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Tamron announces full size tele zoom lens
   11 March 2010
tamronlensTamron has announced another advance in Tamron's pursuit of high resolution images in the telephoto lens category with the development of a 70-300mm F/4-5.6 telephoto zoom lens featuring image stabilization VC (Vibration Compensation) and an ultrasonic auto-focus drive USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive). The SP AF70-300mm F4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) high-resolution DSLR telephoto zoom lens has been produced first for the Nikon mount, with the development of compatible mounts for Canon and Sony3 to follow.

This new telephoto zoom lens is designed for digital SLR cameras and can be used with both full-frame sensor as well as AF 35mm film cameras with a zoom range of 70-300mm; and with APS-C sensor cameras where the angle of view will change the zoom range equal to 109-465mm4.

With superior optical performance, Tamron’s own USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) and VC (Vibration Compensation), the SP 70-300mm F4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) provides the performance of a high-end premium telephoto zoom that is appealing to a broad spectrum of photography enthusiasts.

Unparalleled optical performance in a fast and steady telephoto zoom lens:

In the pursuit to achieve the most outstanding image resolution in the 70-300mm class, Tamron’s 60th Anniversary lens - the SP AF70-300mm F4-5.6 Di VC USD (Model A005) - utilizes an advanced optical design that features an LD (Low Dispersion) and an XLD (Extra Low Dispersion) lens element made from specialized materials that prevent chromatic aberration. As a result, the SP AF70-300mm Di VC USD boasts sharper contrast and greater descriptive performance than all others in its class.

In addition, it is the first Tamron lens sporting a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive), Tamron’s very own ultrasonic auto-focus drive mechanism. This USD mechanism delivers fast focusing, making it a perfect telephoto zoom choice for photographing sports, racing, and other fast-moving subjects. The lens also boasts Tamron’s proprietary VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization to assist in hand-held shooting, not only at long focal length ranges where blurring is common, but also under low-lit conditions, dramatically enhancing photographic freedom.

This combination of best in class image resolution, Ultrasonic Silent Drive and Vibration Compensation is a new achievement of Tamron technology, culminating in the production of a premium 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens.

Product Features:
New optical system optimized for digital cameras achieves top resolution in the 70-300mm class with specialized glass elements including an XLD (Extra Low Dispersion) lens element
This lens’ advanced optical design employs a sophisticated XLD (Extra Low Dispersion) lens element made from specialized high-grade glass that has lower dispersive properties than standard LD lenses (where refraction causes the dispersion of white light into spectral hues). The dispersive properties of the XLD lens are at a level similar to fluorite, and in combination with LD elements make for an optimal optical design that delivers best in class resolution with advanced axial chromatic and magnification aberration correction - major inhibitors of image quality enhancement. The result is a lens that delivers sharp contrast and better descriptive performance throughout the entire zoom range.

Fast focusing with USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive), Tamron's ultrasonic autofocus drive The lens is equipped with Tamron’s first-ever ultrasonic auto-focus drive USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive). It achieves faster focusing making this telephoto lens perfect for photography of sports, motor racing, and other fast-moving subjects. With advanced motor technology and newly developed software, Tamron's USD delivers precise and noiseless focusing at turbo speed.

USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive)
Tamron’s USD works with the high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations that are produced by a ring called a ‘stator’. Energy from the vibrations is used to rotate an attached metallic ring known as the ‘rotor’. Piezoelectric ceramic, an element that produces ultrasonic vibrations when voltage of a specific frequency is applied is arranged in a ring formation on the stator. This electrode configuration of piezoelectric ceramic causes two ultrasonic vibrations to occur in the stator.

By effectively combining these two ultrasonic vibrations, it is possible to convert the energy from the vibrations that produced simple motion into energy known as ‘deflective traveling waves’, which then moves around the circumference (rotation direction) of the ring.   

With the USD, the friction between these deflective traveling waves created on the metallic surface of the stator and the surface of the rotor produce force, causing the rotor to rotate. The focusing ring lens, which is linked to the rotor, is thus moved, creating a fast and smooth auto-focus drive.

Equipped with Tamron’s VC (Vibration Compensation) image stabilization:

The SP 70-300mm F4-5.6 Di VC USD employs Tamron’s esteemed image stabilization mechanism–VC (Vibration Compensation) seen in both the AF18-270mm Di II VC (Model B003) and SP AF17-50mm F/2.8 XR Di II VC (Model B005). With VC, the photographer has the freedom to shoot at a shutter speed that is an extra four stops slower without having to worry about blurring. This makes capturing handheld, evening, night, and interior shots much easier.

VC (Vibration Compensation):
Tamron’s VC mechanism employs a three-coil system, whereby three driving coils activate the shake-compensating VC lens group electromagnetically via three steel balls. The VC lens elements are held in place only by contact with the steel balls, achieving smooth movement with little friction. This provides a stable viewfinder image with excellent tracking performance that eliminates the blur from camera shake for cleaner, crisper shots.

Full time manual focus at your fingertips:
Auto-focus has many benefits but sometimes the photographer needs the control of manual focus. Full time manual offers just that: the crossover from auto-focus to manual focus by simply adjusting the focus ring, allowing the photographer to make adjustments on the fly. This feature helps the lens produce impressive results even in telephoto situations where the depth of field is narrow.

Better balance and consistent length with internal focusing:
When focusing, the internal elements of the lens move and the lens’ external size does not change. This offers better balance and easier telephoto shots. Moreover, the barrel is not subject to stray light entering from external helicoids that can negatively affect images. And because the external elements do not move, it makes it easier to utilize polarizing filters and the flower shape hood to control the amount of light that enters the lens.

Enjoyable photography for a wide range of enthusiasts, from those using traditional film cameras, to digital SLRs with full-frame or APS-C size sensors:
With a full-frame digital or 35mm SLR, portrait and medium telephoto shots can be achieved on the wider 70mm end of the range and spectacular telephoto shots at the longer 300mm side. When using an ASP-C sensor camera the angle of view changes, giving it the equivalent range of 109-465mm for bold ultra-telephoto shots. And with a maximum magnification ratio 1:4, the lens can be used to explore in the realm of semi-macro photography.

Uncompromising countermeasures to reduce ghosting and flare:
Digital photography requires extreme precision, which is why Tamron incorporates new BBAR (Broad-Band Anti Reflection) multilayer coatings that reduce reflection into the lens elements. This ensures excellent performance in all photographic conditions and enhances light transmission on both long and short wavelengths. In addition, Tamron applies internal surface coatings on cemented surfaces of lens elements to make images sharper with better color reproduction and balance.

Simple yet beautiful exterior design:
Tamron adopted a simple design with a smooth silhouette to ensure that this lens fits well with various SLR cameras. The exquisite textured paint gives a well-crafted finish to the exterior.

Flower-shaped hood with excellent stray light shielding properties–a standard accessory:

The flower-shaped hood has been designed specifically to block out damaging light rays and ensures clear, sharp descriptive performance.

Specifications:

Model Name A005
Focal Length 70-300mm
Maximum Aperture F/4-5.6
Minimum Aperture F/32-45
Angle Of View 34° 21' - 8° 15'
Lens Construction 17 elements / 12 groups
MFD (Minimum Focus Distance) 59.1"
Diaphragm Blades 9
Filter Size Ø62mm
Size (Diameter x Length) Ø3.2 in. x 5.6 in.
Weight 27.0 oz
Max. Mag. Ratio 1:4 (at f=300mm: MFD 1.5m)
Standard Accessory Flower-Shaped hood
Compatible Mount Canon, Nikon, Sony
 
The Academy Awards swear by Epson
   09 March 2010

For 11 years in a row, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has selected Epson printers to speedily print thousands of high-quality, borderless credentials for the 82nd Annual Academy Awards Ceremony airing on Sunday, March 7.

“I rely on Epson printers to produce thousands of credentials for high-profile events every year,” said Deborah Cahn, manager of Credential Operations for the Academy.  “Epson printers cater to unique and demanding printing needs like ours. Instant-dry and smudge-resistant inks are a necessity to quickly print credentials as people wait in line, and the WorkForce 40s have been flawlessly churning out color badges for years.”

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The WorkForce 40 is a compact, single function printer designed for high-volume printing, with speeds up to twice as fast as competitive models1. The WorkForce 40 offers sharp laser-quality black text at speeds of 15 black/9.3 color ISO pages per minute.2 The new ISO/IEC 24734 industry speed standard.  We Believe  was created to provide an unbiased comparison of specifications across manufacturers to help individuals, small business owners and corporate buyers make smarter purchasing decisions.  In addition, it offers built-in Wi-Fi and wired networking to share and print files from virtually anywhere in an office area.

More About the WorkForce 40:
Cost-Efficient Printing: The WorkForce 40 is ENERGY STAR compliant, uses up-to-three times less energy than a laser printer3 and includes double-sided printing capabilities for increased paper saving.4 It also uses four-color individual ink cartridges for replacing only the color that is needed, and extra high-capacity black ink cartridges are available for high volume tasks.

DURABrite® Ultra Ink: Epson’s exclusive all-pigment inks produce laser-quality text and stunning graphics on all media types. The ink offers smudge and water resistance5 to protect important documents, fade resistance on plain paper that is rated up to six times longer than leading competitive prints6, and is highlighter-friendly on plain paper.

Advanced DX3™ MicroPiezo® print head technology: Epson’s print head technology features smart nozzles that can each produce and precisely place three sizes of ink droplets, as small as two picoliters; this technology is also featured in large-scale printers used by leading commercial and industrial companies across the globe to deliver innovative digital, photo lab and textile printing products and services.

“We’re thrilled that Epson WorkForce printers were again requested by the Academy to deliver the fastest and best print quality,” said R. Craig Allen, product manager, Consumer Ink Jets, Epson America, Inc. “The WorkForce suite of printers and all-in-ones are engineered for small business customers and the line provides the best printing, scanning and image output tools critical to small business success.”

 
Sony displays new imaging products at PMA 2010
   08 March 2010
Sony exhibited an array of innovative digital imaging products at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) 2010 International Convention, including a concept model of the new compact α (alpha) DSLR camera system that employs an Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor, which provides full AVCHD video capability.

New concept α products being shown include an ultra compact model with interchangeable lenses, additions to the α family (including a successor to the α700), along with new TX5 and H55 Cyber-shot® cameras, new printers and other accessories.

α DSLR Camera:
In addition to the current DSLR-A230, A330, A380, A500, A550, A850 and A900 digital SLR cameras, the following concept camera bodies and interchangeable lenses were exhibited. Current interchange lenses, including Carl Zeiss® and G lens products were also on display.

  • Concept model of an ultra-compact interchangeable lens digital camera system that packs the quality of a DSLR camera in an extraordinarily small body, along with interchangeable lenses
  •  Mid-range concept camera for advanced users (a successor to the α700) as well as concept mainstream models
  •  Prototype of a Super Telephoto Lens (500mm F4 G) with class-leading optical performance
  •  Prototype of a Distagon T 24mm F2 ZA SSM, new Carl Zeiss wide angle lens for superior shots of landscapes and sweeping vistas

Cyber-shot Digital Still Cameras:
In addition to its α line of DSLR cameras, Sony showcased its new Cyber-shot digital still cameras. These models include the recently announced TX5 certified waterproof camera and H55 high-zoom, compact camera.

The DIMA award-winning TX5, which can be used in depths up to 10 feet for up to one hour, is the world’s thinnest and smallest waterproof digital still camera with Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization and touch-screen operation. Additionally, the 10.2 megapixel model is Sony’s first digital still camera with an “Exmor R” CMOS sensor that is also certified to be freeze-proof down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, shockproof (up to about a 5-foot drop) and dust proof. The TX5 also offers outstanding low-light performance, high speed, Intelligent Sweep Panorama, 720p high definition video recording and in-camera Backlight Correction High Dynamic Range features.

The 14.1 MP H55 camera’s 10x optical zoom Sony G lens with 25mm (equivalent) wide angle is designed for shots from greater distances and of wider landscapes. Featuring 720p HD movie recording, the H55 model also offers Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization to help reduce blur in photos without compromising image quality. It also adds Optical SteadyShot™ with Active Mode, which lets you shoot smoother movie footage even if you are walking while shooting.

Photofinishing Solutions and Digital Imaging Accessories:
One retail photofinishing system and one professional printer along with four new digital imaging accessories were also on display. The new PictureStation™ retail instant photo kiosk solution is simple to maintain while offering small to large-scale stores a cost-effective way to drive additional revenue. Event photographers will also want to take a look at the DIMA award-winning UP-DR80. Sony’s dye-sub printer is fully portable; with world-class speed and versatility professional event photographers need on the go.

Digital Imaging accessories include sports and marine packs, a floating strap (model STP-FSA) for the TX5 camera, a photo printer/frame, Party-shot™ automatic photographer, DVDirect® recorder, as well as a full line of fashionable and functional cases and camera bags for Cyber-shot cameras and Handycam® camcorders.          

Handycam High-Definition Camcorders:

As the leader in the high-definition camcorder category, Sony offers superior technology in its HD models, even at entry level.  Now all 2010 HD Handycam models will feature the “Exmor R” CMOS sensor with a new algorithm to realize 2x faster "Quick AF,” Face Priority to prioritize a specified face for focus, color, exposure and Smile Shutter™ technology, and Highlight Playback for quick video slideshow generation. The new HD Handycam camcorder lineup will also offer iAuto, 60p output, and a new user interface, in addition to capturing content in full1920 x 1080 high-definition video recording at up to 24Mbps, the highest bit-rate offered by the AVCHD format.

The portfolio includes the top-of-the-line HDR-XR550V unit featuring a 240GB hard disk drive that holds up to 101 hours of HD video (LP mode) and a Wide Angle G-lens that captures approximately 2x larger shooting area than previous models. Sony improves Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization with Active Mode by expanding the 3-Way Shake Canceling feature across the full zoom range - from wide to telephoto end, and adds a new feature called Golf Shot to the high end camcorders. This function renders two seconds of motion (golf swing) into a sequence of up to 22 still images. In addition, the camcorder can take 12-megapixel still photos and has advanced features including an assignable dial for manual control (Iris/Shutter/Exposure/WB//Focus/AE shift).

Also on display was the new HDR-CX150 Flash Memory Handycam camcorder offered in black and red. For around $550, (Approximately Rs 24,900.00) this model can capture 3.1-megapixel still photos and includes 16GB of embedded memory, a Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® 25X optical zoom lens, and SteadyShot® image stabilization with Active Mode all in a compact design.

In addition to the hard disk drive or built-in flash memory, all of Sony’s new camcorders can record video and still images directly to Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media, Secure Digital (SD), or SDHC media card (all sold separately).
 
Sony unveils underwater imaging accessories
   08 March 2010
From taking photos of sea turtles just beneath the water’s surface to recording your first dive down to a beautiful coral reef, the new additions to Sony’s line of Cyber-shot® camera and Handycam® camcorder accessories ensure that you’re always ready to capture special underwater moments.

Cyber-shot Fashion and Function:
Help protect the recently announced TX5 Cyber-shot certified waterproof camera with the new LCS-THQ soft carrying case.  The case, which was specially designed for the world’s thinnest and smallest certified waterproof digital still camera with touch screen, is made of water repellent silicon material and features small holes to help keep the device dry and clean inside for added protection.  Available in April for about $25, (Approximately Rs 1,135.00) the sleek case comes in white and is equipped with a useful built-in carabineer.

Another smart and stylish way to help keep your new TX5 safe is by using the STP-FSA floating strap.  Simply place the underwater strap around your wrist when diving and the camera, which can operate in depths up to 10 feet for about one hour, will stay within reach.  Not only will it help the device remain in your grip while active in the water, it has a reversible design featuring black on one side and bright orange on the other side for easy visibility.  The strap will be available in April for about $30 (Approximately Rs 1,365.00)

Protection for Camcorders On-the-Go:
Sony’s new sports packs for select Handycam camcorders will enable eye-popping photography and video of both marine life and life at the pool down to 17 feet.  The SPK-CXA and SPK-HCF sports packs consist of hard-plastic housings that shield the camera from moisture, like rain and snow, and particles, like dust and sand.  They can be submerged for underwater video capture while snorkeling or swimming, as well as record audio with built-in stereo microphones.  The SPK-CXA features a compact design with stylish detail and is available now for about $300, (Approximately Rs 13,630.00) while the SPK-HCF is a little larger for a wider range of compatibility and is available now for about $280, (Approximately Rs 12,700.00)

All-Purpose Accessories:
From the great outdoors to the family room, Sony offers shutterbugs and videographers everything they need to get the perfect shot, including new underwater housing devices, high-definition (HD) lenses and output cables, tripods and accessory packs for sports and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as a full line of high quality cases and camera bags.  These new products will be on display along with Sony’s wealth of post-shooting options including DVDirect® recorder, photo printers and digital photo frames.
 
Panasonic releases 14-42mm lens for G Micro System
   08 March 2010
Panasonic introduces a new interchangeable lens for its LUMIX G Micro System. The ultra-compact and lightweight LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens offers versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm), making it suitable for a wide variety of scenes, everything from dynamic landscape to portrait. The LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens will be part of the kit lens for the latest additions to the LUMIX G Series of digital cameras: the LUMIX DMC-G10 and LUMIX DMC-G2, also introduced today.

The new LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens incorporates Panasonic's MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), which makes it easy to shoot clear photographs, even in low-lit situations, by suppressing the blur caused by a shaky hand. Adopting an inner-focus system driven by a stepping motor, the superior optical design realizes outstanding smoothness to support the high-speed AF (Auto Focus) system of LUMIX G cameras. When mounted on any of these cameras, this new lens allows users to maximize all of the AF system’s functions.

With its minimum focus distance of 30cm even at full zoom, this lens provides a maximum photographic magnification of 0.32x (35mm equivalent). Seven aperture blades make up a circular aperture diaphragm to produce an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas even when shooting at a large aperture. The LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens system uses multi-coated lens elements that reduce blur, helping to deliver superior performance. This new lens system also features excellent contrast even at its highest zoom level. The inclusion of an aspherical lens improves optical performance by minimizing distortion, even at the 28mm wide end. 
 
Panasonic announces interchangeable lens system camera
   08 March 2010
umixdmc-g2kPanasonic announces the LUMIX DMC-G2, the world’s first digital interchangeable lens system camera with a movable LCD that allows for touch-control, and the successor to the award-winning and revolutionary LUMIX G1, which was the world’s first Micro Four Thirds digital camera. The intuitive touch-control shooting elevates the camera’s operability, letting the user adjust auto focus (AF) simply by touching the subject on the large 3.0-inch 460,000-dot high- resolution LCD. The LUMIX G2, also shoots 720p High Definition video using the AVCHD Lite format, and joins the LUMIX G10, also introduced today, as the latest models in the LUMIX G Micro System.

With the touch-screen operation, users can even snap a photo by touching the LUMIX G2’s screen.  Additionally, the touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting but also during playback.  Users can touch one thumbnail viewed among many to quickly and easily see the full size of the desired photo.  Also, to view images one-by-one, photos can be dragged across the screen to browse as though flipping the pages of a book.

“With the LUMIX G2, Panasonic is pleased to continue to lead the evolution of the Micro Four Thirds platform and also be the first in the industry to offer a touch-screen interchangeable lens system camera,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Touch-operation is a user interface with which many consumers are both familiar and expect, and we think the LUMIX G2’s touch-operation makes it easier and quicker to take photos and videos that have professional-like effects.”

Using the touch-screen operation, once a user locks onto a subject, the LUMIX G2 enables AF Tracking and will track the subject as it moves within the frame. Then, with a touch on the screen, users can select the part and the size of AF area with the 1-area AF.  The Multi-area AF sets a group of AF points according to the composition. While using the manual focus, users can enlarge a subject by touching it and then choosing to enlarge it by 1x, 5x or 10x and then smoothly moving the part by dragging it on the screen. With this touch operation, menu settings can be changed quickly; cutting the time it takes to navigate using standard cursors. However, all setting changes can still be done using the control pad, if preferred.

The LUMIX G2 records 1280 x 720 HD videos in the AVCHD Lite format, which increases recording capacity and is highly compatible with audio-visual equipment. With a dedicated video record button, users can easily start recording a video. To complement its high-quality video capabilities, the LUMIX G2 features advanced audio options, as sound is recorded with Dolby Digital Creator and an optional accessory stereo microphone can be attached. A Wind Cut function further enhances the sound as it helps reduce noise caused from background wind.

The 3.0-inch touch-operation LCD has a wide-viewing angle and rotates 180° from side to side and tilts 270° up and down, providing approximately 100% of field of view. This free-angle LCD with a touch-screen operation makes it possible to both view and touch the screen from any angle.  The double Live-View function offered by the high-resolution, 460,000-dot free-angle Intelligent LCD and 1,440,000-dot 1.4x (0.7x) Live View Finder allows users to see the settings’ results before pressing the shutter.

The 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor featured in the LUMIX G2 offers the best of both worlds – the outstanding image quality of a CCD sensor, and the lower power consumption of a CMOS sensor. Advanced technology enables it to read four channels of data simultaneously, helping the LUMIX G2 to deliver 60 frames-per-second Full-time Live View images, while faithfully reproducing high-resolution images with fine detail and rich gradation. Plus, with the high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine HD II, which has been re-engineered to further improve image quality.

The new high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine HD II supports the new image processing technology Intelligent Resolution, which enables the recording of beautiful photo and HD video with high quality signal processing. With Intelligent Resolution technology, three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation – are automatically detected. The outline parts are enhanced effectively to give edges increased clarity, while simultaneously giving a moderate accentuation to the textured areas so they look finely detailed. For the soft gradation areas, the improved noise reduction system of the Venus Engine HD II is applied to achieve a smoother effect. Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, the innovative technology Intelligent Resolution precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel in the most effective way, resulting in images that are naturally clear.

For users looking for additional creative options for both photos and videos, the LUMIX G2 delivers.  While shooting HD video, users can set the camera in “P” mode – to change the aperture for professional-like movie effects where the images blur into focus. For still photos, the LUMIX G2 features the My Color mode with a total of seven preset effects – Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, and Silhouette while also keeping the Custom mode, which lets users manually set the color, brightness and saturation levels and save their favorite settings into memory.

On the other hand, for beginner users not yet ready for manual modes – the LUMIX G2 features iA (Intelligent Auto), a popular setting in the LUMIX point-and-shoots that automatically engages features and settings for optimal image quality by detecting the shooting environment. Panasonic iA is available in both still photo and video recording settings and a new dedicated iA button, which illuminates in blue when engaged, makes it even easier to use this handy feature.

Other features of the LUMIX G2 include:
  • Dust Reduction System: If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the camera when you're changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. The Dust Reduction System in the G2 helps eliminate this possibility by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.
  • Included Software: PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition makes it possible to sort and organize photos.  Videos can be uploaded directly to YouTube using the built-in YouTube uploader – even in HD quality. It also lets you create a 360-degree rotation panorama file in .MOV files. The software is compatible with the Windows 7.
  • The Panasonic LUMIX G2 will come equipped as part of its kit, with the newly announced LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens. The new lens offers a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm), making it suitable for a wide variety of scenes, everything from dynamic landscape to portrait.  Additionally, the LUMIX G2 is compatible with all Micro Four Thirds System lenses, allowing users even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera.

The LUMIX DMC-G2 and other LUMIX G Micro System digital cameras can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R.  Other accessories include external flashes, filters, a remote shutter, HDMI mini cables and a variety of stylish straps and bags. The Panasonic LUMIX G2 will be available in red, blue and black models and pricing and availability will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date.
 
Panasonic unveils DMC-G10 micro four thirds camera
   08 March 2010
lumixdmc-g10kPanasonic has introduced an addition to its Panasonic LUMIX G Series, the LUMIX DMC-G10, the world’s lightest* digital interchangeable lens camera with a viewfinder, which packs a host of advanced digital camera functions designed to be easy-to-use for users new to system cameras. The new compact and portable LUMIX G10, which can record High Definition (HD) video in addition to high-quality still images, joins the LUMIX DMC-G2, also introduced today, as part of the Panasonic LUMIX G Series.

“The LUMIX G Micro System has revolutionized the photography industry ever since the release of the Panasonic G1, the world’s first interchangeable lens system camera based on the Micro Four Thirds System standard,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company.  “We continue to expand this award-winning LUMIX G Series, and with its easy-to-use features and compact size, we expect the G10 to attract a lot of new users who want to step-up from their point-and-shoots.”

The LUMIX G10, with its incredible compact body and portable design, uses a mirrorless structure as part the Micro Four Thirds System standard, eliminating a number of components that are found in a conventional interchangeable lens camera, including the mirror box and optical viewfinder unit. This innovative structure allows for the LUMIX G10 to be the world’s lightest system camera in a compact digital camera design that is a desired feature for new users.  Adding to its lightweight body, the LUMIX G10 will come equipped as part of its kit, with the newly announced LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens. The new lens offers a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm (35mm camera equivalent: 28-84mm), making it suitable for shooting a wide-range of scenes, from dynamic landscape to portrait.

Panasonic designed the LUMIX G10 to be easy to use offers iA (Intelligent Auto) mode – with its shooting assist functions that have proven extremely popular in LUMIX compact cameras. Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto), an easy shooting mode with automatic optimization according to the scene in either photo and video recording, is helpful to beginner users unfamiliar with an interchangeable lens system camera. With the new dedicated iA button, which illuminates in blue when engaged, activating this mode is even easier and can be used to shoot both photos and videos.

When shooting still photos, iA offers the following: MEGA O.I.S., which helps prevent blurring from hand-shake; Intelligent ISO Control, which reduces motion blur by adjusting the ISO sensitivity if the subject moves; Intelligent Exposure optimizes exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights and helping ensure that gradation and details are reproduced properly; Intelligent Scene Selector detects the most common shooting situations – Portrait, Night Portrait, Scenery, Night Scenery, Close-up and Sunset – and switches to the appropriate Scene mode automatically – no setting changes needed.

The LUMIX G10 can record 1280 x 720 HD video in Motion JPEG, QVGA, VGA and WVGA formats. Users can enjoy recording HD videos while taking advantage of the high quality lens and the flexibility to change to other lenses. Even users new to recording videos will find the LUMIX G10 makes it easy. Panasonic’s iA for video offers the following: Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) helps prevent handshake when using high-powered zoom; Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion; Intelligent Exposure continually checks the ambient light level and adjusts the exposure setting as conditions change to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows; Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Close-up, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the situation to optimize visual quality.

With AF Tracking, the LUMIX G10 can lock onto any subject and keep it in focus even if it moves – making it easy to get beautiful, clear shots of moving subjects, such as children and pets. Simply aim, lock, and shoot. The Face Recognition function remembers registered faces to give an appropriate AF/AE on the people. In playback, you can choose to display only photos that contain a specific registered face using Category Playback.  The contrast AF system adopted by the LUMIX DMC-G10 is not only accurate and easy to use, but also very fast. Users can choose from a wide range of AF modes, including AF Tracking, 1-area AF, Face Detection AF/AE and 23-area AF.

The LUMIX G10’s Live View Finder, with a resolution of 202,000-dot equivalent, 1.04x (0.52x*) retains the viewability of an optical viewfinder and displays information about its settings that users can see without removing their eye from the subject.  The 60 fps Live View is powered by the Live MOS sensor, which takes signals directly from the image sensor and sends them continuously to the LCD, in real time. Both the Live View Finder and LCD provide approximately 100% field of view. This allows the user, when composing a shot, to check the framing accurately from corner to corner. The 3.0-inch large 460,000-dot high-resolution LCD with wide viewing angle automatically controls the brightness according to the situation as an Intelligent LCD.  

The 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor and the new Venus Engine HD II help to separate chromatic noise from luminance noise and apply the optimal noise reduction to each, so users can capture clear and beautiful images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels.  The high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine HD II, which has been re-engineered to incorporate the new image processing technology, Intelligent Resolution, enables the recording of beautiful photo and HD video with high quality signal processing. With Intelligent Resolution technology, three areas – outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation –are automatically detected. The outline parts are enhanced effectively to give edges increased clarity, while simultaneously giving a moderate accentuation to the textured areas so they look finely detailed. For the soft gradation areas, the improved noise reduction system of the Venus Engine HD II is applied to achiever a smoother effect.  Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, the innovative technology Intelligent Resolution precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel in the most effective way, resulting in images that are naturally clear.

All Panasonic LUMIX G Series digital cameras are equipped with the highly-efficient Dust Reduction System. If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the LUMIX G10 while changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. However, with the Dust Reduction System, it helps eliminate this possibility by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.

Other features of the LUMIX G10 include:
  • My Color mode with a total of seven preset effects – Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, Silhouette. Also includes Custom mode, which lets users manually set the color, brightness and saturation levels. For beginners, the LUMIX G10’s full-time Live View function lets users see how these settings will affect the images before they shoot, making it easier to capture the exact mood or atmosphere desired.
  • Scene modes total 26, including the Peripheral Defocus mode, which lets users take a photo where the foreground is in focus and background is blurred – or vice versa.  This popular effect can be intimidating for a beginner, but in the Peripheral Defocus mode, by simply selecting the objects to be blurred and focused using the camera’s keypad, it is simple for photographers of any level.
  • Exposure meter can be displayed in the P/A/S/M shooting modes. The correlation between shutter speed and aperture is shown, with a color-coded warning system that alerts users when the settings are not in the proper range. For those new to system camera digital photography, this makes it easy to learn proper settings both visually and logically, enhancing their photography skills.

The Panasonic LUMIX G10 is compatible with Micro Four Thirds System lenses, allowing users even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-G10 and LUMIX G Micro System can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic LUMIX G10 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date.  It will be available in black. 
 




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