Updated: 'Retro' Samsung NX200 launch imminent

Updated: 'Retro' Samsung NX200 launch imminent:

Samsung has confirmed to TechRadar that a two-tone NX200 is going to be made available in selected countries.

As of yet, no decision has been made on when (or if) it will go on sale in the UK, and no information on when that decision will be made is forthcoming. As mentioned below, we have been informed that the camera will have no specification changes, and will remain badged as 'NX200'.

The Samsung NX200 is a feature-packed compact system camera (CSC) that has a 20.3MP APS-C sensor. It's capable of producing richly detailed pictures and shooting crisp Full HD movies. However, our tests revealed that its short battery life, lack of a viewfinder and sluggish raw shooting times let it down.

The specifications of this updated model are said to remain the same, with the only difference between the new version and the existing camera being that the newer one is two-tone with addition of a chrome top plate. Retro design is (still) all the rage, thanks in part to the success that Fuji's had with its rangefinder-styled FinePix X100 and FinePix 10 compacts. But this seems rather a token gesture.

The new NX200, reported by some to be called the NX200 RS is expected to hit South Korean shops on Saturday 21 January.

Samsung doesn't have a presence at the CP+ show in Japan, so it looks like we have seen all the new camera announcements from Samsung for a while.

Via Photo Rumors

Source : Google Reader

In Depth: Week in camera news

In Depth: Week in camera news:

It's the week after CES 2012, so it's been fairly quiet on the new camera announcement front. That didn't stop the mainstream media continuing to focus on the photography industry though, as Kodak dropped the biggest news of the week in the form of a bankruptcy bombshell.

All eyes are on now on CP+. The Japanese Camera and Photo Imaging Show opens its doors from 9 to 12 February, and it's widely anticipated that some of this year's key camera announcements are being timed to coincide with this event.

So, it's no surprise to find a stack of rumours and a healthy dose of speculation doing the rounds. Here's what everyone's been talking about this week...

Kodak news

The big event of this week came on Thursday, with Kodak announcing that it was filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the US. Kodak has taken steps to stress that it's 'business as normal' in the UK and Europe, and it's certainly not affecting its ability to chase alleged infringements of its patents.

Nikon news

It's been a case of "Nikon D800 this, Nikon D800 that…" this week. The launch of the D700 replacement is so close, you can almost smell it. You can even see it, if this new purported D800 image posted by Nikon Rumors is to be believed. There have been numerous other events this week that have also pointed towards an imminent D800 announcement.

Canon news

Is Canon going to use the CP+ show as a launchpad for its yet-to-be-confirmed successor to the EOS 5D Mark II? Word on the street is that it won't happen - but the EOS 6D/5D Mark III could arrive in March, complete with eye-control focusing, according to some accounts.

Olympus and Panasonic news

Both Micro Four Thirds manufacturers have trotted out firmware updates this week. The Panasonic GX1 upgrade enhances white balance, autofocus and SD memory card stability, while the three latest Olympus PENs get a slight tweak to help them get more from the new Olympus power zoom lens. More up your street, perhaps, is the upcoming launch of the Olympus OM-D.

Flickr news

Photographers displayed their opposition to PIPA and SOPA bills that were being considered by the US Congress, by helping to blackout Flickr this week. It seems that may have shown 'em, since voting on the bills has been suspended.

Fujifilm news

As the dust settles on CES, we've had a chance to reflect on some of the cameras that didn't quite make the headlines, but impressed us nonetheless. The limited edition Fujifilm X100 black certainly falls into that camp. Just don't look at the price tag.

Pentax news

One more reasonably strong camera rumour for the road? It looks like Pentax will be revealing a new CSC in February (yes, another one to tie in with CP+). Pentax K-01, anyone?

That's all for the week in cameras this week. Next week the rumour mill is going to be turning even faster as CP+ will be just a fortnight away There's usually a flurry of launch activity in the lead up to shows like this, so let's just see if all that wild supposition and wishful thinking comes true...

Source : Google Reader

Buying Guide: Best Nikon cameras 2012

Buying Guide: Best Nikon cameras 2012:

Best Nikon DSLR cameras

When it comes to camera manufacturers, Nikon is among the best known.

And for good reason - its range of DSLR, compact system and compact cameras contains some standout products that deliver performance and imaging clout where it matters.

Here we look at the full range to see which Nikon camera is best for you.

Best Nikon DSLR explained

Nikon's DSLR range is divided between its DX (APS-C sensor size) and professional FX (Full-frame 0r 35mm sensor size) ranges.

Nikon's DX format camera range encompasses what Nikon calls its Consumer range of SLRs, as well as the Nikon D300S in its Professional range. The DX camera's 1.5x crop means equivalent focal lengths are 50% 'longer' than their FX equivalent (ie 50mm is a 75mm equivalent, although not all DX lenses will provide an image circle large enough to cover an FX sensor).

Although FX sensors offer the potential for better image quality and shallower depth of field (at any given aperture), they also mean larger, heavier and far more expensive kit.

Best Nikon Consumer DSLR

Nikon D3100

Price: £420 (body only), 14.2MP, HD video: 1080p

Nikon's entry-level DSLR is best for beginners or users wanting to step up from compact cameras. The Nikon D3100's key selling point is its GUIDE mode, which provides on-screen assistance in both visual and written forms to help explain modes and options without jargon - ideal for the newcomer.

The D3100's 14.2MP DX sensor produces great quality images and can even render Full HD 1080p movie files. The rear screen can be used to show a real-time preview, or the 95% field of view optical viewfinder provides an ample way of framing shots.

Read our Nikon D3100 review

Nikon D5100

Price: £530 (body only), 16.2MP, HD video: 1080p

The middle ground of Nikon's consumer range, the D5100 has the same 16.2MP DX sensor as found in the D7000, higher in the range. Image quality is excellent as a result and the camera's overall build quality is the main difference from its higher-specified partner.

Best for families and creative types, the D5100 has a vari-angle screen that can be positioned at almost any angle for imaginative shooting, plus there's a built-in Effects mode to shoot both still images and 1080p movies, with special effects such as Miniature, Selective Color and Silhouette.

Read our Nikon D5100 review

Nikon D90

Price: £620 (body only), 12.3MP, HD video: 720p

Although the Nikon D90 is a little long in the tooth and no longer on the production line, it's a solidly-built DSLR that's available at a cut of its original asking price.

The D90 was the first DSLR to introduce HD video capture (720p) and the 12.3MP DX sensor is also able to deliver good image quality. It may not be able to match some of its newer peers in this department, but it's the overall build quality where this camera excels.

Read our Nikon D90 review

Nikon D7000

Price: £450 (body only), 16.2MP, HD video: 1080p

At the top of the Consumer bracket, the Nikon D7000 is knocking on the door of professional cameras, and is best for more demanding photographers not able to stretch to the more significant asking price of the D300S.

The Nikon D7000's 16.2MP DX sensor is the same as that found in the more affordable D5100, but offers a sturdy, weather-sealed build and a variety of other perks. The 100% optical viewfinder means what you see in preview is what you get; an excellent 39-point autofocus system is ideal for moving subjects; 6fps shooting is quicker than its nearby models; and a durable shutter tested to 150,000 cycles guarantees longevity even under considerable use.

Read our Nikon D7000 review

Best Nikon Professional and full-frame DSLRs

Nikon D300S

Price: £1,055 (body only), 12.3MP, HD video: 720p

Good for pro and enthusiast sports photographers. The Nikon D300S may use an older 12.3MP DX sensor (as per the D90), but its other super-fast and hardwearing features position it in Nikon's Professional category.

A near immediate start-up time sets the pace, and the 7fps burst mode works seamlessly with the 51-point autofocus system for fast and accurate focus. Add the MB-D10 battery grip and 8fps is possible. Like the D7000, the D300S is weather-sealed and tested to 150,000 shutter actuations - so it's durable and hard wearing for demanding users.

Read our Nikon D300S review

Nikon D700

Price: £1,900 (body only), 12.1MP, HD video: No

A great option for those wanting a full-frame sensor on a tighter budget. With rumours of the Nikon D800 just around the corner, the D700 may be coming to the end of its life, but that's all the more excuse to grab an FX body at a decent price.

At the time of its release, the sub-£2,000 Nikon D700 made full-frame photography more affordable and accessible. Excellent picture quality is a staple from the 12.1MP sensor - the same as that found in the far more expensive D3S.

Read our Nikon D700 review

Nikon D3S

Price: £3,525 (body only), 12.1MP, HD video: 720p

An updated version of the pro-spec Nikon D3, the Nikon D3S is among the best full-frame cameras for pro photographers requiring top-spec build quality, performance and image quality, however, it has recently been replaced by the D4.

A 9fps burst mode is significant for a full-frame camera, meaning this workhorse is also excellent for outdoor work such as sports and wildlife photography.

With the D4 arriving soon, expect to see a glut of secondhand and discounted D3S bodies on sale.

Read our Nikon D3S review

Nikon D4

£4799.99 (body only) 16.2MP HD video: 1080p

The D4 is Nikon's newest full-frame SLR and it replaces the D3S.

It features a new16.2 million-pixel FX format sensor and a sensitivity range that can be expanded to include the equivalent of ISO 50-204,800. Further good news for low light shooters is that AF system is claimed to function down to –2EV.

The improved Af system has 51 AF points in total and the central 11 are sensitive down to f/8, making it ideal for use with telephoto lens and teleconverter set-ups.

Nikon has designed to D4 to make it easier to shoot in the upright format than with the D3S and it has two mini-joystick controllers for selecting the AF point, with one being within easy reach of the thumb whichever way round you are shooting.

Nikon hopes that the D4 will be the camera of choice of professional photographers, especially those who will be shooting the Olympic games this summer. Speed is of the essence for these users and thanks to its EXPEED3 processor the D4 can shoot at up to 11fps. It is also the first camera to feature the new XQD card format for faster image writing and downloading.

Read our hands on review of the Nikon D4

Nikon D3x

Price: £5,040 (body only), 24.5MP, HD video: No

The top-tier (and priciest) Nikon DSLR on the market. With a body upwards of £5,000, this is strictly a camera for the professionals. The 24.5MP full-frame sensor is the highest resolution found in any Nikon DSLR, which is this camera's main difference compared to the D3S.

With a build quality that's second to none, the Nikon D3X is best for professional studio, landscape or stock library work where large files are a necessity.

Read our Nikon D3x review

Best Nikon CSC

The Nikon 1 series is a mirrorless camera range, also called a compact system camera (CSC).

Small in size and easy to use, much like a compact camera, the 1 series also features more DSLR-like features such as interchangeable lenses and a 1-inch sensor size (which is far larger than that found in almost all compact cameras).

The 1 series is best for those wanting better quality images than a compact camera can offer, with some of the versatility and control that a DSLR camera can provide. The new 1 mount is unique to the Nikon 1 system, which means lenses can't be swapped between DSLR or other CSC brands.

Nikon J1 vs V1

The 1-series range is divided into two models. The simpler Nikon J1 is targeted at step-up compact users, while the more advanced Nikon V1 features a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF).

Other differences between the two models are subtle. The Nikon V1 has a mechanical shutter for faster flash-sync, whereas the Nikon J1 has an electronic-only shutter. The J1 also has a built-in pop-up flash, whereas the V1 provides the option to attach a more powerful accessory flash only.

The V1 is the only model to include a 3.5mm microphone input and, on account of a larger, longer-lasting battery and built-in viewfinder, the V1 is also larger than the J1.

Read our Nikon J1 review

Read our Nikon V1 review

Best Nikon compact cameras

When it comes to compact cameras, there's a Nikon model to suit all tastes. The range begins with the point and shoot L series (Life), advances to the stylish S series (Style) and ends at the higher-spec P series (Performance) that's designed for more demanding users.

Our Best Nikon Coolpix 2012 article provides a full run-down of the best Nikon compact cameras, divided into these ranges .

Outside of these three main groups, there's also the All Weather Nikon Coolpix AW100, which is designed to deal with more than your average compact camera can handle.

The Nikon Coolpix AW100 is waterproof to depths of 10m, shockproof to cope with 1.5m drops and is even freezeproof to temperatures of -10°C.

Source : Google Reader

Kodak Europe 'unaffected' during US bankruptcy proceedings

Kodak Europe 'unaffected' during US bankruptcy proceedings:

Kodak has issued a statement to clarify its current position outside of the US, after announcing that it was filing for bankruptcy protection yesterday.

The company notes that its "non-U.S. subsidiaries are not included in the filings and will continue to operate as usual. Accordingly, these international operations continue to honour all obligations to customers and suppliers, whenever incurred.

"Our European business is not affected by the decision that has been taken by our US parent company to file for voluntary Chapter 11 business reorganisation for US businesses." Philip Cullimore, managing director for Europe, said.

Focus on printers

"In Europe we have seen a significant shift towards business-to-business imaging applications, and are weighted towards printing. These businesses in Europe are performing well and growing fast."

So, for the moment at least, it's business as usual in Kodak UK's headquarters at Hemel Hempstead.

Kodak has launched a new website - Kodaktransforms.com - where it intends to update information about the company's reorganisation. The company has once again confirmed its commitment to continue to provide staff with their wages and benefits throughout the reorganisation process, which should be completed in the US by 2013.

Source : Google Reader

Canon EF lens to Sony NEX Smart Adaptor launched

Canon EF lens to Sony NEX Smart Adaptor launched:

Sino-Japanese lens adaptor manufacturer Metabones has teamed up with Vancouver-based lens modification specialist Conurus to create a new range of 'Smart Adaptors'

The first product in this series is billed as "the world's first smart adaptor for attaching Canon EF lenses to the Sony NEX's E-mount".

It enables full electronic control of the Canon lens aperture on the Sony NEX camera. Shooting data, such as focal length and aperture, is said to be transferred to the EXIF data, while manual and autoexposure modes are all available.

Image stabilisation, both on third-party lenses and Canon IS lenses, is also supported, since it's the battery in the Sony camera that provides the power for this function.

No autofocus

As with many third-party NEX adaptors, this Smart Adaptor isn't so intelligent when it comes to autofocus – it's manual focus only.

The development teams have only tested the adaptor's compatibility with the Sony NEX-3, NEX-5 and NEX-VG10E camcorder, too.

The Canon EF lens to Sony NEX Smart Adaptor features a Wide Open (WO) button that, once pressed, opens up the aperture to its widest setting. The default setting is for the lens to be stopped down to the shooting aperture in order to give an accurate measure of depth of field during live view shooting, although this can potentially make manual focusing harder.

The new adaptor costs $399 and can be ordered directly from Conurus. http://conurus.com/sony Nikon, Sony A mount and Micro Four Thirds Smart Adaptors are expected to follow.

Source : Google Reader

Buying Guide: Best Canon cameras 2012

Buying Guide: Best Canon cameras 2012:

Best Canon DSLR cameras

Canon's name is synonymous with a plethora of the best cameras on the market. In the DSLR market it's the key player, and has outsold its nearest rivals for several years. Loyal customers help contribute to this success, yet Canon's world-class range of up-to-date products ensures there's always something worth coming back for.

Although the company hasn't - at least as yet - announced a compact system camera (CSC), there are plenty of rumours that one will surface some time during 2012.

So which Canon camera is best for you? We give you the lowdown on the Canon range of DSLRs and compact cameras.

Best Canon DSLRs explained

The Canon EOS DSLR range encompasses three sensor sizes: APS-C, APS-H and full-frame (35mm).

The Canon-produced APS-C format sensor can be found in the company's range of consumer cameras. However, its size differs from the Sony-made sensors found in Nikon and Pentax cameras. As such, these (ever so slightly) smaller-sensor Canon DSLR cameras have a 1.6x crop factor.

This means that on an APS-C format Canon camera a 100mm lens produces images similar to a 160mm on a full-frame camera, whereas 100mm on a Nikon/Sony/Pentax DSLR offers a 150mm equivalent.

Canon also makes a full-frame DSLR series that's a great option for professionals or serious amateurs. The 36 x 24mm sensor size - the same size as traditional 35mm film - is ideal for producing the utmost in image quality, and offers greater depth of field control than small sensors.

The APS-H sensor is a Canon-only venture. The 1.3x crop (ie a 100mm lens provides a 130mm equivalent) is roughly halfway between APS-C and full-frame sizes - it's this balance between final image quality and a smaller overall kit that makes it ideal for many on-the-go pros.

In terms of lenses, all Canon DSLRs use the EF-mount. However, it comes in two flavours: the original EF and the more recent EF-S version. EF lenses are the pricier, often pro-spec lenses designed to produce an image circle large enough to cover a full-frame sensor or 35mm film. EF-S lenses are designed for the smaller-sensor APS-C format Canon DSLRs.

EF-S lenses are designed to fit with a shorter distance between the lens's rear element and the compatible host camera's sensor than their EF equivalents. This means an image circle only large enough to cover APS-C sensors is produced.

But also, due to their design difference, mounting an EF-S lens on a larger-sensor Canon DSLR would result in damage, due to a clash between the camera's mirror and the rear lens element. This isn't applicable the other way around, so new photographers using a post-2003 Canon EOS DSLR with an APS-C sensor size needn't worry about compatibility.

Best Canon DSLR - APS-C and APS-H sensors

Best Canon DSLR - APS-C sensor

Canon EOS 1100D

Price: £310 (body only), 12MP, HD video: 720p

Canon's entry-level EOS 1100D, known as the Rebel T3 in the US, is designed with new photographers in mind. It's Canon's most affordable EOS DSLR by quite a margin, which makes it best for those on a budget who are looking to step into first-time DSLR use.

A 12 megapixel APS-C sensor delivers decent images, whether using the full array of manual controls or the point-and-shoot Creative Auto mode.

Read our Canon EOS 1100D review

Canon EOS 600D

Price: £550 (body only), 18MP, HD video: 1080p

The 'middle ground' of Canon's consumer range, the EOS 600D (or T3i as it's known in the US) has a very similar 18MP sensor to the found in the higher-spec 60D and 7D models, which makes the 600D great value for money.

Best for enthusiasts, families and creatives, one of the 600D's standout features is its 3-inch, 1040k-dot, vari-angle LCD screen. Not only is this display a higher resolution than you'll find on any competitor DSLR camera, but the ability to manoeuvre it into any given angle is a great feature to have.

Read our Canon EOS 600D review

Canon EOS 60D

Price: £800 (body only), 18MP, HD video: 1080p

The Canon EOS 60D is best for enthusiasts seeking a more rugged camera than the likes of the 600D. Although the Canon website doesn't make as much of a song and dance about the 60D's body as it ought to, this is among the key reasons to buy this camera.

Part sealed for protection against the elements, the 18MP EOS 60D is a step closer to a sturdy professional camera outfit.

Read our Canon EOS 60D review

Canon EOS 7D

Price: £1,100 (body only), 18MP, HD video: 1080p

When the Canon EOS 7D was launched, it was touted as a camera "designed by photographers for photographers". Its launch came prior to the 60D's announcement and, at the time, looked to be a potential replacement for the longer-running 60D series. Although the 60D and 7D have a very similar 18MP APS-C sensor as in the 600D, the 7D's higher price and additional features such as full environmental sealing make it Canon's highest specified EOS DSLR with an APS-C sensor.

A focusing system with 19 cross-type focus points mean the camera zips onto subjects in portrait or landscape orientation, and the 8fps continuous shooting mode is far quicker than the 60D's 5.3fps burst. The Canon EOS 7D is best for demanding amateurs, but is easily good enough to be used professionally.

Read our Canon EOS 7D review

Best Canon DSLR - APS-H sensor

Canon EOS 1D Mark IV

Price: £3,500 (body only), 16.1MP, HD video: 1080p

A great choice for professional sports and wildlife photographers, the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV's 1.3x crop factor gives EF lenses (EF-S lenses aren't compatible) that extra reach compared to the full-frame EOS models found further up the range. Add a 10fps burst mode and 45-point autofocus system with 39 cross-type sensors and there's no doubting this is an exceptional camera for shooting moving subjects.

The sheer level of customisation available is phenomenal - it's great for professional photographers who know exactly how they want to set up their focusing system's responsiveness.

Read our Canon EOS 1D Mark IV unveiled story

Best Canon DSLR - Full-frame sensor

Canon EOS 5D Mark II

Price: £1,520 (body only), 21.1MP, HD video: 1080p

There's rumour that the Canon EOS 5D Mk II will be replaced in the not so distant future, since its 2008 launch makes it older than any other current EOS model. However, this has one big plus point - price! The Canon EOS 5D Mk II costs less than any other full-frame DSLR on the market, including the Sony A850 or Nikon D700.

So if you've always wanted to experience shooting with a full-frame camera then there's no better introduction than this superb camera. (Note, it takes EF lenses only, not EF-S).

Read our Canon EOS 5D Mark II review

Canon EOS 1DX

Price: £5,300 (body only), 18.1MP, HD video: 1080p

The most recent Canon EOS announcement, the 1DX replaces both the 1Ds Mark III and 1D Mark IV cameras, and is due for release in March 2012. The introductory £5,300 body-only price is far from cheap, but from what we've seen this is one special camera.

The 18.1MP full-frame sensor can churn out images at 12fps (14fps in High Speed mode) and offers other mind-bending features such as extended sensitivity up to ISO 204,800 and a 61-point autofocus system. The Canon EOS 1DX is suited for us by professional photographers working in the studio, out in the field or a mix of both. A true workhorse. (Note: it takes EF lenses only, it's not EF-S compatible).

Read our hands-on Canon EOS 1DX review

Best Canon compact cameras

When it comes to compact cameras, there's a Canon model to suit all tastes. Divided into the IXUS and PowerShot ranges, the former is best for point-and-shoot use, while (generally speaking) the latter is best for more demanding users demanding higher-end features and in some case manual control.

However, it's not as clear-cut as that: some of the low-end PowerShot models are less significant than some IXUS models, plus a number of the latest high-end IXUS models offer manual controls and settings that blur the boundaries between the two ranges.

In the US, the IXUS range is known as the PowerShot Digital ELPH series - confirming that, in some cases, the camera's name won't always dictate its ability.

To find out which IXUS or PowerShot is best for you, read our Best Canon IXUS and Best Canon PowerShot articles.

Source : Google Reader

Olympus releases PEN E-P3, E-PL3 and E-PM1 firmware update

Olympus releases PEN E-P3, E-PL3 and E-PM1 firmware update:

Olympus has issued a firmware update for its latest range of PEN compact system cameras. The new firmware is a relatively minor change, offering slightly enhanced performance with its upcoming Micro Four Thirds 'power zoom' lenses.

The new firmware (Version 1.2) enables a more accurate display of the focal length of the electronic zoom lenses, during both shooting and playback and in the EXIF data.

The update can be downloaded using the Olympus camera software or the Digital Camera Updater utility.

Power zooms coming

Olympus is set to release its first power zoom lens at the end of January.

The £349.99 M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-50mm 1:3.5-6.3 EZ offers an equivalent 24-100mm focal range when fitted to a Micro Four Thirds camera.

The quiet electromagnetic motor enables photographers to zoom in and out at the touch of a button, without the need to manually twist the zoom ring by hand. This feature makes power zoom lenses particularly appealing to videographers, since it improves stability and reduces motor noise that could potentially be picked up by a microphone.

In addition to the smooth zoom, the new 12-50mm lens is pitched as "a versatile zoom lens for the toughest conditions". Sealing rings have been used in its construction to prevent water and dust penetrating into the lens. This is leading some commentators to suggest that the upcoming Olympus OM-D will be similarly weather sealed.

The release of the new Olympus lens follows the debut of Panasonic's power zooms in 2011. Both the 14-42mm and 45-175mm Panasonic Lumix G System lenses bear the company's premium 'X' branding, and feature powered zoom levers on the lens barrels.

Source : Google Reader

Canon 5D Mark III in March?

Canon 5D Mark III in March?:

Canonrumors expects the long-awaited 5D Mark II replacement to be announced sometime in March, after Japan's CP+ show.

This makes sense as it would give Canon clear ground between the unveiling of their full-frame DSLR update and the anticipated Nikon D800 launch, which is widely rumoured to be in the next few weeks.

When it comes to the actual 5D Mark III release date, things are understandably still a bit hazy. In fact, we still don't know if the EOS 5D Mark II replacement will be called the EOS 5D Mark III or the EOS 6D.

After the disasters in Japan and Thailand in 2011, the release schedules of most of the camera manufacturers are believed to have been significantly disrupted. Some reports hint that Canon will bring forward the 5D Mark III release to coincide with the arrival of the 1DX in March, although such a narrow window between announcement and launch seems unlikely. A release date in April is conceivable, though.

More whispers about the specifications of the 5D Mark III are being heard, too. Unlike the ultra-high resolution 36MP sensor that's predicted to be at the heart of the Nikon D800, it's believed that the 5D Mark III's CMOS sensor will stay close to the 21.1-megapixels of its predecessor's (although we'd expect a slight nudge to around 28MP).

It's in the areas of performance and handling that we're likely to see the biggest leap between the Mark II and Mark III, however.

Eye-control autofocus is still being talked about as a possibility (wishful thinking on the part of those Canon photographers who owned an EOS 3, perhaps?), as is built-in GPS tagging. Other expected features include DIGIC 5 processing, 19 AF points and 5fps continuous shooting.

Via Canonrumors

Source : Google Reader

Early View: Canon G1 X vs Fuji X100: features compared

Early View: Canon G1 X vs Fuji X100: features compared:

The Canon PowerShot G1 X was one of the most interesting things to come out of CES 2012. It is, according to Canon, the finest compact camera it has ever made, and it features a sensor that is almost as big as those found in its DSLRs.

It seems that the natural competitor for the Canon PowerShot G1 X is last year's Fuji FinePix X100 - a retro-styled, high-end compact camera that has found a market with enthusiast photographers looking for a good back-up to their DSLR.

But how do these two premium compact cameras compare?

Sensor size

Although both cameras feature large sensors compared to their small body size, it is of course the Fujifilm FinePix X100 that wins here in the technical stakes, thanks to its APS-C sized CMOS sensor. However, while the Canon PowerShot G1 X's physical size is smaller, it does boast an extra 2MP and the same pixel size as its DSLR stablemate, the Canon EOS 600D.

Lens

Determining the best differences between the lenses on these cameras depends on what you're looking for.

While some people won't like the fact that the Fuji FinePix X100 only has one focal length - 23mm (35mm in equivalent terms) - others will inevitably see that as part of its charm. And of course it also comes with a wide maximum aperture of f/2.0.

That said, it's hard to deny the flexibility that a zoom lens such as the Canon PowerShot G1 X's 4x optical zoom provides, giving it an effective focal length of 28-112mm. At its lens's widest end, the Canon PowerShot G1 X's widest aperture is f/2.8, potentially giving the Fuji the edge in low-light stakes.

Sensitivity

Going hand-in-hand with the wide aperture lens is the camera's ISO sensitivity range. Both cameras are capable of reaching ISO 12,800, which is a first for a Canon compact camera.

In our review, we found that the Fuji FinePix X100's noise reduction options do a good job of processing out noise from high-sensitivity shots, while we found slight banding issues at the highest end of the spectrum.

We're looking forward to seeing how the Canon PowerShot G1 X compares when we test it for our full review, although the inclusion of Canon's new Digic 5 processor is a promising start, since we've found it performs very well in other cameras that use it, including the Canon PowerShot S100 and the PowerShot SX40.

Viewfinder

In the past, we've been disappointed by the quality of the viewfinder on Canon's G series of compact cameras. But the Canon PowerShot G1 X's is a bit better, because it's bigger and more practical.

Meanwhile, the Fuji FinePix X100's hybrid viewfinder (it has both an optical and an electronic finder) has generally been highly praised. Again, we're looking forward to putting the Canon PowerShot G1 X's viewfinder to the full test when it comes in for our full review.

Video

Both the cameras have the capability to shoot HD video. But the Canon PowerShot G1 X has the edge, since it produces full 1080p footage, compared with the Fuji FinePix X100's 720p movies. Both are capable of shooting at 24fps.

LCD screen

There are again pros and cons for each camera's LCD screens. Both are 2.8-inch units, but the Canon PowerShot G1 X's is on an articulating hinge. This proves extremely handy for shooting in awkward positions, and is great for shooting video. But, on the other hand, it reduces the sleekness of the camera, creating bulk and potential weak points in the camera's body.

Aesthetics

There is no denying that vintage is very much in vogue right now. Fujifilm has clearly gone down the retro route with the FinePix X100, and this seems to be one of its key selling points. The company has continued the styling with other X range cameras, including the Fuji FinePix X10 compact camera and the new Fuji X Pro-1 compact system camera.

The Canon PowerShot G1 X, on the other hand, has a much more utilitarian appearance, with bulky modules and a wide body. Sadly, we can't see anybody giving any style awards to the Canon camera's body, so the Fuji definitely wins out in the looks department.

Verdict

Well it's a toughie, no doubt about that. It's difficult coming to a firm conclusion when we are yet to fully test the Canon PowerShot G1 X, and both cameras have extremely strong selling points. In the end it probably comes down to a head vs heart decision.

We think the Fuji FinePix X100 with its beautiful aesthetics and slightly larger sensor just about edges it for the heart the moment, but the versatility of the Canon PowerShot G1 X is perhaps the choice of our heads.

We will of course bring you a full in-depth review of the Canon PowerShot G1 X as soon as possible, at which time our minds may be changed. Watch this space.

Source : Google Reader