Showing posts with label camera. Show all posts
Showing posts with label camera. Show all posts

Wednesday, 12 January 2011

Checklist of must have a selection of digital camera

Now it seems digital cameras are ubiquitous-they are incorporated into our phones, our PDA and even our vehicles! This may be fine for some, but you may wish to a digital camera, equipped with more "things" than your camera can be! Finally, digital cameras, you can perform the film things cameras: displaying images on your screen immediately after you save them; storing hundreds (sometimes thousands!) of images on one small memory device, video recording with sound and deleting images to free space.
Did you know that the Hubble space telescope is essentially a specialized digital camera?
Although the same components as the Hubble Telescope may not require their own personal digital camera, there are some important criteria to consider before making the purchase. Finally, the digital camera you can buy should reflect the needs, which may change over time.
o Needs-please consider that you will capture. Whether you are a traveller of the world, taking photographs, historic sites and beautiful landscapes? You're entuzjasta sports, and therefore take action shots? If so, you should probably consider a digital camera that can shoot at high speeds. Additional considerations include:
-Where will you capture? (indoors and outdoors/low or bright light, etc.)
-The level of experience (will be primarily used a mode "auto" for things like Flash and will be, or whether you plan to Explore Apertura art photos?)
-Features-whether you know what you want? (Optical zoom, large LCD, image stabilization, etc.)
-Volume and give from your digital camera
-Compatibility — there is no equipment-camera or PDA-benefiting from a specific type of memory card? Accessories with previously purchased cameras which can be used with the new consideration, it may be necessary. It is not enough memory card, either. Batteries, rechargers and lenses (multiple lenses of the movie are in accordance with the digital SLR company from the same manufacturer!)
about the budget-where already assessed the needs of the digital camera, it's a good idea to determine the amount of money you spend, or at least expenditure range. This will help "narrow your search".
about Megapixels-this already sounds intimidating. Don't let this is! Everything you want to print the images. Casual use and simple to share your pictures (with 2-free old nieces birthday parties acceptable photos), basic, 2-Megapixel model only works properly. The good news is that, today, most new cameras is amended with at least 5-megapixel camera. Only when you are going to be blowing to images-often-should consider investing in a digital camera with more than 5-megapixel camera.
about Zoom-optical or digital? -Digital Zoom enlarges the pixels in the image, but does not make Use photographed the appearance of the greater; only more pixilated. If you consider t, select optical zoom. Currently, most digital cameras to them, to at least 3 X in length. This means that the topic will look 3 X as big.
about research-both online and in store. Hundreds of reliable, free Web sites are available at your fingertips. On the digital camera (s) shall consider the purchase you get feedback in real time. (Also is a great way to do some comparison shopping!) Some blogs allow even interact with the clients directly to ask questions. After you have narrowed the search, please visit the store your digital camera and ask to see digital cameras you are interested in the cm "Handle" camera to make sure that you have experience with its importance, availability, and ease of use. No amount of research on the Internet, you can replace the experience of the "hands".
about add-ins-in addition to the cost of the digital camera "basic" these additives should be considered in the overall purchase:
-in the case of camera
-memory card
-Additional batteries
-recharger
-filters
-lenses (if considering a DSLR)
-blinks reflectors/external
-tripods trilogy
-
warranty-consider the purchase of optional guarantee digital camera you choose; but before that; Check the website of the supplier, because the guarantee of a factory may suffice.
Now you are ready to use your digital camera! Hold the acceptance box camera and all documents related guarantee. Register to purchase a digital camera manufacturer-make everything much easier to have a claim, as most producers cameras require documentation in order to honor the guarantee.

The history of the camera

Early cameras of the 16th and 17th century were able to project images onto paper or glass but the study of capturing, processing and printing the images took many more years. Up until the 17th century, scientists believed that light was composed basically of the 'white' that is perceived by the human eye. It took the research done by famous physicist Isaac Newton to discover that light is actually composed of a spectrum of colors. While he made a big contribution to the study of optics (that is at the core of camera advances) with this discovery, Newton did not actually have anything to do with camera development.
The early camera that first became a phenomenon was a little more than a pinhole camera and can be traced back to 1558. It was called the Camera Obscura. The Camera Obscura was seen as a drawing tool for a clearer and realistic portrayal of objects. It was in the early 19th century that an invention named the Camera Lucida was introduced by Cambridge scientist William Hyde Wollaston that consisted of an optical device that could help an artist view a distant scene or person or object on a paper surface that he or she was using to draw. In other words the artist gets to view a superimposed image of a subject on paper and this image could be effectively used to attempt to draw, trace or paint it. Both the Camera Obscura and the Camera Lucida provided an image that was temporary, which could not be lastingly captured on to paper for later reference.
Studies however continued well into the 1800's on how to actually capture the image onto material. It was during this time, around 1822 that French researcher Joseph Nicephore Niepce, created the first photograph by using paper that was coated with a chemical. The image would not stay permanently on the paper and would disappear after a short while. Even so, despite the short-lived nature of the image, the concept of photography was born with this experiment and paved the way for further study and development in this field.
Capturing images to retain them longer and permanently became the next big quest for researchers. Another Frenchman Louis-Jacques-Mand? Daguerre partnered with Joseph Nic?phore Ni?pce in 1829, to develop the process of creating permanent photographs. Joseph Ni?pce died in 1833 but Daguerre continued with the work and succeeded in 1837 after many long years of experimentation. The process of capturing photographic images that would not fade away, introduced by Daguerre came to be known as the 'daguerreotype'.
The word 'photography' was coined by scientist Sir John F.W. Herschel in 1839 and it is actually is derived from two Greek words 'photos' meaning light and 'graphein' meaning draw.
A slightly more advanced version of the daguerreotype called the Calotype process that makes multiple copies possible using the negative and positive method became available very soon after. In fact, it was during the 1840's that the use of photographic images in advertisements first started and cameras made their mark on the power of visual communication. It was not much later, in the 1850's that photographers first started experimenting with underwater photography of seascapes.
Up until 1850, the process of capturing images was cumbersome requiring upto half an hour of light exposure. The discovery made in 1851 by Frederick Scott Archer was a blessing since the new method termed the Collodion process called for just 2-3 seconds of light exposure to capture an image.
Prior to 1871, photographers went through a development process where they had to coat the plate with wet chemical each and every time and process the image immediately. With the invention the gelatin dry plate silver bromide process by Richard Leach Maddox, negatives did not have to be developed immediately. This was an important discovery since up until then the captured image had to be processed instantly.
Kodak created in 1888 by George Eastman has been a modern day pioneer of sorts in cameras and photography for the masses. George Eastman and the scientists who worked with him at Kodak developed the photographic film in 1889 and made it available in rolls for the mass use of consumers. An important milestone in our entertainment and communication history was the development of transparent roll film by Eastman. This development led to another key invention - the motion picture camera by Thomas Edison's in 1891.
-->Modern Times
During the 20th century the pace of technology development in cameras and photography continued at an accelerated pace much like many other key technology developments. While several key inventions like car, telephone and the gramophone record happened in the later half of the 19th century, it is the last 100 years that saw major developmental work in many areas of communications technology and as well as in other fields - TV, aircrafts, PCs, digital technology, digital cameras, mobile phones, fax machines and the internet, to name a few.
In the case of the camera, the developments simplified the whole process of photography, making it accessible to one and all at affordable prices and the camera industry denizens of our times made it into a mass phenomenon. The first mass use camera became available at the turn of the 20th century and can be traced back to the year 1900. There are hundreds of models of cameras available today both for the amateur as well as the professional and the camera is an important part of any family's repertoire of must have gadgets.
-->20th century chronology in the history of the camera:
1913: 35 mm still-camera created
1927: The flash bulb introduced by General Electric Co. (The concept of camera flash existed much before but was based on the use of a flash light powder that was invented by German researchers)
1935- 1941: Kodak starts marketing Kodachrome film and subsequently launches Kodacolor negative film. Canon released the Hansa Canon in 1936, the first 35mm focal-plane shutter camera.
1948: The concept of the Polaroid camera is introduced in the market. American scientist Edwin Land developed the process for instant photography. Later Polaroid Corporation developed the 'instant color' film around 1963.
1957: Frenchman Jaques Yves Cousteau invented the first waterproof 35mm camera for underwater photography named the Calypso Phot. The actual camera was developed by the Belgian airplane technical designer Jean de Wouters based on the blueprint and suggestions given to him by Cousteau.
1972: The electronic camera that does not require film was created and patented by Texas Instruments. This is however not the same as a digital camera though you don't require film in digital cameras as well. The launch of the digital camera is still many years away.
1975: Kodak's experiments with digital imaging kicked off around the mid seventies but it will take another 20 years before a digital camera for the home consumer market is launched.
1978 - 1980: Asian players like Konica and Sony begin to make their mark. The 'point and shoot' automatic focus camera is launched by Konica while Sony starts talking about the camcorder and demonstrates a prototype.
1981: Sony launches a commercially available electronic still camera. Similar to the 1972 invention by Texas Instruments, the Sony electronic camera came with a mini disc on which images were recorded and stored. The recorded images could be later printed or viewed on a monitor using a reader device.
1985: Digital processing technology makes its entry. Digital imaging and processing is introduced by Pixar.
1986: The camera industry becomes even more consumer focused and taps the fun and travel connotations behind camera usage, with the launch of the concept of the disposable single use cameras. Fuji is credited with the development of this concept.
Also in 1986 - 1987, Kodak started taking giant strides in digital development. Digital means, the photographic image is divided into tiny units of dots or squares known as pixels. Pixels are the programmable units of an image that can be processed by computers. Each image could be made up of millions of pixels. The use of pixels in digital technology allows storing large volumes of pixels to deliver high definition print quality.
1990: Kodak introduces Photo CD's. It is a system of storing photographic images on CD and then viewing them on a computer. With this development the user-friendly approach of the camera industry began to take concrete shape.
1991: Kodak introduces a digital camera targeted at professionals and journalists. Kodak is credited with the invention of a pixel based camera technology known to us as the digital camera. Digital cameras don't use film similar to their predecessor electronic cameras but the storage method is entirely different and the final photograph is of much higher resolution. In a digital camera photos are recorded and stored in digital form. This digital data can be transferred to a computer and processed for printing. Kodak and Canon are well known digital camera manufacturers and there are also several other key brands as well.
1994: The Apple QuickTake camera, a home use digital camera is launched. This is followed by the launch of a clutch of home use digital cameras by Casio, Kodak and others in quick succession during 1995 -'96.
-->The digital era:
The development of digital camera technology is considered to be linked to the development of TV and Video technology. The principles of transmission and recording of audio-visual images using digital electrical impulses finds use in camera imaging as well.
Through the 1990's the developments continued in camera technology, the focus now shifting to the field of digital imaging which is where the future lies. Use-friendly features like software that can download digital images directly from camera onto home computers for storing and sharing on the internet is the new norm in the market place.
The camera, the computer, the software industry and the worldwide web are today irrevocably interlinked to empower the user in experiencing the benefits of camera usage to full potential. The innovation that sparked many an invention in the camera industry found its way into the digital world as well and continued among digital camera manufacturers. During 2001, the Kodak and Microsoft partnership ensured that digital camera manufacturers could use the power of Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) standard through Windows. The digital photo experience is a key visual driver in the Internet era. Many of Kodak digital camera models with EasyShare capabilities are compatible with Windows XP. The Kodak EasyShare software enables users to transfer digital camera pictures directly from camera to their computers and then print the pictures or even email them.
Manufacturers in a related industry like the printing industry have adapted their products to be in sync with the images created by digital cameras. Cell phone manufacturers have tied up with digital camera manufacturers to develop new age camera phones in recent years. These camera phones can capture images and share the images through the cell phone.
Among the 21st century digital developments are the advanced product offerings from digital cameras manufacturers and these are sure to occupy an important place in the ensuing history of camera development. For instance, the Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR/c is a high-end digital camera and the Kodak website calls the DCS Pro SLR models the most feature-rich digital cameras on the market. It has an image sensor that can handle 13.89 million pixels and this makes it the highest resolution digital camera available. High resolution determines the sharpness or level of detail in photographic images. This is just a glimpse of the capabilities that digital technology places in a user's hands. Digital camera sales figures for 2003 show that the two key players Kodak and Canon have recorded impressive growth.
-->What does the future holds for camera users?
The features offered by digital cameras can be quite mind-boggling for the average user and pretty exciting for most pros. Four key ongoing camera developments that are likely to further improve the process of photography:
1. Greater resolution from even the simplest, low cost camera models
2. Usage in any type of lighting conditions,
3. Compatibility across a range of software, hardware and image types
4. Rich colors and tone
While the higher-end digital evolution continues, the prices of the simple camera have crashed to such an extent that even children and teens are proud owners of uncomplicated cameras. The camera and photography interest starts young and this creates a truly large audience base for the camera industry.
And throughout history, it is evident that the endeavor of researchers and developers has been to make the camera available to a wide section of society. Without camera technology and photography, the other key developments of cinema and TV would have been delayed and what a boring place the world would have been without TV and films!!

Thursday, 16 December 2010

Professional JET Rugged Canvas Messenger Bag for the Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)

Carry this DSLR Canvas Messenger Bag like any photographer would! The exterior is made of a water resistant canvas material, while the interior has foam padding to protect your DSLR camera and lenses from dust and debris. There is a comfortable, adjustable shoulder strap to relieve stress from the weight of your shoulders. A total of 10 exterior pockets are included in order to provide convenience and utility. For your most valuable belongings, store in a pocket with a drawstring pouch, which will ensure that your valuables be safe and secure. Make use of your pockets by bringing along other electronic gadgets - smartphones, ebooks, or tablets! This bag is complete with the aesthetic touch from the outer flap, serving as a final protective characteristic with its snap buckle closure.
Price: $89.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Wednesday, 15 December 2010

National Geographic Camera Bags Walkabout Small Rucksack

The Walkabout Small Rucksack (5050 will allow you to travel freely and know that you always have your essentials with you while keeping your personal items, photographicvideo gear as well as most laptops (12.1or less safe and secure.



Click here to buy from Amazon

Tuesday, 14 December 2010

Flexible 5.0 Megapixel USB PC Camera Webcam with Microphone

Not sure where you would put a webcam? The flexible neck of this model can be bent into position, so you can stand it on your desk and direct the camera where you need it! The neck itself is 6 inches (15cm) long, and the camera has a built-in microphone on a smaller cable that can also be positioned.


Powered by USB. No external power supply needed
Price: $29.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Friday, 3 December 2010

The global Launch of Projector-equipped Digital Camera COOLPIX S1000pj S1100pj/website COOL PROJECTION

PRESS RELEASE: Worldwide Launch of Projector-Equipped Digital Camera COOLPIX S1100pj/S1000pj website “COOL PROJECTION”


TOKYO -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the worldwide launch of projector-equipped digital camera COOLPIX S1100pj/S1000pj website, “COOL PROJECTION” on November 11, 2010.
COOLPIX S1100pj is an advanced model of COOLPIX S1000pj, the world’s first digital camera with a built-in projector released in 2009. The new COOLPIX S1100pj responds even better to the needs of users of projector-equipped cameras. By increasing projection brightness by 40%*, projection is larger and clearer. In addition, adoption of a 3-inch TFT LCD touch panel monitor enables intuitive camera operation. The COOLPIX S1100pj also supports projection of computer data when connected to a computer, increasing the ways in which the built-in projector may be used for both personal and business application. The COOLPIX S1100pj, with its brighter and clearer projection, simpler operation and support for a broader range of applications, continues to offer the necessary camera functions for recording still images and movies. It is the model that proposes new ways to enjoy a digital camera with the ability to record and immediately share memories and lasting impressions anywhere and anytime.
*Compared to the COOLPIX S1000pj.
About The COOL PROJECTION
The COOL PROJECTION website is launched to propose and to share new execution way and the fun of using the projector function of COOLPIX S1100pj/S1000pj with people around the world. Worldly famous projection mapping artists and image creators will also participate in this website to challenge possibilities in artistic expressions and plan documentary executions that move the hearts of the audience using its unique projector function. Opportunities for users to experience the benefits of the new camera and to discover use way of COOLPIX S1100pj/S1000pj that everyone can enjoy will also be provided.
The site will be utilizing mainly SNS. COOL PROJECTION channel will be set up on YouTube, the world’s largest video posting site, and will also be a share tool that links with Twitter and Facebook to spread information around the world. On the website, projection contents released on YouTube will be gathered. That will be the base to the spread of information around the world and SNS will become a place to confirm the spread of information.
COOL PROJECTION will extend the fun of capturing and projecting images to the world.
Throughout its long history of developing and utilizing optical and other advanced technologies for use in the development and manufacture of products and services, Nikon has taken its role in the capture of special moments, regardless of the age or situation, very seriously. Nikon will continue to offer the means to record and share the moments that are special to individuals through flexible products and services for all users of digital cameras.
COOL PROJECTION Overview

Site launch: November 11, 2010
Languages: Japanese, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese
* Chinese exclusive SNS will be developed separately and will be launched on end of November 2010.
Some contents are available only in Japanese and English.
Access (URL): http://nikon.coolprojection.com
Primary contents

Phase 1
Small Video Art
Complete original image contents produced using COOLPIX S1100pj by worldly known projection mapping artists and motion graphics designers will be introduced on the site to demonstration the possibilities of capturing x projecting.
Participating artists

Masaru Ozaki
The pioneer of performing art creator, he is able to design motion graphics synchronized to performance on stage and live sounds. He is a projection artist / video artist, motion graphics designer representing Japan.
Thonik
Established by Nikki Gonisen from Amsterdam, Holland and Thomas Widdershoven from Maastricht, Holland.
Has been involved in works for the Museum Boijmans, Vinice Biennale of 2008, Socialistische Partij of Holland, Centraal Museum Utrecht, Amsterdam City and Spiral (Wacoal Art Center, Japan.) In 2009, a personal exhibition was held at the Spiral.
Other 6 artists from around the world are anticipated to participate.
Try Projection
Projection works from general users of COOLPIX S1100pj/S1000pj will be accepted for entry and posted on the website to give a sense of fun that are rooted in ordinary everyday scenes.
Summary:

“Capture it. Project it. Send it.
Submit your possibility for Projection.”
Entry period: Nov. 11, 2010 to end of Jan. 2011
Office mail address: contact@nikon.coolprojection.com
Mails to the office must be written in Japanese or English.
Screening results will be posted on the COOL PROJECTION website.
Interview :
About the background, some secret stories behind development and thoughts of this projector-equipped digital camera
Phase 2 (scheduled for release in December)
Emotional content in a documentary style will be posted to communicate and demonstrate the possibilities of projection in a daily situation.
*:Products, brand names and service names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
*:The information is current as of the date of publication. It is subject to change without notice.

Wednesday, 24 November 2010

Praktica introduces 14 Mp 14 Z4 digital camera

Praktica luxmedia 14-Z5 introduces compact digital camera that contains 14 megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD, 5 x zoom lens and a 2.7 inch (6, 9 cm) TFT color monitor. The Chamber offers the usual set of features, such as the smile detection, face tracking, digital antishake, blink detection, intelligent scene mode, built-in 64 MB of memory, SDHC support and 720 x 400 video in 30 fps. In the field will find the camera, USB cable, cable TV, image software, Pocket, strap, manual, Li-ion battery and charger ...Check out the current line of Praktica digital cameras at www.praktica.de
5.0-25.0 mm (35 mm equivalent: 28-140 mm)
Normal: 80 cm-infinity macro (width): 10-100 cm
14-m 3: 2, 8 m, 5 M, 3 m, 16: 9, VGA
Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
normal, sepia, black and white, RGB
aout mode, automatically reducing red eye, Flash off mode, Flash mode, slow sync.
6,9 cm (2,7) TFT LCD color monitor (960 x 240)
720 x 400, 640 x 480, 320 × 240 pixels, 30 fps
64 MB Built-in memory, SDHC support, smile detection, tracking, digital antishake face, blink detection
64 MB Built-in memory, SD/SDHC card
Li-ion battery NP-45
USBcable, TV cable, a CD with driver and image software, Pocket, strap, manual, Li-ion rechageable battery charger

Sunday, 21 November 2010

New Panasonic GF2, the smallest camera never ILS

World's Smallest and Lightest Digital Interchangeable Lens System Camera DMC-GF2 - Featuring Ultimate Ease of Operation and High Picture Quality in Both Photo and Full HD Movie Recording
Panasonic is pleased to announce the new interchangeable lens system camera DMC-GF2 from LUMIX G Micro System based on the Micro Four Thirds standard. With a dramatic downsizing from the predecessor, the DMC-GF2 features an outstanding compactness and ease of operation while pursuing high image quality.
The world's smallest and lightest* DMC-GF2 is reduced approx. 19% in size and approx. 7% in weight compared with the DMC-GF1. The DMC-GF2 is equipped with a built-in flash which adopts new pop-up mechanism to prevent vignetting effect due to short distance between the flash unit to the interchangeable lens.
Featuring 12.1-megapixel high speed Live MOS sensor and high performance Venus Engine FHD, the DMC-GF2 boasts high picture quality not only in photo but also in movie, which has been upgraded in resolution to full HD 1920 x 1080 at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) in AVCHD**.
The operation is extremely easy to understand for any level of users with the adoption of touch control and the new GUI (Graphic User Interface) designed for DMC-GF2. The focus is immediately set to the subject by just touching it on the large, 460,000-dot LCD and you can even release the shutter. The Touch Q-menu can be customized by the user only with those used often. Together with the simple button components including the dedicated buttons for movie recording and iA (Intelligent Auto) mode that lights during activation, users can operate the camera intuitively with ease and comfort.
The chassis is made of aluminum to realize rigid impression of quality. The grip is designed to assure good hold even the camera is slim and compact. Available in black, silver, white, red and pink, the tiny, pocket-sized DMC-GF2 brings users huge surprise of photographic enjoyment.
* For an interchangeable lens system camera with a built-in flash as of November 4, 2010.
** Full HD (1920 x 1080) movies are output by the image sensor at 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL), and recorded at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL). HD (1280 x 720) movies are output by the image sensor at 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL), and recorded at 60p (NTSC) / 50p (PAL).
1. The intuitive touch-control shooting in a world's smallest and lightest body*
The DMC-GF2 is dramatically reduced approx. 19% in size and approx. 7% in weight compared with the predecessor DMC-GF1 to make the body world's smallest and lightest*. It is made possible by various innovative approaches including the downsizing of mount unit and a reduced number of internal parts by integrating electrical circuits. The DMC-GF2 is equipped with a built-in flash which adopts new pop-up mechanism to prevent vignetting effect due to short distance between the flash unit to the interchangeable lens. Even step-up users will not be bewildered by the absence of the flash which has been taken for granted with compact cameras. The use of flash expands the photographic opportunity in shooting people at nighttime or indoors.
The operation is extremely easy to understand for any level of users with the touch control and the new GUI (Graphic User Interface) designed for DMC-GF2. The focus is immediately set to the subject by just touching it on the large, 460,000-dot LCD and you can even release the shutter. Once you lock on the subject by a touch, the camera tracks the subject with the AF tracking function even if it moves. Just a touch on the screen lets you select the part and the size of AF area with the 1-area AF. The 1-area AF in Face Detection even allows you to set finer focus on the eyes while capturing human face bright and clear. The Multi-area AF with 23 AF areas allows setting a group of AF point according to the composition. With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the camera automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched. For example, a touch on a human face switches to the portrait mode and a touch on the background or scenery to the scenery mode while a touch on the subject close to the camera to the close-up mode. With the MF assist mode in the manual focusing, you can enlarge the part by just a touch to select 1x, 5x or 10x and smoothly move the part by dragging it on the screen. With the defocus control function in iA mode and the My Color mode, the range of defocus can be adjusted by just moving the slider by a finger.
The touch operation dramatically shortcuts the action of setting in the menu, too. The Touch Q-menu can be customized by the user only with those used often. Together with the simple button components including the dedicated buttons for movie recording and iA mode which lights in use, users can operate the camera intuitively with ease.
The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting but also for playing back images with outstanding visibility. You can play back the image you want out of hundreds of stocks by touching them in the thumbnails. To play back images one by one in order, you can drag the image over the screen with a finger to browse the collection of photos as you flip over the pages of a book. Max. 16x of enlargement is also operated easily with touches.
* For an interchangeable lens system camera with a built-in flash as of November 4, 2010.
2. High image quality as an interchangeable lens system camera
While achieving breakthroughs in compactness of design and outstandingly high usability, the DMC-GF2 assures high picture quality in both photo and movie thanks to the best-balanced performance of an imaging engine and a sensor.
For the image processor, the Venus Engine FHD is incorporated that features exceptionally high performance signal processing capabilities in both photo and movie recording. With the advanced noise reduction system employing the 3D NR and CNR (Chromatic Noise Reduction), you can capture clear, naturally-balanced images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels preventing the color bleeding due to the chromatic aberration and deterioration of the resolution. The Intelligent Resolution technology is another feature of the Venus Engine FHD. With the Intelligent Resolution technology, 3 areas - outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation areas are automatically detected. The outline parts are enhanced effectively to give edges more clearness while giving a moderate accentuation to the texture areas to look more finely detailed. To the soft gradation part, superior noise reduction system of the Venus Engine FHD is applied to make it smoother. Apart from the uniform enhancement of sharpness, the innovative technology Intelligent Resolution precisely performs signal processing pixel by pixel in the most effective way for it. As a result, images are naturally clear and crisp in both photo and movie recording.
The 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor featured in the DMC-GF2 offers the best of both worlds — the superior image quality of a CCD sensor, and the lower power consumption of a CMOS sensor. Advanced technology that makes it possible to read 4 channels of data simultaneously also helps the DMC-GF2 deliver 60 frames-per-second Full-time Live View images, while faithfully reproducing high-resolution images with fine detail and rich gradation. Linking smoothly with the Live MOS sensor, the Venus Engine FHD records stunning high-resolution 12.1-megapixel images with exceptional accuracy. Signals containing a large amount of image data are sent from the Live MOS sensor to the optional Live View Finder at 60 fps, resulting in clear, smooth live view. The Venus Engine FHD also supports an extensive range of functions, including HDMI output.
The contrast AF system adopted by the LUMIX DMC-GF2 is not only accurate and easy to use, but also very fast. Users can choose from a wide range of AF modes, including multiple-area AF with up to 23 focus areas, 1-area AF with a selectable focus area, Face Detection, and AF Tracking.
Cameras of LUMIX G Micro System are equipped with highly efficient Dust Reduction System. If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the camera when you're changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. The Dust Reduction System in the DMC-GF2 helps eliminate this possibility by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.
3. High quality image recording in 1920x1080 AVCHD full HD movie
The LUMIX DMC-GF2 is an advanced photographic tool for recording not only great photos but also beautiful full HD movies. The DMC-GF2 can record high-resolution full HD 1920 x 1080 movies at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL), or smooth HD 1280 x 720 movies at 60p (NTSC) / 50p (PAL) in AVCHD (MPEG-4/H.264) format**. The HD Motion JPEG in 1280 x 720 can also be selected as an alternative movie recording format in addition to QVGA, VGA and WVGA, which is more compatible with PCs. A special, separate button on the back lets the user instantly start recording movies while shooting photos without any having to make any extra settings. High quality sound can be recorded with the stereo microphone for Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator. A Wind Cut function is also available to block out most of the noise from background wind.
Even video beginners can record excellent movies with the DMC-GF2 because the popular iA mode is also available in movie recording. Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) helps prevent handshake when using high-powered zoom. Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion on it, so it always turns out beautiful. The Intelligent D-range Control offers natural looking by optimizing the exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights and helping ensure that gradation and details are reproduced beautifully including the blue color of the sky. And Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Portrait, Scenery, Close-up and Low Light modes according to the situation to optimize various parameters for higher visual quality.
The Touch AF in movie recording also lets users enjoy professional-like rack focusing. Just by pointing the subject, the focus is shifted to it and let it stand out to attract attention. The DMC-GF2 can save a frame of movie as photo during playback. The Video Divide function lets you split a video into two at the point you desire. This makes it possible to delete the unwanted part by cutting it off.
4. A pallet of options to stimulate photographers' creativity
The DMC-GF2 is artistic not only in form, but also in function. It provides an array of features that let users capture precisely true-to-life images and create their own beautifully expressive images. The DMC-GF2 features a new My Color mode which is integrated with the conventional Film mode. It offers a total of 8 preset effects — Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Cinema, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, Silhouette, plus Custom mode, which lets users manually set the color, brightness, saturation and contrast levels. With the Full-time Live View function, users can see how these settings will affect the images before they shoot, which makes it easier to capture the exact mood or atmosphere desired. The DMC-GF2 also provides a total of 17 Scene modes. Most of these modes can be used when shooting motion images too, letting users create movies with dramatic, theatrical effects without having to edit after they shoot.
The exposure meter can be displayed in the P/A/S/M shooting modes for entry-level users to learn the correlation between shutter speed and aperture visually to enhance their photography skills.
5. Enjoy watching high quality photos and movies on large HDTV - VIERA Link networking even in 3D
Both still images and motion images in AVCHD recorded on SD Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV with dynamic HD resolution. The user simply inserts the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD Memory Card slot) on a VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray DiscTM Recorder / Player* to play the content. Alternatively, an optional HDMI mini cable can be used to output still and motion images recorded with the DMC-GF2 directly to the TV for easy VIERA Link operation. This makes it possible to take maximum advantage of the camera's playback functions, including slideshows in which both still and motion images are played sequentially, or calendar displays and so on. All control is possible using only the TV's remote control.
Especially, the pictures taken with the interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 can be viewed in 3D via the 3D Image Viewer offering users a whole new exciting experience. In addition, with the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.0 HD Edition, it is easy to view and edit your recorded contents. You may also choose to upload your videos to YouTube or burn them onto a DVD disc for archiving.
* AVCHD motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD cannot be played on a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.
6. Rich options for expandability
The Micro Four Thirds System products are joining today's Four Thirds System products to provide customers with even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-GF2 and LUMIX G Micro System can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R. This gives the user access to the unlimited number of lens properties.
With the LUMIX G Micro System and the growing assortment of lenses becoming available, the expressive possibilities are unlimited. The LUMIX DMC-GF2 system camera offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match every shooting situation and shooting style. Notably, the hot shoe on the top lets you attach the optional tilt-shift Live View Finder (DMW-LVF1) of 1.04x (0.52x*), 202,000-dot, 100% field of view.
7. Just shooting is not the goal - Included software
With the DMC-GF2, PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.0 HD Edition for easy organization of photos and movies, the SILKYPIX® Developer Studio 3.1 SE for RAW file development and Super LoiLoScope (trial version) come bundled.
The PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.0 HD Edition makes it possible to sort and organize photos not only of those newly taken but also of those stored in your PC with quick start-up and fast read-in of images. The Face Recognition function that recognizes the faces in the picture automatically sorts the photos by the registered faces without picking out each photo one by one when you only want pictures of a specific person. You can also enjoy slideshows with a variety of effects and use your iTunes music library as background music and burn it onto a DVD disc in MPEG2. Motion pictures can be uploaded directly to YouTube.
The original image data in RAW file format recorded with the DMC-GF2 allows images to be developed according to your intention using highly advanced functions of the SILKYPIX® Developer Studio 3.1 SE software utility. It features unique combination of high resolution and extraordinary color separation performance. The Super LoiLoScope lets you experience high speed HD movie editing.