Canon WP-V1 Waterproof Case

WP-V1, a Waterproof Case for Canon's Ivis HF20

Own an Ivis HF20 compact video camera? Planning on spending your summer in Hawaii or Okinawa? Here's the HF20's best friend, the official Canon waterpoof case WP-V1…

Now you'll have NO excuse not to get wet!

Source
Akihabaranews

Canon Powershot D10

Designed for adventure: Canon’s first digital waterproof camera

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 18 February 2009: Canon today launches its first waterproof digital compact camera: the 12.1 Megapixel PowerShot D10. Engineered for those with an adventurous, active lifestyle, the PowerShot D10 combines take-anywhere levels of toughness with exceptional image quality. Canon’s DIGIC 4 processor delivers ultra-responsive performance and outstanding, richly detailed images, while a new Smart Auto mode uses Scene Detection technology to deliver effortlessly great shots.
For the ultimate in hands-free, take-anywhere operability, the PowerShot D10 also offers compatibility with an extensive accessories system.

Goes where others can’t
From surfing to snorkelling, skiing to mountaineering, the PowerShot D10 is designed to accompany users on every adventure – it’s waterproof to 10m*, can withstand the shock of a drop onto a hard surface from 1.22m, is dustproof** and will function at temperatures as low as -10oC.

A range of protective accessories are available to keep the camera safe in challenging environments, including soft case, shoulder, neck and carabiner straps***. Thanks to an innovative connection system on the corners of the camera’s body, a secure and convenient set-up can be tailored for different activities. Users can also customise their camera’s appearance with an optional coloured Front Cover Set, and protect it from knocks and scuffs with a soft case.

Exceptional quality
Incredible 12.1 Megapixel resolution is captured by the camera’s sensor, allowing the freedom to crop or enlarge images while retaining outstanding image detail. The 3x zoom lens offers a range of versatile framing options, with Image Stabilizer preventing camera-shake from causing unwanted blur. This is particularly useful when participating in the high-movement activities for which the camera is designed.

Easy to use
To ensure that users stay focused on the action, DIGIC 4 powers a host of intelligent features that make great photos effortless. A new Smart Auto mode uses Scene Detection Technology to analyse the shooting scene in detail – checking subject brightness, contrast, distance and overall hue. The camera then selects the optimum mode from 18 possible choices, ensuring perfect settings for the scene.

Even the most active situations can be photographed blur-free thanks to Canon’s Motion Detection Technology, which detects both camera and subject movement and adjusts settings accordingly. Naturally great people shots are assured by Face Detection Technology, which now also includes new Blink Detection, to avoid the disappointment of mistimed people shots. Canon’s i-Contrast brightens dark areas in an image without blowing out lighter areas.

The PowerShot D10 also features a special 2.5” PureColor LCD II, which has been specially modified for better outdoor performance. Protected by a 2mm protective shield, it offers double the brightness of a normal PureColor LCD II – allowing easy framing or image review in virtually any environment.

From the beach to the ski-slopes, a wide range of shooting modes and Special Scene modes – including dedicated Underwater, Snow and Beach modes - delivers instant fingertip access to the correct settings. FaceSelf-Timer simplifies group shots by waiting until the user enters the frame before shooting.

“The PowerShot D10 is a boundary-breaking camera,” commented Rainer Fuehres, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “It brings the hallmarks of the PowerShot range – exceptional imaging and ease of use – to places where many other cameras simply cannot go.”

• Waterproof (to 10m), shockproof (1.22m), freeze-proof (-10°C), dust-proof digital camera
• 12.1 Megapixels
• 3.0x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
• Smart Auto mode with Scene Detection Technology
  
• DIGIC 4 for ultra-fast response, superb image quality and intelligent
• Exceptionally bright 2.5” PureColor LCD II with 2mm protective shield
• Combats blur with IS and Motion Detection Technology
• People shots made easy with Face Detection Technology, Face Select & Track and Blink Detection - plus FaceSelf-Timer and Auto Red-Eye Correction technologies
• Optional accessory system includes Shoulder & Neck Strap Set and Carabiner Strap*** plus Front Cover Set
• Range of shooting modes and Special Scene modes
• 30fps VGA movies

Printing
The PowerShot D10 features a dedicated Print menu for quick access to direct print options. Full PictBridge support means users can print directly to any PictBridge compatible printer without the need for a PC.

Language
The PowerShot D10 features a user interface that supports 26 languages: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Portuguese, Korean, Greek, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Thai, Arabic, Romanian, Ukrainian and Farsi.

Memory Card Support
In addition to SD, SDHC and MMC memory cards, the PowerShot D10 supports MMCplus and HC MMCplus card formats.

Software and CANON iMAGE GATEWAY
The PowerShot D10 comes bundled with the following Canon Software:

• ZoomBrowser EX 6.3 (Windows), ImageBrowser 6.3 (Macintosh): For organising and editing images, movies and slideshows, or creating and printing digital photo albums.
• PhotoStitch 3.1 (Windows), PhotoStitch 3.2 (Mac): For creating panoramic photos from multiple images.

The bundled software supports Windows Vista (including SP1) / XP SP2-3 and Macintosh OS X v10.4-10.5. Both cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to Windows XP and Macintosh OS X, along with MTP for image and movie transfers to Windows Vista.

Purchasers of the PowerShot D10 are eligible for free membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY: 100MB of online ‘personal gallery’ space for sharing stills and video with family and friends.

Optional Accessories
The PowerShot D10 can be combined with the following accessories:

• Soft Case (SC-DC70)
  
• High Power Flash (HF-DC1)
• Front Cover Set (FC-DC1)
• AC Adapter Kit (ACK-DC40)
• Shoulder & Neck Strap Set (STP-DC1)***
• Carabiner Strap (STP-DC2)***

* IEC/JIS IP Protection Rating IPX8 equivalent
** IEC/JIS IP Protection Rating IPX6 equivalent
*** Optional straps are not designed for use under water

Technologies Explained:

Key Messages:

• AUTO mode is new for 1H09 in February launched Canon Cameras
• Latest Smart AUTO mode now incorporates advanced Scene Detection Technology
• Smart Auto makes it even easier for users to get better quality images with a press of the shutter button
• DIGIC 4 enables Smart Auto to be more accurate and give better images.

Introduction
Spring 2009 sees the launch of a new step-change in image quality for Canon cameras. For as long as most users can remember, AUTO mode has been a feature of point and shoot cameras -allowing minimal intervention or expertise needed to achieve satisfactory focus and exposure. Since the introduction and rise of digital photography, there have been many technological advances and additional shooting modes, yet AUTO mode remains the staple favourite of many snappers. Research conducted by Canon also reveals that AUTO is one of the most frequently used shooting modes.

Cameras with IQ
From today Canon are making AUTO mode different. The latest range of Digital Still Camera products launched incorporate a new smart system that uses Scene Detection Technology, which along with other advanced Canon technologies, leads to one of the most comprehensive and clever AUTO modes ever seen on a digital camera. Whilst complex in technology, Smart AUTO still delivers the peace of mind and ease of use for point and shooters that has always been expected from selecting the familiar green icon mode.

With intelligent and integrated use of key functions such as focus, exposure, ISO sensitivity, flash, dynamic range adjustments and Intelligent Contrast Correction, Canon Cameras have never been so smart. Added to these Canon Motion Detection and Face Detection Technology plus advanced Noise Reduction, together with pleasing colour rendition all delivered by the DIGIC 4 processor, mean when selecting AUTO mode on these latest models, users can be assured of the best in image quality even in more challenging shooting conditions.

Smart Auto overview:
Using Scene Detection Technology, Smart AUTO can distinguish parameters allowing the camera to carry out optimum processing for a shot by:

• Detecting people
• Evaluating Distances
• Evaluating Subject and camera movement information
• Analysing Scene Brightness
• Analysing Colour

Canon PowerShot D10 specifications

Sensor	• 1/2.3" Type CCD • 12.1 million effective pixels
Image sizes	• 4000 x 3000 • 3264 x 2448 • 2592 x 1944 • 1600 x 1200 • 640 x 480 • 320 x 140 • 4000 x 2248
Movie clips	• 640 x 480 @ 30fps [L] • 320 x 240 @ 30fps [M]
Maximum clip length	• Upto 4GB or 1 hour [L or M]
File formats	• JPEG (Exif v2.2) • DPOF 1.1 • MOV [H.264 + Linear PCM (Monaural) • WAVE (Sound Files)
Lens	• 35 - 105mm (35mm equiv) • 3x optical zoom • F2.8-4.9
Image stabilization	Yes (Lens-Shift)
Digital zoom	up to 4x
Focus	TTL
AF area modes	• Face Detection AiAF / 9 point • 1-point AF (center or Face Select and Track)
AF lock	Yes (On/Off Selectable)
AF assist lamp	Yes
Focus distance	Closest focus distance 3 cm
Metering	• Evaluative (linked to Face Detection AF frame) • Center-weighted average • Spot (center or linked to Face Detection)
ISO sensitivity	• Auto • ISO 80 • ISO 100 • ISO 200 • ISO 400 • ISO 800 • ISO 1600
AE lock	Yes (on/off selectable)
Exposure compensation	+/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments
Shutter speed	15-1/1500 sec
Modes	• Auto • Scene • Movie
Scene modes	• Program • Portrait • Night Snapshot • Kids & Pets • Indoor • Sunset • Fireworks • Long Shutter • Beach • Underwater • Aquarium • Foliage • Snow • ISO 3200 • Digital Macro • Color Accent • Color Swap • Stitch Assist
White balance	• Auto (including Face Detection WB) • Daylight • Cloudy • Tungsten • Fluorescent • Fluorescent H • Custom
Self timer	• 2 or 10sec • Custom or Face Self Timer
Continuous shooting	• Approx 1.1fps
Image parameters	My Colors (My Colors Off, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Custom Color)
Flash	Auto, Manual Flash On / Off, Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Sync • Face Detection FE compensation • Flash exposure lock • Range (30cm - 3.2m (W) / 2m (T) • External HF-DC1 flash (optional)
LCD monitor	• 2.5" TFT • 230,000 pixels • 100% coverage • Adjustable
Connectivity	• USB Hi-Speed • AV out (PAL / NTSC switchable)
Storage	• SD, SDHC, MMC, MMCplus, HC MMCplus
Power	Rechargeable Li-ion Battery NB-6L
Weight (no batt)	190 g
Dimensions	104 x 67 x 49 mm

Additional images

Source
Dpreview

Canon BU-50H HD Camera Mount

BU-50H, your ultimate HD camera mount for Sleek Video surveillance

Canon just release the “coolest” ever camera mount for those searching for the best ever camera surveillance (in HD) possible letting them save “sexy” moment on tape like on the girl changing room. 
Seriously, the BU-50H, is indeed a camera mount system for Compact HD Camera from Canon, in order to be able to remotely control them from a Studio... 
This kind of system is of course used by TVs in order to shoot street view or nice landscape...

Source

Canon

Canon PowerShot E1... Made by and for Women

Canon PowerShot E1... Made by and for WomenWho said that camera could not be made for Women? Certainly not a lot of people (including ourselves) for sure... But even if the concept behind camera made for women is not something new, Canon today decided to go even further on this matter by introducing a new PowerShot the E1, which feature a nice and “soft” design available in 3 cute colors like Vanilla White, Pink Cotton and Aqua Blue.

Our 10Mpix Camera feature the DIGICIII, a 4x Optical Zoom, an Image Stabilizer, has an ISO Range from 80 to 1600 (with a 3200 Boost Mode) for a size of 101.2x31.4x63.8mm and 160g only.

Source
AkihabaraNews

New Ixy Camera

A couple new Ixy from Canon

More Canon products in April with the arrival of the Ixy 95 IS and 25 IS sold respectively at 42.000JPY (266€) and 37.000JPY (234€). Some of the technical specifications include 10 MPx sensor, 2.5 inches screen, 35-105mm zoom, f2 .8-4.9, ISO 1600 (3200 at 1600x1200).

The major differences are the dimensions, weight, body design and screen size:

-XY DIGITAL 95 IS, 91.6×20.9×56.8mm and 155g, 3" screen
-IXY DIGITAL 25 IS, 86×20.4×54mm and 130g

Source
Canon

Canon Powershot SD1100 IS

Canon USA's sleek and stylish new Powershot SD1100 IS

The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera -the newest entry in Canon U.S.A., Inc.'s ever-fashionable line of catwalk-worthy ELPH cameras – adds another dimension to the line's active lifestyle eye appeal: color. Whether the activity du jour involves painting the town red, dancing 'til dawn, soaking up golden rays as the sun rises over a coral-colored beach or getting lost in a loved ones' baby blues, these petite and colorfully clad cameras make the scene and capture it, for the magic of the moment or for more enduring memories.

The Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera is offered in five lyrically named designer shades that suit the style, present the personality and express their user's taste and tempo. From the eclectic mix of antique elegance and au courant accessorizing of Bohemian Brown; the shimmering chic and subtle heat of Pink Melody; the wistful and occasionally wild stirrings of Rhythm and Blue, and of course, the exquisite refinement and enduring appeal of precious metals conveyed by the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera dressed only in its Golden Tone skin or catching the array of light – both brilliant and soft–as it plays on the camera body's Swing Silver sheen, these cameras capture the images at hand while conveying a picture of their users worth at least a thousand words.

Still, the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera is not just another pretty face. This feature-rich, pocket-sized, 8.0 megapixel, optically image stabilized digital camera is firmly rooted in the traditions of photo excellence and imaging innovation that Canon is known for.

"We recognize that many Digital ELPH camera users view their cameras as statements of personal style, valued as much for the image they convey as the images they capture," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. "The color choices of the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera create additional opportunities for personalization and individual expression."

A Sharp Zoom Lens with Image Stabilization
Adding to the new camera's versatility and optical excellence is its sharp and fast 3X optical zoom lens (38-114mm equivalent opening up to f/2.8 at wide-angle settings and f/4.9 at telephoto settings). The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera also features Canon's advanced Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system that significantly reduces the image-blurring effects of camera shake by shifting the lens to compensate for the movement. Available for the first time in an entry level Digital ELPH, Canon's OIS technology is proven effective for extended telephoto shots as well as low-light shooting conditions and helps users get the best possible picture quality every time.

Genuine Face Detection Technology
Beyond their appeal on the social scene, the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras feature the latest and most advanced generation of Canon's Genuine Face Detection technology, thus ensuring that up to nine forward-looking faces in the frame – whether posed for a family portrait, candidly capturing friends and fun, or spontaneously snapping a toddler's expression of triumphant glee as two halting steps – are in focus and properly exposed, with or without flash. In addition to focus and exposure control, the SD1100 IS camera's Face Detection feature captures truer, more accurately lit skin tones (and hence more beautifully rendered pictures) thanks to Canon's improved face detection white balance.

Face Selection and Motion Detection Technology
While the face detection algorithm automatically prioritizes up to nine human faces in a scene, it can also be instructed via the Face Select and Track function to lock on to a single face in the crowd, ensuring that the chosen countenance is finely focused, no matter where it appears in the frame. Additionally, a new Motion Detection function linked to the camera's High ISO Auto mode improves image clarity by raising ISO speeds (and shutter speeds) for fast-moving subjects or lowering ISO speeds to reduce noise when the subject is stationary. These automatic advances provide even more ways for the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras to optimize picture quality with seamless ease.

DIGIC III
The "brain" in every new Canon digital camera is Canon's proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor. This exclusive chip is responsible for the cameras' higher performance levels including faster start up, faster autofocus and quicker shutter response times that leave long lag competitors far behind. What's more, DIGIC III improves both the image quality and the cameras' power consumption, extending the battery life under typical shooting conditions.

See and be Scene
The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera offers users a choice of 18 shooting modes including a fully automatic mode that makes these cameras a true point-and-shoot affair; a semi-automatic "Camera M" mode which allows access to features such as Exposure Compensation and White Balance adjustments that Full Auto mode does not, as well as a plethora of scene selection modes - including Canon's new Sunset mode – that optimize image results under a variety of shooting conditions.

These scene modes put the power of Canon's collective photo expertise into the hands of even the most rookie shooter, ensuring that in the end, the shots are the best that they can be, whether indoors or out; in day or night light (and now, with the Sunset setting, in between too); through an aquarium glass; across stark snowy vistas or bleached sandy beaches; into lush, colorful foliage or at a brilliant burst of fireworks against a black satin sky.

The PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras feature Canon's precise 9-point Autofocus system along with the new AF-Point Zoom feature that work together with Face Detection Technology to allow users to double check the facial expressions of their subjects, when shooting under more challenging conditions. After activating the feature in the camera's menu, the AF-Point Zoom can be engaged simply by pressing the shutter button halfway.

Streamlining the image review process, Canon's Intelligent Orientation Sensor determines whether a scene is being shot as a vertical or horizontal image and automatically adjusts it for quick and easy review on the camera's bright, sharp and easy-to-read, 230,000-pixel 2.5 inch Pure Color LCD II screen. The Image Inspection Tool feature zooms in on faces automatically during playback to make it even easier to check facial expressions. The new cameras also feature Canon's newly developed Automatic Red Eye Correction that engages in the shooting mode, minimizing the need for correction before printing or sharing images. In-Camera Trimming is yet another new advancement that allows users to adjust and save cropped versions of their images without using a computer. As an added convenience, the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH cameras are compatible with MMC, MMC+ and HC MMC+ memory cards as well as standard SD and SDHC memory cards.

In the Box
Scheduled to be in stores beginning in March 2008, the five color versions of the PowerShot SD1100 IS Digital ELPH camera kit each include a battery pack and charger, a 32MB SD Memory card, a USB interface cable, an AV cable, a wrist strap, and Canon's software suite. Each kit carries an estimated retail price of $249.99*

Optional accessories include a waterproof case rated for depths up to 130 feet, a wireless flash unit, an AC Adapter Kit, and much more including a full line of compatible Canon PIXMA and SELPHY compact photo printers.

Source
Akihabaranews

Canon Telephoto Lens

Canon USA introduces two higly anticipated telephoto lenses at PMA 2008EF200mm f/2L IS USM and EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM Lenses Add New Levels of Super Telephoto Performance to Canon's Market-Leading EOS System

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 23, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced the launch of two new telephoto lenses for use with its EOS SLR cameras: the EF200mm f/2L IS USM*/** and the EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM*/**, the world's longest focal length lens with an Optical Image Stabilizer system.*** The Company, which exhibited prototypes of the lenses during PhotoPlus Expo in New York last October, is launching them at the PMA tradeshow (booth E101) at the Las Vegas Convention Center, January 31 to February 2.

"The development of these two new lenses continues to show how Canon actively responds to the imaging needs of our professional and advanced amateur customers. We are proud to provide the right equipment to help photographers capture the best and brightest images under all conditions," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and EF200mm f/2L IS USM are professional L-Series lenses that incorporate the latest generation of Canon's high-performance Optical Image Stabilizer system (OIS), giving them a stabilization effect equivalent to a shutter speed four settings faster. In addition, they feature optical systems utilizing fluorite and UD lens elements to provide excellent chromatic aberration correction for high-resolution, high-contrast shooting performance. Both lenses use only lead-free glass, and also incorporate lightweight yet durable magnesium alloy lens barrels with enhanced resistance to moisture and dust.

The Canon EF200mm f/2L IS USM is an exceptionally sharp lens that is significantly lighter (2520g/5.5 lbs. vs. 3000g/6.6 lbs.) than its predecessor, the renowned EF200mm f/1.8L USM lens, while adding OIS and a weather-resistant design. Ideal for all kinds of low-light photography including portraiture as well as indoor sports, the EF200mm f/2L IS USM has a close-focus setting of 1.9 m/6.2 feet and a circular aperture system that enhances its background blur rendition at wide apertures.

The Canon EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM is not only the longest focal length lens available with OIS, it is also virtually the same physical size as the EF600mm f/4L IS USM (461mm vs. 456mm), while weighing nearly 2 lbs. less (4500g/9.9 lbs. vs. 5360g/11.8 lbs.). These outstanding features were made possible by the use of a lightweight magnesium alloy lens barrel construction and a state-of-the-art super-telephoto optical system featuring 2 fluorite elements as well as Super UD and UD glass elements. The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM is well-suited for a wide variety of long-range photo applications such as wildlife and nature photography as well as sports and documentary photojournalism.

The new Canon EF200mm f/2L IS USM is scheduled to be available in April at an estimated retail price of $5,999.00 and the new Canon EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM is scheduled to be available in May for an estimated retail price of $11,999.00.

Source
Akihabaranews

Canon Rebel Xsi

Canon Rebel XSi hit the US (Kiss X2)

Not yet available in Japan, here you are an official announcement of Canon USA of the upgraded version of the EOS Kiss, the Kiss X2 or Rebel XSi, which is a 12.1Mpix DSLR and received a lot of improvement coming from his older borther the 40D. See the press release below for more details.

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 23, 2008 – Canon U.S.A., Inc.'s EOS Rebel series of digital single lens reflex cameras – the cameras that defined and refined what it means to be an "entry level" digital SLR – have now redefined the gateway prowess and "pro-ness" of the DSLR category with the introduction of the line's new leader, the 12.2-megapixel EOS Rebel XSi camera. Incorporating a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canon's professional SLR models, the EOS Rebel XSi camera boasts an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, an advanced Live View function, and the proprietary DIGIC III image processor. When paired with any of the more than 60 compatible Canon EF and EF-S lenses, including optically image stabilized EF-S lenses like the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS – now included in the EOS Rebel XSi kit – or the new EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS, the EOS Rebel XSi DSLR delivers images that will delight and inspire family and friends at an entry level price tag.

"This new EOS Rebel XSi camera is the answer for those who have been waiting to make the leap from digital point-and-shoot to digital SLR or from an older SLR to the latest generation of advanced technology, while still including the creative controls their old camera afforded them," states Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

Luxury Feel and Function
At first glance, one notices the Rebel XSi's large, 3-inch LCD monitor, enhanced from the 2.5-inch screen on the Digital Rebel XTi model. The larger 230,000 pixel screen makes it easier for users to review images and scroll through the Rebel XSi camera's menus. The larger-sized display provides the ability to use a larger font size for menu text, making it easier than ever to read settings and options. The new screen also features a broadened color gamut, seven brightness settings for easy viewing under a variety of shooting conditions and a wide viewing perspective in all directions.

The EOS Rebel XSi camera features a substantial yet streamlined profile, with curved edges, contoured surfaces, conveniently placed controls and comfortably constructed rubber grip and thumb rest that all contribute to fatigue-reducing hand fit. The camera body is constructed of a rugged yet lightweight combination of stainless steel and polycarbonate embedded with glass fiber. The chassis exterior is enrobed in a durable ABS and Polycarbonate resin and offered in a choice of silver or black finishes.

Improved Image Quality
At the heart of the new EOS Rebel XSi is its newly designed 12.2 megapixel APS-C size Canon CMOS sensor. This new sensor employs large microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and enhance sensitivity up to ISO 1600, which is ideal for high-quality images in low light. The APS-C size sensor retains a 1.6x focal length conversion factor compared to full-frame digital image sensors or 35mm film format cameras.

Another image quality enhancement is the upgrade of the Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion process to a 14-bit A/D processor. The inclusion of the 14-bit A/D process means the Rebel XSi camera records up to 16,384 colors per channel and allows the camera to produce images with finer and more accurate gradations of tones and colors. This is ideal for shooting outdoors where subtle hue changes in sky, water or foliage can really add to an image.

The Canon EOS Rebel XSi DSLR also incorporates the optional Highlight Tone Priority and High-ISO Noise Reduction functions first introduced in 2007 with the EOS-1D Mark III Professional Digital SLR and now available for the first time in an entry level Canon digital SLR camera. Additionally, the new camera is equipped with Canon's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology, which corrects image brightness and contrast automatically. Introduced last year in the EOS 40D camera, this valuable optional feature now works in all exposure modes and utilizes Face Detection technology to prevent underexposure with backlit faces.

DIGIC III Image Processor
If the 12.2-megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor is the heart of the camera, then Canon's DIGIC III processor is the brain. The latest generation of Canon's proprietary image processing engine, DIGIC III technology ensures that the fine details and natural colors of the images are optimally recorded. The DIGIC III processor also manages the camera's efficient energy consumption and high-speed signal processing performance. The EOS Rebel XSi is the first model in the Rebel series to incorporate DIGIC III.

Enhanced Live View
Introduced in 2007 on the EOS-1D Mark III DSLR, this function makes its debut in an entry level Canon DSLR with the EOS Rebel XSi camera. Live View allows users to frame shots through the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Going beyond the manual focus and phase-detection AF capabilities of earlier EOS models with Live View, the EOS Rebel XSi camera adds a new "Live Mode" contrast-detection AF function that allows the camera to focus automatically during Live View without lowering the reflex mirror.

Improved Autofocus and Framing Rate
The EOS Rebel XSi Digital SLR utilizes a precise nine-point Autofocus (AF) system featuring a newly developed AF sensor that improves the camera's subject detection capabilities compared to earlier models. The new Rebel XSi DSLR provides a cross-type AF measurement at the center that's effective with all EF and EF-S lenses, while providing enhanced precision with lenses having maximum apertures of f/2.8 or faster. The cross-type AF measurement reads a wider variety of subject matter than conventional single-axis AF sensors and thus increases the new camera's ability to autofocus quickly and accurately. The EOS Rebel XSi is also the fastest firing Rebel model to date, capable of continuously capturing 3.5 frames per second for bursts of up to 45 images in large/fine JPEG mode and 6 frames in RAW mode. The faster frame rates and finer focusing capabilities of the Rebel XSi together with its impressive image burst rate will help photo enthusiasts preserve family milestones or capture split second sports action at just the right moment.

EOS Integrated Cleaning System
The new Rebel XSi DSLR utilizes Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning system, first introduced on the EOS Rebel XTi camera. The camera's Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit shakes dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor. The dust is then trapped by an adhesive along the base, preventing it from causing further nuisance. Cleaning is engaged each time the camera is powered up or shut down or manually through the "clean now" function.

The second part of the cleaning system involves post processing with a compatible personal computer and the supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Here the camera maps any spots that may remain on the sensor, saving it as Dust Delete Data and subsequently subtracting dust spots from the final image during post processing. A third option includes a manual sensor cleaning function which raises the mirror and allows users to clean dust that may have stuck to the low-pass filter.

Back to the Basics
In keeping with its EOS system heritage, the new Canon EOS Rebel XSi camera is equipped with a host of useful creative controls, including shutter speeds ranging from 1/4000 sec. to 30 sec. plus Bulb, a choice of four metering patterns including 4% spot metering (another first for the Rebel series), a wide range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual, depth of field preview, mirror lock and much more. The new camera is fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses, as well as EX-series Speedlites, an optional Battery Grip, and remote control and viewfinder accessories.

A departure from previous EOS Digital Rebel models, which accommodated CF type memory cards, the new EOS Rebel XSi camera utilizes SD and SDHC memory cards including those with capacities higher than 2GB, making it the perfect upgrade for users already equipped with SD cards from point-and-shoot model cameras. Additionally, the EOS Rebel XSi camera utilizes Canon's new high-capacity LP-E5 lithium ion battery pack, which provides 50% more exposures per charge than earlier models with virtually no increase in size or weight.

In the Box
Expected to ship in April 2008 the Canon Rebel XSi camera is available in body-only configuration which includes 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 will also be available in a lens kit version which includes everything in the body-only kit plus the EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. The two versions carry estimated retail prices of $799.99 and $899.99, respectively.

EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Image Stabilizer Lens
First introduced in August of 2007, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens is Canon's answer to consumer demand for a high-quality yet affordable optically image stabilized lens and is included as the standard lens in the Rebel XSi kit configuration. The lens features the wide-angle to mid-range zoom flexibility of its non-IS predecessor with the significant advantage of Canon's true optical, lens-shift image stabilization system that yields up to a full four stops of image-shake correction. The EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-55.6 IS zoom lens sells separately for $199.99*, but when customers purchase the lens kit version of the Rebel XSi the difference in price is only $100* from the price of the body-only kit. Canon is offering the lens kit at this discount so that more customers can enjoy the benefit of a lens based image stabilizer system.

The higher performance provided by Canon's lens shift IS system (compared with the in-camera body sensor shift type offered in some competitive SLRs) includes the ability to optimize the lens performance for specific shooting situations such as low light, long-zoom or movement while shooting (or virtually any combination of the three). What's more, the photographer can see the optical image stabilization effect in the viewfinder. As the image already appears steady in the viewfinder or on the screen through the Rebel XSi Live View function, better framing and composition is possible allowing the photographer to concentrate on the best shot more comfortably.

EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS Lens
Like the standard kit lens, the optional EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS offers users of Canon EOS Digital SLRs with APS-C type CMOS sensors an affordable, lightweight, high-performance lens with tremendous range and flexibility. Given the 1.6x conversion factor inherent in the APS-C sized sensor, the high zoom ratio of this EF-S 55-250mm lens actually achieves the equivalent focal length of 88-400mm (in 35mm format).

Canon's true optical, lens shift image stabilizer offers users an equivalent shutter speed that is approximately 4 settings faster, making hand-held lower light or long zoom photos easier to capture without blurring. What's more, the lens can automatically distinguish between normal shooting and panning shots and select the optimum Image Stabilizer mode for each.

In stores now, both the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS and the EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS zoom lenses are manufactured by Canon specifically for the EOS Rebel XSi , EOS 40D and every other EOS SLR that takes EF-S lenses including earlier Digital Rebel cameras and the EOS 20D, EOS 20Da, and EOS 30D models. Though standard in the EOS Rebel XSi 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. The optional EF-S55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS lens is available at an estimated retail price of $299.99.

Source
Akihabaranews

NIKON D300

Nikon D300: A new 12.3-megapixel DX-Format CMOS Sensor combined with Nikon's exclusive digital image processing system advances DX-format image quality to all new levels



The 3.0-inch super density 920,000-dot VGA color monitor with 170-degree wide-angle viewing and tempered-glass protection makes critical image review possible
Continuous shooting up to 6 frames per second, and up to 8 frames per second* with the new optional MB-D10 Multi-power Battery Pack, makes the D300 a powerful performer for a wide variety of shooting disciplines
* When using the EH-5a AC Adaptor or the MB-10 Multi-Power Battery Pack with batteries other than Rechargeable Li-on En El3e
Fast, accurate 51-point autofocus with 3D Focus Tracking and three Dynamic AF modes deliver exacting autofocus precision at blazing speeds
Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System (SRS), with an improved 1,005-Pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II, provides even more intelligent auto exposure capabilities, along with smarter auto white balance detection and faster, more accurate AF performance
Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System with self-cleaning ultrasonic sensor unit minimizes degradation of image quality due to dust particles
Two LiveView shooting modes, Hand-held or Tripod is perfect when shooting in a studio, remote situations or from challenging angles
New Picture Control settings give photographers dramatically advanced color control with 4 preset options: Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome, as well as 9 customizable settings
Rugged magnesium-alloy construction, advanced dust and moisture protection and a durable shutter mechanism tested to 150,000 cycles make the D300 a perfect choice for photographers who demand high performance and handling agility

Source
GeekStuff4U.com