Nikon D800 full-frame DSLR unveiled

Nikon D800 full-frame DSLR unveiled:

Nikon unveils D800 full-frame DSLR

After months of speculation and rumour, Nikon has announced its new 36.3 million pixel FX-format (full frame) professional level DSLR, the Nikon D800. Priced at £2399.99, the camera will be released in March.

The full-frame sensor has been redesigned for the camera and features 12-channel readout with 14-bit A/D conversion and high signal-to-noise ratio. The D800 should, according to Nikon, be capable of delivering images with low noise and wide dynamic range.

In fact, Nikon is promising similar levels of noise as in its predecessor, the D700 which only features 12.1 million pixels.

Sensitivity is offered between ISO 100-6400, expandable up to 25600 and down to ISO 50, while 16 bit image processing and a fast EXPEED 3 image processing engine are included.

Video capabilities

The D800 offers Full HD 1080p video recording, with frame rates of 30fps, 25fps and 24fps. Slow motion movies can be recorded at 60fps and 50fps at 720p. Movies can be shot at up to 29:59 minutes long.

Multi-Format Full HD movie, which was first introduced in the D4, gives you the option to shoot in both full-frame FX and cropped-frame DX formats.

For audio, the D800 includes an external stereo microphone input, along with an audio out for external headphones which can be used when capturing video or for fine-tuning afterwards. Nikon is the first camera manufacturer to introduce this feature.

Uncompressed HDMI output is included for those who want the purest video output for broadcast quality editing. Other video features include index marking for tagging important sections of video which recording and power aperture to enable smoother, quieter changes of aperture using assigned buttons on the front of the camera.

A newly designed 91,000 pixel RGB metering sensor is used by the Advanced Scene Recognition System to detect human faces, even when you're shooting with the optical viewfinder rather than in live view. It also offers more accurate exposure based on a scene's colours and brightness.

The higher resolution sensor also improves autofocus capabilities, as the D800 should be able to focus and expose for finer detail and smaller subjects. Having a greater amount of pixels also means that 3D subject tracking is more accurate and faster, particularly when shooting smaller subjects.

Autofocus

Nikon's familiar Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus system is implemented in the D800, with 9, 21 and 51 point coverage settings. As with the D4, the autofocus sensor module and algorithms have been re-engineered specifically to improve low-light sensitivity capabilities down to -2EV (which is roughly equivalent to moonlight). As on the D4, AF operation is also possible under a combined aperture value of f/8.

A 3.2 inch, 921k dot LCD monitor can be found on the back of the camera with automatic brightness control. Images can be magnified up to 46x during playback to help confirming sharp focus.

The optical viewfinder provides 100% frame coverage, an improvement from the 95% found on the D700.

A dual-axis electronic virtual horizon offers the availability to check level shooting either via the LCD monitor or the viewfinder, along both the horizontal plane and its pitch.

Ergonomics

Although the D800 is roughly the same size, shape and weight as the D700, the ergonomics have been enhanced, including altering the angle of the shutter-release button and including a designated movie recording button. A new bracketing button has been placed to aid such features as HDR.

Extensive weather and dust sealing throughout the magnesium alloy body of the camera has been included to keep the D800 tough, while the shutter unit has been tested to over 200,000 cycles of release. The battery provides 850 shots of still image shooting or around 60 minutes movie shooting in live view.

For the first time in a Nikon DSLR, high-speed data transfer is available via USB 3.0. The D800 features dual memory card slots, one for CF and another for SD.

A second version of the camera, the Nikon D800E is also available incorporating an optical filter with anti-aliasing properties removed. This means that even sharper images can be potentially be achieved but comes at an increased risk of moiré. This can be removed with additional processing in imaging software, however. Aside from the optical filter, all functions and features are the same as on the D800.

A number of creative options have been included, such as a time-lapse photography function which can save images as a movie file in the camera and HDR, which shoots one overexposed and one underexposed frame in a single shutter release.

Four image area options are introduced in the D800, all visually masked in the viewfinder. These are full frame, 5:4, 1.2x and DX-format, meaning that the camera is compatible with the full range of Nikon lenses.

The Nikon D800 UK price is £2399.99 and will be available from 22nd March 2012. The Nikon D800E UK price is £2689.99, with sales starting on 12th April 2012.

Source : Google Reader

Canon D20 waterproof camera unveiled

Canon D20 waterproof camera unveiled:

Canon has introduced the Canon Powershot D20, its latest rugged waterproof and shockproof compact camera which features the ability to capture Full HD videos.

The D20 is waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof and dustproof and comes with a 12.1 million pixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4 image processor. Its predecessor, the D10, also featured a 12.1MP sensor and DIGIC 4.

A 28mm wide angle lens is equipped with 5x optical zoom - the D10 only featured a 3x zoom which started at 35mm - while the Intelligent IS is able to automatically detect a wide range of different scenes in front of it in order to apply the most appropriate type of image stabilisation.

Underwater macro mode combines with Quick AF mode, promising to rapidly and accurately focus on underwater scenes, while underwater white balance is also enhanced for the most natural colours.

Handheld Night Scene mode is designed to allow for confident shooting in low lighting situations and works by rapidly capturing a series of shots and combining them automatically in one image.

Smart Auto mode is included which has the ability to detect up to 32 different types of scenes to apply the best settings to the shot.

Swimming

The camera is waterproof down to 10 metres, but the option of an additional WP-DC45 waterproof case with external flash can be added, allowing for shooting down to depths of 40 metres. It is freezeproof down to -10 degrees.

With snow-bound users in mind, some of the camera's key controls can be activated by tapping the camera body, especially useful when wearing gloves.

The D20 is shockproof from drops up to 1.5 metres and is environmentally sealed against sand and dust to protect it from the elements.

Fitted with GPS technology, the D20 contains a GPS Logger feature which can be used to tag images with location data or track routes with the supplied Map Utility software and through Google Earth.

Seven different Creative Filters are provided, which include Fish-eye effect, Miniature Effect, Miniature Effect in Movie, Super Vivid, Poster effect, Toy Camera and Monochrome.

Video recording is available at 1080p Full HD, while the D20 also comes equipped with a built-in HDMI output and the ability to shoot slow motion movies.

On the back of the camera is a 3-inch 460k dot PureColor II LCD screen. Optional accessories include a float to keep the camera at the surface while swimming, a camera strap and a special Neoprene pouch.

The Canon PowerShot D20 UK price is £349 and will be available to buy from May.

Canon D20 key specifications:

• 12.1 million pixel CMOS sensor
• Waterproof down to 10 metres
• Shockproof from 1.5 metres
• Freezeproof down to -10 degrees
• GPS
• 3 inch LCD monitor
• 1080p video recording

Source : Google Reader

Canon unveils superzoom compact duo

Canon unveils superzoom compact duo:

Canon has announced two new compact cameras to sit in its PowerShot range, both featuring 20x optical zoom lenses. The SX240 HS and SX260 HS are identical in specification, apart from built-in GPS in the SX260 HS.

The new models are Canon's slimmest 20x zoom cameras, and come fitted with DIGIC 5 powered HS system and new Intelligent IS technology.

Both cameras feature a wide angle 25mm 20x optical zoom lens with 4-stop optical Image Stabiliser (IS). New ZoomPlus technology can extend the reach of the zoom to 39x, with Canon promising a "detailed" digital zoom.

The cameras are able to automatically select the most appropriate IS settings from seven modes, such as Macro IS and Panning IS. The HS System, which couples Canon's DIGIC 5 processor with the 12.1 million pixel CMOS sensor has been designed to produce low-noise images in all conditions, but especially in low-light.

Canon claims that the SX240 HS and SX260 HS are capable of producing up to 75% less noise than their predecessors.

Smart Auto mode is available and is capable of detecting up to 58 different scenes to determine the best settings to apply to achieve the best results.

Advanced Multi-area White Balance technology can detect multiple light sources, correcting the colour balance for each to remove colour casts and give more natural results. Face ID is also included, which can also detect when the camera is photographing a sleeping baby, turning off sounds and flash.

Advanced

Likely to appeal to more creative photographers, full manual control is available on the cameras, along with high speed shooting at up to 10.3 shots per second.

Integrated GPS is also included in the PowerShot SX260 HS. Locations can be logged at regular intervals, while the included Map Utility software can be used to view a journey on Google Maps.

Full HD video recording at 1080p is included, with super slow motion 240fps video also available.

The Canon PowerShot SX260 HS UK price is £329, while the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS UK price is £299. Both will be available from March 2012.

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS key specifications:

• 20x optical zoom
• 12.1 million pixel CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 5 processor
• GPS
• Full HD video
• 3 inch LCD screen
• Smart Auto
• High-speed shooting
• Full manual control

Canon PowerShot SX240 HS key specificatons:

• 20x optical zoom
• 12.1 million pixel CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 5 processor
• Full HD video
• 3 inch LCD screen
• Full manual control
• High-speed shooting

Source : Google Reader

In Depth: Nikon D800: 10 things you need to know

In Depth: Nikon D800: 10 things you need to know:

10 things you need to know about the Nikon D800

Nikon has finally revealed the D800 after months of speculation and rumour. It's aimed at professional users looking for a back-up body along with high-end enthusiasts and comes just two weeks after the flagship D4 was unveiled. Here we take a closer look at the stand-out specs and key pieces of info about this exciting new camera.

1. Sensor

Of course the headline-grabbing feature of this camera is its huge 36.3 million pixel full-frame (FX) sensor, which the company says has been newly developed. It is the world's highest resolution full-frame sensor, with the kind of pixel count usually reserved for medium format cameras.

Nikon promises that the sensor, with its 12-channel readout with 14-bit A/D conversion is capable of producing low noise images with a wide dynamic range.

2. File sizes

With a 36.3 million pixel sensor, you can expect big file sizes, so it might be time to start stocking up on extra memory cards now. Nikon tells us that a raw file captured with the D800 will weigh in at a whopping 76MB, while a 16 bit TIFF can expect to take up 212.1MB. Stock up on external hard drives now…

3. Sensitivity

Despite having over three times the pixel count of its predecessor, the D700, Nikon claims that noise output is of a similar level. With so many extra pixels to contend with, this is an impressive claim and one we'll be keen to thoroughly put to the test when review samples become available. Sensitivity ranges from ISO 100-6400 in standard mode, but it can be extended down to ISO 50 and up to ISO 25,600. The low ISO setting is likely to appeal to studio and landscape photographers.

4. Autofocus system

Essentially, the D800 uses a similarly advanced autofocusing system as its bigger brother, the D4. This means you get 51 autofocus points and low light performance which means the autofocus works down to -2EV (essentially moonlight).

AF and AF-area mode selection is also now possible without taking the eye away from viewfinder, another feature that was also introduced in the D4.

5. Autofocus at f/8

Although part of the autofocus, we think this is worthy of a separate point because this is a real boon for photographers using teleconverters with their lenses.

Like the D4, the D800's AF operation is possible under a combined aperture of f/8, which means that a 600mm f/4 AF-S lens combined with a 2x teleconverter to make it effectively a 1200mm f/8 lens can be used with the central 11 AF points.

This is something that Nikon's biggest rival has decided not to offer with the Canon EOS 1DX (although rumours of a firmware fix to enable f/8 autofocus are circulating) and means that photographers don't necessarily need to carry heavy and expensive lenses, especially where space is at a premium.

6. Full HD video

Its predecessor, the D700, didn't have video at all, but of course pretty much every DSLR these days comes equipped with Full HD video. Movie capability on the D800 is also similar to the performance from the D4, with 30, 24 and 25p frame rates available at 1080p and 50p and 60p rates available at 720p for shooting slow motion video.

It also includes the same Clean HDMI output as featured on the D4 and also offers two different crops when shooting (FX and DX), allowing videographers to shoot different focal lengths with the same lens.

7. Ergonomics

There's not a huge deal of difference in the size, body and shape of the D800 when compared with the D700, but it does come in at around 10% lighter and features a number of subtle redesigns to button layout.

As on the D4, the angle of the shutter release button has been slightly sharpened to make it easier to reach to the sub command dial, while a number of new buttons have been added for quick access to different features. These include a direct video record button and a button for changing the AF mode.

8. D800E

The D800 is also available in a special 'E' edition, which will set you back an extra £400.

The D800E comes with the camera's anti-aliasing filter removed. In simple terms, this means that finer detail should be available, but it comes at the risk of moiré patterning appearing in a some areas of the picture. Clothing and textiles are notorious for showing this effect.

Nikon says that these problems can be easily overcome in photo-editing software, such as its own NX2 which will come bundled with the D800E.

9. It's not a replacement for anything

Although the D800 is the successor to the D700, Nikon is keen to point out that it's not a replacement. Instead, it will sit alongside the older camera.

With its 36 million pixel sensor, it also outperforms the D3x, which Nikon is also still keeping in its range.

10. Price

For roughly half the price of the new flagship D4 model, you will be able to pick up the D800 which shares many of its features but comes in a lighter and smaller body.

With an RRP of £2399.99 (or £2689.99 for the D800E), this is a camera at a price point that will appeal not just to pros looking for a back-up, but also to serious enthusiasts.

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Pentax unveils tough compact duo

Pentax unveils tough compact duo:

Pentax has unveiled a pair of tough compact cameras, to follow on from its Optio WG-1 rugged compact which was released last year.

The WG2 will be available as a standard version, with a special edition WG2-GPS featuring (surprisingly), GPS technology.

Both cameras feature a 16.2 million pixel backlit CMOS sensor and a 28mm wide angle 5x optical zoom lens. The lens covers an effective focal length of 28mm-140mm.

Sensitivity on the camera runs up to ISO 6400, while a new processing engine promises to help deliver noise-free images. Handheld Night Snap mode enables users to capture four images of the same scene in one shot, which are then combined to produce a single, apparently blur-free composite image.

The camera's 'tough' credentials include waterproofing down to 12 metres, drop proofing from 1.5 metres and the ability to withstand temperatures down to -10 degrees. It is also crushproof up to weights of 100 kgf.

Full 1080p HD video recording is available at 30fps on the camera, while slow motion playback of movie clips can be viewed via the back screen, plus an interval movie function is also included.

A new large 3 inch LCD monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio and 460k dot resolution can be found on the back of the camera. It features Anti-Reflection coating to help minimise glare and reflections even in bright sunshine.

As on the WG1, the WG2 is equipped with a digital microscope. By positioning six LED macro lights around the circumference of the lens barrel, brighter illumination for macro shooting when the Digital Microscope mode is selected can be used.

Location location location

The special edition version of the camera, the WG2-GPS comes equipped with an upgraded GPS module. This automatically creates log data and stores it as KML file on the SD memory card. Position data can also be stored to help plot maps on applications such as Google Maps.

GPS also has the ability to correct the built-in cock to automatically match the local time of the shooting location.

Available on both cameras, Auto Picture mode has the ability to automatically select the most appropriate shooting mode from a choice of 16. High-speed Face Detection is able to capture up to 32 faces in approximately 0.03 seconds, while Smile Capture is also included.

The Pentax Optio WG2 UK price is £299.99, while the Pentax Optio WG2-GPS UK price is £349.99. Both will be available from March 2012.

Pentax Optio WG2 key specifications:

• 16 million pixel CMOS sensor
• 5x optical zoom
• Full HD video recording
• 3 inch LCD screen
• Waterproof down to 12 metres
• Shockproof from 1.5 metres
• Dustproof
• Freezeproof down to -10 degrees
• Crushproof up to 100kgf
• ISO 6400
• GPS (WG2-GPS only)

Source : Google Reader

Canon announces IXUS pair

Canon announces IXUS pair:

Canon has introduced two new compact cameras to sit in its IXUS range of "stylish" compact cameras, both equipped with Wi-fi and Full HD video recording.

The IXUS 510 HS features a 12x optical zoom lens, measuring just 19.8mm, while the IXUS 240 HS is equipped with a 5x optical zoom lens. ZoomPlus technology is also incorporated for extending the zoom digitally.

Canon's Intelligent IS system, which automatically detects the scene to apply the best image stabilisation modes is available on the pair.

DIGIC 5 processors are coupled with high resolution sensors (12.1MP on the 510 HS and 16.1MP on the 240 HS) for Canon's own HS system. This promises to offer excellent low-light shooting capabilities.

Integrated Wi-Fi has been included for both models. A new CameraWindow application allows for photos and videos to be wirelessly transferred to a range of Apple iOS devices, including the iPhone 4S and iPad 2, for instant sharing on the move.

The same application means users can also share photos via email and upload them to Facebook, or share videos via YouTube.

Touchscreen

Both cameras feature a 3.2 inch PureColour II Touch LCD screen with 460k dot resolution and touchscreen technology. Touch Shutter functionality is also available via the screen.

Smart Auto mode on this camera is able to identify up to 58 different scenes, while new Face ID is also included. Multi-area White Balance, which can detect multiple light sources in challenging lighting conditions and compensate accordingly is also available.

Full HD 1080p video recording with stereo sound is available, with a dedicate movie record button allowing for instant switching between stills and movies.

The Canon IXUS 510 HS UK price is £349 and will be available from April 2012. Meanwhile, the Canon IXUS 240 HS UK price is £279 and will be available from £279.

Canon IXUS 510 HS key specs:

• 12x optical zoom
• 10.1 million pixel CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 5 processor
• Wi-Fi
• Full HD movies
• Smart Auto

Canon IXUS 240 HS key specs:

• 5x optical zoom
• 16.1 million pixel CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 5 processor
• Wi-Fi
• Full HD movies
• Smart Auto

Source : Google Reader

Hands on: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Review

Hands on: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Review:

Introduction

The launch of the OM-D E-M5 doesn't really come as a surprise with hints coming directly from Olympus through their recent less than subtle advertising campaign.

The first of the OM-D range of cameras is now here and brings with it a new product range for Olympus, sitting between the PEN and E series DSLR cameras.

First in a new range, the E-M5 is part of the new OM-D line-up which takes its design directly from the traditional OM camera. The design is a reflection of Olympus cameras past, and unlike the retro-esque styling of the PEN (such as the most recent Olympus PEN E-P3) and many other compact system cameras, mixing traditional with modern, the E-M5 is a straightforward kickback to the 70s.

At its heart is the new 16 million pixel Live MOS Sensor and TruePic VI image processor, which Olympus claims will give better low light performance and a higher dynamic range.

With the camera being a step-up from the PEN range you'd expect to see features that will appeal to more serious photographers, and in this respect Olympus does seem to have crammed a good amount of impressive specs into the compact frame.

A number of features have been reworked for the E-M5, including the image stabilization system, which now has a 5 axis system that combats body shake for vertical, horizontal, pitch, rolling and yaw.

This new system is said to help keep the image sharp across the frame rather than just in the centre as many IS systems are capable of at the moment. We'll have to wait for the review samples to test this new system fully.

A feature that will appeal to serious photographer is the new dust and splash proof magnesium alloy body that Olympus has built to have the same all weather proofing as its top of the range E-5. This dust and splash proofing is also carried over to the detachable flash that is bundled with the camera as well as the new 12-50mm (announced in 2011), 75mm and 60mm lenses and the new battery grip.

At launch there will also be a few additional accessories. First up, the power battery holder HLD-6 that fits to the bottom of the camera creates a larger grip and includes a shutter button and dials. Next, a clip on Flash FL-600R with a guide number of 50@ISO 200 and includes a wireless control function, and finally a Four Thirds adapter called the MMF-3.

Build quality and handling

As with the old OM-4 film camera, the E-M5 features a small compact body, and is actually marginally smaller at 121 x 84 x 50mm and weighing in at just 373g. Despite its small size and weight its build quality is solid, with Olympus really paying attention to detail and the long lasting quality of the build.

Handling the camera it does feel small, but its angular body makes it easy to hold and manoeuvre. The dial and button layout is also well thought out and switching between modes and settings is quick and easy, and as with other Olympus cameras there are a good selection of function buttons that can be set to give you quick access to common features.

Despite its 70s design and feel, the addition of a tilting LCD touch screen on the back is a welcome addition, managing to merge new technology with old design well.

In use it does actually feel like a good old traditional film camera, but with all the convenience of digital. Even the viewfinder despite being electronic does little to destroy this nostalgic feeling, and is actually a pretty decent effort by the company to produce something that will actually be commonly used.

During our time with the camera, we also got to see the new range of M.Zuiko Digital ED lenses, which feature metallic casings to really finish off the look and feel of the new OM-D.

Reinforcing the retro styling is the Viewfinder, which for the E-M5 is all new. Being a micro four thirds release it has an EVF rather than optical viewfinder, with a high resolution LCD of 1.44 million dots. Our time with the camera showed this to be clear and bright, with an impressive 100% field of view and a good -4 to +2 dioptre adjustment.

The EVF also has a creative control feature that takes a bit of getting used to but in principle works exceptionally well. This enables you to make adjustments with the main and sub dials mounted on top of the camera. Adjustments can be made to exposure compensation, shadow and highlight control, and white balance, along with applying Olympus's extensive set of Art filters.

On the back of the camera, combining the touchscreen of the E-P3 with the tilting action of the E-PL3, is a 3-inch OLED screen, which again shows a clear bright image.

Performance

Obviously it is difficult to completely evaluate the performance of a camera without being able to take real world pictures with it, but the performance indicated by the specifications of the E-M5, along with our time with it are very promising.

As already stated, images are captured on the new 16 million pixel Live CMOS sensor and processed through the TruePic VI image processor. This combination, alongside the new M.Zuiko Digital Lenses is said to give better low light performance than its predecessors in the PEN series, with a maximum sensitivity of ISO 25600, improved dynamic range, rich graduation and better colour reproduction.

The image stabilization system has also been reworked with a 5 axis system that combats body shake for vertical, horizontal, pitch, rolling and yaw. This new system is designed to help keep the image sharp across the frame rather than just in the centre as many IS systems do at the moment. We'll have to wait for the review samples to test this new system fully, but it sounds like an intriguing prospect.

The AF system from the PEN E-P3 has been redeveloped for E-M5 and improves on the already impressive speed and accuracy, increasing from 120fps to 240fps. Using continuous AF this means that you can shoot at 4.2fps burst to capture fast moving subjects in focus and this increases to 9fps with sequential shooting.

Olympus has also announced two new lenses along with the OM-D, to sit alongside the new 12-50mm standard zoom that was introduced at the end of 2011.

The M.Zuiko Digital ED 75mm f/1.8 which is still in development, features a large aperture and has been designed for studio, portrait and indoor sports photography. This lens also features a round bokeh with less vignette, and metallic exterior.

Also announced is an M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro with inner focusing, designed primarily for Macro work, it should be equally useful for landscapes and portraits and it will be interesting to see how well these lenses work in conjunction with the OM-D.

Verdict

On the surface the new E-M5 is a nice looking camera and the salute to the old OM cameras will appeal to the retro photographers amongst us.

The features of the camera do make it an interesting proposition, but for us it was the build quality that really stood out. Despite being built in the digital era, it feels robust enough to stand up to a good amount of abuse.

It's one of the most expensive compact system cameras currently on the market, competing against recent launches which include the Fujifilm X Pro1 and the Panasonic GX1.

Time will tell if an expensive camera such as this will be able to find a place in the marketplace, especially when you consider that Olympus already has another highly specced camera in the shape of the PEN E-P3.

2012 looks set to be the year of the retro compact system camera, so it will be interesting to see who wins the battle between the major manufacturers who are all keen to get a slice of the pie.

Stay tuned for a full Olympus OM-D E-M5 review in due course.

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In Depth: Olympus OM-D vs Olympus PEN E-P3

In Depth: Olympus OM-D vs Olympus PEN E-P3:

Olympus OM-D E-M5 vs Olympus PEN E-P3

With the much leaked OM-D E-M5 camera finally on the marketplace, Olympus now has two highly specced Micro Four Thirds cameras in its offering. The Olympus PEN E-P3 was only announced in June 2011, and is currently on sale for around £450-£500 less than the anticipated RRP of the OM-D.

So, is the OM-D worth the extra investment? If you're already an existing PEN user are you better of sticking with your current camera or is it time to jack it in and get the new model? Here we take a look at some of the headline specs of the new camera to see how it stacks up against the E-P3.

Sensor

Although both cameras feature a Micro Four Thirds sensor, the OM-D boasts a 16.1 million pixel sensor, compared with the E-P3's 12.3 million pixel offering.

Olympus claims that noise reduction on this camera is significantly better than on existing PEN models, so it will be interesting to see how well the camera copes with low-light shooting conditions, especially with those extra pixels to play with.

Processor

Both the OM-D and the E-P3 use the same processor, the TruePic VI. However Olympus does claim that it has been refined and enhanced for the OM-D, presumably to produce those low-noise images and to provide the increased shooting speed.

Viewfinder

For photographers who like to use a viewfinder, the OM-D is likely to appeal straightaway because it has one built in, unlike the E-P3 which requires the purchase of an additional accessory. The OM-D's finder is a 1.44 million dot EVF, which offers 100% frame coverage and also gives the option to make key changes to major settings.

Body / Ergonomics

Of course the original idea of compact system cameras such as the OM-D is that you get DSLR style image quality in a much smaller body. As time has gone on and this type of camera has evolved, some manufacturers have gone the way of producing cameras that are almost DSLR sized, such as the recent Pentax K-01 for instance.

Here, we have a magnesium alloy body for the Olympus OM-D E-M5, which has been styled in a retro, or "classic" way, and is ruggedised. The E-P3 on the other hand is constructed from metal and plastic, and while it does also have a retro look to it, it's not really any match for the new camera.

So, it's a question here of style over size. If you want the full retro experience, the E-M5 wins out, while for ease of portability, the E-P3 takes the crown.

Autofocus

Both the PEN and OM-D claim world-leading quick autofocus, courtesy of the Olympus FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) system. At the time of the PEN's launch, it was claimed to be the quickest in the world (for CSC cameras).

The same FAST AF system is used in the OM-D, but it's said to have been enhanced for even quicker operation. It is now so rapid that Olympus claims that it is now faster than all other autofocus systems, including those in DSLRs.

This is something we'll be extremely keen to test out once we get our hands on one during a full review.

Sensitivity

The E-P3 has the capability to record images up to ISO 6400, but its low-light performance isn't particularly impressive. On the OM-D however, the sensitivity has been boosted up to 25,600. Time will tell if the extra sensitivity will actually be of any use, but Olympus does claim that noise levels are 75% lower than on the PEN series.

Screen

The E-P3's OLED screen is one of the slickest we've used in recent months, probably down to the fact that it uses a capacitive type touchscreen (the same as used by the iPhone). It's quick and responsive and easy to use.

Sticking with touchscreens, the OM-D goes even further by providing a tilting screen, which will prove handy for composing from awkward angles and is also likely to be appreciated by those shooting video. Though it's a shame it's not fully articulated, it's nice to have some flexibility all the same.

Image Stabilisation

The new 5-axis image stabilisation is one of the key features that Olympus is keen to push with the OM-D. It allows for blur to be combated by tackling five different kinds of motion, which the company says is especially useful when shooting macro subjects.

By comparison, the E-P3 can only combat for two different types of motion blur, along the vertical and horizontal axis. This means that the OM-D has the potential for sharper and clearer images at lower shutter speeds, and again is something we'll be extremely keen to test out when we get a full sample in to review.

Video

Both the cameras feature the ability to shoot video in Full HD 1080p, however the tweaked processor should mean that operation is smoother. A new creative function, Live Echo, is available on the OM-D, but this is potentially something that could be added to the E-P3 (and other PEN models) via a firmware upgrade.

Art filters

Olympus is well known for including art filters on its cameras, with the E-P3 boasting an impressive ten, including Cross Process and Pinhole effect. Some of these can be mixed together for extra creative effects, but this is something that has been expanded on the OM-D.

Another filter has been added to the OM-D, the Key Line filter, but again, this is something that could potentially be added via a firmware upgrade to older models.

Conclusion

At £1149.99 (including kit lens), the Olympus OM-D E-M5 is one of the more expensive compact system cameras on the market, but it does offer some seriously impressive specifications.

Although the E-P3 is still a fantastic camera for the price, for the extra £500 you do get some significant upgrades with the OM-D, including an EVF, tilting screen, more megapixels, greater sensitivity and the promise of reduced noise.

It's also worth remembering that £1149 is the recommended retail price, which will likely be cheaper once the OM-D E-M5 actually hits the shops, making that price difference even smaller.

We're not sure if we'd go far as to recommend existing E-P3 users ditch their camera in favour of the new OM-D, but we can certainly see that they would be tempted.

For those sitting on the fence between the two, it will likely be a difficult decision and may ultimately come down the intended use for the camera.

Street photographers who are mostly working in daylight will probably do better to stick with the smaller form factor of the E-P3, as will many casual or holiday users.

However, for those looking for a more serious back-up camera to a DSLR for instance, the E-M5 looks like it will be an impressive package, squaring up against the likes of the recently announced Fujifilm X Pro1, and the Panasonic GX1.

Look out for a full review of the OM-D in due course, and in the meantime, check out our Hands on: Olympus OM-D E-M5 hands on review.

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Source : Google Reader

Olympus OM-D gets official

Olympus OM-D gets official:

Olympus has confirmed that it is to release a new retro-styled Micro Four Thirds camera in April.

Rumours about the OM-D (or OM-D E-M5, to give it its full title) had been growing since December, when Olympus registered the name as a trademark.

The OM-D blends old-school looks with several 'world-first' functions. Styled like a classic OM series SLR, the dust- and splash-proof magnesium alloy body houses a new 16.1 million pixel Live MOS sensor.

Olympus claims that the OM-D features the world's fastest autofocus of any interchangeable lens camera, including all DSLRs. This is achieved by a development of the FAST AF (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) that's also found on the Olympus PEN series.

World first

The OM-D is also said to feature the world's first 5-axis image stabilisation (IS) system. In addition for correcting yaw and pitch movement, the new IS mechanism also adjusts for horizontal shift, vertical shift and rolling.

The blur reduction effect applied to stills and movies by the camera-based system can be monitored through the 1.44 million dot high-definition electronic viewfinder.

The OM-D marks the first time an integrated EVF has been used on an Olympus interchangeable lens camera. It features a new EVF Creative Control interface which uses a tone curve overlay to enable accurate adjustment of highlight and shadow brightness.

OLED touchscreen

In addition to the high-res viewfinder, the OM-D also features a 3-inch OLED rear monitor that can be tilted from 80° upwards to 50° downwards. This monitor is also touchscreen enabled, giving fingertip focusing and shutter release controls.

A new Live Bulb feature can be used to update the live view image on the rear screen at regular intervals during long-exposure bulb shooting. This provides an opportunity to assess how the final image will appear, and enable exposure times to be adjusted accordingly.

The OM-D has a new 16.1 megapixel High-Speed Live MOS sensor, which is twinned with a TruePic VI image processing engine. The sensor's sensitivity range extends up to ISO 25,600.

Although it shares the same FAST AF system as the Olympus PEN E-P3, the OM-D's autofocus gets a bump in speed. In continuous shooting mode, the camera can hit 9fps, although this drops to 4.2fps with focus employed.

OM-D lenses and accessories

New accessories are being launched alongside the camera, including the HDL-6 two-part power battery grip holder. It can be used either as a landscape grip or (with the second part attached) as a portrait grip which accommodates an extra lithium-ion battery and enables the camera to record about 650 images (CIPA test standard). An MMF-3 Four Thirds mount adapter and FL-600R electronic flash will also be available.

Two new lenses are also under development: the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 75mm 1:1.8 and the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 60mm 1:2.8 macro. These lenses will follow later in 2012, with prices to be confirmed.

The Olympus OM-D UK price is £1149.99, for the camera and 12-50mm f/3.5-6.3 lens. The body only price is still to be confirmed. The OM-D is available with either a silver or black body from April 2012, and will be on show at Focus on Imaging at the Birmingham NEC from 4-7th March.

Olympus OM-D key specifications:

• 16.1 million pixel Live MOS sensor
• FAST AF autofocus system plus 3D tracking
• 1.44 million dot EVF with 100% field of view
• TruePic VI image engine
• ISO 200 - 25,600
• 5-axis image stabilisation
• 3-inch tilting 610k-dot OLED touchscreen
• Full HD 1920 x 1080
• Live Bulb feature
• New 'Key Line' Art Filter

Source : Google Reader

2013 Acura RDX Introduced Again, This Time in Chicago and For Real

2013 Acura RDX Introduced Again, This Time in Chicago and For Real:

Car companies only get one chance to introduce their new cars. But between sketches, renderings, concepts, teasers, and leaks, they’re quickly learning how to exploit the internet for more opportunities to discuss cars prior to actually revealing them. Acura apparently realized too late that it had blown the opportunity to draw out the introduction of its 2013 RDX and settled for calling the car that officially debuted at the Detroit auto show a prototype. At the Chicago show, Acura is introducing a production RDX.

What’s changed on the RDX from prototype to production vehicle? The paint. Apparently silver is a prototype color. And the wheels. Also, the RDX has a strut front suspension and a multilink rear (we hadn’t told you that before) and something called Amplitude Reactive Dampers. Free advice to Acura marketing: Call them Adaptive Amplitude Reactive Dampers, pair them with a camera-based system that scans the road ahead and primes the shocks for upcoming imperfections, call the latter Visual Anticipation of Road Kinematics, and your initialism could be AARDVARK. Also, please stick to just introducing your cars once.

If you missed it the first time, you can read the rest of the details on this second-gen RDX in our story from last month’s Detroit show.

Source : Google Reader