The Olympus FE-170 is an entry-level digital camera announced by Olympus today. It has available an optional water-resistant case that is submersible up to 10 feet.
Other features include, 6.0 megapixel sensor, 2.5 inch LCD screen and a 3x Optical Zoom lens.
The Olympus FE-170 will retail for $149.99 US, in September.
The group at Engadget today spotted a mistakenly released page on Canon China's website with details of the new Canon EOS 400D.
The details as they seem to be emerging include the following:
Features:
Thanks Endgadget
The Sony DSC-T10 was announced today. The Cyber-shot DSC-T10 camera will be available in August for about $400 at sonystyle.com, and at Sony Style® retail stores.
Sony is launching a new color strategy with the introduction of its seven-megapixel Cyber-shot® DSC-T10 digital still camera. Premiering this summer in pink, white, black and silver, the new model upholds the standard for slim and stylish design.
The new camera does not scrimp on performance. It features a 3x Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar® optical zoom lens, a large, 2.5-inch Clear Photo Plus LCD screen for higher resolution and optimal viewing at any angle, and a dynamic slide show feature with four selectable modes.
From the Press release,
Powered by Sony’s Real Imaging Processor® circuit, the DSC-T10 model features a quick start-up, fast shot-to-shot times and long battery life -- up to 250 shots per charge using rechargeable NiMH batteries.
This camera is equipped with 56MB of internal memory so you can start shooting straight out of the box. Its capacity can be expanded with an optional Memory Stick Duo™ media card or Memory Stick PRO Duo™ card, now available in capacities up to four gigabytes.
According to a Panasonic Press release, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX3 will be released by Panasonic next September. 'Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX 6-megapixel, f/2.8 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 105 mm on a 35 mm film camera) LEICA DC lens DMC-FX3 featuring MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) and max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity mode*.
Panasonic has long led the industry with its incorporation of an optical image stabilization system - MEGA O.I.S. - into even its compact range of cameras. This system produces no deterioration of picture quality and has now become a standard feature for all digital cameras in the market. Now the new DMC-FX3 also benefits from a High Sensitivity mode* which allows shooting at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO 1600*. This mode acts as another anti-blurring measure, in addition to the MEGA O.I.S. system, by suppressing image blur which can be caused by the movement of subjects, and especially benefits indoor photography of children and pets at fast shutter speeds.
For the image processor, the Venus Engine Plus LSI is incorporated for high performance image processing, both in terms of speed and image quality, while still preserving low energy consumption. Another feature that elevates the DMC-FX3 is the incorporation of 13.5 MB of built-in memory while the battery life is long enough to shoot up to 320 pictures(CIPA) on one charging, in order to ensure that you do not miss those great spur-of-the-moment shots. In addition, motion images can be taken in even wide VGA in addition to the normal VGA format so that you can enjoy dynamic viewing on wide aspect TVs.
The LUMIX DMC-FX3 is not just a compact and stylish camera but a special model having a winning combination of MEGA O.I.S. which conquers the blur due to hand-shake and High Sensitivity which suppresses the other major cause of blurred image resulting from the subject’s movement, enabling every type of user to take clear, beautiful and blur-free pictures. The FX3 will be available in silver and black. The new FX3 is a step above the average stylish & compact models and can be confidently recommended for saving those precious memories of your family and friends.
* Resolution significantly decreases in High Sensitivity mode.
3x Optical Zoom f/2.8 LEICA DC lens for high image quality
The 6-megapixel LUMIX DMC-FX3 features 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 105 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens housed in a compact body. The lens part comprises of seven elements in six groups, incorporating three aspherical lenses to generate high resolution images with richer gradation. The zoom ratio can be extended up to 4.1x in 3-megapixel resolution mode thanks to the Extra Optical Zoom function which gives extra magnification (and minimal image deterioration) by intentionally using the centre part of the CCD.
MEGA O.I.S. against Hand-shake and High Sensitivity Mode against Subject Movement
MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer), deemed by Panasonic as indispensable for all digital cameras, is featured on the entire LUMIX range and, having been highly evaluated and appreciated by the users across the world, has now become a standard requirement within the digital imaging arena. It compensates for hand-shake by shifting the O.I.S. lens unit to keep the optical axis aligned straight against the CCD, ensuring that the image is always captured sharply.
As a result, MEGA O.I.S. produces beautiful pictures, free from blur and with no deterioration of image quality, at slower shutter speeds of more than 3 steps compared to other conventional models which do not have O.I.S. You can now shoot stunningly clear pictures with ease, even in situations that require slow shutter speeds, such as indoor or night time portrait shots, or close-up shots of a delicate flower using macro mode.
Furthermore, the FX3 allows shooting at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO 1600, with the High Sensitivity mode*, which reduces image blur caused by subject movement, and especially benefits indoor photography of children or pets at fast shutter speeds. This High Sensitivity mode* is made possible by the pixel-mixed readout method on the CCD. The picture quality is good enough for printing out to standard 4” x 6” (10cm x 15cm) size.
Thanks to this winning combination of image stabilization technologies, which compensate for both hand-shake and subject movement – the two major causes of image blur. With MEGA O.I.S. and the new High Sensitivity mode*, you can take clear and sharp shots in so many ways.
* Resolution significantly decreases in High Sensitivity mode.
High performance, low energy consumption image processing LSI: Venus Engine Plus
With its multi-task image processing capabilities, the Venus Engine Plus boasts excellent response time with a shutter release time lag of only 0.006 sec. and a shutter interval of 0.7 sec*. In the burst shooting mode, it is possible to shoot at three frames per second in full resolution**. The DMC-FX3 enables easy capture of those spur-of-the-moment shots. The FX3 also allows unlimited consecutive shooting up to the capacity of your SD/SDHC Memory card***.
Despite the high performance mentioned above, the DMC-FX3 achieves long battery life to shoot approx. 320 pictures (CIPA) on a single charge.
* Not including the time for AF.
** Max. eight images in standard mode / six images in fine mode.
*** The speed of the consecutive shooting varies depending on the memory card.
The number of recordable pictures depends on the memory card size, battery life, picture size and image compression.
Bright 2.5” Large LCD with High Angle Function for Easy Shooting and Playback
The FX3 has a 2.5” large LCD. The pixel-mixed readout method performed by the CCD automatically increases the brightness level of the live image in low-lit situations, which greatly facilitates easy monitoring to shoot. With the help of the Power LCD function, which boosts the backlighting of the LCD by 40%, even shooting in bright outdoors situations is no longer a problem. The High Angle mode makes the display extremely easy to view from low angles or high angles, for example when holding the camera up high to take pictures over a crowd, and can be accessed easily and quickly by using the dedicated button.
Unimpeded, high speed AF
The various AF methods can be selected according to the shooting environment and the position of the subject: 5-point, 3-point high-speed, 1-point high-speed, 1-point normal-speed and spot. The inclusion of an AF assist lamp provides further assistance in low light situations when focusing is difficult. The results: stress free photography with never a moment missed.
Clear, Bright Motion Image Recording in Wide VGA Size at 30 fps
In addition to standard VGA (640x480) motion image recording, the FX3 also records stunning full-size movies in 16:9 wide VGA (848x480) at 30 fps. Shooting is one thing but viewing is another, and you will be suitably impressed by the 16:9 moving image when it is displayed on a wide screen TV. The brightness level of these moving images is also enhanced as a result of the pixel-mixed readout method performed by the CCD.
A Variety of Scene Modes and Other Features to Enrich Your Photography
The FX3 contains a total of sixteen scene modes* to assist you in a wide range of photographic situations. When shooting in our unique “Baby” mode, your children’s age at the time of image capture is automatically recorded onto that image, determined by the date of birth which has been preset by you. “Underwater” mode, a great mode for underwater photography, for use with the Marine Case**, which is available separately. High Sensitivity*** mode is made possible by the pixel-mixed readout method by the CCD, is ideal for shooting moving subjects clearly without blurring at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO 1600. On the other hand, in the “Simple” mode, almost all adjustments can be automatically set even including the backlight compensation, allowing even the entry-level users to take beautiful images easily. The DMC-FX3 includes “World Time Setting”, which was featured on other recently released LUMIX model and much appreciated, allowing you to set the time and date of 74 locations across the world.
And finally, the 13.5MB built-in memory allows you to record the image even if you do not have an SD Memory Card or to keep your favourite images in your camera to playback or show like a digital album.
* Not including Macro Mode.
** Optional
*** Resolution significantly decreases in high sensitivity mode.'
According to a Panasonic Press release, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 will be released by Panasonic. 'Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX2 with Triple-“Wide” Features - Featuring Intelligent Image Stabilizern by MEGA O.I.S. and World’s First Intelligent ISO Control Panasonic today introduced the Lumix DMC-LX2, successor to the DMC-LX1, which has received high acclaim worldwide for its unique 16:9 wide CCD, plentiful functions, and smart design. The DMC-LX2 inherits the f/2.8 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 112mm on a 35mm film camera) and MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system in addition to an enhanced CCD capable of 10.2-megapixels and larger 2.8” 16:9 wide LCD.
The DMC-LX2 is unique in that it incorporates triple-“wide” features of 28 mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 16:9 wide CCD and 16:9 wide LCD. Not only that, the LX2 is further distinguished from other cameras by its full manual controllability with a joystick allowing users to easily enjoy creative shooting. The DMC-LX2 also boasts Venus Engine III high performance image processing LSI to dramatically reduce the noise that challenged the predecessor, realizing image recording at max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution.
To fight against the major cause of blurred images, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S. system taking advantage of its superior lens technology to compensate for handshake – a feature which has long been incorporated into the LUMIX range of cameras. In addition, to also compensate for the other major cause of blurred images – movement of the subject – the LX2 is also equipped with the world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. When set to the I.I.C., the Venus Engine III detects the subject’s movement and adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the subject movement and the light condition automatically. Panasonic’s excellent image stabilizing system allows users to take clear, crisp images in any situation automatically, leaving everything to the camera.
The LUMIX LX series are distinct from other compact cameras in the way they feature extensive manual controls including manual focus and manual exposure which can be smoothly operated with a joystick. This joystick further provides operation shortcuts to the frequently used settings including white balance, ISO, image size, compression format, light metering and AF mode by simply pressing and holding it. It also allows exposure compensation and selection of one out of nine focusing areas.
The aspect ratio is easily selectable between 16:9 wide, 3:2 and conventional 4:3 with a switch located on top of the lens barrel to shoot in the framing aspect that best suits the subjects’ composition or image’s purpose of use. In addition, the DMC-LX2 is capable of recording wide 16:9 high definition (1280 x 720) motion image at 15 fps.
The other features that elevate the DMC-LX2 is the incorporation of 13 MB of built-in memory while the battery life is extended up to 300 pictures* on one charging, not to let you miss those great spur-of-the-moment shots. A print mode has been added to the mode dial so that you can print the images quickly and bundled software allows users to edit and develop RAW files.
The unique 16:9 wide CCD and 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens provide a unique view of the world and which is refined by the Panasonic’s excellent image stabilizing systems of MEGA O.I.S., the high sensitivity recording and the I.I.C.
The LUMIX DMC-LX2 is like no other compact camera, enabling both high-end amateurs and entry-level users to explore the creativeness that surely enhances the joy of shooting.
10.2-megapixel 16:9 aspect CCD and f/2.8 28mm wide angle 4x optical zoom LEICA DC Lens
The DMC-LX2 features a 10.2-megapixel 16:9 aspect CCD and f/2.8 4x optical zoom 28mm wide angle* (equivalent to 28 mm to 112 mm on a 35 mm film camera) LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens. Incorporating three aspherical lenses provides high optical performance while preserving the compactness of the unit. The aspect ratio can be easily selected between 16:9 or 3:2 in addition to the conventional 4:3 with a switch on the lens barrel on a shot-by-shot-basis to best suit the composition of the image. Even after shooting, the 16:9 ratio can be converted to 3:2 or 4:3 with the camera according to your purpose of use.
The Extra Optical Zoom, made possible by using the center part of 10.2-megapixel high resolution CCD, further extends the zoom ratio to 5.5x for 5-megapixel image recording in 16:9 aspect with minimal deterioration.
More than just a MEGA O.I.S., LUMIX’s image stabilizing system further evolves
Taking advantage of its superior lens technology, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) to fight against the major cause of blurred images. It compensates for handshake and is now featured on the entire LUMIX range, and having been highly evaluated and appreciated by the users across the world. Every slight hand-shake movement is detected accurately with the sampling frequency at 4,000 times per second and will be compensated to render clear, sharp images. In addition, movement of the subject, the other major cause of blurred images, is suppressed by the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III with the Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) and max.ISO1600 high sensitivity recording capabilities. The world’s first incorporation* of this I.I.C. allows the automatic adjustment of the suitable ISO setting and shutter speed that best suits the situation by analyzing the speed of subject movement. If the subject is moving, the ISO setting would automatically rise to allow high shutter speed. On the other hand, if the subject is still and no movement is detected, you can take beautiful natural images with a low ISO setting.
Accordingly the new LUMIX automatically takes the best countermeasures against any causes of blurred images with MEGA O.I.S. compensating for hand-shake and the I.I.C. compensating for movement of the subject. Image stabilizing system is further evolving with LUMIX.
*For a digital still camera, as of July 19, 2006.
Dramatically reduced noise with Venus Engine III
The DMC-LX2 adopts the Venus Engine III to realize high sensitivity recording at max. ISO 1600 at full resolution. The noise reduction system is greatly improved by removing noise at the processing stages in series. First, critical noise is roughly undraped and the chromatic noise and the luminance noise are separated to respectively go through the supplemental noise reduction process so that the remaining noise is appropriately minimised.
Despite the significantly increased performance of the camera, the Venus Engine III consumes only 80% of the power utilized by the Venus Engine II and is able to achieve a longer battery life of 300 pictures (CIPA) on a single charge. With its multi-task image processing capability, the Venus Engine III also boasts outstanding response time with a shutter release time lag of as short as 0.009 sec*. minimum and the shutter interval of 0.6 sec*. The DMC-LX2 enables easy capture of those spur-of-the-moment shots. The DMC-LX2 also allows unlimited consecutive shooting up to the capacity of the SD/SDHC memory card**.
* Not including the time for AF.
**The number of recordable pictures depends on the memory card size, battery life, picture size and image compression.
Joystick-operated intuitive full manual control
The easy-to-use joystick operation and good design, which were part of the highly acclaimed trademarks of the predecessor, are inherited by the DMC-LX2. The joystick was incorporated to facilitate operational ease and thereby get the best technical advantage of the multitude of functions offered by the camera. With the joystick it is possible to set focus and exposure manually, and also quickly shortcut to frequently used variables by just pressing and holding the joystick even while monitoring a subject on the LCD. The predecessor LX1 contained white balance adjustment, ISO setting, image size setting and compression format in its shortcut menu, and the light metering and AF mode settings are now added for the new LX2. It also allows the exposure compensation and selection of one out of nine focusing areas.
A switch on the side of the lens barrel lets you quickly change the focus mode between MF, AF or Macro AF. When you focus in the Manual Focus mode, not only the focus distance but also the DOF (depth of field) according to the zoom range and aperture is displayed. An MF assist function enlarges the center of the image to make focusing easier. The focusing area can be enlarged up to 4x and is movable, which also contributes to easy and comfortable manual focusing.
Crystal-clear, large 16:9 wide 2.8-inch LCD
To express the best of the extensive 16:9 wide image recording, a 2.8” wide and large 207 k high resolution LCD is newly equipped. The pixel mixed readout method performed at the CCD achieves high sensitivity to offer sufficient brightness for easy shooting even in low-lit situations. The Power LCD function boosts the brightness level by 40% to secure clear view even in sunny outdoors.
The High Angle mode makes the display extremely easy to view from low angles, for example, when holding the camera up high to take pictures over a crowd and can be accessed easily and quickly by using the dedicated button.
High definition 16:9 wide motion image recording
The DMC-LX2 is capable of recording the 4:3 VGA(640 x 480) and 16:9 wide VGA(848 x 480) motion image recording at 30 fps. Shooting is one thing but viewing is another, and you will be suitably impressed by the 16:9 moving image when it is displayed on a wide screen TV. In addition, the LX2 can record motion images even in high definition (1280 x 720) format at 15 fps. The pixel mixed readout method assists the bright motion image recording even in low lit situation.
Faster AF
The AF mode can be selected according to the shooting situation: 9-point, 3-point high speed, 1-point high speed, 1-point normal speed and Spot. In the 1-point and 1-point high speed AF mode, the AF area is selectable from the nine focusing areas with the joystick to best fit the composition of the subjects. Also, the AF assist lamp helps quick, accurate focusing in situations where focusing is difficult due to the lack of light. The AF/AE lock button is also succeeded from the predecessor.
A Variety of Scene Modes and Other Features to Enrich Your Photography
An even larger variety of scene modes are contained — a total of seventeen* scene modes to assist you in a wide range of photographic situations. The newly incorporated “Beach” mode is perfect for shooting in strong sunlight and the “Aerial” mode assists with shooting through the windows of an aeroplane. “High Sensitivity**” mode is made possible by the pixel-mixed readout method by the CCD, is ideal for shooting moving subjects clearly without blurring at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO 3200.
For additional improvement, the Print mode is also added to the mode dial of the LX2 so that you can make prints by just connecting the camera to Pictbridge -corresponding printers via included USB cable. Of course you can get plural prints of a image or print only those you have selected as your favourite.
The DMC-LX2 includes 13MB of built-in memory to serve not just as a tool of shooting images but also as a digital album, to enjoy seeing and showing your favorite pictures.
Finally, to edit and develop RAW files, “SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE” software application is included with the DMC-LX2. With that, you can freely adjust various setting such as exposure, white balance, and so on afterward with the RAW files to take maximum advantage of digital camera photography enjoyment.
* Not including Macro Mode.
** Resolution significantly decreases in high sensitivity mode.'
According to a Panasonic Press release, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 will be released by Panasonic next September. 'Panasonic today introduced the 10.1-megapixel LUMIX DMC-FZ50 with MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) featuring powerful 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC lens, as a successor to the DMC-FZ30, which has received high acclaim worldwide.
The DMC-FZ50 boasts a 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD for its image sensor and Venus Engine III for the image processing LSI, making it possible to record a image at max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution. Furthermore, by dramatically reducing the noise levels that challenged its predecessor, the DMC-FZ50 is able to capture 10.1-megapixel full resolution images even in high sensitivity recording.
To fight against the major cause of blurred images, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S. system taking advantage of its superior lens technology to compensate for handshake – a feature which has long been incorporated into the LUMIX range of cameras. In addition, to also compensate for the other major cause of blurred images – movement of the subject – the FZ50 is also equipped with the world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. When set to the I.I.C, the Venus Engine III detects the subject’s movement and adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the subject movement and the light condition automatically. Panasonic’s excellent image stabilizing system allows users to take clear, crisp images in any situation automatically, leaving everything to the camera.
From a point of view of further improving the usability of its predecessor, the DMC-FZ50 is equipped with a new Function Button which serves as a shortcut to quickly set frequently-used settings such as recording image size, light metering, AF area, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. Also, thanks to the newly incorporated custom setting function, your frequent setting patterns can be memorized and it can be instantly applied by simply selecting this function with the mode dial. The 2-inch LCD flips out to 180 degrees, making it easier to view even when shooting from high or low angles. As for optional accessories, the DMC-FZ50 is now compatible with TTL external flashes. Finally, the battery life is greatly extended by approx. 29% compared with its predecessor allowing the FZ50 to shoot approx. 360 images on one charge* (CIPA).
The LUMIX DMC-FZ50 faithfully inherits the well received basic specifications from its predecessor FZ30 such as the manual focus ring and manual zoom ring, yet enhances the image sensor up to 10.1-megapixel. Noise is drastically reduced with this new FZ50 achieving a rendition of even higher quality images. The DMC-FZ50 is bound to spark the imagination of high-end users and join the Panasonic LUMIX high-end model lineup.
* Based on the CIPA standard.
10.1-megapixel CCD and f/2.8 12x optical zoom LEICA DC lens
The DMC-FZ50 includes a 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD and the f/2.8 LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm with a 35 mm film camera) lens. The lens unit is comprised of fourteen elements in ten groups including three aspherical lenses and an ED lens, All these are incorporated to generate low distortion and high optical performance while preserving the compactness of the unit. The Extra Optical Zoom, made possible by using the center part of the 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD, further extends the powerful 12x optical zoom to up to 21.4x for 3-megapixel image recording (17.1x for 5-megapixel and13.4x for 8-megapixel recording). High resolution images with richer gradation are always assured with these LEICA DC 12x optical zoom lens and the 10.1-Megapixel CCD.
More than just a MEGA O.I.S., LUMIX’s image stabilizing system further evolves
Taking advantage of its superior lens technology, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system to fight against the major cause of blurred images. It compensates for handshake and is now featured on the entire LUMIX range, and has been highly evaluated and appreciated by the users across the world. Every slight hand-shake movement is detected accurately with the sampling frequency at 4,000 times per second and will be compensated to render clear, sharp images. In addition, movement of the subject, the other major cause of blurred images, is suppressed by the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III with the Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) and max.ISO1600 high sensitivity recording capabilities. The world’s first incorporation* of this I.I.C. allows the automatic adjustment of the suitable ISO setting and shutter speed that best suits the situation by analyzing the speed of subject movement. If the subject is moving, the ISO setting would automatically rise to allow high shutter speed. On the other hand, if the subject is still and no movement is detected, you can take beautiful natural images with a low ISO setting.
Accordingly the new LUMIX automatically takes the best countermeasures against any causes of blurred images with MEGA O.I.S. compensating for hand-shake and the I.I.C. compensating for movement of the subject. Image stabilizing system is further evolving with LUMIX.
*For a digital still camera, as of July 19, 2006.
Dramatically reduced noise with Venus Engine III
The DMC-FZ50 adopts the Venus Engine III to realize high sensitivity recording at max. ISO 1600 at full resolution. The noise reduction system is greatly improved by removing noise at the processing stages in series. First, critical noise is roughly undraped and the chromatic noise and the luminance noise are separated to respectively go through the supplemental noise reduction process so that the remaining noise is appropriately minimised. In addition, chromatic aberration is also reduced so beautiful images are assured even in telephoto shooting.
Despite the significantly increased performance of the camera, the Venus Engine III consumes only 80% of the power utilized by the Venus Engine II and is able to achieve a longer battery life of approx. 360 pictures (CIPA) on a single charge. With its multi-task image processing capability, the Venus Engine III also boasts outstanding response time with an industry-leading level of shutter release time lag of as short as 0.009 sec*. minimum and the shutter interval of 0.8 sec*. Together with the fast startup time of approx. 0.7 sec., the quick response of DMC-FZ50 enables easy capture of those spur-of-the-moment shots. The DMC-FZ50 also allows unlimited consecutive shooting up to the capacity of the SD/SDHC memory card***.
* Not including the time for AF.
**The number of recordable pictures depends on the memory card size, battery life,
picture size and image compression.
Intensifying functionality in pursuit of full manual controllability
The DMC-FZ50 succeeds the high operational ease and the good design that have been highly acclaimed with its predecessor DMC-FZ30. Two exclusive rings on the lens barrel provide manual control of zooming and focusing, allowing quick and fine control that cannot be achieved with button or lever operation. This feature will be highly valued by high-end users not only for its precise controllability but also for the feeling of manual operation. With the two dials located under the index finger and the thumb, you can compensate the exposure directly in addition to the shutter speed and the aperture smoothly and naturally. The newly added Function Button serves as a shortcut exclusively for the commonly used settings such as recording image size, light metering, AF area, white balance, and ISO sensitivity, allowing them to be set easily.
For further improvement, your frequent setting patterns can be memorized and can be instantly applied by just selecting the newly incorporated custom setting function. White balance now can be finely adjusted with a reference to the horizontal axis for amber to blue and vertical axis for green to magenta. Furthermore two composition guideline patterns can be overlaid on the normal shooting screen.
Free-angle LCD and high resolution EVF to extend shooting potential
The 2.0-inch flip-out 207k high resolution LCD is adjustable to 180 degrees both vertically and horizontally. This assists smooth shooting even in high- and low-angle shooting positions. The pixel mixed readout method performed at the CCD achieves high sensitivity to offer sufficient brightness for easy shooting even in low-lit situations. The Power LCD function boosts the brightness level by 40% to secure clear view even in sunny outdoors. The DMC-FZ50 is also equipped with the 235 k pixels high resolution EVF to encourage active shooting. Not OVF but EVF can provide the benefit of being able to check white balance, real-time histogram and the DOF(depth of field) before shooting.
Faster AF
The AF mode can be selected according to the shooting situation: 9-point, 3-point high speed, 1-point high speed, 1-point normal speed and Spot. In the 1-point and 1-point high speed AF mode, the AF area is selectable from the nine focusing areas with the joystick to best fit the composition of the subjects. Also, the AF assist lamp facilitates quick, accurate focusing in situations where focusing is difficult due to the lack of light.
Clear, bright, wide VGA motion image recording for viewing on wide screen TV
In addition to standard VGA (640x480) at 30 fps motion image recording, the DMC-FZ50 also records stunning full-size movies in wide-aspect VGA (848x480) at 30 fps. Shooting is one thing but viewing is another, and you will be suitably impressed by the 16:9 moving image when it is displayed on a wide screen TV. The brightness level of these motion images is also enhanced as a result of the pixel mixed readout method performed by the CCD. Zooming in while recording motion images is also possible with the manual zoom ring, while image clarity is secured by the Optical Image Stabilizer.
Included software and optional accessories
To edit and develop RAW files, the “SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE” software application is bundled with the DMC-FZ50. Using this software, you can freely adjust various setting such as exposure, white balance, and so on afterward with the RAW files to take maximum advantage of digital camera photography enjoyment.
The DMC-FZ50 is compatible with all the same accessories as the FZ30. In addition to those, the DMC-FZ50 is also compatible with the TTL external flash (GN50 or GN36). This expandability enhances the potential of shooting to make DMC-FZ50 a true high end camera.
DMW-LT55 Tele conversion lens
DMW-LW55 Wide conversion lens
DMW-LND55 ND filter
DMW-LMC55 MC protector
DMW-LC55 Close-up lens
DMW-RSL1 Remote shutter
DMW-AC7 AC adaptor
CGR-S006 Lithium ion Battery (710 mAh)
DMW-FL500 External Flash (GN50)
DMW-FL360 External Flash (GN36)
DMC-CZA30 Leather Case
The DMC-FZ50 will be available from September 2006.'
