto focus points and has improved manual focusing compared to the earlier cameras in the G-series. That LCD I mentioned also tilts for aligning shots 180-degrees to the side and 270-degrees up and down. The DMC-G3 will come in black, white, red, white, and brown and will ship in June 11. A kit with the 14-42mm zoom lens will sell for $699.99.

The latest rumor claims that Olympus won’t be buying some of the shelf image sensor for the PEN Pro. Olympus will supposedly be rolling its own sensor. Previously, the Olympus cameras were restrained by an agreement with Panasonic that held them to second-generation sensors for their micro four-thirds line. Apparently, that agreement is over, at least according to the rumor, because Olympus is said to be making its own sensor. This will be the first micro four-thirds sensor designed by Olympus.

The source of the rumor claims that the sensor will be a low megapixel offering with high dynamic range and better image quality than any other current sensor for micro four-thirds offerings. Another interesting tidbit is that the PEN Pro is tipped to have an electronic viewfinder. Wrap those two features together and if the rumors are true the new PEN Pro will be a very interesting digital camera indeed. The camera is still expected to be officially announced in June.

[via 43rumors]

The concept is called the Leica i9 concept and it is from designers Black Design Associates LLC. The company points out that it is in no way affiliated with either Apple or Leica. That would mean this is no official design concept and the product will never come to market. Combing the iPhone with the little camera is weird to me, but I guess with all the apps to help you take better photos by measuring light and other things perhaps this would be useful.

The designers say that the concept has 12.1MP resolution. Strange as it may be, the design certainly looks cool. The retro style of the Leica line is my favorite things about the cameras. The big downside to Leica for many of us is that the cameras are very expensive. Leica was rumored to be moving into the Micro Four Thirds market earlier this year and then the company came back and said the M9 was as small as Leica cameras would get.

[via Black Design]

The camera has a 12.1-megapixel sensor and a 21mm ultra-wide angle lens, and is capable of slow-motion video and 360-degree panoramic stills. However the really interesting aspect is the twisty-flexing design, which allows the 3-inch touchscreen TFT LCD to be rotated 270-degrees and the frame of the camera rotated a full 360-degrees.

Whether that’s enough to justify the $250 price is up to you, but at least you shouldn’t have a problem attracting attention from the people you want to photograph.

Press Release:

New Casio TRYX™ Camera Arrives at Best Buy® Stores Nationwide

Award winning design rethinks the shape of digital cameras

MINNEAPOLIS, MN & DOVER, NJ (April 18, 2011) – Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) and Casio America, Inc. today announced the availability of the Casio TRYX™, the new shape-shifting, high-performance digital camera from Casio. The device comes in black or a white version that is exclusive to Best Buy, and can be purchased at Best Buy stores nationwide and on bestbuy.com for $249.99.

TRYX is an award-winning 12.1 megapixel camera with a sleek, innovative design that allows users to turn, twist, hang and stand the camera to capture images at nearly any angle. Its 21mm ultra-wide angle lens takes slow-motion video and 360-degree panoramic vistas while recognizing moving objects and faces to limit distortion and blurring.

“We’re excited to offer a camera with so many options for easy-to-use customization,” said Lisa Farrell, SVP, general manager portable electronics for Best Buy. “TRYX provides a unique addition to our wide assortment of digital imaging products, and reflects Best Buy’s desire to bring the latest and greatest technology to our customers.”

The partnership with Casio highlights Best Buy’s commitment to supplying a full range of high-quality digital imaging offerings for all its customers, from individuals and families looking to

capture and share memorable moments to industry professionals requiring top performing products and service. The wide assortment of digital imaging products at Best Buy and on bestbuy.com includes camcorders, point-and-shoot cameras, Digital SLRs and a broad array of photography accessories.

“TRYX is more than just a few fun twists and turns. It’s a high-quality camera with innovative features that allow the user to be creative and customize their images instantly,” said Toshi Iguchi, Senior General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Casio America, Inc. “Best Buy is the perfect partner for us because they have a rich history in the digital imaging space and their employees have the expertise and knowhow to help customers discover all that TRYX has to offer.”

For more information about the Casio TRYX and Best Buy’s digital imaging offerings, visit: www.bestbuy.com

These systems are slated to be used for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Police will begin testing them at concerts and football matches soon. Standardly, the system is set to scan faces in crowds up to 50 meters away, but has the capability to recognize faces as far as twelve miles away. Wow. Systems like this will leave it up to the computer to identify perpetrators instead of the officers needing to ask for or call in documentation. This makes it more discreet for law-abiding folks to just enjoy whatever event needs such protection.

What consistently freaks me out about stuff like this is that this is the completely unclassified technology that is being talked about openly in the news. How much more is possible, or already happening? Creepy.

[via The Telegraph]

The X300 will support interchangeable lenses, and its release will apparently be dependent on the sales success of the X100 and X200. Given demand for the former is far outstripping supply at present, it doesn’t seem unlikely that the X200 will be similarly popular.

Todrick claims that Fujifilm “have decided to pursue what they call the serious prosumer market” though it’s worth noting that his suggestions are meeting with no small amount of skepticism among some Fuji-fans.

[via 43Rumors and via DPReview]

It’s also smaller and lighter than the D5000 it replaces, despite borrowing the CMOS sensor from Nikon’s D7000. The standard F-mount means plenty of Nikon lenses to choose from, and it can record video at 24p, 25p or 30p in up to 1080p resolution. Storage is via SD/SDHC/SCXC memory card.

There’s even a quiet shutter release mode, for when you don’t want to scare the children, and HDMI connectivity with support for being remotely-controlled by your TV’s remote. An optional $180 Stereo Microphone ME-1 can be used to reduce autofocus noise during video recording. Pricing will be around $900 for the Nikon D5100 body-only.

Press Release:

Digital-SLR camera Nikon D5100

Horizontal swing out, vari-angle monitor for better viewing, full-HD movie recording function and simple, orthodox operation for capturing the intended photos

TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Nikon D5100, a Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera equipped with a vari-angle monitor, and a CMOS image sensor and the EXPEED 2 image-processing engine that enable high-resolution rendering and rich expression of tones.

The D5100 is a member of the popular D5000 series. The D5000 was the first Nikon digital-SLR camera equipped with the vari-angle monitor that allows users to enjoy flexible shooting from a wide variety of angles. The vari-angle monitor adopted for the D5100 has been enlarged to three inches, and utilizes a side hinge that enables flexible use from more angles with hand-held shooting and when the camera is mounted on a tripod. The camera is also equipped with the D-Movie function that supports recording of full-HD (1920 X 1080p, 30p) movies, as well as a Special Effects mode with which a variety of special effects can be applied to still images and movies. The D5100 was designed to respond to the needs of a broad range of users, from those using a digital-SLR camera for the first time, to those looking for a camera that allows them to express their individual sense of creativity through still images and movies.

D5100 Primary Features

A high-resolution Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor with an effective pixel count of 16.2-million pixels, an image-processing engine that provides superior image quality and rich expression of tones, and the new High Dynamic Range (HDR) function

HDR sample image
The D5100 is equipped with the same DX-format CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 2 image-processing engine as the high-end D7000 digital-SLR camera. These features enable capture of high-resolution images with excellent expression of tones. With standard sensitivity settings of ISO 100–6400 and additional increases up to Hi 2 (ISO 25600 equivalent), the camera offers improved capability with shooting under dim lighting, such as in the evening or indoors, and also produces better results with capture of rapidly moving subjects. The High Dynamic Range (HDR) function captures two shots of varying exposure each time the shutter-release button is pressed, and then combines the two shots into a single image with a broad dynamic range. Resulting images beautifully recreate the scene as seen with the naked eye, even with shooting of backlit scenes, with little or no loss of detail in shadows or highlights.

3-in., approximately 921k-dot vari-angle monitor with wide viewing angle and increased visibility

Vari-angle monitor movement diagram
Visibility has been increased with the large 3-inch, approximately 921k-dot high-resolution vari-angle monitor adopted for the D5100. In addition, the range of colors that can be reproduced by the monitor is equivalent to that of the sRGB gamut. Adoption of a side hinge for the vari-angle monitor prevents the monitor from hitting the tripod when it is opened while the camera is mounted on a tripod. The vari-angle monitor opens from 0 to 180° to the side, and can be rotated up to 90° clockwise and up to 180° counter-clockwise when it is open. This enables shooting from a wide variety of angles, from low to high, making even self portraits possible.

D-Movie for recording and editing of Full-HD movies
The D5100 is equipped with the D-Movie function that enables recording of high-definition movies (1920 X 1080p, 30p) exhibiting superior video quality. Autofocusing during movie recording is possible using contrast-detect AF. When the focus mode is set to full-time-servo AF (AF-F) and the AF-area mode to subject-tracking AF, the camera automatically maintains focus on a subject moving throughout the frame. The D5100 also offers in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to save a single frame as a still JPEG image or delete unnecessary portions from the beginning and/or end of movie files. What’s more, the D5100 is equipped with built-in support for stereo audio recording via the Stereo Microphone ME-1 (available separately), and the mode dial and live view switch have been positioned on the same spindle in consideration of operational ease.

Mode dial, live view switch image(s)

Stereo Microphone ME-1 image

The optional Stereo Microphone ME-1 can be used to record sound in stereo while also preventing noise caused by lens vibration being recorded during autofocus.
The first Nikon digital-SLR camera to offer Special Effects mode
The D5100 offers special effects that can be selected and applied with both shooting of still images and recording of movies. Special effects are displayed with the view through the lens in the monitor before shooting or recording begins, allowing users to confirm the desired results in real time. Users can easily enjoy adding special effects to movies. This mode was adopted to respond to the creative intent of users searching for a way to express their own unique style and creativity.
The Special Effects mode built into the D5100 offers seven special effects, including Selective Color and Color Sketch.

Favorite Special Effects Selective color

Selective color sample image
All colors other than those selected by the user are recorded in black and white. Up to three colors can be selected at a time.

Color sketch
The camera detects and colors outlines for a color sketch effect. Users can use the monitor display to adjust the vividness of colors and the thickness of outlines.
Miniature effect
Distant subjects appear as miniatures for a diorama effect. Users can choose the orientation (vertical/horizontal) and width (narrow/normal/wide) of the area that will be in focus.
Night vision
When this option is selected, extremely high ISO sensitivities are used (up to ISO 102400 equivalent). This enables shooting under conditions of darkness while verifying the subject and composition in the monitor.
*RAW recording is not possible. Still images can only be recorded in JPEG (black-and-white) format. Only contrast-detect AF can be used.
Additional Features and Functions

High-speed continuous shooting at up to approximately 4 fps*,and a very precise and durable shutter unit that has passed testing for 100,000 cycles
Equipped with Quiet shutter-release mode for shooting in situations in which quieter shutter operation is desired
Infrared receivers for remote control operation on the front and back of the camera enable wireless control over the shutter from both in front of and behind the camera (optional ML-L3 wireless remote control supported).
Equipped with 16 scene modes that enable the simple capture of beautiful photos of the desired scene with automatic optimization of camera settings
Built-in HDMI-CEC compatibility enables control over playback of still images and movies using the television’s remote control when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV via the HDMI connector.
*Manual focus, M or S mode, shutter speed 1/250 s or faster, and other settings at default values

More professional focusing is also promised, thanks to a dampened focus ring. There’s still support for the Lensbaby Optic Swap System, however, meaning that the Fisheye, Soft Focus, Pinhole/Zone plate, Single Glass and Plastic lenses can be swapped in.

Lensbaby expects the Composer Pro to sell for $300 with the Double Glass Optic or for $400 with the Sweet 35 Optic. The regular Composer will see a price cut to $250.

Press Release:

Lensbaby Announces a New SLR Lens: The Composer Pro

The Composer Pro delivers ultra-smooth creative control for the most discerning professional photographers and videographers

Portland, OR – April 4, 2011 – Lensbaby announces its newest SLR creative effects camera lens, the Composer Pro. The Composer Pro refines and enhances the popular and award winning Lensbaby Composer by upgrading the swivel ball and focus mechanism to provide professional performance. The Composer Pro’s metal swivel ball design and refined focus mechanism deliver ultra-smooth focus and tilt control. The updated focus mechanism features a fluid and accurate dampened focus ring comparable to the focus mechanisms of the highest quality professional manual focus lenses. This smooth, fluid operation makes the Composer Pro the perfect choice for discerning professional photographers and videographers who want to create ground-breaking creative imagery.

The Composer Pro is compatible with the Lensbaby Optic Swap System and ships with either the Double Glass Optic or the new Sweet 35 Optic installed. Each optic creates a Sweet Spot of sharp focus that photographers can move around the photo by tilting the Composer Pro’s swiveling lens body. The Composer Pro is compatible with the complete range of creative optics in the Lensbaby Optic Swap System including the Fisheye, Soft Focus, Pinhole/Zone plate, Single Glass, and Plastic. Each optic can be swapped into the Composer Pro to deliver a different creative effect.

The Composer Pro joins Lensbaby’s growing family of lenses, which now includes the Lensbaby Composer, Scout, Muse, and Control Freak. The Composer Pro will retail for $300 with the Double Glass Optic installed or for $400 with the Sweet 35 Optic installed. The entry-level Lensbaby Composer will remain in Lensbaby’s product line but at a lower MSRP of $250.

“The Composer Pro builds on the strengths of its siblings in the Lensbaby family. In addition to being a core element in the Lensbaby Optic Swap system, it is smooth, fluid and precise to meet the needs of our community of photographer who want to see their unique visions through a precision piece of photographic equipment. Professional photographers continue to be at the core of our customer base.” said Craig Strong, Lensbaby Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer. “The Composer pro is for them.”

Composer Pro Specs:

Refined metal ball design delivers ultra-smooth focus and tilt control
Ships with either the Sweet 35 Optic or Double Glass Optic installed
Compatible with the Lensbaby Optic Swap System
Focus Type: Manual
Size/Weight: 2.25” (5.71cm) high x 2.5” (6.35cm) wide / 4 oz (113.4g)
Tilts from zero to 17.5 degrees
Sweet 35 Optic Product Specs:
Focal Length: 35mm
12 blade internal aperture, controlled by a dial on the front of the optic
Aperture range from f/2.5 through f/22 (sweet spot size ranges from 15%, at f/2.5, to 40%, at f/22, of total image area on APS-C sensor cameras)
Selective focus optic (creates a sweet spot of focus surrounded by gradual blur)
Compatible with Lensbaby Composer, Scout, Muse, and Control Freak lens bodies*
Focus distance when used with Composer Pro: 7.5” to infinity
4 multi-coated glass elements, in three groups
46mm front threads**
*The Sweet 35 Optic is not compatible with the Composer with Tilt Transformer for Micro 4/3rds and Sony NEX Cameras.
**The Sweet 35 Optic is not compatible with current 37mm Lensbaby accessories.

Double Glass Optic Product Specs:
Focal Length: 50mm
Low dispersion, high refractive index, multi-coated optical glass doublet
Aperture Type: Interchangeable, magnetic aperture disks
Apertures: f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22
Selective focus optic (creates a sweet spot of focus surrounded by gradual blur)
Focus distance when used with Composer Pro: 18” to infinity
37mm front threads accept all Lensbaby accessory lenses

Composer Pro with Double Glass Optic is available now from Lensbaby-authorized photo specialty stores worldwide, and from adorama.com, amazon.com, bhphotovideo.com and lensbaby.com. Composer Pro with Sweet 35 Optic will be available soon. Composer Pro with Double Glass Optic retails for $300 MSRP and Composer Pro with Sweet 35 Optic retails for $400 MSRP. For more information contact PR Representative Jessica Darrican at jessica@maxborgesagency.com.

Apple stripped out the camera from the nano in the last generation, when the iPod slimmed down considerably and gained a renewed focus on audio rather than attempting to cover video and content creation (rivaling the iPod touch). With this new shot, it suggests Apple is looking to restore video recording (we’re guessing, if this is all legitimate, that they’ll use the same 720p-capable CMOS as in the iPod touch).

However, without FaceTime – which seems a tough prospect for inclusion given the small space on offer – the seventh-gen iPod nano would still not fit into Apple’s video conferencing range. Apple is expected to unveil its new iPod range in roughly September this year.

[via 9 to 5 Mac]

As the for iPhone and iPad CMOS components, Stringer feigned bemusement as to why the Japanese company would empower Apple’s products. “Why would I make Apple the best camera?” he pondered, suggesting that the irony “always puzzles me.”

Unsurprisingly, the implications of Stringer’s supply suggestions have met with stony Sony silence. A company spokesperson declined to comment, while Apple couldn’t be reached for comment.

Back in April 2010, reports surfaced based on analyst checks that Apple was looking to Sony for an 8-megapixel camera for the fifth-gen iPhone. The same report accurately predicted the 5-megapixel upgrade for the iPhone 4.

Sony does not currently supply Apple with camera sensors, with OmniVision providing the CMOS for the current iPhone. Last November, Apple was tipped to be using an 8-megapixel OmniVision sensor for the iPhone 5, though there have been persistent rumors that Apple was looking to move away from the supplier and to another source.

While Fuehres would not rule out a Canon mirrorless camera in the future, he was clear that it would be more than just following rivals into the segment. “The idea of the compact system camera is nothing to do with whether the camera has a mirror or not, but about creating a small and more portable system” he said, “If Canon does take part I hope we won’t introduce just a me-too product, but we’ll use the opportunity to do something different.”

As for what that difference might be, all the outspoken exec would say is that “for Canon it would be about connectivity and providing high image quality in a small form.” Amateur Photographer theorizes that a retro-themed rangefinder – in the manner of the Canon P or Canon 7 – might make more sense, given the surprise popularity of Fuji’s X100.

[Image via Wikipedia]

It’s not so much the raw specs that’s driving the appeal – the X100 has a mere 12.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, with a non-interchangeable Fujinon 23mm fixed focal length lens – but the combination of the classic looks and strong image quality appear to be buoying the Fuji above potentially more capable Micro Four Thirds models. Fujifilm is yet to confirm when new X100 supplies will be coming through; they’re too busy supplying a generous relief package worth 770m yen to Japan, including diagnostic ultrasound systems.

[via 43 Rumors]

However, there’s no exact indication of how – or indeed when – Canon might start using Thunderbolt in its products. The obvious implementation would be the addition of a Thunderbolt port to its DSLR cameras for high-speed offloading of photos and video, as well as real-time capture from the camera’s high-resolution sensor to a connected computer.

Interestingly, Canon and Apple were tipped to be collaborating on a new project yesterday, though the nature of the partnership is still a mystery. One suggestion was that Canon could be helping closely with the development of the next Final Cut update.

The inclusive plan, it’s suggested, would be good for “a couple of dozen photos per month” beyond which you’d have to pay. The CyberShot’s modem would be data-only, so calls would not be supported (and thus no overlap with Sony Ericsson’s cellphone ranges), and sites like YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Flickr are the likely candidates for sharing.

While cameras with integrated WiFi – and Eye-Fi cards for adding it to regular models – are already available, 3G support would remove the hassle of locating a wireless hotspot and make the whole process more immediate. Cerevo launched a similar product in Japan, but it’s yet to become broadly available. Sony’s launch schedule for the 3G-enabled point-and-shoot isn’t known, nor is pricing.

The ZS10 has a 16x optical zoom, 3-inch touchscreen, GPS and Full HD video recording, while the ZS8 keeps the zoom and touchscreen but loses the GPS. As for the TS3, that’s wrapped in a ruggedized chassis and has a 12.1-inch display and full HD recording.

Finally, the FX78 has a 3.5-inch touchscreen supporting Touch AF, Touch Zoom, Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback, along with a 5x optical zoom and 24mm wide-angle lens.

Press Release:

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ITS 2011 PREMIUM LINEUP OF LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERA MODELS

SECAUCUS, NJ (March 8, 2011) – Panasonic today announces pricing for its LUMIX DMC-ZS10, LUMIX DMC-ZS8, LUMIX DMC-TS3 and LUMIX DMC-FX78 digital cameras, all of which will be available in late-March 2011. All four models feature Leica lenses, High Definition video recording-capabilities and Panasonic’s iA technology – making shooting photos and videos simple and intuitive – while still producing beautiful images.

The LUMIX ZS10, LUMIX TS3 and LUMIX FX78 also include the new Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlaying the two best images to provide a 3D image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of the 3D image is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frames and printers.

The LUMIX ZS10 will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $399.99 and is an extremely versatile digital camera with a 24mm ultra-wide-angle, a powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, full-High Definition 1920×1080 video recording capability, plus a newly-adopted large 3.0-inch, 460,000-dot Smart Touch Intelligent LCD. The new touchscreen LCD allows for Touch Zoom, Touch Auto Focus (AF), Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback. The LUMIX ZS10 also features a built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) function allowing geotagged images to be pinpointed via online maps and easily shared with friends and families. The LUMIX ZS10 will be available in black, red, blue, silver and brown models. The LUMIX DMC-ZS8, with an SRP of $299.99, maintains the versatile 24mm ultra-wide angle and powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and includes a large 3-inch LCD and a manual exposure mode. The LUMIX ZS8 will be available in black and silver models.

The LUMIX DMC-TS3 (SRP: $399.99) is specifically designed for active users who want to capture high-quality photos and 1920 x 1080 full-High Definition videos, incorporating a powerful rugged design and new outdoor-friendly features, such as a built-in GPS function, a compass, altimeter and barometer. The 12.1-megapixel LUMIX TS3 further steps up its toughness, when compared to its LUMIX TS2 predecessor, and is now waterproof to approximately 40 feet (12m)*1; shockproof to approximately 6.6 feet (2m) *2; freezeproof to 14ºF (-10 degrees C); and dustproof*1. The LUMIX TS3 will be available in red, orange, silver, and blue models.

The LUMIX FX78, with an SRP of $349.99, features a new Smart Touch operation on the large 3.5-inch 16:9 aspect LCD that allows for intuitive touch operation, including Touch AF, Touch Zoom, Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback. The LUMIX FX78 also incorporates a new LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT, 24mm ultra-wide angle lens that has a 5x optical zoom with F2.5 aperture. The 24mm wide-angle lens offers approximately 213% larger viewing space when compared to a traditional 35mm camera. This high-performing lens has been designed to fit the slim body while still offering exceptional photo and video quality. With its wide and bright lens, the LUMIX FX78 excels when shooting dynamic landscapes and in low-light situations.

The LUMIX FX78’s Smart Touch Screen allows for the Auto Focus (AF) to be set by simply touching the subject on the LCD and a touch can even release the shutter. Once locked on the subject, the LUMIX FX78 tracks the subject with the AF tracking function even if it moves. With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the FX78 automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched. The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting, but also in playback, allowing the user to drag the images across the screen with a finger and browse the collection of photos as though flipping the pages of the book. The LUMIX FX78 will be available in black, gold and white models.

For more information all Panasonic’s LUMIX digital cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 Waterproof/dustproof performance complies with the “IPX8” and “IP6X” ratings. Provided the care and maintenance guidelines described in this document are strictly followed, this camera can operate underwater, to a depth not exceeding 12 m for a time not exceeding 60 minutes. This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.
*2 Anti-shock performance complies with “MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock” of the U.S. Defense Department, which specifies performing drop tests from a height of 122 cm, at 26 orientations (8 corners, 12 ridges, 6 faces) using 5 sets of devices, and passing the 26 orientation drops within 5 devices. (If failure occurs during the test, a new set is used to pass the drop orientation test within a total of 5 devices). The camera has cleared a drop test from a height of 2 m onto 3 cm thick plywood. In most cases this camera should not sustain any damage if dropped from a height not exceeding 2 m. This drop test was passed. (Disregarding appearance change such as loss of paint or distortion of the part where drop impact is applied). This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.