Friday, June 1, 2012

Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS 12.1 MP


Product Details

Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS Camera User Guide [50.1MB PDF]


    Product Description

    Color: Black

    From the Manufacturer

    The Leading Edge of Design and Technology

    Beautifully and Astonishingly Thin
    At a slim 0.86 inches, the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS is the world’s thinnest camera with a 28mm Wide-Angle lens, 
    Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 at Amazon.com12x Optical Zoom, and Optical Image Stabilizer.* Its stylish form is enhanced by its lustrous finish, which gives you a choice of three refined colors: Red, Black and Silver. But real beauty goes beyond skin deep with the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS. Amazingly, Canon did not sacrifice performance for style.

    *As of August 23, 2011

    12x Optical Zoom with 28mm Wide-Angle Lens
    Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 at Amazon.comThe PowerShot ELPH 510 HS features a powerful Genuine Canon 12x Zoom Lens that delivers outstanding optical performance and versatility. Fitting such a high-performance lens with such wide zoom range into a camera so thin would normally be considered an impossible feat. Canon’s expert optical engineering met the challenge by developing a light-folding retractable-prism lens barrel, which achieves outstanding compactness with high zoom power and superb performance. The zoom starts at 28mm wide-angle and extends to 336mm telephoto (35mm equivalent), covering an exceptionally wide range. The telephoto reach gives you the freedom to capture subjects from a considerable distance, while the 28mm wide-angle makes it easy to shoot sweeping landscapes, large groups of people and tall buildings.

    Optical Image Stabilizer
    Handheld shooting can often lead to camera shake, making photos and videos blurry. Canon’s Optical Image Stabilizer is a sophisticated system that uses lens-shift technology to correct for unwanted camera movement. It makes handheld photography more practical, providing excellent image quality in many difficult shooting situations: outdoors at dusk, inside without a flash, and even at the telephoto end of the zoom range without a tripod. For photos, it enables shooting at slower shutter speeds, accommodating more low-light shooting situations than ever before without having to boost ISO sensitivity. With camera shake and vibration reduced, you get a sharper, steadier image. And because it is an optical system, there is none of the image degradation typical with electronic image stabilizers.

    Experience the Power

    Canon HS SYSTEM
    The Canon HS SYSTEM lets you take bright, clear photos in an even wider range of shooting situations. Beautiful low-light shots are possible with minimal noise and maximum detail in highlight and shadow areas. The system is the result of two technologies brought together in PowerShot cameras: a high-sensitivity imaging sensor, which is able to capture more light; and the DIGIC Image Processor, which actively reduces noise with high-speed image processing. The 12.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor in the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS incorporates advanced light reception technology that enhances sensitivity. The DIGIC 4 Image Processor provides a major boost in noise reduction, expanding the usable ISO range to an amazing high of 3200. The Canon HS SYSTEM takes the frustration out of low-light shooting, delivering clear, blur-free images.

    Canon DIGIC 4 Image Processor
    Canon DIGIC Image Processors have set the standard for functionality and performance since their groundbreaking introduction in 1999. With each successive generation, DIGIC processors have brought elevated performance and powerful new features to PowerShot digital cameras. The DIGIC 4 processor has ushered in a new level of picture quality and accelerated processing, making possible features such as high-speed continuous shooting, Full HD video and Face Detection Self-timer. New, more powerful noise reduction algorithms also provide improved low-light capture.

    Memorable Moments in Spectacular Full HD

    Canon Full HD Video Advantage
    In addition to the Canon HS SYSTEM, the combination of the advanced CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor in the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS makes it possible to shoot crisp, clear high definition video. Imagine the fun and excitement of being able to shoot spectacular 1080p Full HD video with stereo sound that you can later watch on your HDTV or download to your computer to share with family and friends. In addition to being able to shoot Full HD 1080p video at 24* frames per second, the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS can also shoot 720p HD video at 30** frames per second.

    *Actual frame rate is 23.976 fps.
    ** Actual frame rate is 29.97 fps.


    HDTV playback via HDMI output and CEC
    It’s easy to enjoy and share the videos you shoot with the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS. Simply connect its HDMI terminal to your HDTV using an 
    Canon PowerShot ELPH 150 at Amazon.comHDMI cable. And because the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS supports HDMI-CEC technology, you’ll be able to control the playback of your images and videos on any CEC-enabled HDTV using the TV’s remote control. (CEC – Consumer Electronic Control – is part of the HDMI specification, enabling components in a system to communicate with one another.)

    iFrame
    Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 at Amazon.comWith the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS, you can also shoot video in the Apple iFrame format, which is a computer-friendly standard that speeds up importing and editing of videos. It keeps file sizes small, making it more convenient to upload or e-mail high-quality videos. The iFrame format enjoys native support in compatible Mac and Windows video applications, making it unnecessary to perform time-consuming and often quality-degrading conversions.


    Get the Shot You Want with Just a Touch

    PureColor LCD System
    The PowerShot ELPH 510 HS digital camera’s large and bright 3.2-inch PureColor LCD wide screen makes it easy to view and frame your shots in 
    Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 at Amazon.comhigh resolution (461,000 dots). PureColor technology delivers excellent contrast with rich, true-to-life color. Moreover, you can view the LCD screen over a surprisingly wide angle – above, below or to either side – without color shifts and with minimal reflections. A scratch-proof hard coating and a dust-repellent fluorine coating ensure a durable screen that dependably displays clear, vibrant images. The wide aspect ratio (16:9) provides ample room for information icons and touch buttons, preventing them from getting in the way of the image, and you can enjoy a brilliant full-screen image when shooting or playing back your Full HD videos.

    Touch Panel LCD with Touch Shutter
    The PowerShot ELPH 510 HS features touch panel technology that makes using the camera more intuitive and fun. Simply touch the screen to choose and track an AF point, change camera settings, record and play videos and much, much more! It also has an innovative Touch Shutter function that allows you to release the shutter right from the screen. Just touch the desired subject with your finger. An AF box will appear and track the subject as it moves. Then just lift your finger to release the shutter. It’s that simple.

    A PowerShot that Keeps Up with the Action

    High-Speed Burst Mode
    Capture amazing action shots like the pros with the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS camera. Using High-Speed Burst mode,* you can shoot at exceptionally high speeds – 7.8 frames per second. It’s a great feature for those who enjoy taking pictures at sporting events. High-Speed Burst is also an excellent way to make sure you capture that perfect instant in time when shooting any moving subject.

    *Image resolution is 1984 x 1488 pixels when shooting in High-Speed Burst mode.

    Super Slow Motion
    The Super Slow Motion Movie mode* on the PowerShot ELPH 510 HS gives you a fun and useful option when shooting videos. It records video clips at a very high speed – up to approximately 240 frames per second. When the clips are played at normal speed (30 fps), the action is dramatically slower. This video shooting mode can be used to capture memorable plays at sporting events or to analyze and study motion.

    *Records 640 x 480 pixels at 120 fps and 320 x 420 pixels at 240 fps.


    A Steady Image Is a Beautiful Image

    Intelligent IS
    The latest advance in Canon Optical Image Stabilization technology, Intelligent IS analyzes camera movement and applies the best shake correction method for the shooting situation. For stills, the system automatically selects among Normal, Panning, Macro (Hybrid) and Tripod IS modes. When shooting video, the system automatically selects among Dynamic, Powered, Macro and Tripod IS modes. With Intelligent IS, you can concentrate on image capture, letting the camera make the most effective IS settings to assure the steadiest possible image.


    Canon PowerShot EPLH 510Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 at Amazon.com
    Normal
    Corrects for a wide range of camera movement when shooting stills.
    Panning
    Panning motion is detected so that IS does not interfere with desired camera movement.
    Hybrid
    Corrects for shift-type camera shake, which typically occurs in macro (close-up) shooting.
    Dynamic
    Effective for video shooting at wide-angle focal lengths, eliminating the unwanted shaking that typically occurs while walking.
    Powered
    Compensates for hand movement when shooting video at the telephoto end of the zoom range, where camera shake is magnified.
    Tripod
    When tripod use is detected, the Image Stabilizer is stopped because it is not needed.

    A Smarter Camera Means Better Photos and Videos

    Smart AUTO
    Photographers of all levels appreciate a camera – especially a go-anywhere compact digital – that takes the hassle out of capturing beautiful images. The PowerShot ELPH 510 HS gives you Smart AUTO – sophisticated Canon technology that makes getting that great shot as simple as pressing the shutter button. Smart AUTO automatically detects scenes by assessing various factors in both the background and the subject. Detected scenes are analyzed using 32 predefined shooting situations. The camera then makes optimal settings to ensure the best possible image capture, whether you’re shooting stills or video. Smart AUTO also includes Advanced Subject Detection, which allows the camera to detect and track non-human moving subjects like animals and vehicles. With Smart AUTO, all you have to do is frame your shot and capture away.

    Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS Digital Camera


    Technical Details

    Color: Blue
    • Canon's HS SYSTEM with a 12.1 MP CMOS and DIGIC 4 Image Processor improves shooting in low-light situations without the need for a flash and
    • Full 1080p HD Video for exceptional quality and keep footage stabilized with Dynamic IS.
    • Get high-speed shooting in a point-and-shoot camera: High-speed Burst Mode captures 8.2fps and
    • Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on 32 predefined shooting situations.
    • 4x Optical Zoom with a Wide-Angle lens (28-112mm) Optical Image Stabilizer and a 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD.
    • Super Slow Motion Movie records video at high speeds to allow slow motion playback.
    • Lowers noise levels at higher ISO settings.


    Product Details



      Product Description

      Color: Blue

      From the Manufacturer

      Experience the Power.
      Canon's HS SYSTEM with a 12.1 Megapixel CMOS and DIGIC 4 Image Processor improves shooting in low-light situations without the need for a flash and lowers noise levels at higher ISO settings.
      The Canon HS SYSTEM takes the frustration out of low light shooting. The system delivers clear, blur-free shots with all the ambiance intact, and frees you from the sometimes unwanted effects of using the flash. Beautiful low light shots are possible at both low and high ISO speeds, and the dynamic range is expanded to retain maximum detail in highlight and shadow areas.
      The system is the result of two technologies brought together in a compact PowerShot. The first is the 12.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, which positions the light-receiving surface for optimal light reception. More light means clearer, blur-free images with plenty of detail and nuance, even in dark areas. Working together with the CMOS sensor to deliver the HS SYSTEM is Canon's advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor, which actively reduces noise and delivers high speed image processing.
      Memorable Moments in Spectacular Full HD.
      Full 1080p HD Video for exceptional quality with stereo sound, plus a dedicated movie button for easy access. Zoom optically while shooting video and keep footage stabilized with Dynamic IS.

      Experiencing the brilliance of Full 1080p HD video in a Canon PowerShot ELPH digital camera has never been easier. With the convenient dedicated movie button, you'll be able to instantly record everyday moments in amazing life-like realism at a push of a button. You can also operate the optical zoom while shooting video so you can get in close–but don't worry about shaky footage because Dynamic IS will help keep your videos steady!
      A PowerShot that Keeps Up with the Action.
      Get high-speed shooting in a point-and-shoot camera: High-speed Burst Mode captures 8.2fps and Super Slow Motion Movie records video at high speeds to allow slow motion playback.
      Sometimes, the action just won't stop for you. The PowerShot ELPH 100 HS digital camera is equipped with High-speed Burst Mode that can capture 8.2 frames per second, letting you catch the sequence of the action–a feature great for using at sport events!
      You can also add a fun slow motion effect to you videos with Super Slow Motion Movie. Super Slow Motion Movie will record your clips at a high speed so that when you watch your videos, they'll play back in slow motion–a feature also useful for analyzing a play-by-play of sports moves!
      Advanced Smart AUTO for Stills and Videos that Shine.
      Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on 32 predefined shooting situations.
      The PowerShot ELPH 100 HS digital camera takes the quality of your still images and videos to a whole new level - automatically. The camera's advanced Smart AUTO system detects a wealth of information about the scene you're shooting, then automatically selects the optimal settings for you. Now with an expanded range of 32 shooting scenarios, the camera handles a wide variety of situations, freeing you up to concentrate on composing your shot and capturing the moment you're looking for. From portraits to landscapes to action scenes, the PowerShot ELPH 100 HS digital camera has you covered whether you're shooting stills or videos.
      Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 FunctionsCanon PowerShot ELPH Series Feature Comparison Chart

      • Smart AUTO
        The camera automatically selects the best shooting settings for optimal quality based on subjects and environmental factors to provide point-and-shoot simplicity.
      • P Program
        Access advanced exposure compensation features while shooting mostly automatically.
      • Av Aperture-priority
        You define the aperture to either isolate your subject or have clarity throughout the entire picture, and the camera will choose the corresponding shutter speed.
      • Tv Shutter-priority
        You select the shutter speed to stop or blur action, and the camera finds the appropriate aperture. With slow exposure times, Canon's noise reduction system activates to ensure low image noise.
      • Movie Digest Mode
        Records a video clip before capturing a still image and then combines one day's worth of clips into a video.
      • Portrait
        The camera sets a large aperture, focusing the subject and artistically blurring the background to make your subject pop.
      • Kids & Pets
        Reduced focusing time freezes fast-moving subjects, so you won't miss those special shots.
      • Smart Shutter
        The camera automatically takes the photo when people smile, wink, or get into frame.
      • High-speed Burst
        The camera shoots continuously at a high speed of approx. 8.2fps while you hold down the shutter.
      • Best Image Selection
        The camera takes five photos in succession, and then chooses the best one out of the bunch.
      • Handheld Night Scene
        Suppresses image blur even without the help of a tripod.
      • Low Light
        For high quality image capture in an amazing range of dimly-lit situations.
      • Fisheye Effect
        Add a classic photo distortion without a fisheye lens.
      • Miniature Effect for Movies & Stills
        Emphasizes perspective for a miniature effect by blurring upper and bottom portions of videos and stills.
      • Toy Camera Effect
        Simulates photos taken with "toy" or pinhole cameras, darkening the image at the edges to create a vignette effect.
      • Creative Light Effect
        Transform background bright spots to stars, hearts, music motes and more.
      • Monochrome
        Choose from three single-tone effects: Black-and-White, Sepia, or Blue.
      • Super Vivid
        Super Vivid intensifies existing hues, saturating the scene with bright colors.
      • Poster Effect
        Poster Effect combines several similar shades into one color, turning subtle gradations into eye-catching, scene-popping contrasts.
      • Color Accent
        Choose to retain a single color in your image while other colors turn monochrome.
      • Color Swap
        Select a color and replace it with a color you specify for special effects.
      • Beach
        Get clear shots of people at a sunny beach without darkened faces.
      • Foliage
        Capture brilliant shots of autumn foliage, greenery and blossoms.
      • Snow
        Shoot clear snow scenes without darkened subjects or an unnatural bluish tint.
      • Fireworks
        Grab brilliant images of skyrocketing fireworks.
      • Stitch Assist
        Build awe-inspiring panoramas by neatly aligning sequential images.

      CameraELPH 500 HSELPH 300 HSELPH 100 HS
      Resolution12.112.112.1
      Optical Zoom4.4X5X4X
      LCD Size3.2"2.7"3.0"
      Image ProcessorDIGIC 4DIGIC 4DIGIC 4
      Focal Length24-10524-12028-112
      Image StabilizationOptical ISOptical ISOptical IS
      HD Video1080p1080p1080p
      Smart AUTO Scences323232
      Number of Scene Modes262526
      About the CameraUse the touch panel LCD for easy, fun operation.  Ultra wide angle lens gets more in your shotTake this camera everywhere!  Full HD, cool scence modes and Smart AUTO make shooting a breeze!Value in price but not in features.  The HS SYSTEM, full HD Video in a small, compact frame, five colors
      Feature Call OutTouch Panel, F2 lens, HS SYSTEM, HD Video, Movie Digest, Smart AUTOSlim and Sexy! Ultra compact, and  ultra wide angle, HD Video, HS SYSTEM, Movie DigestValue price, HD Video, HS SYSTEM, Movie Digest, Smart AUTO

      MovieShoot in Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 24 fps for up to 14 min. 53 sec. or 4GB per clip. Shoot in HD (1280 x 720) at 24 fps for up to 21 min. and 23 sec. or 4GB per clip. Shoot in VGA (640 x 480) at 30 fps for up to 46 min. and 46 sec. or 4GB per clip and QVGA (320 x 240 at 30 fps) for up to 2 hours 23 min. and 41 sec. or 4GB per clip.

      Super Slow Motion MovieRecord your clips in high speed (approx. 240fps), and then watch your videos in slow motion.

      Canon Helps You Get Great Quality Easily.
      4x Optical Zoom with a Wide-Angle lens (28Ð112mm) Optical Image Stabilizer and a 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD.
      The PowerShot ELPH 100 HS digital camera has the tools you need to photograph every moment in crisp, clear Canon quality. From wide-angle to telephoto, the 28mm Wide-Angle 4x Optical Zoom Lens lets you capture more into every shot. The Optical Image Stabilizer will also help keep all your images steady.


      The big and bright 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD screen lets you see everything easily, so whether you're trying to frame a shot or just reviewing your images, Canon helps you get the best image every time.
      Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 Screen
      3.0-inch PureColor System LCD screen


      3.0-inch PureColor System LCD screen

      Easily Turn Your Memories into Videos.
      Movie Digest Mode records a short video clip right before shooting a still image and then combines one day's worth of clips into one video.
      Putting together a video containing highlights from family vacations, important occasions and other special events is now easier than you might imagine. Using the Movie Digest Mode, you can have the camera automatically record a short video clip (up to approximately 4 seconds) every time you shoot a still image. The camera will then combine an entire day's worth of clips into a single video. No editing required Ð Movie Digest Mode does all the work, so you can sit back and enjoy your video!
      Add some Fun to Your Photos!
      New scene modes, Toy Camera Effect and Monochrome, add an artistic look to your photos.

      Sigma DP2S 14MP X3 FOVEON CMOS


      Technical Details

      • Full-Scale Sensor: The same APS-C sized sensor used on Sigma DSLR delivers on the DP2 promise of high resolution and rich tone.
      • Direct Image Sensor: Sigma's three-layered Foveon X3 direct image sensor captures all the color, creating images of unprecedented immediacy.
      • Integral Lens: Lens expert Sigma has poured its best technology into an integral lens just for the DP2, with a focal length
      • Imaging Capability: The Foveon X3 direct image sensor captures images in all their clarity and richness-it captures the very feeling in the air
      • True II: A proprietary algorithm optimizes image-processing time and quality
        See more technical details


      Product Details



        Product Description

        From the Manufacturer

        The DP2's and DP2s's integral standard lens is brand-new and purpose-designed, with a focal length equivalent to 41mm in a 35mm camera. We wanted to allow photographic effects beyond the scope of the focal length of the wide-angle lens of the DP1, which is equivalent to 28mm in a 35mm camera. So we gave the DP2 a standard-range focal length more suitable for snapshots and portraits.

        Sigma DP2s highlights



        The DP1's wide-angle lens is good with perspective, geared towards dynamic shots of scenery, buildings, celebrations. The standard lens built into the DP2 and DP2s, on the other hand, has a narrower field angle, giving a stronger effect, making the subject stand out. In other words, we've given it the ability to create the photo that you, and only you, can see in your mind's eye. Naturally, this is great for portraits. And for capturing the elusive beauty of ordinary, everyday subjects, this standard lens is ideal.

        Its focal length is longer than the DP1's lens. So, at low F-numbers (larger apertures), you can create amazing pictures by deliberately blurring the background. This makes the subject stand out sharply, in a compelling, almost mystical way. In this sense, you could say the DP2 and DP2s turns ordinary into awesome.

        The DP2s has outstanding picture quality and superior features. The DP2s features faster Auto Focusing with an enhanced AF algorithm, giving you more confidence and more comfort. By reducing power consumption, the newly implemented "Power Save Mode" makes better use of your battery and increases your shooting capacity. The back panel User Interface is improved for better visibility and faster operation. The red markings for shooting and the white markings for reviewing images have been used to enable quicker and accurate operation of the camera’s controls. Try the SIGMA DP2s, with its enhanced features and character, for yourself.

        Single Focus Lens Advantages

        Some say that single-focal length lenses are tricky to use, and too much hassle. Would you agree? There was a time when they were standard. But when high-performance zoom-lenses appeared on the scene, single-focal length lenses were nudged out of their mainstream position and relegated to the sidelines, where they have remained for many a year. No wonder most people think of them as a niche product.

        Sigma DP2s highlights


        Sure, when you have to shoot from just one spot, with no physical room to move, a high-magnification zoom lens, covering the range from wide-angle to telephoto, is the height of convenience. And conversely, when your single-focal length lens has the wrong field angle for the situation, you might not get the ideal shot.

        Nevertheless, despite this "inconvenience", many amateur photographers still love single-focal length lenses. They keep taking great pictures with them. Of course, in wide-aperture lenses of F2 and over, or telephoto/super-wide-angle lenses, or macro or fisheye lenses, the single-focus option gives the best overall balance. But that's not the only reason.

        Using a single-focus lens makes you pay attention to the basics of photography. Sigma believes that taking a photo should always be a fully conscious, personal act. Choosing the subject. Finding the best angle. Framing the shot in the best way possible. Considering the light and shadow falling on the subject. Taking the colors in account. These are all elements of photography. In our view, it's only by making these choices for yourself that you can relate to your subject and your photo in your own uniquely personal way.

        These are the very shots that end up being your best-ever pictures. Your emotionally-charged masterpieces. The ones that resonate with everyone who sees them. Sure, you would go through the same basic process if you were using a zoom lens.

        But with a zoom lens, you can get the perfect field angle with a single twist of the zoom ring. Creatively speaking, that makes it harder to get into the "zone". We're not knocking zoom lenses. Once you understand how convenient they are, you can go all-out and take full advantage of the benefits they offer. But just remember, their very convenience can diminish some of the most fascinating and crucial aspects of photography.

        With a single-focal length lenses, there's no convenient zoom function. You have to "zoom with your legs", and frame the shot yourself. Remember our conviction that it should be you, not the camera, who takes the picture. We think this effort is all part of the art. Using a zoom lens is like painting by numbers. A single-focal length lenses. gets you physically moving, forces you to frame your own shot, opens your eyes to unexpected beauty. It makes taking pictures more fun. It engages your creativity more fully. Like the saying goes, less is more. Single-focal length lenses. can be a challenge, but it's no drawback.

        Are you looking for a camera that brings out the artist in you? That would be the DP series. What could you do with them?

        Sigma DP2s Highlights

        Full Scale Sensor

        Sigma DP2s highlights


        The bigger the film size, the better the image quality. That's common knowledge in the world of film cameras. Ever tried using a Brownie film camera to shoot high-quality photos? Then you'll have a vivid sense of the exponential increase in image quality as film size increases. Basically, the same goes for digital cameras. In other words, sensor performance being equal, the image quality of a digital camera is determined by the size of the image sensor, be it CCD, CMOS or any other type.

        In the era of film cameras, both SLRs and compacts using the 35mm system used the same size of film, and image quality came down to lens quality and performance. There used to be compact film cameras that delivered high image quality despite their small body size, and those compacts had a large following among amateur photographers. When cameras made the switch from film to digital, however, it was taken for granted that DSLRs and digital compacts would use different image sensors.

        Direct Image Sensor
        Apart from the SD series and the DP series, almost all the digital cameras on the market use monochrome sensors only capable of capturing light intensity. Because these sensors do not capture color data, a color filter with a mosaic of pixels for the three primary colors - red, blue and green (RGB) - is mounted on top so that color data can be represented. But each light-sensing photodiode has a one-color filter, which means that each pixel can only capture one color, and data for the other two colors is discarded.

        Until this stage, of course, as in the Autochrome process, the RGB color "particles", or pixels, are recorded unmodified, forming the photo. A color interpolation process known as demosaicing is therefore performed in the latter stage of the image processing, and this restores the colors lost by individual pixels. This interpolation process basically consists of guessing the missing colors by analyzing the neighboring pixels, and adding those missing colors back in.

        Have you ever looked at an image generated by a digital camera and noticed something, well... unnatural, about it? The edges may be strongly emphasized, and the image may look reasonably nuanced, but there's definitely something wrong. Right?

        Images produced by Sigma's SD series cameras, and by the DP series, have what's been called an "emotional quality". The emotion comes with a level of image quality that only the Foveon X3® direct image sensor can deliver. Image quality of a clarity and exquisiteness easily outclassing that of conventional digital cameras. This level of image quality reproduces the scene you shot, right down to the feeling in the air. It's only possible in a vertical color-capture system that does not require color interpolation, and an image-processing system that does not require an optical low-pass filter.

        A conventional image-sensor, on the other hand, fudges the colors, and even cuts out high-frequency areas. To compensate, the sharpness processing is ramped up to give some overall nuancing and a general impression of high resolution. This explains the tendency to generate images that, as a whole, have an unnatural feel. The colors can be adjusted to some extent in post-processing, but the detailed data previously lost cannot be recovered. The breathtaking image quality delivered by the Foveon X3®, which reproduces pure, rich data and nothing else, has to be seen to be believed.

        Integral Lens
        A lens with a focal length of 40mm to 60mm on a 35mm film camera is known as a "standard lens" because it delivers natural perspective, close to what the human eye perceives. The usual definition of a standard lens is one that has a focal length close to the diagonal length of the image format. The focal length of the DP2's and DP2s's lens is 24.2mm, and the diagonal length of the image sensor is 24.86mm. So, the lens used in the DP2 and DP2s really do deserve to be called a standard lens.

        In the past, standard lenses have traditionally been of either the Tessar or the Gauss type. The Gauss type is basically used for larger apertures with high performance. Its disadvantages include susceptibility to saggital coma flare when used with a point light source, and a tendency for the light volume to decrease towards the periphery. The Tessar type, on the other hand, has a simple structure, making it easy to miniaturize. However, its drawback is that it tends not to deliver high performance at larger apertures.

        Sigma DP2s highlights


        Imaging Capability
        In fact, shooting in X3F format has some advantages. In a digital camera, the image signal captured in RGB is recorded by being converted into what is known as YCbCr color space. The Y stands for brightness, and the CbCr stands for color difference. In an ordinary digital camera, a file format known as YCbCr 4:2:2 is used, where the color signal is set to half the brightness signal. This format was developed in order to send color information efficiently on the limited bandwidth available back when color television was first developed. Designed on the principle that the human eye is less sensitive to color data than to brightness data, this historical format has survived intact to this day, and is still used as the mainstream format in digital cameras.

        However, now that digital camera performance has improved so dramatically, people are using their photos in different ways, displaying enlargements on their computer screens, and large photo prints are mainstream. Today's output conditions are getting better and better. The old YCbCr 4:2:2 format was designed for efficient signal transmission, and not for high-quality output. To our way of thinking, this format no longer adequate to meet the needs of all photographers.

        True II
        The DP1 offers a specially-designed image-processing engine called "TRUE". For the DP2, we developed this key technology further, creating "TRUEII" and it was first incorporated to the DP2. Applying our exhaustive knowledge of the image-creation mechanism of the direct image sensor, we used a proprietary algorithm to do full justice to its uniquely sophisticated 3-D rendering power, successfully optimizing both the image-processing time and the in-camera image processing itself.

        Having focused our efforts on optimizing and recording the pure, rich signal captured by the sensor, we were determined that the DP series would be the only camera fully able to deliver the optimal image quality we had pursued throughout our development of SLRs. The rich optical signal captured by the groundbreaking direct image sensor needed to be translated into an information-rich image. We entrusted that crucial task to our new, improved "TRUE II".

        Leveraging the strengths of the direct image sensor, TRUE II does full justice to its uniquely sophisticated 3D rendering power, optimizing both in-camera image processing quality and speed. Also enhancing color reproduction and dynamic range, TRUE II, significantly contributing to the quality of the images produced within the camera. Further, noise that can tend to occur at higher sensitivities is suppressed by a new proprietary algorithm, with resolution maintained at the highest possible level.

        And automatic exposure, focus and white balance functionality are strengthened, enhancing the camera's overall performance.

        Sigma Photo Pro

        Sigma DP2s highlights


        The SIGMA DP has an X3F mode (RAW file format) in which all the image data captured by the sensor can be recorded without any significant deterioration in camera performance. If you want to do your own hands-on photo-finishing, then for best results, we recommend Sigma Photo Pro4.0 the image-processing software designed exclusively for these X3F files. You may think that "RAW data processing" sounds like something intimidatingly technical, requiring high levels of knowledge and skill.

        If so, just try Sigma Photo Pro4.0 for yourself, and you'll soon find out how easy it really can be. Sigma Photo Pro4.0 focuses on only those functions you really need for artistic photo-finishing. Its interface is one of the most user-friendly and intuitive of the many RAW data-processing software packages on the market, so even if you're a beginner, you'll find it simple to turn your images into finished photos. Images can be customized using just seven parameters -- exposure, contrast, shadows, highlights, color saturation, sharpness and X3 Fill Light -- and two new parameters of noise reduction all provided in the Adjustment Controls Palette, plus the Color Wheel for adjusting the colors. Simply adjust these parameters and watch the image change in real time. That's all it takes to recreate the ideal photo you had in your mind's eye as you pressed the shutter.

        Images can be customized using the Color Wheel and just seven parameters provided in the Adjustment Controls Palette: exposure, contrast, shadows, highlights, color saturation, sharpness and X3 Fill Light. And to take full advantage of the advanced functionality of the SIGMA DP, Sigma Photo Pro4.0 adds additional color modes allowing you to select portrait, landscape, vivid and etc for each shooting situation.

        Further, with RAW data, the mode can be changed even after the shot is taken. With slideshows and the capability to work with multiple process windows simultaneously, the software's functionality is significantly enhanced for more efficient, smoother workflows. And you can now print X3F files directly, for enhanced connectivity. With new Sigma Photo Pro4.0, you can easily explore photo processing for that one shot that only you could have created.

        Design Policy
        The business of taking photos boils down to the skill of the photographer. The photograph is the canvas for the photographer's individual self-expression. Sigma creates equipment for delving into the essence of photography. Sigma's design policy is to empower the photographer to concentrate on the core task: taking pictures. Our top priority is to deliver the functionality and reliability this requires. That's way in adding extra features, we've been generous to a fault.

        The rather simple user interface we gave the DP1 has been refined for the DP2, making it even easier to shoot pictures just the way you want. Because it's a lightweight compact, we've focused on making it a more complete photographic tool that you can carry around with you every day.

        What's in the Box
        DP2s digital camera, Li-ion Battery BP-31, Battery Charger BC-31, Lens Cap LCP-11, Neck Strap NS-11, Soft Case CS-70, Hot Shoe Cover HSC-11, USB Cable, Video Cable, SIGMA Photo Pro Disc, Instruction Manual

        Product Description

        14 Megapixel FOVEON X3 Image Sensor 24.2mm (41mm equivalent) f/2.8 Lens 2.5 LCD Display 'True II' Image Processor Power Save Mode High Speed Auto Focusing Visible Labeling of Buttons Records JPEG & RAW Files Built-in Flash & Hot Shoe Includes Sigma Photo Pro 4.0 Software

        Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3


        Technical Details

        Color: Black
        • 14.1-megapixel effective recording
        • 8X optical zoom (10X Intelligent Zoom)
        • 10X Intelligent Zoom -- Intelligent Resolution technology extends the zoom range without degrading picture quality
        • 2.7" TFT LCD screen
        • Optical image stabilization
          See more technical details


        Product Details



          Product Description

          Color: Black

          From the Manufacturer

          Panasonic's Lumix DMC-ZR3 digital camera features powerful zoom within a remarkably slim and compact body. Newly added is an AVCHD Lite movie recording function to make the versatile camera even truly "hybrid".

          The new image processing technology "Intelligent Resolution" is incorporated in the Venus Engine HD II for ZR3. By detecting the signals whether they are at edges of the subject, they compose detailed texture or just a soft gradation first and give appropriate enhancement to the edges and textured areas respectively. Unlike the uniform enhancement of sharpness, it is possible to perform the optimum signal processing to give a whole image outstandingly natural clearness with fine detail.

          This technology is integrated in iA (Intelligent Auto) mode--a hallmark of Lumix cameras--working thoroughly while the camera is in the iA mode to enhance its potential in many aspects. The iA mode is also available in movie mode. It automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode and helps to correct handshake, focus and brightness problems--making the iA mode your one-stop solution to capture beautiful photos and movies.

          Panasonic Lumix digital camera highlights


          The powerful 8x optical zoom lens makes it easy to pull in subjects from far away a step closer compared to the conventional stylish point-and-shoot cameras. For an added boost, zoom power can be increased to 10x with the Intelligent Zoom function taking advantage of the Intelligent Resolution technology maintaining the picture quality even combining a digital zoom. The 25mm ultra wide-angle feature is ideal for both broad landscapes and tight indoor shots, letting photographers capture a wider view. The 14.1-megapixel high resolution CCD reproduce the detailed images corner to corner and affordable with trimming or even more powerful Extra Optical Zoom by using the center part of it.

          Notably the Sonic Speed AF in the ZR3 features its speed at the industry's fastest level. Combined with a high-speed start-up, this gives the ZR3 an ultra fast response that helps to catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities. The 2.7-inch large Intelligent LCD offers dynamic and clear view out of its small body. The battery life is also as powerful as approx. 330 pictures shooting thanks to the highly energy efficient image processing LSI, the Venus Engine HD II.

          With high-quality aluminum texture which resists fingerprints and soiling, the slim, compact, pocket-fitting size of ZR3 is packed with a host of functions for both photos and movies to be an ideal partner for traveling or for everyday snapshots.

          Lumix DMC-ZR3 Highlights

          25mm Ultra Wide-angle Lens
          The 25mm ultra wide-angle lens* has about twice the shooting area as a standard 35mm lens. This enhances all kinds of shooting situations, like when you're photographing a group of people at an indoor party or shooting a large structure or sweeping landscape while traveling.
          * Converted to standard 35mm camera equivalent, at the maximum wide position.

          10x Intelligent Zoom/16.9x Extra Optical Zoom
          Thanks to the newly incorporated Intelligent Resolution technology, the Intelligent Zoom is available with the DMC-ZR3 which extends the zoom ratio by approx. 1.3x maintaining the picture quality even combining a digital zoom. This means the 8x optical can virtually extend to 10x equivalent. Furthermore, the Extra Optical Zoom function that extends zoom power to 16.9x* by using the center part of the large CCD to bring subjects even closer.
          *At 3-megapixel resolution or less.

          Panasonic Lumix digital camera highlights



          HD Movie in AVCHD Lite
          In addition to Motion JPEG images, the DMC-ZR3 can record high-definition motion images in AVCHD Lite. It features almost double the recording time in HD quality compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format.

          Powerful 8x Optical Zoom
          The DMC-ZR3 also lets you use zooming when taking motion pictures. Its powerful 8x optical zoom is ideal for capturing dynamic video clips of sports action or animals in nature.

          Panasonic Lumix digital camera highlights



          High Quality Sound
          The DMC-ZR3 features Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audio, so you can match the beautiful movies with outstanding sound.

          POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) Shake Detection
          Just about everyone has had the experience of taking a photo at night and hoping to capture all the memories and beauty, only to be disappointed at the poor result. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer)* nearly doubles the hand-shake correction power of conventional MEGA O.I.S. You get bright photos without blurring even from handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds. Panasonic's accumulated optical technologies, the MEGA O.I.S. has been incorporated into Lumix from the early stage of digital camera development. This helped show all digital camera users the absolute need for hand-shake compensation, and led to its prevalence throughout the industry. And now, Panasonic has worked on the low-frequency vibration hand-shake component, which is physically generated when pressing the shutter button or when shooting at night with a slow shutter speed.
          *The POWER O.I.S. is automatically turned on in the iA Mode and can be turned on or off in the Normal Picture Mode or some Scene Modes. 

          Panasonic Lumix digital camera highlights



          Product Description

          Super Compact Camera with Powerful 8x Optical Zoom. The 25mm ultra wide-angle lens has about twice the shooting area as a standard 35mm lens. This enhances all kinds of shooting situations, like when you're photographing a group of people at an indoor party or shooting a large structure or sweeping landscape while traveling.

          Olympus 14 Megapixel Fe-4020 Digital Camera- Choose Color


          Most Helpful Customer Reviews
          21 of 24 people found the following review helpful
           Unreliable December 17, 2010
          By Nicole
          Color Name:gray
          I purchased this camera less than a year ago, and despite the stabilization feature, about 90% of my photos turn out blurry and/or grainy. If lighting conditions are perfect I can get a clear photo; most of the time lighting conditions aren't perfect. I've talked to people about the blurry/grainy problem at a local camera shop and they believe that there is a defect in the internal stabilization. I contacted Olympus (which was a pain because even though their website said that they have online help, you really have to call a 1-800 number) and started the process to have it shipped to them (at my cost) to have them look at it and determine if there is anything wrong with it. At this point I feel as though it's better to write off the $150 I paid for it and just buy a better camera than dealing with Olympus' tedious procedures.
          I can't stress enough how unreliable this camera is for picture quality. If you're taking pictures of something important and prefer that they aren't blurry and grainy, I suggest a different camera.

          Was this review helpful to you?
          19 of 22 people found the following review helpful
           Decent Little Camera September 25, 2010
          Color Name:gray
          The camera is very good looking, is slim and fits easily into any pocket. Picture quality wise, normal indoors and outdoor pictures are good to excellent quality. Flexible audio feedback for your actions (which is good for me because it was otherwise difficult to tell in outdoor conditions when the picture snapped). Reasonable delay between flash pics. The camera does a good job of selecting appropriate settings for most photo situations and you can override settings for extreme situations. I think it's a fine camera for the money.
          Comment | 

          Was this review helpful to you?
          9 of 10 people found the following review helpful
           Don't buy it February 13, 2011
          By Sara
          Color Name:Pink
          I bought this camera thinking it was cute and a good price for the 14mp. When I got the camera, the screen had a black mark on it that covered up the picture when I tried to review it. The black mark continued to expand essentially covering up the view of the pictures. I sent it back to the store and got a replacement. The replacement was worse. IT didn't have a black mark in the beginning, but after about 4 days, half the screen was blocked out with black. The guy a the store said the megapixels burst and it's normal. I say it's not normal it's defective. The camera also wouldn't turn off at one point or respond to any button commands and I had to take out the battery and put it back in to make it work. I got my money back. Don't waste your time.