Sony NEX-F3 Preview
Replacing the popular NEX-C3, Sony has announced the α NEX-F3 entry-level interchangeable lens camera system. The NEX-F3 includes many of the same features of the α37 — a 16.1 megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS image sensor, full HD video recording, Superior Auto Mode, Auto Portrait Framing, etc. — but does so in a much more compact body. In fact, without one of Sony’s E-Mount series lenses, the NEX-F3 is nearly pocket-sized.The two biggest improvements over the C3 are an 18% improvement in battery life as well as a new 3.0-inch180° Tiltable LCD — great for taking self portraits as well as low and high angle photographs. There’s also a handy built-in flash, which remains hidden most of the time and pops up when required. Some might enjoy the Clear Image Zoom function, which effectively doubles your lens’ zoom capabilities, but digital zooming is never recommended to ensure the best image quality in your photos. Auto Portrait Framing is a nifty feature, which takes any photo you’ve taken and, using the classic “rule of thirds” framing, crops your image to create a portrait of any human subject.Sony α NEX-F3 Features include:16.1-megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS Image SensorFull HD video recording (1080/60i, 1080/24p)3.0-inch 180° Tiltable LCDBuilt-in Flash (it pops up)Superior Auto ModeAuto Portrait FramingClear Image Zoom with Pixel Super Resolution TechnologyBattery life of 470 shots (an 18% improvement over the NEX-C3)Compatible with all of Sony’s E-Mount lensesSony’s α NEX-F3 wil hit stores this June (2012) in black, silver, or white in a $ 600 kit that includes
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Sony SLT-A37 Preview
Today Sony announced the new SLT-A37 (aka α37) Translucent Mirror Technology camera, which allows full time autofocus and continuous live image preview while taking still shots or capturing full high definition video at 60i/24p. This continuous focus, when combined with the 7 frames-per-second high-speed shooting and the 3-cross 15-point AF system, means you’re able to capture incredibly detailed and sharp photographs in action-packed situations.The α37 also features a 16.1 megapixel APS HD CMOS image sensor, Sony’s proprietary BIONZ Image Processor, an ISO range of 100-16000, SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization, and Superior Auto Mode to ensure shutterbugs of all skill levels are able to capture professional quality imagery. Another nice feature are the two viewfinder options. T 2.7″ Clear Photo LCD may not be the biggest you’ve ever seen, but its ability to tilt will aid in the taking of high or low angle shots. And, in place of the optical viewfinder on traditional DSLRs, the α37 has a 1440k high-resolution “Tru-Finder” electronic viewfinder.Sony SLT-A37 Features include:16.1-megapixel APS HD CMOS image sensor1440k high-resolution Tru-Finder electronic viewfinder2.7-inch tilt-angle Clear Photo LCD3-cross 15-point AF (Auto Focus) SystemHD Video Recording (1080/60i, 1080/24p)7 frames-per-second shootingBIONZ Image ProcessorISO 100-16000 rangeSteadyShot INSIDE StabilizationSuperior Auto ModeAuto Portrait Framing Mode with Pixel Super Resolution TechnologyCompatible with all A-mount lensesThe α37, from Sony, will be available in kit form (with the SEL1855 18-55mm zoom lens) this June (2012) for around $ 600. Additionally, Sony is debuting a brand new 18-135mm telephoto lens (SAL18135) this summer. Pick it up in July as a stand-alone lens for $ 500, or in a kit with the α37
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Fujifilm FinePix XP170 Preview
Another day, another “life proof” camera announcement.While they’re “tough” specs are roughly the same as they have been in the past, the real improvements are improved start-up and shot-to-shot times, higher quality image sensors, and new social networking features. The Fujigilm FinePix XP170 is the second tough camera this week to announce the inclusion of a CMOS image sensor, which bests CCD performance capabilities. The XP170′s 14-megapixel CMOS captures light through a 5x wide angle optical zoom lens and is very fast — 10 frames-per second continuous shooting for stills, as well as 30fps full HD 1080p video recording.While the XP170 boasts ratings like waterproof to 33ft, shockproof to 6.5ft, freezeproof to 14°F, and dustproof, Fujifilm seems most excited about the new Wireless Image Transfer features. To access, XP170 owners need to download the free FUJFILM Photo Receiver app to your Android or iOS Device, which allows the XP170 to “join” your smart phone or tablet. Then it’s easy to share your photos and videos on your favorite social networking sites like Facebook or YouTube.There’s also a number of nice automated features, like Tracking Auto Focus to help you get sharp, detailed action adventure shots, as well as Face Detection, Automatic Red-eye Removal, and a 360° Motion Panorama Mode for capturing the great outdoors in all its beauty and splendor.Fujifilm FinePix XP170 features include:Waterproof to 33ft (10M)Shockproof to 6.5ft (2M)Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C)Dustproof14-Megapixel CMOS image sensor2.7-inch anti-reflective LCDFUJINON 5x wide angle optical zoom lens (28-140mm)Full 1080p HD Video Recording (at 30 frames-per-second)(Optional HD Player Accessory
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Olympus TG-1 iHS Preview
Olympus’ Tough series of lifeproof cameras has a new flagship for 2012, the TG-1 iHS. Not only is it the world’s first lifeproof camera to incorporate an ultra-bright, high-speed f2.0 lens (as of April 23, 2012), but you’re also going to get a 12-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor powered by Olympus’ proprietary TruePic VI image processor. All of this means a super fast camera capable of taking incredibly detailed and life-like photographs. Speaking of fast, the TG-1 includes Olympus’ FAST AF system technology, ripped right out of their more expensive PEN series cameras. No matter the extreme action, you’ll always get razor-sharp shots.The CMOS / TruePic VI combination also means you get to shoot full high definition 1080p video as well in as two different high-speed burst modes for stills: 1) 10 frames-per-second at full resolution12-megapxiels, or 2) 60 frames-per-second at 3-megapixels. The TG-1 has a built-in 4x optical zoom (as well as a 10x “Super-resolution Zoom” — but we don’t normally push using digital zoom features), but here’s something fun for the Tough series: an optional converter ring adapter will allow you to attach a waterproof Fisheye Converter Lens for wide panoramas, or a Teleconverter Lens, which extends optical zoom to 6.8x. Another nice feature is the various iAuto Modes, where the camera automatically choses the best option from 30 presets. Or you can choose one yourself individually. The camera even has 4 modes specifically designed to enhance underwater photography and video recordings.A must-have for all adventurers is GPS. You know, just in case you want to
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Nikon J1 Review
Review posted 5/04/2012 Quick Take Pros Stylish exterior that’s available in five colors combinations (lenses match the body)Captures pleasing images both indoors and outRecords high-quality HD video Extremely easy to use with Scene Auto selector and Smart Photo selectorPlenty of advanced exposure optionsHigh-quality 3.0-inch LCDGood shooting performanceCool slow-motion video modesHigh-quality 1 Nikkor lens optionsProduces usable photos throughout the ISO rangeFast AF system that works well in various conditions ConsMode dial is limited, forcing you to use the menu to change between the advanced exposure optionsWeak built-in flashNo hot shoeVisible noise even at lower ISO settingsPoor battery life compared to competitionWe did not see 5fps in burst mode; only 3.6fps using Program mode Bottom Line Nikon’s J1 is a stylish and easy to use EVIL camera. It boasts a powerful 10-metapixel CX-format CMOS image sensor, good shooting performance, and a plethora of exposure options. Like all cameras the J1 has its downfalls (battery life for example), however it is a very competitive model in the EVIL or ILC category. Read more in our Full Conclusion. Nikon has finally joined the EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens) world with the introduction of their first mirror-less cameras. Nikon unveiled two new “Nikon 1″ models, the V1 and the J1. The J1 is a compact interchangeable lens camera that encompasses speed and ease of use with powerful specifications, which combined give you the opportunity to capture amazing photos from such a compact package. On top of a fast 10-megapixel CX-format CMOS image sensor, the J1
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Nikon D3200 dSLR Preview
Nikon has just announced an all new entry-level dSLR, the D3200. Despite its sub-$ 700 kit MSRP, this camera is packed with advanced as well as many beginner features to help photographers of all levels take that important step from point-and-shoot to dSLR. Have a look…Nikon D3200 dSLR Features:24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensorFull HD (1080p) video recording with fulltime AF at 24 or 30 fps, manual exposure control, and stereo sound via a microphone input jack3.0-inch LCD screen (921K dots)4 fps high-speed continuous shooting at full resolutiontandard ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to ISO 12,800EXPEED 3 Image Processing and an 11-point AF system that works with Nikon’s Scene Recognition System11-point AF SystemGuide Mode offers users step-by-step instructions on how to “capture amazing images”Six Scene Modes:PortraitLandscapeChildSportsClose-UpNight PortraitHDMI outputOptional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter lets users remotely control the Nikon D3200 and transfer photos for sharing from Android platform smartphones and tablets (expect an iOS application in the fall of 2012).Available in late April with an MRSP of $ 699.95, Nikon’s D3200 outfits with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR kit lens. Color choices include black and red. The optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter will be available in late May with an MRSP of $ 59.95.Additional Product Views:
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Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS Review
Review posted 04/19/2012 Quick Take Pros Nice 24mm wide angle lensHigh-resolution 3-inch LCD (461,000 dots)High-sensitivity CMOS sensor Fast performance from the DIGIC 5 processorSmart Auto selects settings from 58 predefined situationsFace ID focus and exposure priority Multi-area white balance Intelligent image stabilization chooses from six modesHigh light sensitivity (up to ISO 3200)Movie Digest combines video clips into a montage Cons5x optical zoom range can be limiting Noisy zoom can be heard during video playbackSmooth Skin mode can look unattractive Bottom Line The Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS performs well for the price — it’s fast, boasts high image quality, and shoots full HD video. Attractive shooting modes and a high-resolution LCD make both shooting and browsing images enjoyable. If having a wide-angle lens is more important to you than a powerful zoom, this compact Canon is a highly attractive option, though battery life isn’t the best. Read more in our Full Conclusion. Canon’s PowerShot ELPH 110 HS is one of two newly announced ELPH series cameras, along with the ELPH 520 HS. The 110 HS is $ 50 less expensive than the 520 HS, and boasts a larger 16.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor, more body color choices, and a wider 24mm lens. However, the 110 HS only has a 5x optical zoom (compared to the 520′s 12x).Beyond sensors and lenses, the two new ELPH cameras are similarly appointed, boasting the proprietary DIGIC 5 image processor, which translates into sharper pictures in low light scenarios (ISO up to 3200) as well as faster start up and
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Samsung NX210 Preview
The NX System, from Samsung, is a compact line of interchangeable lens cameras designed to work with all nine NX-series lens. This year, the big news is “In-Built Wifi.” This means, you’ll not only be taking high resolution 20.3 megapixel still photos and full HD 1080p video via the cameras CMOS image sensor, but after you do, you’ll instantly be able to save and share from anywhere you can find a WiFi connection. Backup your photos to your home computer, share them on Facebook or Picasa, and even display them on your Internet-connected HDTVS and/or Samsung Smart phone. The NX210, as seen here, is loaded with features and designed to be the mid-level camera for this year’s NX entries; it’s not quite a dSLR like the NX20, nor is it as compact as the NX1000, but it does feature a high resolution 3.0 AMOLED display and a host of nice features to make users of all skill levels look like a pro.Samsung NX210 Features:20.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor3.0-inch AMOLED displayi-Function SystemWiFi10 Smart FiltersSelective Color FunctionPanorama / 3D PanoramaSmart Panel — access features and menus with ease9 NX-series lenses available.Samsung Mobile LinkTV LinkThe NX210, by Samsung, will be available mid-May with an MSRP of $ 899.99. So far, we’ve only see black as a color option, but perhaps there will be other choices as well.Additional Product Views:
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Samsung NX1000 Preview
Samsung has just announced three brand new NX System, interchangeable lens cameras for 2012, the NX20, NX210, and NX1000. Despite the NX1000′s compact size, it has many of the same performance features as the NX20 and NX210. A huge 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor, which will most likely be capable of full HD 1080p movie recording and a host of smart features to make the camera easy to use for photographers of all skill levels. The big selling feature of the new NX cameras is “In-Built Wifi” functionality, which will allow all three models to back up your pictures over your home wireless network, post your pictures on social networking sites like Facebook, and even display your pictures on internet-connected TVs and Samsung smart phones. Have a look…Samsung NX1000 Features20.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor3.0-inch displayi-Function SystemWiFiSmart Auto 2.0Smart Link Hot Key10 Smart FiltersSelective Color FunctionPanorama / 3D PanoramaSmart Panel — access features and menus with ease9 NX-series lenses available.Samsung NX1000 pricing and availability haven’t been announced just yet. However, we do know it will be available in white, black, or pink. Check back soon for an update, but the other two new NX cameras will be available in May (of 2012), so hopefully this one won’t be too far behind.Additional Product Views:
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Samsung NX20 Preview
Meet the Samsung NX20. It has the look and feel and (almost the) speed of a dSLR, but it’s part of an affordable line of high tech NX System cameras, which currently includes nine lens options. Announced today along with its siblings, the NX210 and NX1000, the NX20 boats a huge 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, full 1080p HD movies, a 3.0-inch AMOLED swivel display, a 1/8000s Fast Shutter, and a host of Samsung SMART features to make taking professional photos easier than ever before.The biggest holy moly feature of the 2012 NX System is “In-Built Wifi” functionality, which will allow all three models to post your photos directly to your social networking sites like Facebook and Picassa, back up your files over your home wireless network, and even display your pictures and video on internet-connected TVs and Samsung smart phones.Samsung NX20 Features include:20.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor3.0-inch AMOLED swivel displayi-Function SystemWiFi1/8000s Fast Shutter10 Smart FiltersSelective Color FunctionPanorama / 3D PanoramaSmart Panel — access features and menus with ease9 NX-series lenses availableSVGA EVFLook and feel of a dSLRThe Samsung NX20 will be available in early May with an MSRP of $ 1,099.99.Additional Product Views:
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