Sony expands Cyber-shot series with trio of new pocket cameras

Sony has just rolled out three new point-and-shoot digital camera models, with all three boasting BIONZ processors and the 3D Sweep Panorama feature.

All three share some additional features, including SteadyShot image stabilization, a max ISO of 3200, a battery life up to 115 minutes/230 snapshots, and 32MB of internal memory.

Then these ultra-slim pocket cameras get individual on us, so here’s the breakdown:

DSC-TX9 (pictured above)

• 12.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS Sensor
• 3.5-inch LCD screen
• 4x optical zoom Carl Zeiss lens
• Full 1080i HD video recording mode
• Available in dark grey, gold, red

DSC-WX5 (pictured right, top)

• 12.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS Sensor
• 2.8-inch LCD screen
• 5x optical zoom Sony G lens
• Full 1080i HD video recording mode
• Available in black, silver, brown, gold and violet

DSC-T99 (pictured right, bottom)

• 14.1-megapixel Super HAD CCD sensor
• 3.0-inch LCD screen
• 4x optical zoom Carl Zeiss lens
• 720p HD video recording mode
• Available in black, silver, pink, green and violet

Sony promises that the WX5 and TX9 models offer better low-noise photos and feature the unique Background Defocus preset, which blurs the background much like that of a DSLR camera.

Both of these cameras can also connect to 3D HDTVs via HDMI, but only the TX9 and T99 can be brought underwater, where you can also make use of the 3D shooting mode.

Mum’s the word on pricing, but we should be seeing these new Sony shooters land in mid-September.

CASIO UNVEILS HI-ZOOM EXILIM COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA

DOVER, NJ, June 22, 2010 — Continuing its history of developing innovative cameras which balance style and technology, Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., today announced the release of another high-quality, intelligently designed digital camera, the EXILIM EX-H5. This latest compact shooter packs a high-powered punch as it comes equipped with an ultra-wide angle 24mm and a 10X optical zoom lens capable of taking images at 12.1 megapixels. The EX-H5’s slim design makes it a perfect camera for everyday use.

The EX-H5 represents the innovation and advancement synonymous with Casio’s EXILIM line. While providing users with simplified features and improved image quality, the EX-H5 is outfitted with a 2.7 inch LCD monitor and a CCD-shift image stabilization mechanism. The new camera provides the best in basic photography functions — beautiful imaging with reduced noise and long battery life for many hours of use.

At the heart of the new EX-H5 is Casio’s next-generation EXILIM Engine 5.0, which provides advanced digital image quality and allows the camera to perform digital noise filtering in accordance with the conditions that caused the noise to be generated. Even when shooting with high sensitivity, noise is minimized without sacrificing resolution.  EXILIM Engine 5.0 offers high quality beautiful images and reduced noise in an instant.

In addition to the high-powered benefits of the EX-H5, the camera is designed with a unique Simple Operations feature. Crafted with dedicated buttons for the capturing, play back and deleting of images and video, the EX-H5 simplifies the operation of the camera for new users. Simple Operations demonstrates Casio’s dedication to developing cameras with top-notch capabilities that allow novice users to maximize their photo taking experience. 

“The addition of the EX-H5 to the EXILIM line-up exhibits Casio’s dedication to providing consumers of all levels with easy-to-use, high-quality cameras,” said Toshiyuki Iguchi, senior general manager of Casio’s Digital Imaging Division at Casio America, Inc. “The EX-H5’s features allow shooters to capture an array of moments in practically any environment.”

The camera also boasts Casio’s celebrated Dynamic Photo, a Hollywood-like green-screen effect which adds animated graphics into still photos where users can create unique e-greetings to share with friends and family. Dynamic Photo gives the power to create original and artistic visuals that can be emailed, posted on social networks and even printed out at home.

The new camera will begin shipping to retail in July. The EX-H5 will have an MSRP of $199.99 and will be available in black, red and silver.

EXILIM Hi-Zoom EX-H5
A powerful zoom, easy-to-use compact digital camera, perfect for travelers on the go.

Beautiful images with 12.1 effective megapixels
This camera’s 12.1 megapixels of high-resolution imagery can render extremely fine detail in the subject. Moreover, the advanced image processing capability provided by the EXILIM Engine 5.0 ensures that color reproduction is clear and bright, and that images have a rich tonal gradation.

Ultra-wide angle 24 mm, 10X optical zoom lens
This lens delivers all the freedom of zoom photography — from an ultra-wide angle 24 mm useful for shooting in a small room or for photographing large subjects, to a 10X optical zoom that brings distant subjects up close. The camera also has a CCD-shift image stabilization mechanism.

High Resolution HD Movies
The EX-H5 features an HD Movie function. Just press the dedicated Movie button to take beautiful movies at 1280x720 pixels.

Landscape Effect
Users can choose between the Vivid Landscape option, which vividly enhances only the most impressive colors, and the Mist Removal option, which produces clearer pictures when the atmosphere is misty.

Makeup Mode
The camera helps create beautiful pictures of people’s faces. This function ensures that faces are correctly focused and well exposed, adjusts the smoothness of skin and softens facial shadows caused by sunlight.

Dynamic Photo: Make composite images of different moving images
Casio has achieved great advancements in Dynamic Photo, a function that creates “moving photos” by cutting moving subjects from the background in images taken with continuous shooting and combining those images on a different still image. In addition to composites made with a still image background, cut-out moving images can now be pasted on other moving images. This new capability raises the power of expression of images. Thus, while increasing the “fun of creating images,” these models will also increase the “fun of sharing images” by making it easy to upload images to YouTube™ using the included software or post them to a blog.

* Photography based on CIPA standards. Calculations based on an ambient temperature of 23°C; LCD monitor on; zooming back and forward from the wide end to the telephoto end every 30 seconds; flash used once every two shots; and the power turned on and off once every ten shots.

Garmin® Unleashes Next-Generation Astro® GPS Dog Tracking Collar

Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, announced today the DC™ 40 tracking collar, improving upon the very popular Astro GPS Dog Tracking System.

The new DC 40 is mounted on a durable one-inch orange polyurethane coated collar strap, and the small black GPS puck that used to ride on the top of the collar is now integrated into the unit’s main housing.  As a result, owners can combine the DC 40 with most standard e-collar receivers – eliminating the need to put two separate collars on a dog.  The charging connection has been completely redesigned as well, with the charger clamping around a housing that has no recessed areas for mud to accumulate.  Even the LED charging light on the collar has been reconfigured to flash while charging, and glow solid when fully charged.

“The refinements that are found in the new DC 40 are the result of feedback from hunters and trainers,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales.  “The new collar is more convenient and more durable than ever.  Whether purchasing an Astro for the first time or upgrading from an older model, sporting dog owners will love the refinements that are packed into the new DC 40.”

Another new feature of the DC 40 is Collar Lock – an option that lets users create a four-digit PIN number that helps prevent others from seeing their dog’s whereabouts.  That’s a feature that field trial judges will find useful to ensure that an Astro is used only as a recovery tool when a dog in competition becomes lost.

Used in conjunction with the Astro 220 receiver, the system pinpoints exactly where your dog is and what he’s doing – running, pointing, or treeing – even in dense cover, up to seven miles away, depending on terrain.

The Astro GPS Dog Tracking System requires very little configuration straight out of the box, and is extremely simple to use.  Once the transmitter and receiver acquire a GPS signal, the receiver automatically lets users know the location of their dog.  There are no subscriptions or setup fees required to use the device. 

Astro can track up to ten dogs per receiver at once, and the collar gives location updates every five, 10, 30 or 120 seconds (user selectable).  Battery life is 17-48 hours (based on update rate) on the rechargeable DC 40 collar and 24 hours on the Astro 220 receiver, which is powered by two AA batteries.  Both the DC 40 collar and the Astro 220 receiver are waterproof.

The Astro also has a map page to illustrate where a dog is and where it has been – in relation to the hunter – and allows hunters to determine if they have covered nearby ground.  Garmin’s unique Covey Counter™ lets hunters mark the precise location, time of day, and elevation where they encountered their quarry – and users can easily note the number of birds flushed and how many were taken. 

The Astro has a microSD card slot that allows users to insert optional pre-programmed topo maps or road maps, which can be invaluable in an unfamiliar area.  Highly-detailed 24K topo maps give hunters an idea of the most productive areas to hunt, while road maps feature the same basic functions as an automotive GPS navigation unit – even in rural areas.  The optional road map data can also give turn-by-turn directions to motels, gas stations, restaurants, and even veterinarians.

PANASONIC INTRODUCES WORLD'S SMALLEST AND LIGHTEST* DIGITAL INTERCHANGEABLE FISHEYE LENS FOR LUMIX G-SERIES

 

Compact and Lightweight Lens Features 180-Degree Diagonal Angle View

Panasonic introduced the LUMIX G Fisheye 8mm/F3.5 lens, the H-F008, with a 35mm camera equivalent 16mm lens, the world's smallest and lightest* digital interchangeable fisheye lens compatible with the LUMIX G Series, DSL Micro (DSLM) cameras.

Featuring a 180-degree diagonal angle view, the LUMIX G Fisheye 8mm/F3.5 lens offers a distinctive perspective and unique deformation effect, creating a creative view for both photos and video. Additionally, its compact size can be attributed to its ten lenses in nine groups, which takes advantage of the Micro Four Thirds system standard to achieve dramatic downsizing.

"The addition of this lightweight LUMIX fisheye lens gives photographers of all levels the ability to enjoy a range of photo-taking possibilities and expand their creativity," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "This lens is not only extremely compact, making it easy to carry, but it allows for photos and videos to be made both up close and from far away – while capturing truly creative images."

The adoption of an ED (Extra-low dispersion glass) lens achieves a stable, descriptive performance at all distances, to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion. The LUMIX G Fisheye 8mm lens has the ability to capture extreme close-ups from far away, due in part to its advanced inner focus system.

The H-F008, Fisheye 8mm lens allows for use of the high-speed and accurate contrast AF system when mounted on the Panasonic LUMIX G Series DSLM cameras, for more comfortable and enjoyable shooting. Seven blades give the aperture a rounded shape that produces an attractively smooth effect in out-of-focus areas when shooting at larger aperture settings. The inclusion of a stepping motor allows for smooth and silent focusing in both photo and movie recording modes.

Pricing and availability for the LUMIX G Fisheye 8mm/F3.5, the H-F008, lens will be announced 30 days prior to shipping. For more information on Panasonic's LUMIX G Micro System accessories and lenses and to learn more about the Panasonic LUMIX G Series of DSLM cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX75: Wide Angles, Touch Screen, HD Video

Panasonic's Lumix FX75 strives to be a good looking camera with good looking video to match; the sleek FX75 has a touchscreen, a 24mm super wide angle lens with 5x optical zoom and shoots HD video in AVCHD Lite.

The FX75 packs a 14.1MP sensor and a F2.2, 24mm lens, which isn't totally uncommon in higher-end point and shoots like the drool-worthy Samsung TL500 but could be a nice inclusion here if the price is right. Panny reminds us that the super wide lens offers a 213% larger viewing space than that of a 35mm camera.

The FX75 is finger-friendly, featuring a touch screen for tap-to-set auto focus, and it comes with Panasonic's standard Intelligent Auto mode as well as a new Motion Deblur mode for the shaky-handed. Check the release below for more details—price and shipping date still TBA.

A Unifocal Standard Lens for use with Medium-Format Digital SLR Cameras;
The First Model of the smc PENTAX-D FA 645 Series

HOYA CORPORATION PENTAX Imaging Systems Division is pleased to announce the launch of the smc PENTAX-D FA 645 55mm F2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW. Developed as the first model of the PENTAX-D FA 645 lens series, it not only features new optics optimized for high-quality digital photography to assure exceptional image-description performance, but also provides an image circle covering the image area of existing 645-format film SLR cameras. This unifocal standard lens also comes with a dependable, dust-proof, weather-resistant construction for active outdoor photography.

smc PENTAX-D FA 645 55mmF2.8 AL[IF] SDM AW

Major Features

1.    State-of-the-art optics to accommodate the requirements for super-high-resolution photography using medium-format digital SLR cameras

Incorporating high-performance, hybrid aspherical optical element in its optics, this new standard lens offers exceptional image-resolving power with outstanding brightness levels even at the edges, while compensating various aberrations to a minimum. All lens characteristics are optimized for digital photography: for instance, flare and ghost images are minimized by applying exclusive lens coatings to optical elements and employing anti-reflection materials for the interior of the lens barrel. As the result, this lens can bring out the full potential of the PENTAX 645D medium-format digital SLR camera.

2.    Versatile standard lens

When mounted on the PENTAX 645D camera body, this standard lens offers a focal length of 43.5mm (in the 35mm format), which produces an angle of view close to that of the human eye. As the result, it can be used for many different kinds of subjects and applications, including landscapes and portraits.

3.    Dependable dustproof, weather-resistant construction

Using seven special seals, the lens’ dustproof, weather-resistant construction effectively prevents the intrusion of dust and water to the lens interior. By coupling this lens with the PENTAX 645D camera body, the user is assured of a durable, reliable digital SLR camera system that performs superbly in outdoor settings, even in rain or mist or at locations prone to water splashes or spray.
PENTAX plans to use the “AW” (All Weather) designation in the product name of all dustproof, weather-resistant medium-format interchangeable lenses to be marketed in the future.

4.    Aero Bright coating to dramatically improve image description in backlight

The lens is treated with PENTAX-original Aero Bright coating, which delivers brilliant, high-quality images by preventing annoying flare and ghost images more effectively than ever before. Born as the fruit of PENTAX’s advanced nanotechnology, this exclusive coating effectively reduces lens reflectance and greatly increases light transmittance by forming a silica aerogel layer with uniform pores on the surface of optical element.

5.    Rounded diaphragm to produce a beautiful bokeh

This is the first PENTAX medium-format interchangeable lens to features a completely rounded diaphragm. It creates a natural, beautiful “bokeh” (out-of-focus rendition), while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources.

6.    Smooth, quiet SDM autofocus mechanism

The SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor) autofocus mechanism operates smoothly and quietly using the supersonic motor installed inside the lens barrel.*

* Only manual-focus operation is available when this lens is mounted on the PENTAX 645N or PENTAX 645N II camera body.

7.    SP coating to block dust and dirt

The front surface of the lens is treated with PENTAX-original SP (Special Protect) coating, which applies an exclusive fluorine compound to the lens surface through a vapor deposition process. This SP coating not only effectively repels dust, water and grease, but also makes it easy to wipe off fingerprints and cosmetics.

8.    Other features

1.    Image circle covering the image area of 645-format film SLR cameras

2.    Functional, simplified design, with no aperture ring

3.    Quick-Shift Focus system for instant switching to manual-focus operation, after the subject is captured in focus by the AF system

4.    PL filter window for easy installation of a polarizing filter without removing the lens hood

5.    PH-SA67 Square Plastic Hood (optional)** for more effective prevention of flare and ghost images when mounted on the PENTAX 645D camera body

　Tokyo, April 8, 2010 - SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce the launch of two new Dual Camera Xacti, the DMX-CG100 and DMX-GH1 on April 16, 2010. With slim and compact designs, the new models capture Full HD video and high-resolution photos, based on the Dual Camera concept of taking both videos and photos with one camera.
　Instead of coming out with devices that are only used to record important events, the Xacti series aims to provide customers with more enjoyable video experiences, by offering cameras that users can conveniently carry everywhere to easily capture both photos and videos in daily life. By utilizing a convenient video format that can be easily handled on PC and Internet environments, as well as on home TVs, Xacti cameras are more than just hardware for capturing, viewing, and saving images. They are convenient products for sharing videos online, and on multi-media sites, thereby providing new ways to enjoy captured images. As a result, Xacti cameras have been very well received by the market.
　With slim designs for easy portability, the new Xacti models can capture both Full HD video and 14 mega-pixel photos. This makes them handy video cameras for use in a wide variety of daily situations or special events.

*1

SANYO Xacti “Full HD” means data recorded at 1920 (horizontal) x 1080 (vertical) pixels.

　While the DMX-CG100 and DMX-GH1 both have slim compact designs, they can still capture Full HD video (1920 x 1080 (60i)) and 14 mega-pixel high-resolution photos.
　The video format for the new cameras is “MPEG-4 AVC / H.264,” which enables videos to be handled on a computer or the Internet using a single file, just like a still photo. This format is fully supported by the “Windows 7”^*2 operating system launched last year, making it convenient to use in this WindowsR environment.
　Since these video files can be seen with the same PC thumbnail displays as for regular photo files, it makes them even more convenient. They can also be played directly with Windows Media Player, edited using Windows Live Movie Maker^*3, adopted for business applications such as animated Powerpoint presentations, and are even compatible with Device Stage.

*2

Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.
The official name of Windows is the Microsoft Windows Operating System.

*3

Downloadable from the Microsoft Corporation website.

The new models are equipped with SANYO’s proprietary “Double Range Zoom” feature for zoom operation while filming video. With a touch of the Zoom Range Button, this technology allows users to effectively switch between two zoom ranges, a Wide Mode (40 mm to 240 mm) and a Tele Mode (80 mm to 480 mm), which changes the size of the video capture area on the image sensor. As a result, the new models offer an extensive range of video capture from wide angle to telephoto zoom for distant scenery, with a magnification of up to 12x (40 mm to 480 mm; 35-mm film basis).

*4

For video capture only (optical 5x zoom when capturing photos)

*

“Advanced Zoom” technology is completely different from regular digital zoom. It provides wider angle capture as well as higher magnification zoom, by progressively changing the image capture area on the image sensor. Unlike the regular digital zoom, it achieves zooming without image degradation.

　The DMX-GH1 features SANYO’s unique “Double Sub Rec Button” for easier shooting. In addition to the regular recording buttons, there are also separate Double Sub Rec video and photo capture buttons on the upper front edge of the camera. This enables the user to capture a subject in　a comfortable posture even when the subject is at a low angle. Now it is easy to capture scenes from the same standpoint as children and pets, for recording of a world that is different from the usual perspective.

*5

Available on the DMX-GH1

Two Nikon digital cameras receive the "red dot award: product design 2010"
Nikon COOLPIX S1000pj compact digital camera
Nikon D5000 digital-SLR camera

March 30, 2010

Nikon Corporation (Michio Kariya, President) is proud to announce that the COOLPIX S1000pj compact digital camera and D5000 digital-SLR camera have been awarded the "red dot award: product design 2010" by Germany's Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen.

The "red dot award: product design" is a world-class award presented to products released over the past two years that exhibit superiority of design in terms of a total of nine aspects, including innovation, functionality, ergonomics, ecology and durability. A total of 4,252 products from 57 nations took part in the "red dot award: product design 2010" competition, for which the two Nikon products were selected. Winners will be on display from July 6 to August 1, 2010 in the exhibition "Design on stage – winners red dot award: product design 2010" at the red dot design museum on the premises of the Zeche Zollverein World Cultural Heritage Site in Essen Germany.
See the following website for further information on the "red dot design award".

COOLPIX S1000pj

D5000 ( AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR )

Overview of the Nikon COOLPIX S1000pj

The COOLPIX S1000pj (released in October 2009) offers 12.1-million pixels, a 5× optical zoom NIKKOR lens, and is the world's first* compact digital camera to offer a built-in, ultra-compact projector. It offers superior basic performance with support for high sensitivities and built-in camera shake compensation functions. The COOLPIX S1000pj has become very popular as it proposes a new way to enjoy a digital camera with its ability to immediately project photos taken with the camera on walls and other surfaces almost anywhere for viewing and sharing of those photos with family and friends.

Overview of the Nikon D5000

The D5000 (released in May 2009) is a Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera with a CMOS image sensor offering a pixel count of 12.3-million pixels. It is the first Nikon digital-SLR camera to be equipped with a vari-angle monitor that enables live view shooting from a variety of angles with great flexibility. The camera also supports movie recording with the D-Movie function. In addition, 19 scene modes make the quick capture of images that accurately reproduce scenes and their ambience simple. With its advanced functions, the user friendly D5000 has been extremely well received by those advancing from a compact camera, and those purchasing their first digital-SLR camera, since its release.

Samsung Adds Waterproof and Durable Compacts to Digital Camera Family

Samsung Announces Pair Of Durable Compact Cameras Allowing Users To Get Adventurous With Their Photos

Anaheim, CA - Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today added two 12 mega-pixel point and shoots to its digital camera lineup for 2010 - the durable SL605 and the waterproof AQ100. Thanks to their elements focused design, the AQ100 and the SL605 grant peace of mind and allow users to focus on taking the perfect shot, rather than worrying about damage to the camera. The AQ100 and the SL605 will be on display during PMA 2010, February 21-23, in the Samsung booth, #2227, in the Anaheim Convention Center.

“Memories can happen at any given moment and in any environment,” said Mr. SJ Park, CEO of Samsung Digital Imaging Company. “Further diversifying and expanding the range of digital imaging solutions available from Samsung, consumers can rely on these durable compacts to perform in the most challenging of environments as they’re both built to last and feature packed for the highest-quality results.”

AQ100
Offering extraordinary capabilities, the slim (0. . .78” thick) AQ100 was developed for use in up to 10 feet of water and thanks to the camera’s exceptional low-light performance, it’s capable of taking bright images at that depth. Whether taking photos of friends and family in the pool or a school of fish while snorkeling in the ocean, users will benefit from the AQ100’s dedicated Aqua mode, which will optimize camera settings for the best possible underwater photos.

A powerful camera on land or in water, the AQ100 boasts an ample, 5x optical inner zoom lens complete with Digital Image Stabilization to help reduce blurry images. Additionally, the AQ100 features a bright, 2.7 inch TFT-LCD screen for framing and reviewing images.

In addition to taking beautiful still images, consumers can also record impressive 720p HD video above or below the water. The AQ100 offers image stabilization while recording video and for complete simplicity, it has Smart Auto (Still & Movie) scene recognition technology which fine tunes both video and picture settings for the best possible results. All the users have to do is point and shoot.

SL605
The new SL605 was designed with durability in mind, and offers consumers Samsung’s Anti scratch Mask, which safeguards the camera from any unwanted scratches during everyday use. Furthermore, key areas of the Samsung SL605, including the bottom, buttons and areas surrounding the 2.7-inch TFT-LCD (230,000 pixel), are rubberized to further protect the camera from elements such as dust, dirt or sand.

Beyond its durability, users will also benefit from the Samsung SL605’s internal 27mm wide angle, 5x optical zoom lens, which gives them the ability to take sharp and detailed images from any distance. With a wide-angle lens at their fingertips, users will be able to capture more of a desired scene, such as landscapes or large groups of friends and family. The SL605 offers standard definition, VGA video recording and also features Samsung’s intuitive and easy-to-use Smart Auto scene recognition technology.

Samsung has also incorporated a Smart Night Mode in the new SL605, which will allow consumers to capture sharp, properly exposed images when shooting at night. Typically, a flash can be too bright and wash out one’s subject when used in low-light or night-time settings, ruining what could have been a great image. With Samsung’s new Smart Night Mode, this is no longer an issue as consumers can now increase or decrease the power of the flash to ensure the perfect shot, the way they want, each and every time.

Samsung Launches High-End Compact With Ultra-Bright f/1.8 Lens

Fast Operating Speed and Ultra-Sensitive 1/1.7" CCD Will Impress Enthusiast Photographers

Anaheim, CA - Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, proudly introduces the 10 mega-pixel TL500, a high-end compact digital camera designed specifically for today’s advanced and enthusiast photographers. The new flagship of the company’s compact digital camera family, the new TL500 incorporates a full-range of advanced features, including a high-performance imaging sensor and one of the brightest lenses ever featured on a compact camera – a 24mm ultra wide angle Schneider KREUZNACH, f/1.8. The TL500 will be on display during PMA 2010, February 21 23, in the Samsung booth, #2227, in the Anaheim Convention Center.

“With the TL500, Samsung further differentiates its lineup from the competition and achieves yet another milestone in the industry,” said Mr. SJ Park, CEO of Samsung Digital Imaging Company. “With ultra-wide angle capability and unparalleled speed, the TL500’s lens offers a new level of versatility allowing the user to be more creative and take better pictures.”

High-Quality Optics and Images
The Samsung TL500 is sure to turn heads thanks to its ultra-wide, f/1.8 Schneider lens – one of the brightest ever featured on a compact digital camera. The impressive f/1.8 lens offers photographers a wider range of aperture steps and shallow depth-of-field, giving them the ability to blur out the background of their images while maintaining focus on their subjects. The ultra-fast, f/1.8 lens also allows users to take better photos in low-light environments as more light is passed through to the new high-performance 1/1.7” CCD sensor. Larger than the sensors typically found in compact digital cameras, the TL500’s 1/1.7” CCD offers unrivaled sensitivity (max ISO 3200/full-resolution). Together with Samsung’s re engineered and fast, DRIMeIII imaging processor, the TL500 captures high-quality images, regardless of the lighting environment.

The high-end Schneider lens offers a 24mm, ultra-wide focal length and 3x optical zoom. Much wider than traditional compact cameras, the TL500’s 24mm ultra-wide angle lens allows photographers to capture more of a desired scene, such as beautiful landscapes and large groups of friends or family. For blur free images, the TL500’s lens is also paired with Samsung’s Dual Image Stabilization technology.

Versatile Display Enhances the Viewing Experience
Composing and reviewing images on the TL500’s three-inch, swiveling AMOLED screen is a pleasure. The rotating AMOLED display will allow photographers to precisely frame their images the way they want and shoot from just about any angle, including overhead or low to the-ground shots. Compared to the traditional TFT-LCD found on most digital cameras, the TL500’s AMOLED provides users with a higher contrast ratio, deeper blacks and more accurate, vivid colors, even when viewed from an angle or in direct sunlight. The TL500’s AMOLED display is also more efficient when it comes to power consumption, allowing photographers to maximize battery life and shoot longer on a single charge.

Multiple Shooting Options
The TL500 supports RAW and gives enthusiasts full control over their images thanks to its shutter priority, aperture priority and full Manual shooting modes. When using these settings, shooters can experiment with features such as slower shutter speeds and depth of field; however, for those who prefer ease-of-use over manual controls, the TL500 also offers Samsung’s Smart Auto 2.0 (Still & Movie) scene recognition technology. Applicable for video recording (640x480 / 30fps / H.264) and taking digital stills, this intelligent feature analyzes the scene and then automatically selects the appropriate settings for the best results possible. Using this mode requires minimal effort and does not sacrifice image quality for simple operation.