Archive for August, 2009

Camera Top

This appeared in my Facebook inbox and in comments here
The top of a new Canon dSLR? You’ll notice the on/off toggle and m.fn button.

There also appears to be a popup flash cutout.

It appeared on forum based in Taiwan, I wasn’t sent that link.

The top of what?

The top of what?

cr

A 60D & 7D? [CR1]

From DPR

"I'm bringing a friend"

"I'm bringing a friend"

A DPR poster is making reference to a 60D being available alongside a cheaper FF 7D.

60D Specs
14.7mp (APS-C)
More AF Points
1080p Video

CR’s Take
I have never discounted that there could be TWO new prosumer SLR’s coming down the pipe. A 7D only would make very little sense spec wise. There would be no fast canon SLR other than the 50D and 1D Mark III (or IV when it’s replaced). We have heard solid rumors in favor of both cameras existing.

These 60D specs are pretty wonky, a new sensor? I think Canon could improve the current 15.1mp sensor as they did with the XTI sensor to the 40D.

From: http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/…………

cr

CR Site Updates

Phew
The server lived through today! The busiest ever.

With the help of my new host and a friend that does the same sort of site, I found a ton of inefficient things going on with the backend of the site and they are being rectified. They definitely contributed to the embarrassing site performance recently.

RSS FEED ADDRESS UPDATE
Of note, the RSS feed address has been updated to the following:

http://feeds.feedburner.com/canonrumors/rss

cr

Canon EOS 7D Specs?

From PCHome
There is a new spec list for the 7D floating around the web.

EOS 7D
12.1mp Full Frame
DIGIC IV
3″ OLED
ISO 100-25,600 (Probably a 50ISO L Setting)
3.9fps

Thanks to everyone that sent this in.

From: http://article.pchome.net/content-948640.html

cr

Real or Not? *UPDATE*

From a Korean Web Site

Canon 7D?

Canon 7D?

I can’t tell if it’s real or fake. Photoshop gurus?

From: http://www.slrclub.com/bbs/vx2.php?id=newproduct&pag…..

*UPDATE* Best Buy Info
The information we posted previously from the Best Buy inventory system has proven to be true in regards to the PowerShot line. The S90 was not an obvious model name, so the 7D’s chances of being real has gone up.

The information nailed the G11, SX20, SX120 and S90.

PowerShot Announcements Below!

cr

Canon G11

Canon PowerShot G11

Canon PowerShot G11 - Image from DPReview

Specification High Lights
10mp High Sensitivity CCD
5x Zoom (28-140)
DIGIC IV
2.8″ Vari-Angle LCD
RAW
ISO3200 (Upto ISO 12,500)
$499 USD

Press Release
Canon today announces the launch of the feature packed PowerShot G11, the successor to the multi award-winning PowerShot G10 – the favourite compact of professional photographers and photoagencies the world over.

Commenting on his use of the predecessor to the PowerShot G11, the PowerShot G10, Gary Knight, acclaimed photojournalist and co-founder of the VII Photo Agency, said: “As a photojournalist who covers warzones, one of the main challenges I face is getting high quality images in hostile environments.

To achieve this I need a camera that offers great image and build quality without the bulk, and the PowerShot G series is perfect for this purpose. When shooting in areas of conflict, it’s important to have a compact camera in my bag that allows me to work discreetly but also provides the level of quality required to get the photos I need. The G Series excels in this respect, delivering great quality images from a compact body that is less intimidating than that of an SLR.”

Professional photographers will benefit from the G11’s greatly expanded dynamic range. Canon’s new Dual Anti-Noise System combines a high sensitivity 10.0 Megapixel image sensor with Canon’s enhanced DIGIC 4 image processing technology to increase image quality and greatly improve noise performance by up to 2 stops (compared to PowerShot G10). The PowerShot G11 also includes i-Contrast technology, which prevents high-light blowout whilst retaining low-light detail – ideal for difficult lighting situations.

The premium quality Canon lens delivers picture-perfect performance, offering a 5x wide angle (28mm) zoom with optical Image Stabilizer (IS). This allows handheld shots to be taken at much slower shutter speeds (4-stops) than conventional non-IS models – allowing perfect shooting in darker conditions or at a lower ISO.  Greatly reducing blur caused by camera shake, photographers can shoot at longer focal lengths and in lower light conditions without the need for a tripod.

The digital compact includes the ability to shoot in RAW format and is compatible with Canon’s Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, ensuring that photo shoots can be easily integrated into a photographer’s workflow.

Stephen Munday, Senior Operations Director, Editorial, Getty Images, comments:  “The quality of images delivered by the PowerShot G series are so good that we use G10 images within our editorial library, and our photographers using the G series models do so because of the image quality and flexibility they provide.”

He continues, “The unpredictable nature of news photojournalism requires our photographers to get shots in all kinds of situations, and the size of the G10 allows them to do that without drawing too much attention to themselves. The low-light capabilities of the new G11 will be of even greater help in that respect, as it will allow our photographers to shoot high quality images without flash in even more situations.”

Alongside superb image quality, the compact size of the PowerShot G11 and a 2.8-inch vari-angle PureColor II VA LCD (461k dots) make it the ideal choice for professional photographers to use where an SLR is impractical or obtrusive.   The G11 is ergonomically designed for faster, accurate menu scrolling.  Analogue style dials for ISO and exposure compensation give photographers instant, familiar access to common settings and features.

“I’ve been a user of the G series since the G5” says Edmond Terakopian, photojournalist and winner of the British Press Awards Photographer of the Year and a World Press Photo award for Spot News. “Recently I’ve been using the G10 which is absolutely spot on; image quality, usability, reliability and build quality are all excellent. It’s the one camera that’s always with me, no matter where I am; whether on or off duty. I know I can rely on it to help me get the picture, no matter what.

Over the years I’ve used my G Series cameras on the occasions when assignments have needed discretion. It’s a satisfying feeling telling a picture editor that the photograph he’s just complemented was from a compact camera.”

The G11 is equipped to deal with any light condition.  Low Light mode enables photographers to shoot up to ISO 12,800 in reduced 2.5MP resolution at 2.4fps capturing brilliant shots indoors without the need for a flash, whilst a built-in Neutral Density (ND) filter decreases light levels by 3 stops allowing creative control in bright conditions.

The camera’s highest flash synchro speed has been increased to 1/2000th seconds, reducing the possibility of overexposed bright scenes.  A real time histogram displays brightness levels on the PureColor II VA LCD screen, so photographers can easily view conditions and change settings when shooting.

The PowerShot G11 gives photographers the freedom to perfectly shoot fast-paced action.  Quick Shot mode takes images almost instantly after pressing the shutter, so fast moving objects are always captured, whilst Servo AF/ AE continuously adjusts focus and exposure to optimise settings when photographing moving subjects.

The PowerShot G11 can be used with a wide range of Canon accessories, including the Speedlite 270EX, 430EX II and 580EX II; Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX and Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX flashes for enhanced shooting options; the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2, Speedlite Bracket BKT-DC1 and Remote Switch RS-60E3. Underwater photographers can even team the PowerShot G11 with the specially designed Waterproof Case WP-DC34 – an underwater housing allowing full control of the camera at depths down to 40m. The PowerShot G11 includes an HDMI port so users can review images on a full HD screen via an optional HDMI cable.

Canon S90

Canon PowerShot S90

Canon S90 - Image from DPReview

Specification Highlights
10mp High Sensitivity CCD
3.75x Zoom (28-105)
Fast f/2.0-4.9 Lens
Dual Anti-Noise System
3″ LCD
ISO 3200
DIGIC IV
New Feature Lens Control Ring

Press Release
Today Canon announces the PowerShot S90 – marking the return of the Canon PowerShot S-series.   The PowerShot S90 continues the PowerShot S-series tradition with impressive, fully manual features that deliver excellent image quality and user experience, including:
Canon’s Dual Anti-Noise System with an f/2.0 wide-angle lens, a 3.0 inch, PureColor II LCD display and an intuitive new lens Control Ring.

Exceptional image quality in all conditions
The PowerShot S90 features Canon’s Dual Anti-Noise System, combining a high sensitivity 10.0 Megapixel image sensor with Canon’s enhanced DIGIC 4 image processor. Photographers can capture full resolution images – even in tricky lighting conditions – with the Dual Anti-Noise System taking maximum advantage of the available light, while substantially reducing image noise.

This is particularly useful in low-light portrait and landscape photography, where users are able to shoot high quality full resolution images even at ISO 3200. DIGIC 4 also includes an enhanced version of i-Contrast: Canon’s Intelligent Contrast Correction technology, which delivers a wider dynamic range to reduce high-light blowout while retaining low-light detail.

The f/2.0 Advantage
Canon has fitted the PowerShot S90 with a wide aperture f/2.0 wide-angle lens to help photographers take full advantage of the Dual Anti-Noise System.  The f/2.0 wide-angle lens allows twice as much light into the camera as an f/2.8 lens, enabling photographers to use faster shutter speeds to reduce blur or achieve a shallower depth of field.

The camera also includes Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, which uses a lens-shift system to minimise camera shake and image blur – effectively giving photographers a 4-stop advantage over less capable cameras.

To help users capture the perfect shot, the PowerShot S90 includes a 3.0 inch LCD display, which features Canon’s PureColor II LCD technology. It enables users to frame and review images easily thanks to an exceptionally wide viewing angle, 461k dot resolution and great colour rendition.

Sophisticated performance, sensational ease of use
As befits a camera of this calibre, the PowerShot S90 features a wide range of powerful manual and automatic controls that give photographers creative freedom.

The PowerShot S90 features an intuitive lens Control Ring, which enables users to adjust the settings of various functions by twisting the selector at the base of the lens barrel to the left or right. The Control Ring can be used as a quasi-manual zoom offering a closer view of subjects in 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm and 105mm steps.

Additional settings can be assigned, such as ISO (in 1/3 stop increments), shutter, aperture, focus and exposure compensation – giving photographers a satisfyingly tactile experience.  The Control Ring also helps enhance user interaction with the camera by offering fast, accurate scrolling through menus, functions and images. In new Nostalgic Mode the Control Ring can also be used to add an aged effect to the shot, from a subtle faded look to full grainy black and white.

Smarter Scene Detection
For more creative control, users can also choose from a variety of Scene Modes (SCN on the Control dial) that enable them to choose the best settings for particular shooting situations – ideal for creative effects or when shooting in difficult lighting.  A new Low Light mode can help users capture reduced resolution 2.5 Megapixel images in very dim light at ISO speeds of up to ISO 12800 and at a fast 2.4 frames per second.

Photographers can also choose from a range of creative modes including Aperture priority AE, Shutter priority AE, Program AE, Manual and Custom modes. Choosing and using different camera settings is now even easier thanks to an improved menu navigation system, which includes ‘Hints & Tips’ on most settings and features.

The PowerShot S90 allows fine custom adjustment of the camera’s white balance settings – enabling compensation of different kinds of tungsten, fluorescent and other light conditions for perfect results every time.

For quick and easy snaps, the PowerShot S90 includes Smart Auto with Scene Detection Technology. This selects the scene type from 22 variables, applying the best settings for optimum output – a great asset to those who love to point-and-shoot without worrying about the technical details. Smart Auto now measures movement of objects or people in a scene, activating Servo AF/AE to ensure that the focus and exposure are locked onto a subject.

In addition, the PowerShot S90 offers RAW format shooting and support for Canon’s Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, making it easy to integrate the camera into a user’s digital workflow. Users will also find it easy to share images captured on the camera with family and friends, thanks to an HDMI mini port, which enables the camera to be connected to a compatible TV using an optional cable.

With a strong heritage and impressive range of features the PowerShot S90 is the ideal compact camera for technology and photographic enthusiasts alike.

Canon SD940 & SD980

Canon IXUS 120 IS

Canon SD940 - Image from DPReview

Specification Highlights
SD980
12.1mp
5x Zoom (24-120)
HD Movie (720P)
DIGIC IV
3″ Touchscreen LCD
ISO3200
$329 USD

SD940
12.1mp
4x Zoom (28-112)
HD Movie (720P)
DIGIC IV
2.7″ LCD
ISO 3200
$299 USD

Today Canon announces two new Digital IXUS cameras, bringing even higher levels of style, sophistication and high-tech features to the Digital IXUS range.

Introducing firsts for Canon, the Digital IXUS 200 IS combines an impressive 24mm ultra wide-angle 5x zoom lens with a 3 inch PureColor II Touch display.  The new Digital IXUS 120 IS has the distinction of being the slimmest wide-angle Digital IXUS ever – packing in a 28mm wide-angle 4x zoom lens into a stylish body.

Digital IXUS 200 IS: Ultra wide technology you can touch
The Digital IXUS 200 IS makes it easier than ever to take breathtaking images. Featuring a 24mm ultra wide-angle 5x zoom lens with an optical Image Stabiliser (IS) the potential to capture sweeping landscapes or large groups up close is now at your fingertips.  Picture quality is assured thanks to a 12.1 Megapixel sensor and DIGIC 4 – Canon’s fast, intelligent image processor, delivering superb image quality and natural colour reproduction.

The Digital IXUS 200 IS features an impressive wide 3.0 inch PureColor II Touch display.  With a firm focus on ease-of-use, the touch screen technology works together with traditional button control to create a highly-intuitive user experience, giving you fingertip control over a variety of camera functions.  Touch AF, for example, enables users to select objects or faces on the touch screen – which the camera tracks and automatically keeps in focus – capturing the perfect image every time.

Large, high visibility on-screen icons allow for quick and easy selection of shooting and flash modes, while a vertical orientation shutter release function means users can shoot by simply touching the screen.  Touch Actions allow users to match gestures made on-screen to commonly used functions, such as tagging images as favourites or erasing, rotating, or protecting images in their collection. Browsing images has never been easier – simply drag your finger across the screen and the camera will adjust the speed of review with the speed of the gesture on-screen.

The Digital IXUS 200 IS also makes it easy to review photos with Active Display – a feature that enables users to flick through images and start and stop movies by simply moving and tilting the camera.

Packed with cutting edge, yet easy-to-use features, the Digital IXUS 200 IS sports incredibly good looks with a slim, stylish metal body in a choice of four colours: blue, gold, purple or silver.

Digital IXUS 120 IS – ultra-slim, ultra-smart, ultra cool
The Digital IXUS 200 IS is joined by the all-new Digital IXUS 120 IS – the slimmest wide-angle Digital IXUS ever. Despite the slim frame the camera boasts an impressive wide angle (28mm) 4x optical zoom lens, 12.1 Megapixel resolution and DIGIC 4 processor.

The Digital IXUS 120 IS utilises a 2.7 inch PureColor LCD II.  Bright and clear, the screen can be viewed at multiple angles, so framing and reviewing an image is simple and easy. The PureColor LCD II screen is also resistant to fingerprints and scratches.

The Digital IXUS 120 IS makes taking great photos simple.  Optical Image Stabiliser technology reduces blur caused by camera shake; enabling users to shoot at full zoom, as well as at night, without the need for a tripod.  ISO Auto and Motion Detection Technology also help users automatically take blur-free photos – adjusting the ISO speed to compensate for motion in the scene, so moving subjects are captured perfectly every time.

The Digital IXUS 120 IS’s slim wide-angle design enables it to easily fit into a shirt pocket or handbag and comes in four refined colours – black, blue, brown or silver – that reflect the sophistication of the technology within.

Shooting action with HD movies
Both cameras feature an HD movie mode, which shoots widescreen high definition video at 720p resolution.  Movies can be easily shared with family and friends by connecting the camera to a compatible HD display via the camera’s HDMI mini port.

Automatic excellence that is easy-to-use
To make it easy for anyone to take a great photo, the Digital IXUS 200 IS and
Digital IXUS 120 IS feature Smart Auto mode with Scene Detection Technology.  Automatically detecting faces, motion, distance, colour, and brightness in the frame, the camera selects from one of 22 scene variables to optimise settings for the best results.  Smart Auto technology is enhanced by the addition of Servo AE/AF, which tracks movement in the frame, adjusting focus and exposure to achieve the perfect shot.

By capturing every detail in an image – with a  12.1 Megapixel image sensor – users of both cameras have the freedom of creating large prints, or altering composition by cropping images, without compromising image quality.

Both cameras include ‘Hints & Tips’ within the user interface.  Short descriptions of camera functions simplify the interaction with the camera and encourage users to explore the camera features.
Perfect Portraits: Face Detection technologies

Both the Digital IXUS 200 IS and Digital IXUS 120 IS come with a range of
Face Detection technologies so shots of friends and family are captured in perfect detail. Face Detection WB, sets the camera’s white balance to achieve natural skin tones in unusual lighting conditions, whilst Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB ensures the intended subject is properly exposed and in focus.  Both cameras also feature FaceSelf-Timer – a handy feature for self-portraits and group shots as the camera only takes a photo two seconds after an extra face enters the frame.

Both models also feature i-Contrast, an intelligent technology that automatically deals with tricky lighting situations by preventing highlight blowout, while retaining shadow detail. This automatically deals with difficult shooting situations, particularly when subjects are backlit on a sunny day.

Incorporating new technologies, incredible ease-of-use and sophisticated design the Digital IXUS 200 IS and Digital IXUS 120 IS offer incredible image capturing quality in a stylish compact camera.

Canon SX20 IS

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS

Canon SX20 IS - Image from DPReview

Specification Highlights
12.1mp
20x Zoom (28-560)
HD Movie (720P)
DIGIC IV
2.5″ Vari-Angle LCD
ISO3200
$399 USD

Press Release
Canon today announces the new PowerShot SX20 IS – a digital compact camera with a 20x wide-angle super zoom lens – enabling photo enthusiasts to get closer to their chosen subject.

The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS’s 2.5 inch vari-angle PureColor LCD display coupled with the full manual controls will allow photographers an even greater range of creative options.  The versatile camera, a successor to the SX10 IS, now features HD video (720p) to ensure you capture video in the sharpest detail.

The PowerShot SX20 IS has a 20x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom which zooms from 28mm to 560mm giving excellent flexibility with composition.  The lens features both an Ultrasonic Motor (USM) and a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) for fast, silent focus and zooming – making the camera unobtrusive and easy-to-use, whether shooting stills or video footage. Combined with a wide-angle view the camera is ideal for shooting wildlife photography or sports events.

A 12.1 Megapixel image sensor is capable of capturing each moment in incredible detail, with DIGIC 4 image processing for high image quality, responsive operation and advanced noise reduction. Shots are enhanced by optical Image Stabiliser (IS) technology, which helps reduce camera shake and image blur. This gives users a 4-stop advantage when it comes to shooting in low-light conditions – making the camera easy to use indoors or at night without resorting to flash.

Creative freedom meets high definition video
To help users make the most of these creative possibilities, the PowerShot SX20 IS includes a vari-angle 2.5 inch PureColor VA LCD display, which can be used in a wide variety of shooting situations from macro level to street photography – giving photographers maximum flexibility when framing their shots.

The LCD display is useful when shooting high definition video too. The PowerShot SX20 IS can record HD video at 720p resolution and includes a dedicated movie button for instant access to movies in still mode and instant stills shooting during movie recording.  The inclusion of an HDMI mini port makes it easy to playback footage on compatible TVs. The all-digital HDMI connection offers numerous benefits, including an incredible level of picture detail and reproduction of the PowerShot SX20 IS’s CD-quality stereo sound.

Advanced features, maximum ease of use
More experienced users can also choose to use their own preferred presets or even opt for full manual control, making the PowerShot SX20 IS an excellent all-rounder for all levels of photography experience.
To make the PowerShot SX20 IS as easy-to-use as possible, it features an enhanced version of Canon’s Smart Auto Mode with Scene Detection Technology. This automatically detects faces, distance, motion, colour and brightness in the frame, with the camera selecting from one of 22 scene variables to optimise settings for the best results.

Face Detection, Face Self-Timer and Auto Red-Eye Correction make shooting even easier. Additionally, the PowerShot SX20 IS combats blur with Motion Detection Technology and Servo AF/AE, which enables users to select a subject in the frame while the camera continually adjusts focus and exposure. Continuous Shooting AF adjusts auto focus between shots – so users can capture action with clarity – ideal for shooting birds in flight, or high-octane sporting action.

Users will also benefit from helpful Hints & Tips incorporated within the user interface.  Short descriptions of functions simplify the interaction with the camera and encourage the user to explore the features – thereby taking better shots.

In addition, the PowerShot SX20 IS includes an enhanced version of i-Contrast: Canon’s Intelligent Contrast Correction technology, which is ideal for shooting in difficult lighting situations. i-Contrast optimises the dynamic range to prevent highlight blowout, while retaining shadow detail. This makes it ideal for use with outdoor portraits, for example, where extremes of shadow and sun can make creating balanced images difficult.
The PowerShot SX20 IS has a built-in hot shoe that enables it to be used with a range of optional accessories including Speedlite EX flashes (including 270EX, 220EX, 430EX II, 580EX II) as well as the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 and Off-Camera Shoe Cord OC-E3.

Canon SX120 IS

Canon PowerShot SX120 IS

Canon SX120 IS Image from DPReview

Specification Highlights
10mp
10x Zoom (36-360)
DIGIC IV
3″ LCD
ISO3200
$249 USD

Press Release
Canon today announces the PowerShot SX120 IS – a high quality, easy-to-use digital compact camera with a flexible 10x optical zoom lens which offers high resolution, DIGIC 4 image processing and Smart Auto Mode – making it easier than ever for everyone to capture superb-quality images.

The new PowerShot SX120 IS offers impressive power and usability features and builds on the success of its popular predecessor, the PowerShot SX110 IS, while the design incorporates ergonomic curved lines and a handsome, lightweight, black finish.

Advanced technology with a flexible zoom
The PowerShot SX120 IS is ideal for capturing a variety of scenes and activities. A 10x optical zoom lens is perfect for family holidays or school sports days, when you often need extra zoom.   For pin-sharp results, the PowerShot SX120 IS features technologies that dramatically reduce camera shake and image blur. Canon’s Image Stabiliser (IS), ISO Auto and Motion Detection Technology work together to form a complete Anti-Blur solution.

To capture every detail, the PowerShot SX120 IS includes a 10 Megapixel sensor with Canon’s powerful and intelligent DIGIC 4 processor – ensuring superb response times and natural colour reproduction. DIGIC 4 also takes care of difficult lighting conditions with i-Contrast – a technology which prevents highlight blowout, whilst retaining shadow detail.

Simplicity alongside advanced control
For trouble-free shooting the PowerShot SX120 IS includes Smart Auto and Easy modes with Scene Detection Technology. By analysing people, distance, brightness and colour in the scene, the camera automatically selects one of 18 scene variables to optimise settings for the best results – freeing the user to concentrate on picture taking, while the camera takes care of the technical details.

Framing and reviewing shots is simple too, thanks to a bright 3.0 inch LCD with wide viewing angle.

More experienced users can choose their settings with additional shooting modes such as Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority. A full manual control mode is also provided – perfect for users who wish to experiment with their shots.

The camera can also shoot VGA movies with sound, so users can film action as well as shooting beautiful stills.

Perfect Portraits with Face Detection Technology
The PowerShot SX120 IS also comes with the latest DIGIC 4 Face Detection Technology which recognises up to 35 faces in a scene and automatically adjusts key focus and exposure settings to ensure everyone looks their best.

This technology includes Auto Red-Eye Correction, Face Detection AF/AE/FE, and Face Self-Timer – a feature that is great for group shots and self-portraits as the camera waits until it detects a new face in the frame before taking the shot.  Faces can also be detected if they are at an angle to the camera so that the correct focus and exposure can be achieved without subjects facing the camera directly.

Face Select & Track also allows the user to select a particular face to be the main subject of the photo.  This person is then tracked  as they move around the frame – making sure the chosen face is the favoured subject  and captured perfectly every time – ideal for shooting the important people in a crowded scene.

Whatever your level of photography expertise, the PowerShot SX120 IS takes stunning images while being simple and easy to use.