Photo Club

Lens reviews on DPReview are one year old today, and we’re celebrating this auspicious anniversary with appropriate aplomb. Our 25th review features the Canon EF 50mm F1.8 II, a bargain offering that sells for less than $100, yet features an optical design refined over decades of service as the standard lens supplied with 35mm film SLRs. So how does it measure up against F1.4 lenses costing three times as much?

We’re also taking this opportunity to publish our studio test data for Nikon’s equivalent lens, the AF-Nikkor 50mm 1:1.8D on the D300 and D3. You can view this in the lens widget by clicking here; a full review will follow… sometime.

Source: www.dpreview.com

Over the last few weeks we’ve started to see a range of new cameras released. We’re updating many of those that capture our interest at the Digital Camera and Gear blog at Digital Photography School.

Here are a few new ones to hit the market:

• Canon Powershot A480 – 10MP, 3.3x Optical Zoom
• Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-G3 – 10.1MP, 4x Optical Zoom and with WiFi
• Olympus SP-590UZ – 12MP and with a 26x Optical Zoom
• Pentax Optio E70 and P70 – two compact digital cameras

Read More..>>

Canon PowerShot SX10 iS review : The Canon SX10 IS Megazoom camera is the successor to the PowerShot S5 IS. When it comes to appearance, the Canon SX10 IS looks a lot like its predecessor, but if you thought its size would have decreased somewhat, you’re wrong; the camera has even slightly grown. However; you do get something in return. The 12x optical zoom lens has been replaced by a 20x, which keeps Canon nicely in pace with its rivals. Thankfully, Canon’s image stabilization system supports the zoom lens in order to be able to work with it. Moreover, the resolution has increased from 8 to 10 MP.

• Read our full Canon PowerShot test

Canon PowerShot SX10iS review
The Canon SX10 IS digital camera is a so-called Megazoom camera. This category has been popular with a large group of users for a long time now, and with good reason. Cameras such as the Canon SX10 IS seem to have found the almost perfect combination. They are compact and equipped with a large optical zoom range, which makes ease and all-round photography go hand in hand. One disadvantage compared to a digital SLR is the format of the image sensor. The differences are so significant that the negative effects of high resolution on a small sensor result in visible noise at higher ISO sensitivities.

Canon PowerShot review
During the tests in practice, I used the Canon PowerShot SX10 IS with a 4GB SDHC card and besides that, I used it in combination with a special type Secure Digital memory card; the SanDisk Extreme Ducati Plus SD memory card. It has the size of a standard SDHC card but does have a unique feature; taking the card out of the camera you can snap it in two and a USB interface is then freed. This way you can insert the card directly into a free USB port and get access to the stored pictures or videos. No need for wires or a card reader, even the camera can be put aside.

Canon SX10 iS review
As mentioned earlier, the Canon SX10 IS is quite similar to its predecessor. The Megazoom cameras all look very much alike, and there is no secret about that. All of them are equipped with a large format optical zoom lens, which of course cannot be hidden inside the housing that easily. In addition, the handgrip offers sufficient grip and the back of the camera serves as the control center. It’s the small details in its appearance that make the difference for the Canon PowerShot SX10 IS. Read the full Canon SX10iS test.

Canon EOS photo gallery : Canon introduced a new EOS DSLR camera, the Canon EOS 50D at the end of August 2008. This was not supposed to be the successor to the 40D yet a stand-alone digital SLR camera. At first quite a surprise whilst on the surface the Canon EOS 50D D-SLR is fairly similar to the 40D, however, upon taking a closer look at the two cameras there are a lot of significant changes. The increased resolution combined with an entirely new sensor technique is one of them. This technique should offer improved noise ratio compared to the 40D. In addition, the large 3 inch monitor with VGA resolution ensures perfect reproduction. Prior to the upcoming Canon EOS 50D review, we’re happy to show you several sample photos.
Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR
The Canon EOS 50D camera features a 15.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, good for 6.3 pictures per second and the latest Canon DIGIC 4 image processor that offers top speed and high resolution for an interesting price. New manufacturing processes, plus redesigned photo diodes and micro lenses, extend the light gathering capabilities of the sensor – allowing more pixels to be fitted on the CMOS sensor without compromising image quality. High-speed, low light shooting is enabled by ISO levels of 3200, expandable to an ultra-sensitive 12800.

Canon 50D sample photo gallery
In addition the Canon 50D features a new DIGIC 4 processor that is fast enough to allow up to 6.3fps continuous shooting, in bursts of up to 90 JPEGs with a fast UDMA card. Used with Canon’s wide area AF system, which locks onto subjects with 9 individual cross type sensors, action moments can be captured – even in low-light conditions. DIGIC 4 works with the CMOS sensor to deliver 14-bit image processing, for smooth gradation and natural-looking colors – as well as ensuring ultra-fast start-up times and near-instant image review after shooting.

Canon EOS 50D photo gallery
The Canon 50D sample photos were taken with a full production camera which means that this camera is equal to the model that the consumer can expect to purchase. Our DIWA test lab has already fully tested the Canon EOS 50D digital SLR camera under laboratory circumstances from a technical viewpoint. The next few weeks we will test the EOS 50D in practice and come up with a review soon. The Canon EOS sample photos are taken in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The pictures in this article have been reduced to enable correct reproduction and compressed to ensure a faster loading time. To download the original Canon EOS photos, simply click on the link below images. Enjoy the Canon EOS 50D gallery!

Download original : Canon EOS 50D test photo (Warning: approx. 6.9MB file size!)

Download original : Canon EOS 50D sample photo (Warning: approx. 7.1MB file size!)

Download original : Canon 50D test photo (Warning: approx. 7.0MB file size!)

Download original : Canon 50D sample photo (Warning: approx. 5.8MB file size!)

Download original : Canon EOS photo (Warning: approx. 9.9MB file size!)

Download original : Canon EOS picture (Warning: approx. 4.6MB file size!)

Download original : Canon EOS image (Warning: approx. 6.7MB file size!)

It seems to me that whenever dealing with technical devices, everyone has to create a manual that is dry and to the point. I would also think that that over the course of time these things would change and we could have a manual that would inspire us to pick it up and learn more. Perhaps, you would think, we could get an interesting manual that actually teaches us how to use a product rather than just describe it. 

Take, for example, a Canon EOS 40D, when they spend the first weekend experimenting and looking in the manual until they learn enough to get by – and then they use those same old options over and over. It's not because people are dumb, rather it is because the manuals are not put together to inspire you to explore your new device in depth. That is where Canon EOS 40D: The Rocky Nook Manual comes in. Its goal is to inspire you to take a deeper look at your 40D and really learn how to use it. Canon EOS 40D is 200 pages in length and covers seven chapters.

Chapter 1, "Camera Technology," shows you how the Canon EOS 40D is a high performance camera that leaves very little to be desired in the way of options. It contains all of the professional features that a consumer would want in a camera and a lot more. This chapter explains what setting you should use to get the best results and which you should avoid at all costs. It targets what you really need to know.

Chapter 2, "Autofocus and Exposure," goes into what is needed to get that great shot. Most of the problems with bad exposures are from the user and not the camera. By using the highly accurate focusing mechanisms and the four basic metering abilities, you should be able to get the right shot every time.

Chapter 3, "The Camera's Exposure Modes," moves on to mastering automatic aperture and shutter speed controls by using the cameras various exposure modes to provide you with a lot of ability to use your camera effectively.

Olympus, Nikon and Canon have announced firmware updates. Canon’s firmware update for the Canon WFT-E3/E3A wireless transmitter will now make it compatible on the 50D. The firmware update for Nikon D80 and D200 corrects the problem of light flashing empty, inspite of it being fully charged, commonly known as the ‘Dead Battery Syndrome’. Meanwhile, firmware v1.1 for the Olympus E-520 and E-420 improves the brightness level of AF target points in the Viewfinder.

Tamron has unwrapped a 10-24mm lens designed for Canon and Nikon digital SLR cameras that have a built-in AF motor.

The firm’s president Morio Ono described the optic’s 2.4x zoom ratio as ‘unprecedented’ in its class, adding that the lens is designed for DSLRs with an APS-C size imaging sensor.

The SP AF10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II LD Aspherical (IF) delivers the 35mm viewing angle equivalent of a 16-37mm lens.

Features include a minimum focus distance of 0.24m and aspherical elements to help reduce distortion.

The lens will go on sale in Japan on 20 September.

A UK launch date and price have yet to be announced.

Pentax and Sony compatible models will be launched at a later date.

Canon has just shipped its 100 millionth digital compact camera. Beginning with the PowerShot 600 in 1996, Canon has delivered a total of 106 models Compact digital camera models. “We are delighted to reach such a landmark number in camera production,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “Canon pledges to continue searching for new technologies, and new designs, that let everyone capture their most precious moments.” To mark this milestone, a special colour variation model will be launched in the near future.

Canon UK Press Release

A great day for popular photography: Canon ships 100 millionth compact digital camera

United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, 19 August 2008: Canon is pleased to announce that the company has shipped its 100 millionth digital compact camera. To mark this milestone in popular photography, a special colour variation model will be launched in the near future.

Beginning with the PowerShot 600 in 1996, Canon has delivered a total of 106 models Compact digital camera models (including regional models) as of August 5, 2008 around the world. During this time, the Canon name has become synonymous with revolutionary digital compact camera design. Highlights have included:

IXUS Digital (2000) – compact, stylish and easy to use, this model spearheaded the digital point-and-shoot revolution, leading in turn to massive market expansion.

PowerShot A70 (2003) – the best-selling model worldwide during 2003, this
A-Series camera was renowned for its superb operability and great value.

Digital IXUS i (2003) – with its smooth, chic lines, the Digital IXUS i paved the way for female-orientated digital cameras.

PowerShot G7 (2007) – this 10MP model carved out a position for high-end functionality in the compact digital camera market.

PowerShot S5 IS (2007) – this super zoom model brought outstanding 12x zoom power to the digital compact camera market.

Canon has also led the evolution of compact digital cameras, with a number of groundbreaking technologies. DIGIC high-performance image processing continues to process extra-rich image data at high speeds. Ultra-compact lenses deliver smooth, blur-free results with built-in image stabilisation. And Canon iSAPS technology assesses shooting conditions to provide outstanding, accurate exposures.

“We are delighted to reach such a landmark number in camera production,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “Canon pledges to continue searching for new technologies, and new designs, that let everyone capture their most precious moments.”

Details of the special colour variation model will be announced soon. 

Canon USA have announced the Canon EOS Rebel XS, which was first unveiled in other markets last month as the EOS 1000D. “We are proud to introduce the new EOS Rebel XS camera at a very exciting time in digital imaging. As consumers have fully embraced digital photography, with many consumers purchasing their second or third digital camera models, we see the Rebel XS as the bridge to help photographers cross over from the world of point-and-shoot cameras to digital SLR technology,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. Expected to ship in August 2008, the black or silver Canon Rebel XS camera is only available in a zoom lens kit version, which includes the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. The Canon Rebel XS’s estimated retail price is $699.99.

Canon USA Press Release

CANON’S NEW EOS REBEL XS CAMERA LOOKS TO INSPIRE A NEW GENERATION OF DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Photographers Looking for the Next Step Up From Their Point-and-Shoot Camera Will Enjoy the High-End Features and Fun-to-Use SLR Technology of Canon’s Newest Rebel Camera

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., July 8, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the introduction of the EOS Rebel XS, a new entry-level digital camera that affordably puts Canon SLR technology such as an Optical Imaged Stabilized lens and easy-to-use professional features into the hands of emerging photographers. Consumers looking to take their photography a step further and begin shooting with an SLR will find the transition easier than ever with Canon’s new Rebel XS digital SLR camera. From the parent photographing a little league game, to the tourist shooting a wondrous new city, the Canon Rebel XS camera makes photography easy for everyone. Canon has also introduced the latest model in the EX series of Speedlite flashes: the Canon Speedlite 430EX II.

Ideal for a wide range of photographers from first-time digital SLR users to veteran photo enthusiasts, the new Canon EOS Rebel XS camera was designed to embody what customers have come to expect from the EOS Rebel series — a fast, non-intimidating, lightweight, easy-to-use camera that produces excellent images and starts emerging photographers off on the right foot. Immediately, photographers will take notice of the camera’s Optical Image Stabilized kit lens for crisp focus, compensating for camera shake from unsteady hands or a moving vehicle. The new Rebel model also incorporates Canon’s DIGIC III image processor, 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, Live View, Auto Lighting Optimizer, 7-point wide-area autofocus (AF) sensor and 3.0 frames per second continuous JPEG burst rate where the number of consecutive shots in a burst is only limited by the capacity of the flash memory card in the camera. 

“We are proud to introduce the new EOS Rebel XS camera at a very exciting time in digital imaging. As consumers have fully embraced digital photography, with many consumers purchasing their second or third digital camera models, we see the Rebel XS as the bridge to help photographers cross over from the world of point-and-shoot cameras to digital SLR technology,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

A first in Canon’s EOS line-up, the Rebel XS camera’s continuous JPEG burst rate allows users to continuously shoot a scene until the memory card is at capacity. This will be particularly helpful for new photographers looking to capture that perfect image of a moving subject.

The Live View function allows users to frame and shoot images in real time via the camera’s 2.5 inch LCD screen, a great feature for users accustomed to framing shots via LCD monitors on point-and-shoot digital cameras. The Camera’s Auto Lighting Optimizer detects dark areas of an image and automatically adjusts brightness and contrast to ensure optimal image results. The Canon Rebel XS allows greater ease of use through large control buttons and easy-to-see operating panel indications such as ISO settings visible through the viewfinder and Canon Speedlite controls through the camera LCD menu.

The Rebel XS incorporates an APS-C size (22.2 x 14.8 mm) CMOS sensor with 10.1 million pixel images and Canon’s exclusive high-performance DIGIC III image processor to help deliver high levels of imaging performance and responsiveness. It also has Canon’s exclusive EOS Integrated Cleaning System, which features both hardware and software-based dust removal technology. Additionally, weighing less than 1 lb./450 grams, this camera is the lightest body in the EOS digital series camera lineup.

The EOS Rebel XS camera is compatible with Canon’s extensive lineup of more than 60 EF and EF-S lenses, including the Image Stabilizer-equipped EF-S18–55mm f/3.5–5.6 IS, which is included in the camera’s standard zoom lens kit package. The Canon Rebel XS will be available in black or silver colored body variations.

Canon Speedlite 430EX II
The new Canon Speedlite 430EX II, which succeeds the 430EX, realizes an approximately 20 percent reduction in recycling time compared with its predecessor. Like the 580EX II, the 430EX II allows users to control flash functions and input settings using the camera’s LCD monitor[ii], and also offers a quick-lock attachment system and a metal mounting foot for improved contact reliability and durability. The new Canon Speedlite 430EX II will carry an estimated retail price of $329.99.

In the Box
Expected to ship in August 2008 the Canon Rebel XS camera is available in a zoom lens kit version, which includes the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens, a rechargeable battery pack and charger, USB and video cables, a neckstrap, an EOS Solutions Disk CD, and a 1-year Canon U.S.A., Inc. limited warranty. The new camera’s estimated retail price is $699.99.

Though standard in the EOS Rebel XS kit, the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens is also available as a stand-alone purchase and carries an estimated retail price of $199.99. 

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2007†, with global revenues of $39.3 billion, is listed as one of Fortune’s Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2007 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting http://www.usa.canon.com/pressroom.

Canon IXUS 970 IS digital camera : Canon announces a powerful new addition to its Digital IXUS range of stylish compact cameras. The 10 Megapixel Digital IXUS 970 IS features a brand new 5x optical zoom lens – the longest ever zoom in the range – together with an enhanced version of Canon’s lens-shift type optical Image Stabilizer (IS). The Canon IXUS 970 IS also features Motion Detection Technology, which works in tandem with IS to reduce blur caused by subject motion and camera shake. Face Detection Technology with Face Select & Track and Face Detection White Balance is also included. These features provide accurate, natural-looking people shots in all situations.

Canon IXUS 970 IS LCD screen
As with all Digital IXUS models in the first half of 2008, auto focus is enhanced for darker conditions; it is now effective in situations approximately 1-stop darker than was possible in previous models. A bright, clear 2.5” PureColor LCD II screen and new Multi Control Dial enhance the user experience, offering a greater degree of convenience. Thanks to Canon’s optical expertise, all these improvements have been made without sacrificing the iconic design that has made Digital IXUS the ultimate style camera brand.

Powerful compact digital camera
“With its 5x zoom, the Canon IXUS 970 IS digital camera brings a new level of performance to Canon’s leading design brand,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “Once again Canon is using its optical expertise to deliver powerful compact cameras in effortless style.”

Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS Features
• Uncompromising Digital IXUS style and build quality
• 10.0 Megapixel image sensor
• 5x optical zoom lens
• Enhanced lens-shift type optical Image Stabilizer (IS) delivering a 4-stop advantage
• High ISO Auto with Motion Detection Technology
• Face Detection Technology now with White Balance and Face Select & Track
• Automatic Red-Eye Correction in shooting and playback
• DIGIC III with Noise Reduction Technology
• 2.5″ PureColor LCD II plus optical viewfinder (OVF)
• Enhanced auto focus performs at up to 1-stop darker
• Multi Control Dial
• 18 shooting modes including new Sunset mode and My Colors photo effects
• Extensive movie options including VGA 30fps, Long Play and Time Lapse movie modes
• Optional accessories include Soft Case and High Powered Flash
• Easy printing with PictBridge and quick print order settings in playback mode

Canon zoom lens with Image Stabilizer
The Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS features a brand new 5x optical Image Stabilizer zoom lens, delivering a greater zoom reach than any previous Digital IXUS. Thanks to a comprehensive redesign by Canon’s optical engineers, the lens has a new four-group configuration incorporating UA (Ultra-high refractive index Aspherical) lens elements. UA elements help to provide the gain in zoom power, and ensure that a compact size and straight optical pathway are maintained, for easy usability and optimum image quality.

Optical Image Stabilizer
The Canon IXUS 970 IS optimises performance with its enhanced optical Image Stabilizer (IS). The lens-shift type IS improves on the systems used in previous Digital IXUS models, now delivering a 4-stop advantage, an increase of 1 stop. The extra stop allows photographers to use shutter speeds twice as long when shooting hand held, and obtain blur-free shots. The enhanced IS also reduces the blur caused by camera shake when shooting at the telephoto end of the camera’s 5x optical zoom improves performance in low-light, enabling shots in conditions where no shot would have been possible before. This enhanced low-light capability is aided by improvements to the camera’s auto focus; AF is now capable of achieving focus in conditions of up to approximately 1 stop darker.

Canon IXUS 970 IS Design
Building on the Digital IXUS вЂ?perpetual curve’ design, the Canon IXUS 970IS slopes gently back towards the grip. Its two-tone finish gives a precise contrast of matte silver with muted gloss and glossy metallic, for an elegant sheen. The overall effect is one of understated individuality, complementing the camera’s discreet photographic power.

Motion Detection technology
Activated in High ISO Auto, Canon’s intelligent Motion Detection Technology works to eliminate motion blur. When camera shake or moving subjects are detected, the system automatically provides an ISO boost between ISO 80-800 – counteracting motion blur to improve action shots and night snaps, without compromising shots where no ISO boost is needed. The technology intelligently combines inputs from Face Detection Technology, the optical Image Stabilizer, changes in scene brightness and changes from frame to frame to identify the subject and detect motion.

Face Detection technology
Equally comprehensive is Canon’s approach to Face Detection Technology. The Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS includes Face Select & Track, which allows you to select a single face from a crowd of up to 35 detected faces. The optimum focus, exposure, flash and – for the first time – white balance will then be set for that face, tracking the subject as they move around the frame.

Red-Eye correction
Canon’s Red-Eye Correction draws on Face Detection Technology to eliminate red-eye from photographs. Whenever a face is detected in a shot, red-eye is checked for. It can either be removed automatically whilst shooting or in playback mode. New AF Point Zoom allows the photographer to magnify the AF frame when the shutter button is pressed half way, so that facial expressions can be checked before shooting.

Canon DIGIC III image processor
As well as powering features such as Face Detection Technology, Canon’s DIGIC III image processor enables quick response times and fast buffering speeds. The processor also incorporates advanced Noise Reduction Technology for excellent image quality at high ISO settings.

PureColor LCD II screen
The Canon IXUS 970 IS is made for intuitive use. From the moment the camera is powered up, the 230,000 dot high resolution 2.5” PureColor LCD II screen provides an easy way to frame up shots and navigate the easy-use menu system. PureColor LCD II offers a number of benefits over conventional LCD screens, including improved colour contrast for enhanced visibility, a wide viewing angle for easy shooting and instant image sharing, anti-glare coatings for viewing under bright light and anti-scratch coatings. Additional photo framing options are provided by the camera’s Optical Viewfinder (OVF). The Canon IXUS 970IS includes a Multi Control Dial for the first time in the range. This wheel enables the user to change camera settings and scene modes quickly, as well as offering intuitive navigation of menus and convenient image browsing in playback.

Canon Digital IXUS 970IS Scene modes
A host of features enables users to enhance their shooting options. Users can choose from a range of 18 shooting modes, including Special Scene modes that automatically optimise camera settings for common shooting subjects. The Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS features new Sunset scene mode for the optimum capture of this tricky subject. Movie options include Long Play (LP) mode, which uses only half the memory of standard movies, and Time Lapse movie for the creation of fun and atmospheric accelerated film clips.

Canon IXUS 970IS Menu features
Several menu features also let users manipulate their images in-camera, without the need for computer software. The Trimming function offers image trimming to predetermined sizes. This function is integrated with Face Detection Technology – if several faces are detected in frame users can jump between faces to create instant trimmed portraits. The Image Resize function enables users to create smaller image files by reducing the number recording pixels in larger images. The original image can then be deleted in order to save space on the memory card, leaving the new file an ideal size for e-mailing and uploading to the web.