Pantiles Cameras/Chas Norman Cameras- Camera Reviews and News: Announced: The Fujifilm FinePix X-S1

Pantiles Cameras/Chas Norman Cameras- Camera Reviews and News: Announced: The Fujifilm FinePix X-S1: Fujifilm FinePix X-S1 (pictured) Just announced is the Fujifilm FinePix X-S1, the latest NEW member to the incredibly successful X-series...

Announced: The Fujifilm FinePix X-S1

Fujifilm FinePix X-S1 (pictured)

Just announced is the Fujifilm FinePix X-S1, the latest NEW member to the incredibly successful X-series from Fujifilm which also includes the Fujifilm FinePix X100 & X10. 


This 26x Optical Zoom bridge camera looks to be designed to feel more like a traditional SLR in-the-hand than the current FinePix HS20. The X-S1 continues the X-series attention to detail when it comes to quality. Build construction appears to be strong, comfortable and well sealed.


Lets look at the Fujifilm FinePix X-S1 key specification:

• 12 Megapixel 2/3-inch EXR CMOS sensor + EXR image Processing
• 26x Manual Optical Zoom (24-624mm equiv)
• Lens shift image stabilizing
• 49 point selectable Auto Focus
• ISO 100-12,800
• 3-inch tilting LCD screen (460K dot)
• 100% digital viewfinder (1,440,000 dots)
• Continuous shooting 7fps (full res.)
• 1cm Super Macro Mode
• Up to 52x Intelligent digital zoom
• Full HD movie (1080p) 

    

Fujifilm FinePix X-S1-above view

What stands out for me is the quality & convenience of the Fujifilm FinePix X-S1's Lens. The exceptional range of the lens-24-624mm equivalent, is complimented with very bright f2.8-5.6 apertures. The ED Glass reduces Chromatic Aberrations and the Super Electron Beam Coating (EBC) reduces Ghosting & Lens Flare (Super EBC coating is traditionally used in Fujinon Broadcasting video lenses). Also, the FinePix X-S1 manual metal lens barrel allows for precise zoom adjustment and the NEW 9-Blade Aperture Diaphragm will add a beautiful "Bokeh" effect to your images. If the Intelligent Digital Zoom works nearly as well as that on the Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR, then 52x (1248mm equiv) could be a usable range.


The Response speed of the FinePix X-S1 is also a plus, 

• 0.18 sec. Auto Focus
• 0.01 sec. Shutter Lag Time
• 0.6 sec. Start-up Time*

(*All times-Fujifilm testing)


The FinePix X-S1's NEW 'Best Frame Capture' feature allows the user to more easily capture moving subjects, by capturing 10fps@6MP at a half depress of the shutter button & 16fps including pre-recorded frames when the shutter button is fully depressed. 


Other functions on the Fujifilm FinePix X-S1 that stand out is the in-camera RAW file converter & the amount of RAW file editing in-camera. Another nice function is the Yellow, Green, Red filtration that can be used when doing Black & White Photography.


Due in the shops early 2012


CLICK HERE FOR MORE FUJIFILM INFO   

REVIEWED: THE NEW FUJIFILM FINEPIX F600 EXR

Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR (pictured)

The NEW Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR is like Leonardo Da Vinci adding the Smile to the Mona Lisa, it would be a superb painting without the smile, but with becomes something extraordinary. This is a similar relationship between the Fujifilm FinePix F550 EXR and the F600 EXR, how do you improve on something which is already very good? Well, you just make minor tweaks here & there.


Fuji has pretty much kept the same shell since the release of the Fujifilm FinePix F300, followed by the F500 EXR/ F550 EXR and now the F600 EXR. These models have proven that for a 15x Optical Zoom compact digital camera, the small size and shape is perfect for portability and holding comfort. The only real change to the cosmetic design has revolved around its in-built flash. The F300's flash popped up each time the camera was turned on and would not hold down, unless it was held down by your finger. Then the F500 EXR & F550 EXR's flash again popped up each time the camera was turned on, but this time a light magnet could hold the flash down. Finally with the F600 EXR's flash, Fuji has got it right. Now if you want the flash up, there is a NEW release button on the left side of the camera.


Lets have a look at the Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR's key specifications:

• 16 megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor 
• 15x Optical Zoom (with 'NEW' 30x Super Resolution Capabilities)
• 24mm Wide-Angle lens
• 3-inch, hi-res LCD screen (460k dots)
• Full 1080p HD Movie recording 
• RAW file shooting 
• GPS Geotagging & 'NEW' Landmark Navigator

Initially, it is very hard to find a difference between the 'NEW' F600 EXR and the F550 EXR, but digging beneath the surface reveals a few minor changes. The EXR Auto now identifies 54 different scenes & subjects, even selecting multiples within one scene, revealing a 99 identification pattern. This includes the 'NEW' very useful motion detection, which analyse's your movement or the movement of others within your composition. Also added is a 'NEW' reel like 360 degree motion panorama, which the beginning & end are joined so when reviewed it continues to scroll through the panorama.

The Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR also has got 2 extra 'NEW' intelligent systems, Intelligent Sharpness & Intelligent Digital Zoom. But when compared to the F550 EXR, we really couldn't find a tremendous difference in quality between the 2 cameras.

Fujifilm FinePix F550 EXR- 15x Zoom

FujiFilm FinePix F600 EXR- 15x Zoom

  

Click on images to view larger
 

Fujifilm FinePix F550 EXR-
62x Digital Zoom

Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR-
51x Intelligent Digital Zoom +
Intelligent Sharpness

Decreasing the range of the digital zoom on the F600 EXR, enables the user to still achieve good results. Infact, we found that both the F550 EXR & F600 EXR took very good photos when the image quality was increased to Fine, but the F600 EXR achieved greater detail & a sharper result when the new Intelligent Sharpness function was set on (would advise keeping it on). Our conclusion is that the Fujifilm FinePix F600 EXR is a fantastic compact digital camera, good quality images, very easy to use, very nice lens & zoom range, excellent functions- auto & manual. Plus, it comes in Black, Red, White & Champagne Gold.


4.8 out of 5


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Announced: The 'New' Panasonic Lumix GX1

Panasonic Lumix GX1 (pictured)

Panasonic have just announced the New Panasonic Lumix GX1 to join their Lumix G range of interchangeable lens cameras. The specifications are as follows:

• LUMIX G Micro System - Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera
• High Image Quality with 16.0 - megapixel Live MOS Sensor and Venus Engine
• Advanced AF System with High Speed, High Accuracy and Touch Operation
• Easy Manual Control with a Variety of Shooting Assist Functions
• Finest Tuning in Every Part of the Camera
• 1920 x 1080 Full-HD High Quality Video Recording
• Outstanding Performance in Power, Speed and Image Processing

Initial thoughts on the Panasonic Lumix GX1 are very positive. Its design shows that it has reverted back to traditional mode wheels and hot-shoe which will be a welcome change, and will also still maintain a touch-panel LCD (not just touch screen, like the Panasonic Lumix GF2 & GF3). As most general photography is impulsive, this means functions can be more quick & easy to change and this will be far more popular amongst traditionalist photographers. 


Due to be in the shops by the end of the month

• FOR MORE ON PANASONIC LUMIX G- CLICK HERE

REVIEWED: THE NEW FUJIFILM FINEPIX X10

Fujifilm Finepix X10 (pictured)

The Fujifilm Finepix X10 is the NEW advanced compact digital camera on the block. Like its bigger brother the Fujifilm Finepix X100, the top & base plates of the X10 are constructed of lightweight magnesium, covered with a durable synthetic leather for a more comfortable grip & surface protection. This finish doesn't just make the camera fit more comfortably in the hand, it also adds to its appeal with this chic Leicaesque retro design- especially amongst us fashion conscious photographers.


The Mode wheels & Function buttons are presented on the camera for quick & easy use. Also including a dedicated 'RAW' file button & 'Fn' button which can be custom set to ISO, Image Size, Image Quality, Dynamic Range, Film Simulation, AF Mode, Face Recognition, Face Detection or Intelligent Digital Zoom. The X10's Manual functions are ideal for Pro's/Enthusiasts or an opportunity for beginners to grow. Its EXR mode is great for easy shooting, with Auto-Scene selection & also Auto-Selecting the sensor behaviour to either (HR) High Resolution, (DR) Dynamic Range or (SN) Signal-Noise Ratio. The X10 also contains some useful Advanced Auto settings like Motion Panorama, Pro Focus or Pro Low-Light.


After a few seconds looking for the 'On' switch, its surprising how much satisfaction is gained from turning a camera On/Off by twisting the lens barrel. Whilst on the subject of the lens, its the perfect time to reflect on the high quality of the lens. The incredibly useful focal length range of 28-112mm (4x optical zoom) is ideal for Landscape, Architecture to Portraits, which is further complimented by the large f/2.0-f2.8 max.apertures. This means the X10 is still extremely quick/responsive & produces breathtaking images even under difficult lighting conditions, and also produces nice bokeh (background blur) for portraits.


Also, one of X10's main attractions will be it's zoom optical viewfinder. The X10 gives the photographer the option of either using its 2.8" (460k-dot) LCD screen or its very bright, very clear optical viewfinder. Our only concern with the viewfinder is there is no shooting info through the viewfinder & when zooming, fingers will certainly appear within your line-of-sight. Its not the same as the incredible 'Hybrid viewfinder' found in the Fujifilm Finepix X100, but is still a very useful feature when shooting under very bright conditions or conserving battery power.

Fujifilm Finepix X10- 1/45 sec, f2.8 @ ISO 100 

Canon Powershot G12- 1/6 sec, f4.5 @  ISO 80

Internally, the X10 incorporates a 12 million pixel 2/3-inch EXR CMOS sensor & EXR processor, which enables the camera to deliver rich detailed, accurate colour rendition & wide dynamic range images. This also enables the camera to take images in very low-lighting conditions with exceptional results and minimal noise. Even in comparison to the popular Canon Powershot G12, the X10 rendered colour far more accurately and the image quality was sharper. The metadata reveals that due to the X10's superb bright lens, shutter speeds were vastly increased, even using fine-grain ISO's.

Fujifilm Finepix X10- 100% magnification

Canon Powershot G12- 100% magnification

Fujifilm Finepix X10- ISO 400

Fujifilm Finepix X10- ISO 800

Fujifilm Finepix X10- ISO 1600

Conclusion is that despite the fact the Fujifilm Finepix X10 does not have inter-changeable lenses, with its similar price it will to some degree be competing with the compact system cameras. It definitely does stand out as a class leader, especially for its combination of bright, high quality optics & exceptional quality images.


Note: Please click on images to view larger


4.9 out of 5

FOR MORE INFO-CLICK HERE

REVIEWED: THE NEW NIKON J1

It has to be said, when some of the specifications for Nikon's new mirror-less compact system were announced it sparked more of a negative than positive reaction at first. Our main concern was the size of the sensor used, as it is considerably smaller than that used in its APS-C sized sensor rivals like the Sony NEX-C3 & Sony NEX-5N or even the Micro FourThirds used in the Panasonic LUMIX GF3 & Olympus PEN EPL3. In fact, its sensor size falls more in-line with the likes of the Canon Powershot G12 or the exceptional new Fujifilm Finepix XP10. If the reduced sensor size was a means of reducing both the size of camera & lenses, then unfortunately I have to say they haven't quite succeeded, as it is physically the exact same size of the Panasonic LUMIX GF3.


But any initial concerns were soon put to rest when actually getting your hands-on the NEW Nikon 1-J1 and you soon realise its place in the market.

• The Nikon 1-J1's 10.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor actually delivers exceptionally good quality images, rich in tone & detail even under difficult lighting conditions (for example, extreme bright or indoor, even night). 
• Auto WB is very good resulting in very accurate colour rendition
• Intelligent Auto + P, S, A, M controls
• Quick & Responsive AF system, allows easy capture of fast moving children, sports & wildlife.
• 3" LCD screen is fantastic- recycles very fast at 50 or 60 Hz for flicker reduction. Screen colour accuracy is very good & quality is very good, actually surprised us its only 460K dot screen. (even favoured the Nikon's LCD to Sony's 921K dot TruBlack LCD)
• Up to 60fps in full resolution
• 1080x1920/60i HD movie
• Slow-Motion Movie
• Optional Lens mount adapter FT1 to use any of Nikon's Lenses (only AF-S or AF-I will maintain auto focus)   

The Nikon 1-J1 is the ideal camera for someone who is looking for a small compact camera which will offer lots of versatility. This camera has very user-friendly functions for beginners and also offers all the manual functions for Professionals & Enthusiast's alike. Offering compact inter-changeable lenses & also utilising Nikon's existing lenses (with optional lens mount adapter FT1), I do think the Nikon 1-J1 is the perfect complement to a Nikon DSLR user. Having 2.7x magnification on the lenses (for example, a 300mm lens becomes 810mm), its ideal for sports & wildlife photography & movie. The camera does come in a variety of colours for the fashion conscious & the only criticism is we were not overtly keen on 'Periscope like' pop-up Flash. We feel the Nikon 1-J1 is a step up from the advanced compacts & also shines amongst its compact system rivals, overall we are extremely impressed with the Nikon 1-J1.

FOR MORE INFO ON NIKON- CLICK HERE

Pantiles Cameras/Chas Norman Cameras- Camera Reviews and News: WHERE IS THE 'NEW' NIKON D800

Pantiles Cameras/Chas Norman Cameras- Camera Reviews and News: WHERE IS THE 'NEW' NIKON D800: Pictured: Nikon D700 Reports have suggested that Nikon was due to announce the eagerly anticipated Nikon D700 replacement yesterday. But ...

WHERE IS THE 'NEW' NIKON D800

Pictured: Nikon D700

Reports have suggested that Nikon was due to announce the eagerly anticipated Nikon D700 replacement yesterday. But nothing as yet, and I feel it could be weeks maybe months until we hear anything. This is due to the critical situation in Thailand, with extensive flooding almost halting Nikon's production line.


But what do we think we know about this camera from the rumours so far: 

• Firstly, the Model Number- Most believe it will be called a Nikon D800. But going on Nikon's previous track record, there are more reasons to suggest that it might be named D700s, D700x, D710 or D701. (I could be proven wrong here!!!)
• 36 Megapixel FX (Full-Frame) CMOS Sensor (Yes, 36MP), This will surely test the quality of Nikon's EXPEED image processor for pixel Noise & Grain
• 4 fps (frames-per-second) or 6 fps in DX crop function
• Full 1080x1920/30p HD movie (will be expecting lots of movie functions)
• Dual memory card slots (for CF and SD cards)
• Large LCD screen (+3 inches)
• Shutter Durability of 200,000 cycles

Even for a Canon user it is very exciting to see what Nikon's latest offerings will be, and if priced in-line with the Canon EOS 5D mk II then I anticipate a huge interest the NEW Nikon model. The Nikon D700 was & still is a fantastic camera, but even Nikon users will agree that an upgrade has been long awaited. So news of a new model is welcome, hurry up NIKON!!!!


Chances of Official Announcement prior to Xmas '2011


4.5 out of 5

FOR MORE INFO ON NIKON DSLR CLICK HERE

Camera Reviews and News: Announced: The New PANASONIC LUMIX GF3

Camera Reviews and News: Announced: The New PANASONIC LUMIX GF3: "Panasonic has just announced another NEW model to its Lumix G range with the Panasonic Lumix GF3. This new model is claiming to be the smal..."

Announced: The New PANASONIC LUMIX GF3

Panasonic has just announced another NEW model to its Lumix G range with the Panasonic Lumix GF3. This new model is claiming to be the smallest and lightest of any inter-changeable lens camera system, approx 17% smaller and 15% lighter than the Panasonic Lumix GF2.  

Its body has been re-sculpted into a rounder design, with its in-built flash changing position to the center of camera directly above the lens. Changing the flash position, means that the Lumix GF3 has no hot-shoe. Panasonic may suffer some criticism that the Lumix GF3 will not take an additional flash or an electronic viewfinder.

The Panasonic Lumix GF3 maintains a 3" TFT touchscreen (approx 460k-dot), which can also be assisted by a quick scroll wheel on the back. Along with the shutter button, the Lumix GF3 also has a dedicated Ai & Movie button.

Key Specification:

• 12.1 Megapixel Live MOS sensor
• Light Speed AF (approx 0.1 secs)
• Full HD movie 1920x1080 (AVCHD) with constant AF
• Creative Features for Stills & Movie (expressive, retro, high key, sepia, high dynamic)
• Approx 320g (camera, card, battery, 14mm f2.5 lens)

Panasonic Lumix LX5 (left), Panasonic Lumix GF3 (right)

The key interest in this camera, will be its size (as shown above against the Lumix LX5). It satisfies the demand for a Small, Compact, Lightweight camera which offers DSLR quality and versatility. We feel that traditionalist may not take to this camera with no mode dial or hot-shoe, but the 3 different colour finishes, touchscreen, advanced auto modes are some of the reasons why it will surely be popular amongst the younger generation and beginners alike.

FOR MORE INFO ON PANASONIC LUMIX G- CLICK HERE

Camera Reviews and News: Announced: The New SONY ALPHA SLT-A35

Camera Reviews and News: Announced: The New SONY ALPHA SLT-A35: "Sony has just announced a new model to its Award winning Translucent Mirror range of inter-changeable lens cameras with the Sony Alpha SLT-A..."

Announced: The New SONY ALPHA SLT-A35

Sony has just announced a new model to its Award winning Translucent Mirror range of inter-changeable lens cameras with the Sony Alpha SLT-A35. Referred to by Sony as a slightly de-specified Alpha SLT-A55, it will most likely be a replacement model for the Sony Alpha SLT-A33 and is likely to be in the shops by August 2011.

Features the new model will include are:

• 16.2 Megapixel Exmor APS-C HD CMOS Sensor
• Translucent Mirror Technology for High Speed, Continuous AF with Stills & Movie
• Up to 7fps in Tele-Zoom High Speed Shooting Mode (Approx 1.4x Magnification)
• 5.5fps at Full Resolution with Tracking Auto-Focus
• 15-point Phase Detection AF
• In Camera 'Picture Effects' for Stills & Movie (includes: Partial Colour Effect, Retro Photo, High-Key, Mono, Toy Camera & Posterisation)
• Full HD video AVCHD 1080i with rapid, accurate AF tracking

Initial Thoughts:


We Hold Sony's Translucent Mirror Camera's in very high esteem, as they seem to tick all the boxes of what people want from an inter-changeable lens digital camera. They have a huge range of Lenses, Flashguns & other accessories available to satisfy all demands. They are Compact, Lightweight & very easy to use. They are an ideal choice for beginners to enthusiasts, incorporate the more traditional Manual Exposure Modes and also having very advanced Auto Modes that make easy work of all lighting conditions. Useful functions also include Sony's Sweeping Panorama (now with 3D capability), Handheld Twilight, HDR & Partial Colour Effect looks to be a nice new creative feature. 

With Ultra High Speed Auto-Focus, Auto-Focus Tracking for Stills or Full HD Movie & High Speed continuous burst frame rates for stills, the Sony Alpha SLT-A35 can easily record any moving subjects- such as wildlife, sports, kids & pets.

CLICK HERE FOR PRE-ORDER PRICES

Announced: The New PANASONIC LUMIX G3

Panasonic UK has announced that the NEW Panasonic Lumix G3 will be the newest member to the 'G-series' family. Possibly a replacement for the Lumix G2, it is likely to be in the shops by mid-late June 2011.

Not only will new Lumix G3 come in the familiar Black & Red, but will also come in a new White finish (probably following the success for the new ipad & iphone4 in white).

The Lumix G3 will be approx..25% smaller than the Lumix G2, but will still retain a 3" Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD screen (approx. 460,000 dot), 1,440,000 dot equivalent LVF viewfinder and SLR style grip for comfortable holding. Upgrades include:

• New 16 Megapixel LIVE MOS sensor (which produces less than 1/3 noise than conventional sensors)
• New Light-Speed Autofocus (claimed to be the World's fastest pinpoint AF speed at approx..0.1secs)
• 4 Frames-per-second at 16MP or 20 Frames-per-second at 4MP
• Full HD AVCHD at 1920x1080, 50i Movie with full-time AF & AF tracking - for ease of use, cinematic quality movies

The Panasonic Lumix G3 will also be 3D compatible when used in conjunction with Panasonic's 3D 12.5mm/f12 Lens.
   


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & PRICES

REVIEW: THE CANON POWERSHOT SX220 HS

I often get asked the question: "If you were buying a camera, which one would you have?" Honestly, if i was looking for small digital compact- the Canon Powershot SX220 HS would be my choice! For them occasion's where the bulky DSLR is too much, i feel that the incredibly versatile compact Canon Powershot SX220 HS would satisfy my demands from it. Just outlining its key specifications you can understand why:

• 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity CMOS
• 14x Optical Zoom (28-392mm) with dynamic IS
• Canon DIGIC 4 processor
• Smart Auto Mode (intelligent 32 scenes detection) with advanced subject detection
• Manual Exposure Modes (P,S,A,M)
• Full HD movie
• Super Slow Motion Movie (240fps @ 320pixels or 120fps @ 640pixels)
• Creative auto scenes (Fish eye, Miniature, Toy Camera, Super Vivid & Poster effects)

Pros:


For me the Canon Powershot SX220 HS size and housing such a versatile 14x zoom is what impresses me most, covering such a large range from wide-angle to telephoto with a good image stabilizer is invaluable. Also, i find the image quality very good in detail and very accurate in colour rendition. It's ability to record in low light conditions & general response is improved due to its new CMOS sensor & DIGIC 4 processor. The Menu's are very easy to navigate and the Mode Wheel makes it quick & easy to operate. Canon have also improved the zoom operation from a rocker switch on the Canon Powershot SX210 IS to a toggle switch on the SX220 HS. The movie function is very easy to use with its instant record button, and i also enjoyed using the super slow motion movie (at 120fps@640 pixels). I also like the fact that Canon have not incorporated a GPS system into the SX220 HS (haven't found a vital application where GPS is necessary in photography). 


Cons:


Two very minor things actually, it would be nice if the in-built flash had a button to open it instead of popping up each time you turn the camera on, something like what the Panasonic Lumix LX5 has. It would also greatly improve the cameras demand amongst enthusiasts/ professionals looking for a small digital compact, if it had the ability to take pictures in RAW file format.


Our Verdict:

4.8 out of 5 


CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST OFFERS

Rumour: THE NEW SONY NEX-3C

Rumours are just filtering through on the latest member of the Sony NEX family, the SONY NEX-3C. Possibly, the replacement for the current Sony NEX-3. The new model is rumoured to have:

• New 16.2 Mega pixel Sensor
• More Sleek & Rounded body design
• Different arrangement of keys

The new model is still rumoured to incorporate Sony's Vari-Angle LCD screen & HD movie capability. Early images of the NEW SONY NEX-3C also show a new flash unit (at this time, unsure whether this is will be provided with the camera or be an additional accessory).

The award winning range of Sony NEX series cameras has proven ever so popular with consumers against there mirror-less system rivals, and a new addition will certainly see there success increase. Rumoured to be formerly announced for Sony's Autumn Launch, means this new model could be in the shops by September 2011.  
  
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON SONY NEX

THE CANON EOS 600D

The Canon EOS 600D or as we have so eloquently named it "The Fisherman's Friend", has to be the hottest consumer DSLR on the market at the moment.

I have been informed by a proffessional Angler that the EOS 600D's side articulating Live-View screen combined with its Custom Self-Timer (which allows the camera to take between 2-10 shots from a single shutter depression) or by using an Infra-red Remote Release via the Canon RC-6 Remote or a Seculine Twin R3-UT universal Remote (optional accessories), make it the ideal candidate for photographing your prized catch more easily. Even when that moment is at dusk or the crack of dawn where the light is poor, the EOS 600D's:

• DIGIC 4 Processing Engine
• ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800)
• 63 Zone Dual-Layer Metering
• 18 Megapixel CMOS

All come together to give the user incredible results under difficult lighting conditions. But this camera is not just ideal for fisherman, as we live in a world of social networking sites there is an increasing interest in taking Self-Portraits and the Canon EOS 600D is the ultimate High Quality tool for doing so.

The Canon EOS 600D is not just a camera for photographing yourself, the Live-View Articulating LCD Screen can also offer an opportunity for the user to be incredibly creative with composition whether taking photographs or Full HD Movies.

Our Verdict:

4.8 out of 5

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Announced: The NEW Nikon D5100

Exciting news for all you Nikon fans out there or someone interested in getting a new/starting DSLR, as Nikon has just announced the Nikon D5100 & could be in the shops as early as the end of the month.

It appears Nikon have addressed the fundamental flaw which i believed the Nikon D5000 suffered with, and that was its articulated screen. Articulated screens can be incredibly helpful in creating interesting compositions, but the Nikon D5000's Vari-angle screen had limitations when attached to a tripod as the screen would hang downwards below the camera.

Not only has the Nikon D5100 Vari-angle screen been addressed so that it articulates from the side of the camera, but now boasts Approx.. 921k-dots for high resolution viewing.

other updates include:

• 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor
• Side articulating Vari-angle 3" LCD monitor (Approx...921k-dots)
• 7 Special Effects Mode for pictures and full HD movies (accessible from the top mode dial) 
• ISO range 100-6400 (can be expanded to 25600) 

With this cameras ease of use, it will be an ideal candidate for a beginner to DSLR and would also satisfy the demands of those who want to be more creative with their Pictures and Movies.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE INFO

The 'NEW' Fujifilm Finepix F550 EXR - Review

Just in & Quick initial thoughts on the 'NEW' Fujifilm Finepix F550 EXR!!!

For those of you fans of Fuji's award winning range of 'F-series' digital compacts, the F550 EXR will not dissapoint. There are alot of initial similarities with the Fujifilm Finepix F300 EXR- for example,

• 15x Optical Zoom (24-360mm)
• 3" High Contrast LCD screen (460,000-dot LCD)
• Mode wheel & quick Movie recording button
• Body Casing & Size are identical (apart from the new GPS system on the top of the F550 EXR)

But they are very different, the F550 EXR looks are far more elegant with its black shell complimented with a subtle red ring around the lens & the EXR badge is also finished in red text. But it is infact the heart & brain of the new F550 EXR which seperates it from the F300 EXR- for example,

• 16MP EXR CMOS sensor
• EXR Processor
• 11 frames- High speed shooting
• GPS
• Improved Motion Panorama
• 320fps High Speed Movie
• Stereo Mic

pros:

• The F550 EXR CMOS sensor & EXR Processor really makes this camera quick and responsive & truely a great low-light performer.

cons:

• The in-built pop-up flash on the F550 EXR now has what seems to be a magnet which holds it down & feels delicate to pop back up.

4.5 out of 5

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE INFO

   

Sony NEX Lens Rumour

Could it be true????

Rumour has it that there are 7 new lenses for the Sony NEX range of cameras.

If your a Sony NEX 3, NEX 5 or NEX 10 owner then this is exciting news. From this corporate looking image, it looks like there are going to be much needed range of longer focal lengths.

• Portrait?
• Macro?
• Telephoto?
• Sony G?
• Carl Zeiss?

If the current NEX lenses are anything to go by, these are more than likely to be extremely high quality. Why we are on the subject of high quality, it appears a Sony G lens and a Carl Zeiss will be joining the NEX range of lenses.

What Lenses would you hope Sony will launch for the NEX range?

Rumour Rating: 

4.9 out of 5

Want to know more about current NEX? Click here 

Fujifilm Finepix X100 Professional - Review

Quick Description: A new breed of camera, retro looking but bursting with the latest technology. APSc DSLR size sensor, Bright 35mm f/2.0 Lens and Hybrid viewfinder.

There has soo much interest in this camera, very Leica looking and truly focused on high quality rather than price. For just under £1000 it needs to deliver as it falls into the price range of many well regarded DLSR's inc Nikon D7000 and Canon 60D. The Hybrid viewfinder is superb and easily and beautiful flicks between optical for true bright viewing and digital for full info display and image playback.

Pros:

• Build Quality - Does not disappoint
• Lens - Ultra bright / sharp 35mm f/2.0 lens
• Hybrid finder - Brilliant
• Looks - Who doesn't love the retro look.

Cons:

• Not interchangeable lens? The 35mm is beautiful, but would be nice to have options
• Price - £1000 not cheap, but it is good.

Verdict:

If your in the market for this sort of high quality digital camera, it knocks the socks off its competitors. The DSLR sized APSc EXR sensor is superb, a fantastic option to have in your camera collection.

4.8 out of 5

more info or buy now at our on-line store

Canon Digital IXUS 220 HS - Review

Canon IXUS 220 HS 

Quick description - Stylish little compact digital camera with the new HS system to improve pictures in tricky conditions, low light, fast moving etc. Just like most digital cameras now this also is able to do HD movie but this time in full HD with High Speed and Slow-motion. 


Pros:

• Style - Definitely a looker, available in red, black and silver. 
• Build - Feels great, metal body.
• Ultra Wide lens - Widest lens on the market right now 24mm!
• Movie - Full HD with high speed and super slow-motion recording

Cons:

• Limited Zoom - 5x is quite short these days
• Screen Size - 2.7" not bad, but lots have 3.0" now.

Verdict:
If your in the market for a small, stylish, simple compact then this is a great camera for the money - not the highest spec, but a true high quality digital camera. You could buy a lot worse.

4.5 out of 5

more info or to buy now at our on-line store