Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Canon G1 X review
The new Canon PowerShot G1 X - commonly shortened to Canon G1 X, or even Canon G1X - occupies the top spot in Canon's prestigious G-series compact camera range, offering a truly impressive array of high-end features.
Launched at CES earlier this year, the new digital camera is aimed at advanced photographers in search of a high-quality, take-anywhere primary camera and/or backup for their DSLR.
To that end, the Canon G1 X is packed with advanced technologies designed to deliver the very best performance.
It may not be the compact system camera (CSC) that everyone was expecting to see from Canon, nor is it a direct replacement for the highly popular Canon PowerShot G12 - rather, it's something in between.
As such, it's difficult to slot the Canon G1 X into any one particular category and so - as Canon is keen to point out - it's just as tricky to determine natural rivals for this new camera.
The Canon PowerShot G1 X's specifications make for very impressive reading. It boasts a 14.3MP CMOS sensor that's almost the same size as an EOS DSLR's, sporting a pixel structure and size that's equivalent to that on the entry-level Canon EOS 600D's CMOS device.
The latest generation Digic 5 image processor drives this camera's performance and promises to deliver richly-detailed shots with well-controlled noise, while the Canon G1X's fast, 4x optical image stabilisation (IS) zoom lens incorporates a new design using Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical (UA) elements for supreme image quality.
Factor in a 3-inch, high-resolution, articulated LCD, built-in flash, optical viewfinder and an impressive ISO sensitivity range that tops out at an unprecedented (among G-series cameras) ISO 12800, and you can appreciate why we were incredibly keen to take the Canon G1 X out for a spin the minute it arrived.
You can also begin to appreciate why its recommended retail price is £699 in the UK and $799.99 in the US.
At the heart of the Canon PowerShot G1 X beats a large 4:3 aspect 14.3MP CMOS sensor and the latest Digic 5 image processor.
The sensor size - measuring 18.7mm x 14mm - is just over six times bigger than the one featured in the Canon PowerShot G12, and is just a shade smaller than the APS-C sensors used in entry and enthusiast-level EOS DSLRs. This ensures top-notch image quality and - potentially - lower levels of noise at high ISOs.
The latter point is reinforced by the integration of Canon's latest-generation Digic 5 processor, which - as we've seen with PowerShot S100, PowerShot SX40 HS and Canon EOS 1DX - is very capable of handling large volumes of data at speed, as well as keeping noise under tight control.
Canon's latest-generation Digic 5 image processor determines the speed at which data is processed, enabling the Canon G1 X to shoot 1080p movies at 24fps and keep up with the action in its High Speed Burst HQ mode. It's also responsible for the way in which noise is handled and JPEGs and moving images are compressed.
Like many of the latest cameras we've seen recently, Canon has chosen to equip the PowerShot G1 X with an articulated screen, which proves useful when shooting movies, macro subjects and from high/low perspectives, for instance.
The 3-inch LCD screen - which boasts a pleasing resolution of 920,000-dots - is bright and detailed, with a wide viewing angle and effective anti-reflective coating that means it remains usable in all but the very brightest of conditions.
The Canon G1X also offers a small, but nonetheless useful optical viewfinder as an alternative means of composition.
A first for a G-series compact, the Canon G1 X boasts a comprehensive sensitivity range that spans ISO 100-12800, with on-chip noise reduction promising a clean performance in low light.
Full HD (1080p) movie recording capability at 24fps is another key item in the Canon G1 X's feature-set, bettering the lower-resolution modes seen on some other potential rivals' spec sheets.
With a 4x optical zoom that offers a range equivalent to 28mm-112mm on a 35mm camera, the Canon G1 X covers you for most everyday shooting situations.
And its new design - developed specifically to marry with the larger sensor - shows off Canon's impressive level of expertise when it comes to optical performance.
Additional features including full manual control, raw file shooting capability and innovative technologies such as Canon's Intelligent IS all help to bolster the Canon PowerShot G1 X's impressive set of functions.
The latter option is able to analyse the focal length, distance to the subject and to interpret any form of camera movement before selecting one of seven different IS modes - including Macro and Panning, for example - to suit the situation.
Launched at CES earlier this year, the new digital camera is aimed at advanced photographers in search of a high-quality, take-anywhere primary camera and/or backup for their DSLR.
To that end, the Canon G1 X is packed with advanced technologies designed to deliver the very best performance.It may not be the compact system camera (CSC) that everyone was expecting to see from Canon, nor is it a direct replacement for the highly popular Canon PowerShot G12 - rather, it's something in between.
As such, it's difficult to slot the Canon G1 X into any one particular category and so - as Canon is keen to point out - it's just as tricky to determine natural rivals for this new camera.
The Canon PowerShot G1 X's specifications make for very impressive reading. It boasts a 14.3MP CMOS sensor that's almost the same size as an EOS DSLR's, sporting a pixel structure and size that's equivalent to that on the entry-level Canon EOS 600D's CMOS device.
The latest generation Digic 5 image processor drives this camera's performance and promises to deliver richly-detailed shots with well-controlled noise, while the Canon G1X's fast, 4x optical image stabilisation (IS) zoom lens incorporates a new design using Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical (UA) elements for supreme image quality.
Factor in a 3-inch, high-resolution, articulated LCD, built-in flash, optical viewfinder and an impressive ISO sensitivity range that tops out at an unprecedented (among G-series cameras) ISO 12800, and you can appreciate why we were incredibly keen to take the Canon G1 X out for a spin the minute it arrived.
You can also begin to appreciate why its recommended retail price is £699 in the UK and $799.99 in the US.
Features
At the heart of the Canon PowerShot G1 X beats a large 4:3 aspect 14.3MP CMOS sensor and the latest Digic 5 image processor.
The sensor size - measuring 18.7mm x 14mm - is just over six times bigger than the one featured in the Canon PowerShot G12, and is just a shade smaller than the APS-C sensors used in entry and enthusiast-level EOS DSLRs. This ensures top-notch image quality and - potentially - lower levels of noise at high ISOs.
The latter point is reinforced by the integration of Canon's latest-generation Digic 5 processor, which - as we've seen with PowerShot S100, PowerShot SX40 HS and Canon EOS 1DX - is very capable of handling large volumes of data at speed, as well as keeping noise under tight control.
Canon's latest-generation Digic 5 image processor determines the speed at which data is processed, enabling the Canon G1 X to shoot 1080p movies at 24fps and keep up with the action in its High Speed Burst HQ mode. It's also responsible for the way in which noise is handled and JPEGs and moving images are compressed.
Like many of the latest cameras we've seen recently, Canon has chosen to equip the PowerShot G1 X with an articulated screen, which proves useful when shooting movies, macro subjects and from high/low perspectives, for instance.
The 3-inch LCD screen - which boasts a pleasing resolution of 920,000-dots - is bright and detailed, with a wide viewing angle and effective anti-reflective coating that means it remains usable in all but the very brightest of conditions.
The Canon G1X also offers a small, but nonetheless useful optical viewfinder as an alternative means of composition.
A first for a G-series compact, the Canon G1 X boasts a comprehensive sensitivity range that spans ISO 100-12800, with on-chip noise reduction promising a clean performance in low light.
Full HD (1080p) movie recording capability at 24fps is another key item in the Canon G1 X's feature-set, bettering the lower-resolution modes seen on some other potential rivals' spec sheets.
With a 4x optical zoom that offers a range equivalent to 28mm-112mm on a 35mm camera, the Canon G1 X covers you for most everyday shooting situations.
And its new design - developed specifically to marry with the larger sensor - shows off Canon's impressive level of expertise when it comes to optical performance.
Additional features including full manual control, raw file shooting capability and innovative technologies such as Canon's Intelligent IS all help to bolster the Canon PowerShot G1 X's impressive set of functions.
The latter option is able to analyse the focal length, distance to the subject and to interpret any form of camera movement before selecting one of seven different IS modes - including Macro and Panning, for example - to suit the situation.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Nikon P300 Hands-On Preview
Although at first glance it looks a lot like the Canon Powershot S95 and Olympus XZ-1, the P300 is a significantly different camera in a couple of important ways. It offers higher resolution, at 12MP rather than the 10MP common in that class. It also offers Full HD video (1080p as opposed to 720p), but its true colors are betrayed by a lower price-point, a smaller sensor (1/2.3" as opposed to 1/1.6" or 1/1.7"), and the inability to record RAW files. Whether or not you care about the smaller sensor and lack of RAW depends on your priorities as a photographer, but we suspect that a lot of enthusiast photographers will be disappointed that Nikon hasn't taken the opportunity with the P300 to create a true S95/LX5 competitor.
And so, despite obviously being designed to appeal to the same audience as the Panasonic LX5 and Canon S95, the Coolpix P300 is actually a lot closer in specification terms to a camera like the Canon SD 4000 IS/IXUS 300 HS. Like the SD 4000 IS, the P300 offers excellent build quality and manual control in a genuinely compact body, for less cash than the larger sensor, RAW-enabled Powershot S95, or its 'big brother' the Coolpix P7000. The P300's lens is optically stabilized, covers a useful 24-100mm (equivalent) range, and is impressively fast at wideangle, if unspectacular at the long end (f/1.8-4.9). The rear 3in LCD screen is bright and contrasty with 921k dots - the same specifications as the screens in Nikon's mid-range and top-end DSLRs.
The market for high-end compact cameras with a small form factor is booming at the moment, which is evidenced in the rash of new releases in the past few months. We're certain that, purely because of its styling, a lot of consumers will regard it as a cut-price alternative to cameras like the Canon Powershot S95 and Panasonic Lumix LX5. It certainly offers comparable build quality and manual control but its sensor is 35% smaller and that's arguably the most important determinant of image quality, so we'd expect its performance to be more in line with regular compacts. Read our hands-on preview for our impressions of how it works, and how it compares to its peers in terms of usability and specification.
Key features
12 megapixel BSI (back side illuminated) CMOS sensor (1/2.3in)
ISO 100-3200 at full 12MP resolution
1080p High Definition video mode
24-100mm (equivalent) f/1.8-4.9 lens with optical stabilization
PASM modes
Twin control dials - one top, one rear
Built-in stereo microphone
The 'big' new feature introduced in the Coolpix P300 is 1080p, 'Full HD' video. Full HD is still relatively rare in compact cameras, and it is something that none of the P300's 'high-end' peers currently offer. In most other respects, the P300's specification sheet is comparable to our expectations of the latest compact cameras. At the equivalent of 24mm, its lens is wider than either the Canon S95's or Olympus XZ-1's 28mm equivalent, but is slightly shorter than both at the tele end. It is worth noting that although it boasts a very fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, this gets a lot smaller as the lens is zoomed in. In fact, f/1.8 is only available with the lens set to its very widest focal length.
Beside two of its most obvious competitors (in control terms) the similarities between the P300 and Canon S95 are obvious. The two cameras are almost exactly the same size, and offer similar control layouts. The Olympus XZ-1 is slightly larger in all dimensions, mainly as a result of the larger lens required to offer its wider-aperture and larger imaging circle to light its larger sensor.
From behind, the main difference between the P300 and S95 is the direct movie shooting button of the former. As you can see from looking at all three cameras in this view, the rear control layout has become almost 'standard'.
A fast lens usually means greater control over depth of field, but here too, all is not what it seems. Because, all other things being equal, a smaller sensor means less control over depth of field, the P300 doesn't match up to its high-end competitors despite seeming to offer a similar maximum aperture range. Also, for good depth of field control the lens really needs to be fast at the telephoto end, and the P300's isn't. So don't expect to be able to get the same sort of blurred backgrounds with the P300 as you can with the Olympus XZ-1, for example.
Coolpix P300 Specifications
| Recommended price | • $329.95 • €tbc • £tbc |
|---|---|
| Sensor | • 1/2.3" Type Back Side Illuminated CMOS • 12.0 million total pixels |
| Image sizes | • 4000 x 3000 (4:3) • 3968 x 2232 (16:9) • 3264 x 2448 • 2592 x 1944 • 2048 x 1536 • 1024 x 768 • 640 x 480 • 2048 x 1536 • 1600 x 1200 • 1280 x 960 • 1024 x 768 • 640 x 480 • 1024 x 768 |
| Movie clips | • 1920 x 1080p @ 30fps (HD 1080*) • 1920 x 1080 @ 30fps (HD 1080) • 1280 X 720 @ 30fps • 640 X 480 @ 30fps • 640 X 480 @ 120fps (HS 120fps) • 1280 x 720 @ 60fps (HS 60fps) • 1920 X 1080 @ 15fps (HS 15fps |
| File formats | • Still: JPEG (Exif v2.2) • Movie: MOV [H.264 + Linear PCM (stereo)] |
| Lens | • 24-100mm (35mm equiv) • f = 4.3 - 17.9 mm • 4.2x optical zoom • F1.8-4.9 |
| Image stabilization | Yes (Lens-Shift) |
| Digital zoom | up to 2x |
| Focus | • Auto focus :TTL - Multi-point Auto/Manual selection AF - 1-point AF • Subject tracking • Face tracking priority • Face detection |
| AF modes | • Single • Full-time |
| AF lock | Yes (half-press of the shutter button) |
| AF assist lamp | Yes |
| Focus distance | Closest focus distance 3 cm (macro mode) |
| Metering | • Matrix • Center-weighted average |
| ISO sensitivity | • Auto • ISO 160 • ISO 200 • ISO 400 • ISO 800 • ISO 1600 • ISO 3200 |
| AE lock | Yes (half-press of the shutter button) |
| Exposure compensation | +/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments |
| Shutter speed | • 4 - 1/2000 sec (wider in auto) |
| Modes | • Auto • Program AE • Shutter Priority AE • Aperture Priority AE • Manual • Backlighting • Night landscape • SCENE • Movie |
| Scene modes | • Scene Auto Selector • Portrait • Landscape • Sports • Night portrait • Party/indoor • Beach • Snow • Sunset • Dusk/dawn • Night landscape • Close-up • Food • Museum • Fireworks show • Black and white copy • Panorama • Pet Portrait • Special Effects (Soft, Nostalgia Sepia, High-contrast Monochrome, High Key, Low Key) • Image Mode (resolution/quality selection) |
| White balance | • Auto • Preset Manual • Daylight • Incandescent • Fluorescent • Cloudy • Flash |
| Self timer | • 2/10 seconds • Smile Self Timer |
| Continuous shooting | • Maximum approx. 7 shots/sec. |
| Image parameters | N/A |
| Flash | • Auto, Auto with red-eye reduction, Flash off, Night portrait flash • Flash exposure compensation +/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments |
| LCD monitor | • 3.0 inch LCD • 921,000 dots |
| Connectivity | • USB 2.0 Hi-Speed • HDMI mini connector • AV out (PAL / NTSC switchable) |
| Connectivity | • USB 2.0 Hi-Speed • HDMI mini connector • AV out (PAL / NTSC switchable) |
| Storage | SD, SDHC, SDXC |
| Power | Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL12 |
| Weight (inc batt) | 189g (6.6 oz.) approx |
| Dimensions | 103 x 58 x 32 mm |
Monday, April 2, 2012
SONY Cyber-shot Digital Camera DSC-W570 review
larger size photo, 5x optical zoom 25mm wide angle Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with optical image stabilization and Sweep Panorama mode. The W570 also supports iAuto mode and intelligent auto focusing. Now it priced at $179.99 with high cost performance.
Light, compact and beautifully styled, the new Sony Cyber-shot W570 digital camera lets everyone capture detail-packed still images and HD video. Features like Sweep Panorama expand shooting possibilities, while iAUTO takes care of adjusting settings for great results without fuss.
Sweep Panorama mode, first introduced in Sony’s breakthrough CyberShot DSC-HX1, DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 CMOS models, utilizes a CCD sensor to capture dramatic panoramic scenes. The Sony CyberShot W570 shoots images continuously to capture wide landscapes or tall buildings in one easy “press and sweep” motion. Images are automatically stitched together to create one stunning panoramic photo.
The built-in help guide of the Sony DSC-W570 is another way to make it easy to get the best shot. Designed to help users learn about the cameras’ features and how to use them on the spot, the “In-Camera Guide” is accessible from the menu button on the Sony W570 digital camera and allows users to easily search by purpose or keyword for functions they seek.
Not sure how to pick the perfect digital camera settings to suit a particular scene? Don’t worry, help is at hand. Intelligent Auto (iAUTO) mode automatically adjusts exposure and other camera settings for optimum results in a wide range of shooting situations.
Dramatic landscapes, architectural photos, interiors and even family scenes can produce disappointing results when a scene gets cut off at the edges. A wide angle zoom lens on your camera lets you pack more into the picture without having to stand further back from the subject.
The famous Sony Sweep Panorama feature takes the hard work out of creating fabulous panoramic shots. Now it’s easy to grab breathtaking wide-screen views of that landscape or city scene. Sweep Panorama mode shoots a high-speed burst of frames as you sweep the camera from side to side (or up and down!). Images are stitched together automatically by the camera to create one big amazing panoramic photo.
With stylish profile, delicate workmanship and good optical performance, the W570 is designed for those who like simple and elegance. Overall, W570 has the balanced performance and affordable price. 5 colors available, gold, silver, black, pink and purple.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Apple vs Nokia vs Samsung vs Sony Ericsson , Best camera phones ?
Now almost every mobile phone, from dual-core powerhouses to cheap feature phone have a camera, so you can snap photographs and upload them to Facebook or email to friends within seconds. Many of the better camera phones can now match and even surpass basic digital cameras, as phone manufacturers use superior sensors and lenses.Nokia was one of the manufacturers to produce phones with really good cameras. Early success include the N90 and the N93; a mobile phone with a unique flip-out screen that clearly influenced the Flip range of camcorders. Sony Ericsson had success too with the Satio a Symbian handset with excellent 12-megapixel camera and Xenon flash.
Here we’re pit five top camera phones against each other: the Apple iPhone 4, Nokia N8, Samsung Galaxy S2 and Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc. We've also thrown in a wild card in the form of the Samsung Omnia 7; a Windows Phone 7 handset with HD capability.
We’ll take a series of pictures and movies using each mobile phone to see which is our camera phone of choice.
The contenders: specifications
Apple iPhone 4
Significantly improved since the iPhone 3GS, the iPhone 4’s 5-megapixel camera phone with few tweakable features. Two to be precise. Flash and HDR mode, which combines a selection of pictures to bring out detail in shadow and highight areas. Luckily Apple is addressing this with the iOS 5 update, which adds lots of new features like crop, enhance and red-eye and also turns the volume control into a shutter.
Resolution: 5-megapixels
Video: 1280x720p 30fps
Flash: LED
Internal memory: 16Gb/32Gb
Lens aperture: Not quoted
Screen: 3.5-inches 960x640 pixel IPS/LCD Retina Display
Nokia N8
Unsurprisingly Nokia has equipped the N8 with an exhaustive selection of features, including adjustable: White Balance,
Sharpness, Colour, Contrast, ISO and Face detection along with a smattering of scene modes. Pixel rating is the highest on test of 12-megapixels (although 5-megapixels are adequate for most people) and it’s the only handset here with a Xenon flash. Take photos using the dedicated shutter button, alternatively tap the screen. The screen is excellent is one of the best in bright sunlight.Stills: 12-megapixel
Video: 1280x720p 30fps (via update)
Flash: Xenon
Internal memory: 16Gb, microSD
Lens aperture: Carl Zeiss f/2.8
Screen: 3.5-inchs OLED 640x360
Samsung Galaxy S2
Over the years Samsung has consistently produced solid cameraphones. Here it's flagship S2 phone has an impressive smattering of features including: White Balance, Metering, ISO, Face detection, Scene modes, EV, Anti Shake and Blink Detection. There's no top shutter, instead take pictures by tapping the screen. A useful extra is Outdoor Visibility, which makes the screen easier to see in bright sunlight.
Stills: 8-megapixel
Video: 1920x1080p 30fps
Flash: LED
Internal memory: 16Gb/microSD
Lens aperture: Not quoted
Screen: 4.3-inch Super AMOLED 800x480
Samsung Omnia 7
Like other Windows Phone 7 handsets the Omnia 7 had to follow Microsoft’s strict build requirements, which extended to photographic capability. This means the Omnia 7 has a solid camera shutter and 1280x720p HD movies. Features are impressive and include: contrast, medium, saturation, sharpness, EV, metering and Anti Shake along with Wide Dynamic Range.
Stills: 5-megapixel
Video: 1280x720p at 23fps
Flash: Power LED
Internal memory: 8GB
Lens aperture: Not quoted
Screen: 4-inch Super AMOLED 800x480
Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
Sony Ericsson has added some really useful features to its latest crop of mobile phones, including a Sony Exmor R CMOS sensor. The Reality Display screen is excellent and is was easy to see in bright and dim conditions. Features are impressive, including: EV, White Balance, Metering, Image Stabiliser, Scene mode, Smile Detection. The Arc’s shutter feels a bit flimsy and its position on the far end can make it awkward to hold with one hand, alternatively you can tap the screen to take a picture.
Resolution stills: 8-megapixel
Video: 1280x720p at 29fps
Flash: LED
Internal memory: 320MB
Lens aperture: f/2.4
Screen: 4.2-inch Reality Display 854x480
Test 1: Artificial light
Flash off, all settings on auto, stabiliser on if featured
Apple iPhone 4 and Nokia N8
The Apple iPhone 4 produces the most unnatural photograph; here turning a pine bookshelf bright yellow examined closely fine detail isn't as sharp as the N8 or S2 either, although colours are very bright. The Nokia N8 produces a sharp, detailed picture with natural colours, is a little dark perhaps.
Samsung Galaxy S2 and Samsung Omnia 7
The S2 produces the sharpest photographs here, although our test picture had a pinkish tint and colours (the red of the playing card) lack punch. We found the Samsung Omnia 7 far more sensitive to camera shake than the others, resulting in softer shots when examined up closely. However colours and the exposure are fairly accurate.
Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
Here colours are natural, if lacking a bit of punch (again the detail in the playing card) and examined closely detail isn't pin sharp, with more more visible noise.
Winner: Nokia N8
Test 2: Natural light
Flash off, all settings on auto, stabiliser on if featured. None of the pictures are full resolution; they had to be compressed for web.
Apple iPhone 4
The picture is very sharp - you can make out all the detail in the bricks on the white post - but pixels are more visible, especially in the sky and the area on the front left is a bit too red.
Nokia N8
A good effort, up close it isn't pin-sharp sharp, but colours are bold and accurate and it's good at handling shadow detail
Samsung Galaxy S2
Colours are generally accurate and up close detail is sharp. Colours perhaps lack the punch of rivals
Samsung Omnia 7
Detail in the trees is soft and not as sharp as any the others here (we can barely read the signs) and there’s more of a problem with image noise. Colours lack punch too.
Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
Examined closely detail is very soft (you can barely make out the brick patten on the pillar), but conversely the text on the sign is very sharp - artificially so. Artefacts are especially visible on the pavement on the right. It handles contrast pretty well though.
Winner: Apple iPhone 4/Nokia N8
Test 3: Night shot
We’ll admit, most people aren’t going to be taking photographs in the dark using smartphones all the time. However, we wanted to see which phones was best.. All phones had the flash and stabiliser on (if applicable) and automatic settings were used.
Apple iPhone 4 and Nokia N8
Both of these produce pleasing results. The former is brighter and warmer with more fine detail up close, while the N8 with it's Xenon flash has less noise and you can see more of the subject
Samsung Omnia 7 and Samsung Galaxy S2
Producing a dark very noisy picture, the Samsung Omnia 7 (left) is easily the worst, the Galaxy S2 is marginally brighter, showing more of the subject.
Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
Sony Ericsson’s Exmor R for mobile CMOS sensor helps produce a bright photo, where you can see almost the whole subject - even from 20 feet away. The picture is sharp with lots of detail, although coloured image noise is more visible when examined closely.
Winner: Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
Test 4: Shooting movies
Please not all the footage has been compressed for YouTube
Apple iPhone 4
Unsurprisingly, 720p detail is not as sharp as the full res S2, however it's still one of the best here. Colour rendition is perhaps a bit warm, but footage is very smooth. All in all very impressive
Nokia N8
The frame rate here is 25fps (the update for 30fps is available now, so we will update the footage as soon as possible), which means action is not quite as smooth as we would like, however that’s pretty much our only complaint. Footage is sharp with lots of detail - far more the the Omnia 7 and Arc and elsewhere colours are natural. Audio is impressive too - you can even make out bird song along with cars.
Samsung Galaxy S2
The Samsung Galaxy S2 is the only phone here that shoots in 1920x1080 and in terms of the clarity of detail it’s apparent straight away. At the start of the movie you can see the detail in the leaves and the trees on the island and you can even read the word ‘Channel’ in the distance. However colour rendition isn't natural as the Nokia though, audio performance lacks clarity. In addition, twice we noticed the movie flick out of focus for a split second as we panned around.
Samsung Omnia 7
The Samsung Omnia 7’s HD video produces decent rather than amazing footage. Colours seem more muted where they should be bright. Contrast isn’t amazing, it’s overly dark in shadow areas, yet the white of the building is too bright. Fine details isn’t as sharp as the N8 or S2 and you can see more artefacts on the water/sky and slightly lower frame rate of 23fps means footage isn’t not as smooth. Audio is pretty good and not dominated by the cars - you can even hear bird song
Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
We’re not impressed with the Sony Ericsson Arc's performance here. Overall the movie is far too soft, even though it’s HD. Colours seem a touch warm and less natural - the blue sky (in particular) isn’t accurate. However action is smooth thanks to a steady frame rate of 30fps. Audio is dominated by the sound of the louder vehicles on the road behind though.
Winner: Nokia N8
Best camera phones: verdict
Picking a winner for this test is tricky, no one handset excels at everything and even the less impressive phones will be fine for the odd snapshot.
The Samsung Omnia 7 offers a good range of features, but the shutter seems more sensitive than rivals, leading to more issues with camera shake. Stills just aren’t sharp enough and HD movies are soft with drab colours and more artefacts than rivals.
Sony Ericsson’s equipped the Xperia Arc with a good selection of features, a great screen and a sensor that produces best on test low-light performance. Overall we found stills aren't as sharp as we’d like and HD movie performance is the worst here, it’s very soft.
The Samsung Galaxy S2 is a solid performer, full HD footage is very sharp, although audio quality isn’t as clear as we’d like. Stills are good, but outclassed by other camera phones here.
We really like the iPhone’s camera. HD movie footage is sharp and smooth, although colour rendition isn’t as natural as the N8, stills are sharp and low light performance is solid. Our main issue is the lack of features, which the iOS 5 update will resolve.
So that leaves the Nokia N8. Stills are consistently sharp with natural colours, it’s even passable in low light. We’re really impressed with HD video performance, footage is sharp, with excellent audio and it handles changes to lighting conditions better than some others. The Nokia N8 might not have won every category, but consistently solid performance with stills and movies makes it our winner.
Overall Winner: Nokia N8
Source : http://recombu.com/news/best-camera-phones-apple-vs-nokia-vs-samsung-vs-sony-ericsson_M15276.html
Friday, August 26, 2011
Review Kodak EasyShare Z981
Depending on how you like to take pictures, and what kind of angle you want for a specific shot, you may want to take vertical shots. On the Kodak EasyShare Z981 you can shoot horizontally or vertically easily as it has a vertical shutter release. There's also a removable vertical grip included with the camera to make it easier and more comfortable to take vertical shots. This is one of the user friendly features that many people like about this camera, although whether you make use of it or not depends on your own preferences. The choice of how you take your photos is up to you, thanks to the powerful zoom and wide angle lens which makes shots look good from any angle.
It is possible to take all of your images, and create slide shows out of them using the multimedia slide show feature on the Kodak EasyShare camera. You can actually make your slide shows directly on the camera without having to load them on your laptop or desktop computer. An added benefit of using this internal slide show feature is that you can include colorful transitions and sounds as well. Sharing your multimedia slide show is very simple - just transfer it to your computer and upload it to the Internet in just minutes. On top of the other high-tech features that are available on the Kodak EasyShare Z981, the multimedia slide show is definitely an innovative option.
A commonality that smart phones and digital cameras share is that most have software that allows for inter-connectivity between the device and your computer. Sharing photos with friends and family on your social media page is very simple when using the Kodak EasyShare software. Organizing your photos is very easy using custom tags on all of your pictures with this software. Using this software will enable you to adjust a variety of settings including lighting, contrast, and color balance. Utilizing FTP technology, the software can help you upload your photos to YouTube or Facebook. Basically, this software included with the Kodak EasyShare can help you share your images with the online community.
If sharing photos online is something you love to do, the Kodak EasyShare Z981 is perfect for avid social network enthusiasts. Slide shows, videos, and regular photos can be easily uploaded to the Internet after you have taken the pictures with your EasyShare camera. The Kodak EasyShare is a camera made with the convenience of the modern user, who likes to upload pictures to social networks, in mind.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Sony‘s Cybershot TX55 an attractive camera
processing, both promise the camera can double its 5x optical zoom range while still capturing 16.2-megapixel images at full clarity and sharpness. Along with 3D image capture, optical image stabilization and high-speed auto-focus that locks in at 0.1 seconds, this is a lot of camera for $350. Available in September.
16.2 Megapixel Exmor R CMOS Sensor
5X Optical Zoom ~ 10X Digital with Clear Image Zoom + By Pixel Super Resolution
3.3-inch OLED Touchscreen
Full HD AVCHD Video
Intelligent Sweep Panorama
Ultra-thin DSC-TX55 Camera Delivers Full HD Video, 3D and
Picture Effect Mode – with up to 10x Clear Image Zoom at Maximum Resolution
SAN DIEGO, July 25, 2011 – With an exceptionally slim and stylish design, Sony’s new DSC-TX55 Cyber-shot camera makes it easy to capture any moment with high-quality still photos, full high-definition video and amazing 3D images, providing consumers with the ultimate in creative control of their photos and videos.
The DSC-TX55 camera features a range of innovative new technologies, including “By Pixel Super Resolution” technology, which boosts the cameras’ zoom range to a virtual 10x without losing quality at the image sensor’s maximum resolution (16.2 million pixels). The new model is also the first Cyber-shot camera to offer a “Picture Effect” mode, which expands a shooter’s artistic possibilities without the need for editing software.
“Our new DSC-TX55 model redefines what a compact camera can do,” said Yosuke Tomoda, director of Sony Electronics’ Cyber-shot business. “In addition to the newly developed, ultra-thin chassis design, the camera features an incredible combination of features and performance, putting more creativity at users’ fingertips than ever before.”
The TX55 boasts a 16.2 megapixel, highly sensitive Exmor R™ CMOS sensor that delivers incredible image detail and ultra-low picture noise in both still images and Full HD video – even in low light conditions. Also the camera’s hi-speed auto focus can lock onto subject in as little as 0.1 seconds, letting users grab the most fleeting photo moments with ease.
16 Mega-pixel CMOS Sensor with Clear Image Zoom
Just 12.2mm slim (measurement excludes lens cover), which is smaller than the thickness of a standard AA-size battery, the Cyber-shot TX55 is the world’s thinnest camera in its class (among cameras with an optical anti-shake function). The new model captures Full HD AVCHD video clips as well as 16.2 megapixel still images through its innovative and exceptionally thin 5x optical folded zoom lens.
It introduces brand-new ‘Clear Image Zoom’ that boosts magnification without lowering the pixel count in the final image. Exclusive to Sony, ‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ processing further extends the camera’s 5x optical zoom range, allowing full-resolution 16.2 megapixel images with a maximum 10x zoom.
‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ technology also significantly boosts still image quality during movie recording. At a touch of the shutter button, ‘Dual Rec’ grabs detail-packed 12 megapixel-level still photos without interrupting Full HD video shooting. Further, the camera’s back panel is dominated by a super-sized 3.3-inch (8.3cm) Xtra Fine™ OLED wide touch-screen, perfect for showing off photos and movie clips with incredible detail.
Enhanced Creativity and Functionality
The innovative Picture Effect mode broadens the range of artistic options with an exciting palette of in-camera image treatments. Effects can be viewed on the camera screen, allowing users to see the result of a chosen effect instantly rather than during the post-shooting experience.
The full list of seven Picture Effect options includes HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Miniature, Toy Camera, Partial Color, Pop Color and Soft High-key.
Newly enhanced with additional electronic image stabilization for vertical and horizontal handshake correction, SteadyShot® image stabilization with Active Mode compensates for handheld camera movements during Full HD video shooting. Users can enjoy crisp, blur-free movie clips at all zoom settings, even when holding the camera while walking.
Great Results Made Easy
The new DSC-TX55 camera makes it simple for users to easily achieve DSLR-like picture quality. Superior Auto mode recognizes a wide range of shooting situations, adjusting exposure and other settings for high-quality images with low noise and high dynamic range.
Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode also features HR (High Resolution) mode, letting users capture breath-taking up to 42.9 megapixel panoramas. Just sweep the camera, then enjoy the results on a connected HD TV, or zoom in using a PlayStation®3 system to reveal the finest details.
3D Still Image captures dramatic 3D photos without the need for a large, bulky stereoscopic lens. With a single shutter press, the camera takes two shots consecutively, using the first image to estimate depth information to create a dramatic three-dimensional still image. Other 3D shooting options include 3D Sweep Panorama mode and Sweep Multi Angle.
Enabling its incredible slimness, the new TX55 camera includes a slot to accept Memory Stick Micro™ (Mark2) and MicroSD/SDHC flash memory cards. Sony offers a choice of ultra-compact, high quality media in capacities up to 16GB, with Memory Stick Micro™ being enhanced to achieve data transfer speed of up to 15MB/s (fastest among micro memory cards) by carrying the same high performance HX Engine controller used on Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo to fully support the new cameras’ features such as 3D and full HD video shooting. All cards come with free PC software (available via download), File Rescue for quick, easy recovery of deleted or damaged photos and files, and x-Pict Story™ that simplifies creation of dazzling slideshows.
Pricing and Availability
The new Sony Cyber-shot™ TX55 camera will be available for about $350 this September at Sony stores, www.sonystyle.com and other authorized retailers throughout the Sony Dealer Network.
The range of Sony Memory Stick Micro™ and MicroSD/SDHC media cards are available now throughout the Sony dealer network and along with an expanded range of coordinating accessories – including the colorful new LCJ-THF camera cover, AC-UD10 AC adaptor and BC-TRN2 fast battery charger.
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