Balko Photo

A Canon rep was overheard: The EOS-1Ds line (the full-frame pro DSLRs) is on a three-year upgrade cycle. The 1Ds Mark II came out in 2004, and the Mark III 3 years later in 2007. The EOS 5D came out in 2005 and it is now…? So, are we due for a new version? Message boards are humming but that is as far as the rumors go.

Someone on DP Review forums posted specs for a second generation 5D with the following changes: MP boost to 15.3MP up from 12.8MP, and a massive 2 stop bump in light sensitivity to 25600 ISO.

The cam will supposedly shoot at 6fps instead of 3, and will have dual Digic III processors instead of a single Digic II cpu. The AF system will use 29 points instead of 9, and it’ll have the same weather sealing as the topline 1Ds Mark III, as well as live view. The announcement is supposed to come on April 22nd, at $3500. More speculated specs:

- 15.3 MP full frame CMOS sensor (vastly improved light-gathering capacity per pixel: improved micro lenses; miniaturized micro circuitry; enhanced signal/noise ratio)
- Weather sealing same as 1Ds Mark III

- Dual Digic III with all-new “CXR” NR system reported to best 3rd party NR software. Available as a C.F with 4 levels of customizable parameters.
14 bit A/D conversion

- ISO 12800 (C.F. up to 25600)

- Reported 1 2/3 stop sensitivity improvement

- All-new 29-point TTL CMOS sensor
with 12 cross-type for F/2.8 or faster lens
(35% faster than 40D)

- Micro lens fine adjustment for up to 14 lenses

- 300,000 exposure shutter durability

- 6.0 / 3.0 fps

- 3.0″ LCD 922,000 pixels

- EOS Integrated Cleaning System

- Live View (improved from 450D; latest generation)

- 6/3 fps continuous shooting for up to 68 frames

- MSRP $3499, available June 2

The CMOS in the new camera will be an entirely new generation, not based on the current flagship or the current camera it is replacing. The CXR NR system will detail retention at 12800 similar to 3200 on current model, though a 1 2/3 stop improvement is the conservative, stated estimate. Canon hopes to create a “wow” factor with a conservative estimate that surpasses itself in studio/ pro review tests.

More MP
The first DSLR sensor made by Samsung is the 14.6MP CMOS chip. This gives the GX-20 and the Pentax K20D the highest-resolution imaging in this class. The Pentax K200D gets the Sony-made 10.2MP CCD from the now-discontinued K10D. The Sony uses its own 14.2MP CCD in the Alpha 350, and Canon its own 12.2MP CMOS chip in the Rebel XSi. (Canon once again makes a Rebel that leapfrogs its enthusiast model in resolution — the EOS 40D is 10.1MP.) Nikon coasts along with the same 10.2MP chip from the D40x. All five cameras maintain the APS-C sensor size for a 1.6X 35mm lens factor for the Canon and 1.5X for all the others.

Live Preview
Like it or not, DSLR makers continue to use it and refine it. The Rebel allows two methods of autofocusing in live view: a quick method using a momentary flip down of the mirror (with face detection used to engage appropriate AF points), and a live method that can be enabled at any spot in the frame. This actually improves on the Reb’s pricey stablemates such the EOS-1Ds Mark III (see camera test), which focus only manually in live view. The Samsung GX-20 can also autofocus with a mirror flip.

But the best live view system so far comes on the Sony, which uses a separate imaging sensor in the pentamirror housing to allow autofocusing with live view — and nearly zero lag when you press the shutter to take the shot. You can even do burst shooting in live mode at a creditable 2 fps. Combined with the LCD that tilts up or down, it gives you a perfect setup for low-angle or over-the-crowd shots.

Image stabilization
Everyone wants it and why not? It gives you a bit more versatility, but which system is better - the one in-camera or in specific lenses? Canon and Nikon don’t have stabilization built into their cameras, but require individual stabilized lenses. And now manufacturers have priced camera/lens kits low enough that there is no short-term price advantage for the other three cameras that have sensor-based image stabilization built into the camera bodies.

But those three cameras — the Pentax K200D, Samsung GX-20, and Sony Alpha 350 — can stabilize any lenses you already have in your bag or may obtain down the line, which can save a fair stack of cash compared with putting together an outfit of Canon or Nikon image-stabilized lenses. In response, their rivals have been developing lower-cost stabilized lenses, such as the 55-250mm f/4-5.6 Canon EF IS ($300, street) and the 55-200mm f/4-5.6G AF-S DX Nikkor VR ($170, street).

Too Many
Canon EOS 40D, Nikon D300, and Sony Alpha 700 — and camera makers are not stopping with those. Nearly every DSLR maker has recently added one or more models to this year’s lineup, all of them aimed at the mid-level. For street prices of $630 to $1,400, they provide a nice boost in megapixels, with two models coming in at more than 14MP. But they aren’t about sheer firepower — don’t look for the fastest burst rates or stratospheric ISOs. Instead, you’ll find such conveniences as bigger LCD screens, live view, more battery power, extended in-camera image controls, and improved image stabilization.

No sooner do you have your setup complete (at least for the moment) and another model beckons so strongly that you cannot resist!

Improvements

Sony began the trend with its Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO), which can calm down highlights and bring up shadows on the fly. Nikon’s Active D-Lighting, Pentax’s Expanded Dynamic Range, and Samsung’s High Dynamic Range do similar duty. The Canon Rebel XSi has Highlight Tone Priority, which will maintain detail in an exposure level selected by the user.

The Nikon D60 can convert RAW files to JPEGs with image corrections, remove redeye, add a cross filter, and even assemble stop-action movies from individual frames. The Pentax and Samsung have an assortment of digital filters and extensive picture adjustments. The Sony A350 inherits the menu of eight scene selection modes, each one of which can be individually tweaked.

And the Canon Rebel debuts a new tool, Auto Optimization, which can improve brightness and contrast on the fly (something like Auto Levels in Adobe Photoshop) and which gives priority to faces in the frame — to bring up detail in backlit portraits, for example.

Sensor dust has become Enemy #1 and DSLR manufacturers are recognizing that with more megapixels, shooters will view or print pictures at larger sizes — and will be all the more aware of dust spots on the sensor. All five of these cameras provide a momentary ultrasonic shake of the sensor to remove dust, but the precautions hardly stop there.

The Nikon simultaneously provides a momentary puff of air — something like a built-in bulb blower — and can map dust particles for removal later in software. The Canon also has software dust mapping. The Pentax and Samsung models highlight dust particles on the LCD — and display the map as a mirror image to facilitate manual cleaning of the sensor.

Should You Buy?

Fierce competition once again proves a good thing, with four of these five models coming in well under $1,000 with a kit lens. Stay tuned for more info on the latest and greatest offerings.
[PopPhoto]

Listing at $5000, this is far from cheap or even affordable for most, but Pop Photo has just stated this to be the “greatest camera Nikon has ever built.”

What makes it so are…

1. Rock-solid build and sophisticated design.
The ergonomic body has water and dust resistant seals keep weather out. The shutter is made of a Kevlar with a 300,000-cycle rating.

2. Super-sensitive, full-frame sensor.
A 12.1MP full-frame (23.9×36mm) sensor. Need I say more? Yes, Canon does have its new 21.1 MP EOS 1Ds Mark III, but that is another step above the D3 (along with an extra $3000).

3. Highly advanced 51-zone AF system.
The 15 cross-type and 36 horizontal sensors can be grouped into zones, and new capabilities include tracking subjects by color or brightness. Using 3D Focus Tracking, it can even group multiple AF zones in a variety of patterns of your choice.

4. Sharp, tough 3-inch LCD monitor with live view.
The 3-inch monitor has a protective tempered-glass cover over the 920,000-dot (307,000-pixel) screen .

5. Rapid-fire performance and unique features.
Great light sensitivity, fast focus, and a burst capability of 9 frames per second offers features for everyone. And the dual CF card slots are a bonus.

BUY now at Adorama // SHOP B&H Video

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The Olympus E-3 is the much awaited successor to the E-1. Unveiled in Korea, we have to wait in the US for an October 17th press release. Probably will be shipping in November (along with the Nikon D300) and create a madhouse holiday shopping season.

No real details to report, but the rumormills are grinding out details….which say it will be a 10 megapixel version with an articulating LCD screen, dust reduction system, Liveview, in-body image stabilization (like the E-510), five frames per second and 11 point autofocus.

Here are some of the features you can expect:

• 10 MP with greatly improved high-ISO performance
• In-body IS that Olympus claims will surpass any yet seen (it claims up to 5 stops)
• Pop-up flash with wide-angle coverage
• Articulated LCD with live view
• Wireless flash control
• Sensor dust-reduction (as on E-1)
• Improved AF that Olympus says will be appreciably faster than the D200 or 30D
• 100%, 1.15X viewfinder with –3 to +1 diopter
• Splash- and dust-resistant body construction (as good as E-1)

Also, there are four new Supersonic Wave lenses planned and a compact 2X converter. The lenses include a 14–35mm ƒ/2 that will be available next Spring and a 12–60mm ƒ/2.8–4 due in October.

(Despite the “pro” label, Olympus expects the E-3 to compete with the Canon 40D and Nikon D300, so look for roughly comparable pricing.)

I have come back to this review to add more information. This is the one I am considering for myself (now that my Canon 5D and 4 lenses were stolen).

On August 23rd, 2007 came the official announcement from Nikon introducing the Nikon D300 digital SLR (successor to the D200).

New technologies include 12.3 effective megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor with up to 3200 ISO sensitivity (+ Hi1 6400), a new precision Multi-CAM 3500DX 51-point AF system, a large 3.0-inch high resolution 920,000 pixel LCD information display with Live View Mode, 6 frames per sec continuous shooting (up to 8 fps with new MB-D10 power grip), new Nikon Scene Recognition System and EXPEED image processing concept including “Picture Control” settings, an integrated self cleaning sensor unit, in camera Retouch Menu (like on the D80), HDMI output and support for the new Wi-Fi transmitter WT-4.

Differences to the D200:

• LCD - a 3.0-inch LCD screen on the Nikon D300 versus the 2.5-inch screen on the Nikon D200.
• Body - the D300 is a rounder, curvier body design than the D200. The Mode button and the +/- Exposure Compensation button located on the front grip above the shutter release are now round and raised making them even more accessible compared to the oblong shape of the same two function buttons on the Nikon D200.
• The PC sync connection socket (for studio lights) that is found on the side of the Nikon D200 has been moved on the Nikon D300 to the front right side of the camera above the 10-pin remote socket.
• Other than from an ergonomic and visual design point of view there is not much that has changed in terms of the top layout of the Nikon D300 versus the Nikon D200. The new Liveview mode on the D300 is activated by turning the continuous shooting dial to the Liveview “Lv” position.
• On the control buttons on the back of the Nikon D300 the icons and text are now white making them stand out more compared to the gold/dark yellow color of the similar buttons on the D200. The Playback button has been moved to a better position on the top left corner of the camera. Changes to bracketing settings on the D300 is done by using the Function (Fn) button located on the front of the camera (default Custom setting f4), or can be be assigned to the depth-of-field preview button (Custom setting f5), or the AE-L/AF-L button (Custom Setting f6). The “Enter” confirmation button found towards the bottom on the Nikon D200 has been replaced with the renamed “OK” button on the Nikon D300.
• A welcome new feature is the camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD display. — with two LiveView modes: The Hand-held mode allows recomposing of the frame in the LCD prior to actual shooting, using the camera’s standard phase-detection autofocus system. The second mode, called Tripod mode, is designed for precise focus accuracy with still subjects, while the camera is mounted on a tripod.
• In-camera Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction, a self-cleaning sensor, and optic-by-optic autofocus fine-tuning.

SHOP BH Photo - - - SHOP / ORDER at ADORAMA

See previews at DPreview / DCResource / Imaging-Resource /

• 12.3 effective Megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
• Dust reduction system shakes junk off of the sensor
• Weather-sealed, magnesium alloy body with 150,000 cycle shutter
• Can shoot up to 100 JPEGs in a row at 6 frames/second; if you buy the battery grip, the burst rate rises to 8 fps
• Just one CompactFlash slot (still supports UDMA, though)
• Everything else is really the same as the D3.
• Shipping in November for $1799, body only
• Pre-Order Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens
• 
  

The PENTAX K10D offers advanced photo enthusiasts an array of innovations in image capture technology and camera functionality. These include a 10.2 megapixel CCD contained within the PENTAX developed Shake Reduction system that offers 2.5 to 4 stops of compensation for shooting in low light or with telephoto lenses. The new PRIME image processing engine is supported by 22-bit A/D conversion for truer color tones with richer gradation, and an improved buffer memory that increases capture speed and allows for in camera image processing. All this is housed within a rugged weather and dust resistant body that incorporates CCD Dust Removal system. The unique PENTAX exposure modes adjust for any shooting situation and the 11-point autofocus system and 16-segment meter will give sharp, perfectly exposed images even in the most difficult lighting conditions.

Announced on September 14th 2006, just in time for Photokina 2006 the new K10D was Pentax’s first foray into the serious-amateur digital SLR market. It’s bigger, tougher and more feature rich than any Pentax digital SLR before it and it certainly carries a wide enough range of features to worry the ‘big name’ brands. Headline features include a stabilized ten megapixel CCD, high quality image processing pipeline, dust and weather proof seals, 11-point AF (with 9 cross-type points) and some unique exposure modes. A full detailed list of the top 20 features can be found below. It’s clear that Pentax are targeting the likes of the Canon EOS 30D and Nikon D200, on paper it’s a very strong contender. [pentaxslr]

BUY Variation Parent: Pentax K10D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction and 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens

SHOP BH Photo - - - SHOP at ADORAMA

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REVIEWS

Either a poorly implemented demosaicing algorithm or a strange choice of sharpening parameters means that while the K10D’s JPEG images have plenty of ‘texture’ they can lack the edge sharpness we’re used to seeing from semi-pro digital SLR’s.
With the criticism out of the way we return to the K10D as a ‘photographic tool’, something it does very well. It’s a camera you get used to very quickly and never really leaves you searching for the correct setting or control. It’s also a camera you can grow into, the unique exposure modes are both creatively interesting and useful, a range of options such as this encourage you to experiment. At just under $900 it’s a very strong proposition, so despite our reservations about the slightly soft image processing the K10D just achieves a Highly Recommended. [DPreview]

The Pentax K10D DSLR also comes equipped with a host of features and functions designed to assist the photographer in various aspects of high-quality digital SLR photography. They include a new Dust Removal (DR) system to keep dust off the CCD surface, a Pentax-original exposure system for faithful reproduction of the photographer’s creative intentions, and a dependable dust-proof, water-resistant body construction. All combined, the K10D delivers exceptionally high image quality and responds brilliantly to the exacting demands of advanced photographers. [Let's Go Digital]

The K10D is an exceptionally well-built, midsize digital SLR. It’s just the right size (at least for me) — not too small, not too big. There’s a large grip for your right hand, so you never feel like the K10D is about to fall out of your hands. The camera has a sturdy plastic shell over a metal frame, and it feels really solid in your hands. The various buttons, dials, and ports on the camera are dust and weather resistant, so the camera can be out in the elements without a problem. Speaking of buttons, while the K10D has many of them, it’s still fairly easy to just pick up and use. [DCResource]

PROS
* Smooth clean images with good color and tone, not as crisp as we would like
* Robust body with dust and weather seals, high build quality
* Accurate and fast auto-focus
* Unique exposure modes; sensitivity, shutter/aperture priority, hyper program
* Selectable program lines; Normal, Hi speed, Depth and MTF (lens sharpness)
* Good range of image parameter adjustment (-5 to +5 for each)
* Dedicated RAW button a useful addition
* Selectable RAW format (PEF or DNG)
* Unlimited continuous shooting in JPEG mode
* Occasionally useful ‘digital preview’ allows you to take a test shot which isn’t saved
* User definable Auto ISO (set minimum and maximum ISO)
* Good built-in flash metering
* Large and bright Pentaprism viewfinder (0.95x magnification)
* In-camera Shake Reduction system offers some advantage in low light
* Dust reduction by anti-static coating and optional sensor ’shake’
* Mirror lock-up implemented as part of the self-timer
* Function menu for quick access to important settings (although hard buttons are better)
* Large, bright and high resolution LCD monitor
* Good battery life from high capacity Lithium-Ion rechargeable
* Proper hinged doors covering the connectors (not the cheap rubber bungs)
* In-camera RAW development and image retouching (B&W, Sepia, Soft etc.)
* USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface (with mass storage device driver)
* Value for money

CONS
* In-camera image processor unable to deliver crisp sharp edges, better to shoot RAW
* About a third of a stop less highlight dynamic range than the competition
* Slightly inconsistent continuous shooting rate (although always around 3.1 fps)
* Would have been nice to have hard buttons for White Balance and ISO sensitivity
* Turning up sharpness setting doesn’t deliver crisper edges
* Average automatic white balance performance, still very poor under incandescent light
* Flash must be raised for AF assist (although AF works even in very low light)
* Color space selection buried in custom menu

The GX-10 is Samsung’s third digital SLR. Like the other two (the GX-1S and GX-1L), the GX-10 is based on a Pentax camera — in this case, the Pentax K10D. The differences between the GX-10 and the K10 are subtle changes in the user interface (menus and buttons), RAW support (the GX-10 only supports one RAW format: DNG), and the software bundle.

Both cameras have a solid, weather resistant body with a large right hand grip, a 10 Megapixel CCD, optical image stabilization, dust reduction, and manual controls and expandability that you’d expect from a digital SLR.

Both the kit lens and the battery are the same as the Pentax versions — just with Samsung branding. Everything’s interchangeable (except for the battery grip), so you can use Pentax parts in the Samsung camera, and vice versa. The 18 - 55 mm kit lens, which Samsung labels as a Schneider (it’s not), isn’t the greatest, with noticeable vignetting in many photos.

The one Pentax item that you cannot use with the GX-10 is the battery grip, which doesn’t fit perfectly on the GX-10 (due to its slightly larger grip). Samsung plans to offer one that does fit, but I don’t have any details on it just yet.

21 September 2006, Seoul, Korea. Samsung today announced the launch of the 10.2 mega-pixel GX-10 digital SLR, the first DSLR from the company to be positioned firmly towards the discerning enthusiast photographer searching for comprehensive functions, stunning design, ease of use and real value for money - all in one camera. Samsung also announced the launch of five more lenses, that some of the lenses would be released before the end of 2006, giving GX-10 and GX-1 series users alike even more freedom to express their creativity through the Samsung DSLR range.

BUY Samsung GX-10 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
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SHOP BH Photo - - - SHOP at ADORAMA

• Professional digital SLR camera with 10.2 mega-pixel CCD sensor
• OPS (optical picture stabilization) Shake reduction with image-sensor shift mechanism
• Dust-free CCD with dust removal system
• Impenetrably built, resistant to water, sand, or other potentially harmful materials
• Field of view 95%, bright PentaPrism viewfinder (0.95x magnification)
• Brightness adjustable and wide-angle view 2.5″ TFT LCD (210K)
• Raw file format support (including converting)
• Continuous shooting of 3 pictures per second (up to memory full)
• Support high sensitivity ISO 1600
• TTL phase-matching 11 points wide AF
• TTL open-aperture 16 segment metering system

Hasselblad launched their 48 mm Full-Frame DSLR camera system –  the H3D.  The three models come in 22, 31, and 39 megapixel flavors, but the 31mp model sports the 44×33mm sensor instead of the 48mm full frame of the other two.

This dSLR line represents the adage: “If you need to ask the price, you can’t afford it.”

Let’s get this out of the way - the 39mp sells for $37,000,  the 31 megapixel H3D-31II is $30,000 and the 22 megapixel H3D-22II is $25,000.

The Hasselblad H3D was designed to provide medium format quality in a more compact digital back. The camera has a large 22 or 39 megapixel, 36.7 x 49mm sensor and 2.2-inch OLED display.  With a new engine, the camera promises to provide the company’s new “Ultra-Focus” auto focus standard.

Under the new motto of the Hasselblad Star Standard, the H3D has a combined package of clarity, color, sharpness, detail, and resolution, according to Hasselblad CEO Christian Poulsen at the conference. “What Victor Hasselblad managed to develop with the classic V camera system, the H3D now extends into the digital age,” said Poulsen.

Clearly this camera is in a class of its own and one cannot compare a Canon and Nikon to it. A finely honed instrument for producing top-quality digital images.

Nikon has unveiled the D3 digital SLR, which features their new full-frame FX format sensor. Up until now, if you wanted a full-frame camera, you bought a Canon EOS-1Ds or Canon EOS 5D. The D3 gives you the full-frame, and much more.

The 12.1 effective megapixel D3 features Nikon’s new FX-format CMOS sensor, measuring 23.9 x 36mm, which is nearly identical to the size of 35mm film. With the fastest startup time, shortest viewfinder blackout time, and shortest shutter lag of any digital SLR camera as well as the capability to shoot up to nine frames per second at full FX-format resolution, the D3 is the world’s fastest digital SLR camera in its class.*

The D3 also features an entirely new 51-point auto focus system with Nikon’s 3D Focus Tracking feature and two new LiveView shooting modes that allow photographers to frame a photograph using the camera’s high-resolution LCD monitor.

Read reviews DPreview / Nikon USA / DCResource / Shutterbug /

SHOP BH Photo - - - SHOP/Order at  ADORAMA

* First ever Nikon DSLR with a Full-Frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor (coined FX format)
* 12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)
* ISO 200 - 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25,600)
* Also supports DX lenses, viewfinder automatically masks (5.1 megapixels with DX lens)
* 5:4 ratio crop mode (10 megapixels, up to 9 fps, viewfinder masked)
* 14-bit A/D conversion, 12 channel readout
* Nikon EXPEED image processor (Capture NX processing and NR algorithms, lower power)
* Super fast operation (power-up 12 ms, shutter lag 41 ms, black-out 74 ms)
* New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 300,000 exposure durability
* New Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
* Auto-focus tracking by color (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
* Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning) now available (fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings)
* Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)
* Picture Control image parameter presets (replace Color Modes I, II and III)
* Custom image parameters now support brightness as well as contrast
* Nine frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking
* Eleven frames per second continuous without auto-focus tracking
* Ten / eleven frames per second continuous in DX-crop mode (AF / no-AF)
* Dual Compact Flash card slots (overflow, back-up, RAW on 1 / JPEG on 2, copy)
* Compact Flash UDMA support
* 3.0″ 922,000 pixel LCD monitor
* Live View with either phase detect (mirror up/down) or contrast detect Auto Focus
* Virtual horizon indicates if camera is level (like an aircraft cockpit display)
* HDMI HD video output
* ‘Active D-Lighting’ (adjusts metering as well as applying D-Lighting curve)
* Detailed ‘Control Panel’ type display on LCD monitor, changes color in darkness
* New MB-D10 vertical grip fully integrates into body, multi battery type compatible
* Buttons sealed against moisture
* Dual battery charger as standard
* Available November 2007

Panasonic, a leader in digital technology, is delighted to announce the launch of their second digital single-lens reflex camera (SLR) – the DMC-L10 with an interchangeable LEICA lens. The DMC-L10 features an advanced 2.5-inch free angle LCD for full time live view that offers 270 degree rotation and a versatile shooting style. A 10.1-megapixel Live MOS Sensor provides beautiful images with delicate gradation and wide dynamic range. Dust reduction with a Supersonic Wave Filter system prevents dust from attaching to the sensor to degrade the pictures. The superb image processor, Venus Engine III, boasts high quality image rendering and a high speed response.

Order at Adorama 

Four Thirds System – Developed Exclusively for digital SLR

The DMC-L10 adopts the open format of the Four Thirds system for its lens mount – so the L10 can be used with lenses made by a variety of manufacturers, giving users a host of equipment options. Drawing on leading technologies while defying any stereotype ideas in SLR cameras, Panasonic’s DMC-L10 is designed to help you make the most of your photographic creativity.

One of the DMC-L10’s real talking points is the LEICA D VARIO-ELMAR 14-50mm / F3.8-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. lens. Sold as a complete kit – the combination of the world renowned Leica lens, with Panasonic’s excellence in digital photography – makes an impressive proposition.

The full-time live view gives users more shooting flexibility and greater convenience not previously achieved by conventional digital SLR cameras without live view capability. Not one to rest on its laurels, Panasonic introduces another first for a digital SLR camera by incorporating a Face Detection and Intelligent ISO Control function. The face detection system detects human faces (up to 15 human faces can be detected simultaneously) and sets a focus and appropriate exposure to capture a face clearly and beautifully lit. The Intelligent ISO Control function detects and meters the movement of the subject and sets the suitable ISO setting and the shutter speed according to the amount of the movement to suppress the generation of motion-blur in the picture.

The live view enables the user to check the outcome image in advance after compensating the exposure or adjusting the white balance. The white balance can be adjusted in the area of two-axis of coordinates precisely. Furthermore, the DMC-L10 provides options of picture taste with a function called Film Mode. Each analog film has its characteristics, for example colour, contrast, gradation and these effect the outcome of the picture, they are ways of expression. With the DMC-L10, the Film Mode allows you to choose the one that takes the best advantage of the scene or the subject you take out of a total of nine film modes including Standard, Dynamic, Nature, Smooth, Nostalgic, Vibrant, Standard B/W, Dynamic B/W and Smooth B/W, with the capability of fine adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction. All these settings can be confirmed before you take the picture.

Read previews at Let’s Go Digital / DPreview / item will be released on November 20, 2007.

Pre-Order at Amazon for $1,299.95 Panasonic DMC-L10 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Leica D Vario-Elmar 14-50mm f/3.8-5.6 Mega OIS Lens

Although this baby sports only a 6.1 mp sensor, that does not mean that it’s outdated. The K100D and K110D digital SLRs were meant as replacement for the *ist DS series. The only difference between the K100D and K110D are that the K100D includes a CCD-shift type ‘Shake Reduction’ system, where as the K110D does not.

Images can be framed using a penta-mirror optical viewfinder, and reviewed on a 2.5″ LCD display with a resolution of 210,000 pixels. A choice of program, aperture- and shutter-priority or manual exposure modes; 16-segment multi, center-weighted or spot metering; shutter speeds from 30 - 1/4000 second; user-selectable ISO sensitivity from 200 - 3200 equivalent, plus eight white balance modes including fully manual white balance.

If you get the lens kit then you’ll find a Pentax F3.5-5.6, 18 - 55 mm lens in the box. This lens can be purchased separately for a little over $100. The 18-55 is a good, but not great, lens that is good for everyday shooting, though it does have a bit of a problem with vignetting.

Read reviews Imaging-Resource / DPreview / DCResource / PopPhoto /

BUY for $369 Pentax K100D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera Shake Reduction (Body Only)

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Canon’s 30D successor comes with 10.1 megapixels, better continuous shooting to 6.5fps, an anti-dust system, improved viewfinder, and AF system. The burst rate is up to 75 consecutive JPEGs or 17 RAW images, it has the DIGIC III image processor, sports Picture Style settings, Spot metering, and a 3.0-inch LCD monitor with advanced Live View Function.

Read reviews at CameraLabs / DPreview / Imaging-Resource /

BUY now Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens

• 10.1 MP CMOS sensor (up from the EOS 30D’s 8.2MP)
• 14 bit A/D converter (the 30D had a 12 bit A/D)
• New Highlight Priority and Noise Reduction modes
• Continuous ISO display in the viewfinder
• 6.5 fps frame rate (EOS 30D was 5 fps)
• 75/17 JPEG/RAW buffer (EOS 30D was 30/11)
• New autofocus system
• Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit
• Larger viewfinder image (0.95x vs. 0.90x)
• Larger LCD (3″ vs. 2.5″) with wider color gamut
• Initial selling price of $1299.99 (the 30D was $1399.99)
• Availability September 2007
• Interchangeable viewfinder screens

The E-510 comes with a 10 megapixel sensor , a high-performance Live MOS image sensor for high-resolution images up to 3648 x 2736 pixels, the Dust Reduction System and powerful, built-in image stabilizer unit using Olympus’s exclusive Supersonic Wave Drive motor, with or without 14-42mm and 40-150mm lenses.

Read reviews at Imaging-Resource / DPreview / Olympus
America / Buy the Olympus Evolt E510 10MP Digital SLR Camera with CCD Shift Image Stabilization (Body Only)

• The 10.0 effective Megapixel Olympus E-510 camera body
• F3.5 - 5.6, 14 - 42 mm Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens [lens kit only]
• F4.0 - 5.6, 40 - 150 mm Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens [dual lens kit only]
• CCD-shift image stabilization
• “Live view” on a high resolution 2.5″ LCD display
• A brighter optical viewfinder than the E-330, Olympus’ last live view D-SLR
• Dust reduction system as found on all Olympus E-series cameras
• New TruePic III image processor promises better photo quality and faster performance
• Dual xD and CompactFlash memory card slots
• BLM-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery
• Battery charger
• Body cap
• Shoulder strap
• USB cable
• Video cable
• CD-ROM featuring Olympus Master
• Quick start guide + 138 page full camera manual (printed)

The E-510 comes in three kits: body only ($799), with a 14 - 42 mm lens ($899), or with that lens plus an additional 40 - 150 mm lens ($999). Here’s what you’ll find in the box for each:

• The 10.0 effective Megapixel Olympus E-510 camera body
• F3.5 - 5.6, 14 - 42 mm Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens [lens kit only]
• F4.0 - 5.6, 40 - 150 mm Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens [dual lens kit only]
• BLM-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery
• Battery charger
• Body cap
• Shoulder strap
• USB cable
• Video cable
• CD-ROM featuring Olympus Master
• Quick start guide + 138 page full camera manual (printed)

E-510 - Buy the Olympus Evolt E510 10MP Digital SLR Camera with CCD Shift Image Stabilization (Body Only)

E-500 - BUY the Olympus EVOLT E500 8MP Digital SLR with Zuiko 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital SLR Lens

E-410 - BUY the Olympus Evolt E410 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 Zuiko Lenses

*Olympus received the highest numerical score among digital cameras in the $600 or more price segment in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Digital Camera Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on a total of 5,802 total responses, measuring 3 brands in the segment and measures opinions of digital camera owners. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in July 2006. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

Plus it won the 2007-2008 EISA Award as the “Best Consumer Product.”

It has been 2 years now that Konica Minolta transferred its camera division over to Sony, and it has been one year since the A100, but now we can expect the Sony alpha 700 with a 12.24 MP Exmor imaging sensor and Super SteadyShot image stabilization.

Read previews at Imaging-Resource / Camera Labs / DPreview / Sonystyle / Let’s Go Digital / — ** Pre-Order at Amazon

The camera uses Sony’s Bionz image processor and can shoot a continuous 5 fps at full resolution. An advanced pentaprism viewfinder helps you line up your shots and the auto focus sensor is an 11-point design.

The LCD screen is a 3” TFT and shutter speeds are 30 to 1/8000 sec in 55 steps. ISO speeds include Auto/160/ 200/400/800/1600/3200/4000/5000/6400. Storage is to Memory Stick PRO cards or CF cards. A remote is also included that controls the HD playback of shots onto HDMI TVs and the shutter. The camera body alone sells for $1399.99.

• Sensor type: 12.2Mp Exmore CMOS
• Lens mount: Sony mount, compatible with Minolta A-type bayonet mount
• Image size: 4288×2856 pixels
• Colour spaces: AdobeRGB, sRGB
• Colour temperature: 2500-9900K
• AF system: 11 point, single shot, auto, continuous, direct manual focus
• Eye-Start AF: On/off selection
• Metering: Centre weighted, spot and multi-segment
• ISO range: 100-3200. Up to ISO6400 through menu
• Flash: Built in, GN 12, PC synch terminal
• Shutter speed: 30-1/8000secs
• Frame rate: 5fps for 18 RAW shots, 25 compress RAW, 12 cRAW+JPEG, 12 Extra fine JPEG
• LCD screen: 3in. (307k pixels)
• Interaces: Video, PC Synch, USB 2.0, HDMI type C
• Weight: 690g without batteries, cards etc.
• .
• Due in stores October / November
• Sony is also planning to introduce a specialty 70 -300 mm f4.5 - 5.6 SSM G telephoto lens featuring super sonic wave motor auto focus drive system for smooth auto focusing in Spring 2008.

Order the Sony Alpha A700 12.24MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Have you seen the new Panasonic Lumix L-10?

I am constantly looking at what is coming out because all of my camera equipment was stolen last month. I have been hunting for a replacement, but after you have had the Canon 5D, what is there to replace it with (that costs far less?) That is my current quandary.

I stumbled upon this L-10 this morning and am intrigued. It’s a dSLR with a free-angle LCD for live preview! It comes equipped with a LEICA D VARIO-ELMAR 14-50mm / F3.8-5.6 ASPH./ MEGA O.I.S. lens designed specifically for a digital SLR camera to be sold as a kit, the DMC-L10K.

It offers aspect ratios of 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 and has guide lines displayed on the LCD to aid in composition. It has a 10.1-megapixel large Live MOS sensor and even has a Face Detection AF/AE function.

Instead of that kit lens, one can go with the new LEICA D VARIO-ELMAR 14-150mm/ F3.5-5.6 ASPH./ MEGA O.I.S., lens offers an exceptionally long zoom range of 14-150mm (35mm equivalent: 28-300mm). That will be available sometime in November 2007.

Imaging Resource gives the MSRP of $1,300 so the street price is probably around $1000 and that’s for the kit.