Archive for the ‘Canon’ Category

Best selling DSLRs chart

Monday, May 19th, 2008

Each month the NPD Group ranks America’s top-selling digital cameras based on unit sales.

Here are the top-selling digital SLRs for March 2008.

1) Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi

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Canon’s EOS 400D Digital Rebel XTi has been loaded up with power and features taken from its EOS 30D and 5D cameras. The XTi ($659, estimated street, body only; $719 with 18 - 55mm f/3.5 - 5.6 II EF-S lens) most notably captures 10.1-megapixel images — leapfrogging it ahead of the higher-priced 8MP Canon 30D and putting it squarely in competition with the Sony Alpha 100 and the Nikon D80. The Rebel XTi also gains a dust-reduction system that uses both hardware and software suppression of dust — a first for Canon DSLRs. The camera’s LCD doubles as an oversize alphanumeric status panel, showing key shooting data such as shutter speed, f-stop, ISO, and the number of shots remaining. This highly readable white-on-black display stays on except for when you’re looking through the viewfinder, turning off if an eypiece sensor detects your face — then back on again when you lower the camera. Another new XTi feature (one it shares with Canon’s top-pf-the-line professional DSLR, the EOS-1D Mark III) is its Self Cleaning Sensor Unit, which uses an ultrasonic micromotor to shake image-marring dust off the low-pass filter that protects the sensor. The XTi’s most outstanding feature, in our view, is its autofocus system. Inherited from its bigger brother, the Canon EOS 30D, this nine-point, wide-area AF array tracks focus tenaciously, making the XTi the best choice in its class for shooting sports, or anything else that’s moving fast.

2) Nikon D40

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The obvious shortcomings of compact cameras and the shrinking prices of entry-level digital SLRs have spurred a huge growth in the DSLR market. Nikon hopes to continue that trend with the 6.1MP D40 ($560, street, with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens). The D40’s features and overall performance clearly raise the bar on the “entry-level” DSLR class. But will first-time DSLR owners be satisfied with the D40’s overall performance compared with its competitors or similarly priced advanced compacts such as the 10MP Canon PowerShot G7 ($500, street, with built-in 6X optical zoom)? And does it have what it takes to attract 35mm holdouts or current DSLR owners looking for a better camera? Yes and no. First-time DSLR shoppers can’t argue with the price of this camera — priced even lower than the Nikon D50 it replaces, and highly competitive with the 6.1MP Pentax K100D ($590, street, with 18-55mm lens), the older 8.0MP Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT ($600, street, with 18-55mm EF-S lens), and the 8MP Olympus Evolt E-500 ($580, street, with 14-55mm Zuiko lens). But current digital SLR owners who would like to upgrade their equipment will certainly be happier with a newer 10-megapixel DSLR (for some examples, see “10MP Shootout,” February 2007), even though they cost a few hundred dollars more. And Nikon 35mm SLR owners who have a bag full of Nikkor lenses and are ready to cross over to digital might ignore the D40, due to its lack of autofocus support for their older lenses. (Only relatively new Nikkor AF-S or lenses, and compatible third-party lenses whose AF motor is located in the lens, work with the D40’s autofocus system.) Also comapare to the 10-megapixel Nikon D40x.

3) Canon Digital Rebel XT

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At the bottom of Canon’s digital SLR lineup, this very compact model offers excellent image quality for its class. Its fairly advanced exposure and metering controls rival those on the higher-end EOS 20D and 30D, although its performance at ISO settings higher than 200 isn’t nearly as strong. It also lacks the spot meter that the 30D provides to supplement Canon’s 9-percent Partial metering mode. While its autofocus system isn’t as fast or sensitive as the more expensive cameras’, it’s still quick, accurate, and capable of focusing even at EV -0.5 at ISO 100. Like the 20D and 30D, the XT has an APS-size CMOS sensor with a 1.6X lens-conversion factor, and it’s compatible with Canon’s less expensive EF-S lenses as well as the full line of EF lenses, EX-series Speedlites, and Canon’s E-TTL II flash system. The XT’s burst capability of up to 50 fine-quality JPEG images at 3.5 fps is impressive for the price. However, this camera has a shorter list of features and fine-tuning tools than many other cameras in its price range. The XT doesn’t capture TIFFs, but you can process its RAW images with the included Digital Photo Professional 2.1 software.

4) Nikon D300

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The Nikon D300, Pop Photo’s 2007 Camera of the Year, features a 12.3-megapixel self-cleaning DX-format CMOS sensor and high-resolution (920,000-dot, or 307,000 pixel) 3-inch LCD with a 170-degree viewing angle. The camera takes F-mount lenses, and provides selectable 14-bit RAW image capture. The D300’s optical viewfinder provides a nearly 100 percent view of the image frame and 0.94x magnification. The camera’s CompactFlash slot supports the UDMA standard for fast write speeds. The D300 body also incorporates an HDMI port for outputting images to a high-definition screen.

The D300’s exposure controls include a native 200-3200 ISO range that can be expanded with a Lo-1 ISO 100 setting or a Hi-1 ISO 6400. In the lab, the D300 scored Excellent in the image quality category from ISO 200-3200, making it the first DSLR to earn that rating for the entire ISO 200-3200 range. Color accuracy scored Excellent for ISO 200-1600, resolution scored Excellent up to ISO 6400, and noise levels were Extremely Low at ISO 200 and only Moderate at ISO 6400. The camera also provides a new implementation of Nikon’s D-Lighting technology, making it available in shooting mode instead of simply as an image-correction tool. Active D-Lighting applies localized tonal changes to open up dark shadows while retaining highlight detail, and can be used at low, medium, and high settings.

The D300 supports Nikon’s iTTL external flash system and includes a built-in flash. Nikon claims the D300’s shutter lag clocks in at 45 milliseconds and its startup time at 0.13 second, thanks to the camera’s EXPEED image processor. Its drive mode speed is rated at 6 frames per second for a series of 100 JPEGs or 8 fps with Nikon’s Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10 attached. The D300’s 51-point autofocus system uses a new MultiCAM 3500 DX sensor, offering selectable 9-, 21-, and 51-point group dynamic autofocus. Its 15 cross-type sensors remain active with all Nikkor lenses. The camera employs face-detection technology and Nikon’s new Scene Recognition System to distinguish between subjects and backgrounds and detect movement, improving both autofocus performance and automatic exposure and white balance settings. The D300 (body only), which also includes Nikon Capture NX RAW conversion software, is available with a MSRP of $1799.95.

5) Nikon D60

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The 10.2-megapixel Nikon D60 is an improved version of Nikon’s D40x camera. It retains the same body; viewfinder; battery, and 230,000-dot, 2.5-inch LCD with a wide 170-degree viewing angle. However, the D60 LCD and viewfinder have been upgraded with a sensor system that automatically rotates the LCD’s status display when the camera is turned and switches it off when the camera is brought up to the photographer’s eye. The D60 also has a new system for keeping dust off the sensor. It vibrates the low-pass filter that covers the CCD, in a similar manner to the system in the higher-end D300 SLR, and has an airflow control system that keeps more dust from getting near the sensor in the first place. The D60 uses the same image processing engine as the D40x, but Nikon has dubbed it “Expeed” in the new camera.

Among the notable functions that the D60 shares with the D40x are a 3fps drive mode, eight Digital-Vari Program scene modes, 3D Color Matrix Metering II, three-area autofocus, and support for Nikon’s wireless flash control system. New features in the D60 include more powerful in-camera RAW-to-JPEG conversion that allows the photographer to adjust numerous image parameters before saving the file; Nikon’s Active D-lighting feature, which opens up dark shadows while preserving highlight detail as a shot is taken; and a focus indicator that can be displayed in the viewfinder instead of the exposure meter to aid manual focus. The D60 also outdoes the D40x by capturing stop-motion movies, with selectable frame rates and sizes. Movies can be previewed on the LCD and adjusted before being saved as an AVI video file. Other additions include a digital cross filter for adding star effects to specular highlights, an RGB intensifier that lets the photographer increase the saturation of each color channel separately, and redeye correction. The D60 will be available in February 2008 in a kit with the AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G lens. Pricing for the D60 with 18-55mm VR lens kit will be $749.95

Canon PowerShot SD770 IS

Friday, May 16th, 2008

Canon PowerShot SD770 IS Digital Elph digital camera : Whether capturing spur-of-the moment inspirations or momentous family occasions, Canon USA’s newest PowerShot SD770 IS Digital ELPH camera continues to provide intelligent, easy-to-use features, resulting in fantastic photos. Integrated Canon technologies such as Motion Detection Technology, Optical Image Stabilization, Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology, and Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor, along with the inherent style of the ELPH line; makes the PowerShot SD770IS the ideal accessory for capturing a night out on the town or an intimate social gathering. The Canon PowerShot SD770 IS kit carries an estimated retail price of $299.99.

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Trend setting digital camera
“The Canon SD770 IS Digital ELPH camera carries on the trend-setting traditions and extends the boundaries of technological ease and the individual sense of style that has always been at the heart of the ELPH line up,” states Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA. “Canon continues to draw upon its 70 years of imaging excellence and photographic expertise to develop new technological advancements, as well as create stylish form factors as seen in the iconic box and circle design of ELPH cameras.”

Camera design of the Canon PowerShot SD770 IS
The Canon PowerShot SD770 IS Digital ELPH camera’s classic box and circle design has characterized the Digital ELPH look for more than a decade. This 10-megapixel model boasts the thinnest body of any optically image stabilized ELPH model ever produced, featuring a slimmer yet higher capacity battery pack, that with the camera’s power-saving improvements, actually increases the number of photos that can be taken on a single charge to approx. 300 images.

Canon PowerShot SD770IS Digital Elph Features
Among the key features of the Canon PowerShot SD770 IS Digital ELPH camera are a 2.5-inch PureColor LCD II screen and an optical viewfinder as well as the same optically image stabilized 3x zoom as its more senior sibling, the PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH. The Canon PowerShot SD770IS camera is offered in the classic matte silver finish with high gloss highlights around the lens barrel and topside edge, and the reprise of Canon’s sleek and striking two-tone finish that incorporates matte black highlights around the lens barrel and circle along the camera edge.

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Canon Optical Image Stabilizer
Among the significant technological advances on the new PowerShot SD770 IS camera is Canon’s intelligent anti-blur system. Developed by linking four of Canon’s most cutting-edge achievements: Optical Image Stabilization, Motion Detection technology, Hi-ISO Auto and Noise Reduction technology, the result is consistently sharp and clear pictures, even when the shooting conditions and circumstances may not be ideal. The most common cause of blurry pictures is actual camera shake. This can be caused by anything from a photographer’s unsteady hands to movement in a car along a bumpy road to shots where the zoom lens is extended to a maximum telephoto length or even dimly lit conditions without benefit of flash that causes the shutter to stay open longer in order to admit enough light to make a proper exposure. Canon’s proprietary Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) physically compensates for camera movement and shake by actually shifting the lens (unlike other Image Stabilization systems that merely mask the undesirable movement electronically).

Canon Motion Detection Technology
Adding to the ELPH camera anti-blur effectiveness, Canon’s Motion Detection Technology is linked to the camera’s High ISO Auto mode. This improves image clarity by raising ISO speeds (and shutter speeds) for fast-moving subjects (such as a child hitting a baseball from home plate and then running towards first base) or lowering ISO speeds to reduce noise when the subject is stationary. In short, when this impressively intuitive technology detects movement it automatically raises the ISO just enough to reduce image blur. When no movement is detected, it optimally lowers the ISO to reduce noise.

Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology
The Canon PowerShot SD770IS Digital ELPH camera features the latest and most advanced generation of Genuine Canon 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 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. There’s also a new optional “AF Point Zoom” feature that digitally enlarges the face of the main subject on the camera’s LCD screen to make it easy to determine the optimum timing for clicking the shutter to capture the moment.

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Canon In-Camera Image Enhancement
Canon Digital ELPH cameras offer an array of in-camera processing features that once required tweaking with computer-based photo software. Now, newly developed Automatic Red Eye Correction can be engaged while shooting, minimizing the need for correction before printing or sharing images. With Canon’s Image Inspection Tool, users can review pictures recently taken on the camera’s bright, brilliant and easy-to-read 230,000-pixel PureColor LCD II display by zooming in to ensure that the subjects are in focus and to check for such picture-damning details as closed eyes or inappropriate expressions. What’s more, with the Trimming Function, users can easily crop images, centering and creating memorable close-ups whether they are smiling faces or iconic cityscapes.

Canon DIGIC III Imaging Processor
The “brain” in the new PowerShot SD770 IS digital camera is Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor. This exclusive chip is responsible for higher performance levels including faster start up, faster autofocus and quicker shutter response times that leave long lag competitors far behind. What’s more, the DIGIC III processor improves both the image quality and the cameras’ power consumption, extending the battery life under typical shooting conditions.

Canon SD770 IS Digital Elph - Price & Availability
The Canon PowerShot SD770 IS Digital ELPH camera is scheduled to be in stores mid-April. The camera kit includes 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. The Canon PowerShot SD770 IS kit carries an estimated retail price of $299.99.

Canon PowerShot SD890 IS

Friday, May 16th, 2008

Canon PowerShot SD890 IS Digital Elph digital camera : Whether capturing spur-of-the moment inspirations or momentous family occasions, Canon USA’s newest PowerShot SD890 IS Digital ELPH camera continues to provide intelligent, easy-to-use features, resulting in fantastic photos. Integrated Canon technologies such as Motion Detection Technology, Optical Image Stabilization, Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology, and Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor, along with the inherent style of the ELPH line; makes the PowerShot SD890IS the ideal accessory for capturing a night out on the town or an intimate social gathering. The Canon PowerShot SD890 IS kit carries an estimated retail price of $399.99.canon-sd890.jpg

Trend setting digital camera
“The Canon PowerShot SD890 IS Digital ELPH camera carries on the trend-setting traditions and extends the boundaries of technological ease and the individual sense of style that has always been at the heart of the ELPH line up,” states Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA. “Canon continues to draw upon its 70 years of imaging excellence and photographic expertise to develop new technological advancements, as well as create stylish form factors as seen in the iconic box and circle design of ELPH cameras.”

Canon PowerShot SD890IS - 5x Optical zoom lens
This PowerShot SD890 IS Digital ELPH camera is a prime example of Canon quality, from the tip of its 5x optically image stabilized, zoom lens to the big and brilliant 2.5 inch PureColor II LCD display embedded in the camera’s contoured back. Indeed, it is that very 5x zoom lens that expands the user flexibility by expanding the focusing range from a maximum wide-angle equivalent of a 37mm lens to its maximum optical telephoto equivalent of a 185mm lens. Ideal for capturing everything from broad sweeping vistas to intimate close-ups, the Canon PowerShot SD890 IS is also capable of securing macro images from less than an inch away from the subject, making extraordinary, high-resolution nature shots as elementary as point and shoot.

10 Megapixel Canon PowerShot SD890 IS camera
From the moment it appears in a user’s hand, it is clear that this Digital ELPH camera is like none that have come before. From the body’s clean lines and smooth, matte silver finish to the topside metallic robe that highlights and accentuates the camera’s curves, the 10-megapixel Canon SD890 IS Digital ELPH camera’s alluring proposition is one of beauty, versatility and ability.

Canon PureColor II LCD display
This camera’s multi-control dial enables the user to simply switch between shooting modes, settings and even images during playback, with easily understandable mode icons displayed on the camera’s 2.5-inch PureColor II LCD display. There’s even a traditional optical viewfinder for the purists who prefer it.

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Canon Optical Image Stabilizer
Among the significant technological advances on the new PowerShot SD890 IS camera is Canon’s intelligent anti-blur system. Developed by linking four of Canon’s most cutting-edge achievements: Optical Image Stabilization, Motion Detection technology, Hi-ISO Auto and Noise Reduction technology, the result is consistently sharp and clear pictures, even when the shooting conditions and circumstances may not be ideal. The most common cause of blurry pictures is actual camera shake. This can be caused by anything from a photographer’s unsteady hands to movement in a car along a bumpy road to shots where the zoom lens is extended to a maximum telephoto length or even dimly lit conditions without benefit of flash that causes the shutter to stay open longer in order to admit enough light to make a proper exposure. Canon’s proprietary Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) physically compensates for camera movement and shake by actually shifting the lens (unlike other Image Stabilization systems that merely mask the undesirable movement electronically).

Canon Motion Detection Technology
Adding to the ELPH camera anti-blur effectiveness, Canon’s Motion Detection Technology is linked to the camera’s High ISO Auto mode. This improves image clarity by raising ISO speeds (and shutter speeds) for fast-moving subjects (such as a child hitting a baseball from home plate and then running towards first base) or lowering ISO speeds to reduce noise when the subject is stationary. In short, when this impressively intuitive technology detects movement it automatically raises the ISO just enough to reduce image blur. When no movement is detected, it optimally lowers the ISO to reduce noise.

Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology
The Canon PowerShot SD890IS Digital ELPH camera features the latest and most advanced generation of Genuine Canon 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 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. There’s also a new optional “AF Point Zoom” feature that digitally enlarges the face of the main subject on the camera’s LCD screen to make it easy to determine the optimum timing for clicking the shutter to capture the moment.

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Canon In-Camera Image Enhancement
Canon Digital ELPH cameras offer an array of in-camera processing features that once required tweaking with computer-based photo software. Now, newly developed Automatic Red Eye Correction can be engaged while shooting, minimizing the need for correction before printing or sharing images. With Canon’s Image Inspection Tool, users can review pictures recently taken on the camera’s bright, brilliant and easy-to-read 230,000-pixel PureColor LCD II display by zooming in to ensure that the subjects are in focus and to check for such picture-damning details as closed eyes or inappropriate expressions. What’s more, with the Trimming Function, users can easily crop images, centering and creating memorable close-ups whether they are smiling faces or iconic cityscapes.

Canon DIGIC III Imaging Processor
The “brain” in the new PowerShot SD890 IS digital camera is Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor. This exclusive chip is responsible for higher performance levels including faster start up, faster autofocus and quicker shutter response times that leave long lag competitors far behind. What’s more, the DIGIC III processor improves both the image quality and the cameras’ power consumption, extending the battery life under typical shooting conditions.

Canon SD890 IS Digital Elph - Price & Availability
The Canon PowerShot SD890 IS Digital ELPH camera is scheduled to be in stores early April. The camera kit includes 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. The Canon PowerShot SD890 IS kit carries an estimated retail price of $399.99.

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS

Thursday, April 3rd, 2008

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS digital camera : Canon launches the new flagship model of its Digital IXUS range, the Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS. Sporting a stylish new curvature design sculpted in pure titanium, the Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS features a range-leading 12.1 Megapixel sensor. A new 3.7x optical Image Stabilizer zoom is complemented by Auto ISO Shift and high ISO 1600, offering Canon’s total anti-blur solution. With a DIGIC III image processor powering Canon’s Face Detection AF/AE/FE and improved Red-Eye Correction, the Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS comes fully equipped for superb people shots. Extensive movie options include XGA recording, Time Lapse Movie and Long Play modes.

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Canon IXUS 960 IS digital camera
“With the Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS Canon sets new aesthetic and technical standards for digital compact cameras,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “Its supreme titanium build quality and elegant design are complemented by powerful, innovative features that deliver premium-quality imaging. This is a camera that will appeal to consumers who demand the best.”

Canon IXUS 960 IS - Camera features
• Titanium body with Touch Control Dial
• 12.1 Megapixels (1/1.7” CCD)
• 3.7x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
• ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift
• DIGIC III with Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Red-Eye Correction in playback
• 2.5” high resolution PureColor LCD with wide viewing angle, plus optical viewfinder
• 18 shooting modes including ISO 3200 scene mode and My Colors photo effects
• Extensive movie options including high resolution XGA, Long Play and Time Lapse modes
• Safety Zoom and Digital Tele-Converter for extra telephoto reach
• PictBridge and Print/Share compatible

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS - Titanium IXUS design
The Canon IXUS 960 IS takes Canon’s unique Perpetual Curve design and renders it in a high quality, pure titanium shell, creating a more tactile and ergonomic photography experience. Used extensively in technologically advanced industries such as aerospace and medicine, titanium is stronger than steel but significantly lighter. Its strength and anti corrosion properties combine with the camera’s high build quality to offer durability without compromising size or weight. A
Touch Control Dial offers fingertip access to all the camera’s key functions.

Canon IXUS 960 IS - Exceptional image quality
The Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS features a new range-leading 12.1 Megapixels of resolution, allowing users to create poster-size prints or crop sections of photos without loss of detail. Imaging power is furthered by an ultra-compact 3.7x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer (IS), which incorporates Canon’s aspherical lens technology (UA) for maximum sharpness and clarity. Users can take zooming further with Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom - features which combine the benefits of digital zoom with a reduced risk of image quality deterioration. Captured images can be viewed on the high-resolution 2.5’’ PureColor LCD, with increased colour reproduction and a wide viewing angle for easy sharing with friends. For situations with difficult lighting or where added stability is needed, the Canon 960 IS features a real-image optical viewfinder. To provide a closer look at images, Canon’s improved Image Inspection Tool is also included. For the first time, this can be used in playback mode as well as shooting. The function incorporates Face Detection Technology for automatic close-up inspection of faces in shots.

Canon IXUS 960IS - Total anti-blur solution
The Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS includes a range of ISO features that combine with the camera’s optical IS to virtually eliminate the risk of image blur. Both optical IS and Auto ISO Shift deal with the blur caused by camera shake. When selected by the user, Auto ISO Shift boosts the ISO setting just enough to reduce the effects of unintended camera movement. Two further features - manually selected high ISO settings up to ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto - combat the blur caused by typical subject movement, as well as camera shake when poor light would normally require a longer exposure.

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS - DIGIC III image processor
At the heart of the Canon IXUS 960 IS is Canon’s DIGIC III image processor. As well as ensuring fast performance, superior colour reproduction and white balance, DIGIC III powers a range of features to improve the photographer’s success rate. Canon’s Face Detection AF/AE/FE locates up to 9 faces in any scene before automatically adjusting focus, exposure and flash for optimum results. The undesirable effects of flash are quickly removed with improved Red-Eye Correction during playback. This innovative system uses Face Detection Technology to automatically identify and correct red-eye - while ensuring that no other elements of the picture are accidentally altered in the process. Users also have the option of manually adding or removing Red-Eye Correction frames. Advanced Noise Reduction Technology, powered by DIGIC III, safeguards images against graininess when shooting at high ISO speeds while maintaining image detail.

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS - Shooting modes
The Canon IXUS 960 IS incorporates 18 different shooting modes for stills and movies. Amongst these are several presets for tricky shooting environments - such as snow and beaches - and an ISO 3200 mode for producing flash-free shots at 1600×1200 resolution in low light. My Colors can be used to apply effects and enhancements in both shooting and playback mode. In addition, with Canon’s new Image Resize function users can downsize full-resolution images to 1600×1200, 640×480 and 320×240 sizes - perfect for instant uploads to blogs or auction sites.
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Canon IXUS 960 IS digital camera - Movie capture
With the Canon IXUS 960 IS, users can capture movies with sound at an extra large XGA (1024×768 pixels) resolution at 15fps - the highest movie resolution in the Canon Digital IXUS range. Alternatively, VGA and QVGA quality movies can be shot at a smooth 30fps. Canon’s innovative Time Lapse Movie function enables users to capture changing scenes for accelerated playback as smooth VGA-quality movie clips. And for occasions when longer movies are required and storage space is limited, a new LP (Long Play) mode offers VGA movie capture at 30fps - producing movies at half the file size with no loss in resolution or frame rate.

Canon 960 IS digital camera - Ultimate ease of use
The Canon IXUS 960 IS benefits from several enhancements aimed at creating a more straightforward shooting experience for all users. These include an image range selection feature, which allows users to easily select several images for printing, protecting, categorising or erasing; the addition of a 3 level battery indicator; and a small size AF frame option for more precise focusing on slim, distant or macro subjects.

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS - PictBridge printing
The Canon 960 IS 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. A Print/Share button allows one-touch printing and easy uploads to Windows or Mac systems.

Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS - Language
The Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS user interface supports 25 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 and Ukrainian.

Canon IXUS 960 IS - Memory Card Support
In addition to SD, SDHC and MMC memory cards, the Canon IXUS 960 IS supports the new MMCplus and HC MMCplus card - a format for high-volume shooting that allows capacities up to 32GB. It comes supplied with a 32MB memory card.

Canon IXUS 960 IS camera - Software
The Canon Digital IXUS 960 IS comes bundled with the following Canon Software:
• ZoomBrowser EX 6.0 (Windows), ImageBrowser 6.0 (Macintosh): For organising and editing images, movies and slideshows, or creating and printing digital photo albums.
• PhotoStitch 3.1 (Windows) and 3.2 (Mac): For creating panoramic photos from multiple images.

Canon IXUS 960IS - System requirements
The bundled software supports Windows 2000 (SP4) XP (SP2) and Vista and Macintosh OS X v10.3-v10.4. The camera supports 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 camera are eligible for membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY, 100MB of online ‘personal gallery’ space for sharing stills and video with family and friends.

Canon 960 IS digital camera - Optional Accessories
An optional Waterproof Case (WP-DC19) allows users to bring the Digital IXUS 960 IS to a depth of up to 40 metres for compelling underwater shots. Specially designed Weights (WW-DC1) are available to control camera buoyancy. Other accessories include:
• High Power Flash (HF-DC1)
• Soft Leather Case (DCC-70)
• Digital IXUS Metal and Leather Neck Straps
• Compact AC Power Adapter (ACK-DC30)

Canon PowerShot SD790 IS

Monday, March 17th, 2008

Canon PowerShot SD790 IS Digital Elph digital camera : Whether capturing spur-of-the moment inspirations or momentous family occasions, Canon USA’s newest PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH camera continues to provide intelligent, easy-to-use features, resulting in fantastic photos. Integrated Canon technologies such as Motion Detection Technology, Optical Image Stabilization, Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology, and Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor, along with the inherent style of the ELPH line; makes the PowerShot SD790IS the ideal accessory for capturing a night out on the town or an intimate social gathering. The Canon PowerShot SD790 IS kit carries an estimated retail price of $349.99.

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Trend setting digital camera
“The Canon SD790 IS Digital ELPH camera carries on the trend-setting traditions and extends the boundaries of technological ease and the individual sense of style that has always been at the heart of the ELPH line up,” states Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA. “Canon continues to draw upon its 70 years of imaging excellence and photographic expertise to develop new technological advancements, as well as create stylish form factors as seen in the iconic box and circle design of ELPH cameras.”

10 Megapixel Canon SD790 IS camera
The 10-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH camera’s optically image stabilized 3x zoom has a focusing range from a wide-angle equivalent of 35mm to a maximum telephoto equivalent of 105mm. Furthermore, the Canon PowerShot SD790 IS camera features a quick and easy-to-use multi-control dial.

Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Design
Though smaller than a deck of playing cards, the Canon PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH camera conveys a cool, substantial look and feel, thanks to its solid, yet streamlined, chiseled design. Adding to its appeal is the camera’s large and highly visible, three-inch PureColor LCD II display, with an adjacent multi-control dial and new button configuration that combine to form a flat control panel.

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Canon Optical Image Stabilizer
Among the significant technological advances on the new PowerShot SD790 IS camera is Canon’s intelligent anti-blur system. Developed by linking four of Canon’s most cutting-edge achievements: Optical Image Stabilization, Motion Detection technology, Hi-ISO Auto and Noise Reduction technology, the result is consistently sharp and clear pictures, even when the shooting conditions and circumstances may not be ideal. The most common cause of blurry pictures is actual camera shake. This can be caused by anything from a photographer’s unsteady hands to movement in a car along a bumpy road to shots where the zoom lens is extended to a maximum telephoto length or even dimly lit conditions without benefit of flash that causes the shutter to stay open longer in order to admit enough light to make a proper exposure. Canon’s proprietary Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) physically compensates for camera movement and shake by actually shifting the lens (unlike other Image Stabilization systems that merely mask the undesirable movement electronically).

Canon Motion Detection Technology
Adding to the ELPH camera anti-blur effectiveness, Canon’s Motion Detection Technology is linked to the camera’s High ISO Auto mode. This improves image clarity by raising ISO speeds (and shutter speeds) for fast-moving subjects (such as a child hitting a baseball from home plate and then running towards first base) or lowering ISO speeds to reduce noise when the subject is stationary. In short, when this impressively intuitive technology detects movement it automatically raises the ISO just enough to reduce image blur. When no movement is detected, it optimally lowers the ISO to reduce noise.

Genuine Canon Face Detection Technology
The Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH camera features the latest and most advanced generation of Genuine Canon 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 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. There’s also a new optional “AF Point Zoom” feature that digitally enlarges the face of the main subject on the camera’s LCD screen to make it easy to determine the optimum timing for clicking the shutter to capture the moment.

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Canon In-Camera Image Enhancement
Canon Digital ELPH cameras offer an array of in-camera processing features that once required tweaking with computer-based photo software. Now, newly developed Automatic Red Eye Correction can be engaged while shooting, minimizing the need for correction before printing or sharing images. With Canon’s Image Inspection Tool, users can review pictures recently taken on the camera’s bright, brilliant and easy-to-read 230,000-pixel PureColor LCD II display by zooming in to ensure that the subjects are in focus and to check for such picture-damning details as closed eyes or inappropriate expressions. What’s more, with the Trimming Function, users can easily crop images, centering and creating memorable close-ups whether they are smiling faces or iconic cityscapes.

Canon DIGIC III Imaging Processor
The “brain” in the new PowerShot SD790 IS digital camera is Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor. This exclusive chip is responsible for higher performance levels including faster start up, faster autofocus and quicker shutter response times that leave long lag competitors far behind. What’s more, the DIGIC III processor improves both the image quality and the cameras’ power consumption, extending the battery life under typical shooting conditions.

Canon SD790 IS Digital Elph - Price & Availability
The Canon PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH camera is scheduled to be in stores end of March. The camera kit includes 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. The Canon PowerShot SD790 IS kit carries an estimated retail price of $349.99.

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III

Saturday, March 15th, 2008

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Canon’s top-of-the-line professional digital SLR, this model captures an exceptional level of detail with a full-frame sensor, exceeding even ISO 100 film in resolution and color accuracy. It also employs one of the fastest autofocus systems we’ve ever tested and provides extremely good metering and exposure tools, including multispot and AF-linked spot metering. Its large, gasket-sealed metal body is as rugged as they come and incorporates a vertical grip and dual media slots that you can record to simultaneously. Although its 2-inch LCD isn’t as large as the 2.5-inch screens that Canon has started to put on SLRs recently, its viewfinder is among the best we’ve seen and is compatible with nine interchangeable focusing screens. This is one of the most customizable cameras money can buy. Naturally, the 1Ds Mark II takes Canon’s EF lenses and EX-series Speedlites. Compatible accessories include Canon’s DVK-E2 data verification kit and WFT-E1A wireless transmitter. The 1Ds Mark II doesn’t capture TIFFs, but you can process its RAW images with the included Digital Photo Professional 2.1 software.

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Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III digital SLR
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III inherits the new technology platform introduced earlier this year in the Canon EOS-1D Mark III, including 63-zone exposure metering, 19 cross-type auto focus system, a 3.0” LCD with Live View mode and EOS Integrated Cleaning System. The Highlight Tone Priority function expands dynamic range for more depth and detail in bright areas. The launch is supported with the announcement of Canon’s new ultra wide-angle lens, the Lens 2.

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III - Great image quality
“Taking image quality and versatility to unprecedented levels, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III redefines commercial photography conventions”, said Karz Suzuki, Head of Canon Professional Services. “The camera will strengthen Canon’s popularity amongst professional studio photographers. Culminating 20 years of EOS development, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III represents a definitive moment in our company’s photographic history.”

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Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III d-SLR - Features
• 21 Megapixel full frame (35mm) CMOS sensor
• 5 fps continuous shooting for up to 56 frames
• Dual “DIGIC III” processors
• Highlight Tone Priority
• Auto focus system with 19 cross type sensors and 26 focus assist points
• EOS Integrated Cleaning System
• ISO 100-1600 (expandable to L:50 H:3200)
• 3.0” 230K pixel LCD with Live View mode
• Redesigned viewfinder now wider and brighter

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Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III SLR camera - Image quality
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III produces files that exceed the standard resolution requirements of leading agencies and stock libraries. The third generation CMOS sensor incorporates a new pixel design with on-chip noise reduction circuitry to ensure high image quality all the way to ISO 1600. 14 bit A/D converters provide a total colour depth of 16,384 tones per pixel - delivering smoother gradations and more accurate colour reproduction. The option to expand to H:3200 will be welcomed by professionals working in churches and sensitive situations where the use of flash is not permitted or desired. Where discretion is paramount, a silent drive mode delays shutter re-cocking for as long as the shutter release remains depressed. Highlight Tone Priority mode gives wedding and landscape photographers the option to boost dynamic range for highlights when shooting above ISO 200 - reproducing more tonal detail from wedding dresses, clouds and other bright objects.

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III DSLR - Precision & Control
The auto focus system includes 19 cross-type sensors with sensitivity up to f/2.8, spread across the AF area to better accommodate off-centre subjects. An additional 26 AF assist points help with AF tracking accuracy. The control layout includes a dedicated AF-ON button on the back of the camera, allowing users to instantly switch auto focus on when composing. The viewfinder is now brighter with a wider angle of view, while the 63-zone metering system gives photographers a greater degree of control over exposure.

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III SLR - LCD with Live View
The bright 3.0” LCD monitor provides 230K pixels resolution for precise framing and reviewing. Live View mode displays a real-time image on the LCD, including a selectable grid overlay and a live histogram that simulates image exposure. For the studio environment, remote Live View lets the photographer compose, adjust settings and capture the shot from a PC using the supplied EOS utility software.

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Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III - Controls & Menu
The Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III’s menu incorporates a tab structure that eliminates scrolling for vastly improved readability and ease of use. Improving on previous models, personal settings and custom functions are consolidated into 57 custom functions grouped into four logical categories. Photographers can also now see at a glance any default setting changes. The My Menu option allows photographers to store frequently used settings on a separate menu for immediate access. Settings for recently released accessories such as the Speedlite 580EX II and the Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E2 can be controlled directly from the LCD. Along with a new dedicated ISO button, ISO is permanently displayed on the top LCD panel.

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III DSLR camera - Reliability
Shutter durability is increased by 50% to 300,000 cycles. A magnesium alloy casing with dust and moisture resistant seals protects the body. The EOS Integrated Cleaning System reduces, repels and removes dust from the sensor to significantly limit the need for manual cleaning. To avoid image loss, a warning alarm sounds if the memory card door is opened while images are still being written.

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III reflex camera - Connectivity
Interfaces include video out (for display in both NTSC and PAL formats - with the Live View mode ideal for live display to clients during the shoot) and USB 2.0. To prevent the USB cable becoming accidentally dislodged during shooting, a special connection secures it to the camera body.

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Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III SLR - Compatibility & Accessories
As well as full compatibility with all EF lenses and EX Speedlite flashes and accessories, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is supported by the recently released Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E2. The WFT-E2 enables secure wireless uploads to FTP servers as well as remote access via HTTP and PTP protocols. The unit also connects wirelessly to external storage media and supports GPS tagging when used with a portable GPS device. For assignments where image protection and authenticity are crucial, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is compatible with the Original Data Security Kit OSK-E3.

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III digital SLR - EF USM lens
Today’s launch coincides with the release of the EF 14mm f/2.8L II USM: Canon’s new professional L-series ultra wide-angle lens for the photographer requiring a slightly different perspective. As with many L-series lenses and the Speedlite 580EX II, the EF 14mm f/2.8L II USM incorporates environmental sealing to match that of the EOS-1Ds Mark III, creating a fully weatherproof camera system. Aspherical and UD lens elements produce exceptional image quality with improved corner-to-corner sharpness. The ring-type USM delivers fast, silent auto focus with full-time manual focus override. A circular aperture produces pleasing bokeh at wide apertures and Super Spectra coatings suppress ghosting and flare by suppressing internal reflections from lens element and sensor surfaces.

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III DSLR - Software
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is packaged with a comprehensive software suite to streamline the photographer’s workflow. This includes Digital Photo Professional (DPP) RAW conversion/processing software for complete RAW image processing control. DPP also integrates with camera features such as the Dust Delete Data and Picture Style. The camera also comes with EOS Utility, ImageBrowser/Zoom Browser and Photostitch.

Canon Ixus 970 IS

Friday, March 14th, 2008

The new 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 camera also features Motion Detection Technology, which works in tandem with IS to reduce blur caused by subject motion and camera shake.

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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. 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.

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A bright, clear 2.5-inch 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.

The Ixus 970 IS also features automatic Red-Eye Correction in shooting and playback, a DIGIC III processor with Noise Reduction Technology, 18 shooting modes including new Sunset mode and My Colors photo effects, and extensive movie options including VGA 30fps, Long Play and Time Lapse movie modes. Optional accessories include Soft Case and High Powered Flash.

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The Digital IXUS 970 IS will ship in early April for £255 plus VAT.