A-DIGITAL-EYE (21ST CENTURY DIGITAL CAMERAS, PHOTO PRINTERS, PAPERS, CAMCORDERS, IMAGING SOFTWARE, DIGITAL EQUIPMENT, REVIEWS AND MORE!) CANON ANNOUNCEMENTS August 19, 2004 - Canon is making a number of major product announcements today including the long anticipated 8.2 Megapixel EOS 20D DSLR a replacement to the ground breaking Canon EOS 10D DSLR camera which came out in the Spring of 2003. The new EOS 20D is set to ship in September 2004 at a street price of $1,499.00. The new 20D camera has some great new specifications including a 5 frame per second burst mode up to 23 frames and so much more which we discuss further below.
- Canon is also announcing a new 7 megapixel medium-sized compact point and shoot camera called the Powershot S70, and the Powershot G6, along with a new improved 4 megapixel A85 camera, a new 5 megapixel version of the A85 called the A95 and a compact 3.2 megapixel point and shoot camera called the A400 which comes in several colors including blue and gold (see images below). Canon also has a new speedlight coming out and some new lenses.
- We have all kinds of press releases, specs, product photos and more Canon sent to us recently. We are just back from being out of town for weeks, so we will be posting all this information over the next few hours including posts in our breaking news section. Here are the press releases on the Canon D20, the G6, the S70, the A Series cameras and the Speedlite 580EX to get you started.
CANON'S NEW 8.2-MEGAPIXEL EOS 20D DIGITAL SLR DELIVERS SPEED, PRECISION AND VALUE TO NEWS, WEDDING AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS
New 8.2-Megapixel EOS 20D Digital SLR Features DIGIC II Image Processor, 9-Point Autofocus and Up to 23 Consecutive Frames at Five Frames Per Second
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. Aug. 19, 2004 - Designed for advanced amateurs, photojournalists, wedding photographers and professionals who purchase their own equipment, Canon's new EOS 20D digital SLR combines speed, image quality, ease-of-use, and ruggedness with compact size and light weight to deliver the highest performance in its class. Available in September, the EOS 20D digital SLR will carry an estimated street price of $1,499* without a lens; $1,599* with the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5 -5.6 zoom lens; and $1,999* with the new EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Wide Angle Zoom lens†.
The EOS 20D SLR has a new APS-C (15.0 x 22.5 mm) 8.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor designed and manufactured by Canon. It is the first mid-range digital SLR to offer high-speed continuous shooting of five frames-per-second with a burst of 23 frames at highest JPEG resolution. Uncannily responsive, the camera starts up in 0.2-second and has a shutter release time lag of only 65 milliseconds.
The all-new 9-point AF unit with high-precision cross-type sensor raises the bar on speed, accuracy and precision in mid-range SLRs. The new AF system has one full stop better low-light performance than its EOS 10D predecessor. The new E-TTL II autoflash metering system, inherited from Canon's EOS-1D Mark II professional model, takes into account the distance, reflectance and position of the subject for highly stable, accurate and intelligent exposure calculations.
News Photography/Photojournalism
The new camera's combination of speed and available light shooting
capability make it especially appealing to newspaper photographers.
Aside from the five frames-per-second burst rate, the EOS 20D
digital SLR delivers superb low light performance and exceptionally
low noise, even at high ISOs. In fact, images taken at ISO 1600
are approximately equal in noise to those taken with the EOS
10D model at ISO 400. The EOS 20D digital SLR can be used as
a backup camera for the high-performance EOS-1D Mark II digital
SLR. It is also an excellent choice in its own right for many
professional imaging applications where its smaller size and
lighter weight give it an edge.
Wedding/Portrait Photography
The Canon designed and manufactured CMOS sensor has a maximum
resolution of 3504 x 2336 pixels, which is sufficient for very
large prints (up to 16 x 24 inches) with fine detail. Like its
big brother, the Canon EOS-1D Mark II, the EOS 20D digital SLR
satisfies the wedding photographer's benchmark: facial details
in group-shots. The wedding photography business is changing.
Consumers are now looking for more natural and candid documentary
coverage of their weddings. With the speed and large buffer of
the EOS 20D digital SLR, wedding and portrait photographers have
a cost effective solution for capturing both posed and candid
event photographs.
"Canon continues to endow advanced amateurs, photo enthusiasts and professional photographers with the highest-quality digital SLR cameras available by combining sophisticated camera features with the latest digital imaging technology innovations," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). "In addition, Canon is one of the only companies in the industry that designs and manufactures the three primary components of its digital SLRs: Optics, Image Sensor, and Image Processor."
Canon uses design and technology for customers' sake, not for the sake of technology. Canon has listened to owners of the EOS 10D and has considered their opinions carefully. This accounts for the new menu format, the color-coded menu display icons, the reduction of buttons and the addition of the highly efficient Multi-controller, among many other features.
When Size Matters
The EOS 20D digital SLR is both smaller and lighter than the
10D model. The 20D camera is about 3.6 ounces lighter and Canon
reduced the width, height and depth by 5.7, 2 and 3.5 mm, respectively.
The shutter unit, mirror box, main mirror, pentaprism, focusing
screen and viewfinder optical unit have all become smaller as
they were optimized for the APS-C sensor. The 20D digital SLR
has nearly 100 fewer parts than the 10D model. The new camera
retains the rugged stainless steel chassis and magnesium alloy
body covers of its predecessor for outstanding durability.
New 9-Point Autofocus System
The sophisticated 9-point autofocus system has a high-precision
cross-type sensor in the center position. This new design seen
for the first time in the 20D provides full cross-type performance
with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6, yet it achieves up
to 3 times the standard focusing precision when used with EF
lenses featuring maximum apertures larger than or equal to f/2.8.
A new, convenient Multi-controller provides fast and easy AF
point selection.
New High Speed Shutter
The EOS 20D has a newly developed shutter with a top speed of
1/8000 sec., user-settable in 1/3 and 1/2 stop increments (in
shutter speed priority AE and manual modes) and a maximum flash
synchronization speed of 1/250 sec. First or second curtain flash
sync is possible. The shutter's APS-C configuration allows a
reduction in the size of the unit, smaller shutter blades with
lower inertial mass, and shorter travel distance. Stronger magnets
are used for each shutter curtain, permitting better control
of the blades. A semiconductor switch replaces the traditional
sync contacts, ending scorching and frictional wear while at
the same time increasing the limit for trigger circuit voltage
to 250V. The result of these changes is a more rugged and reliable
shutter unit with substantially improved performance.
EF and EF-S Lenses
Particularly among advanced amateur and professional photographers,
there has been a growing need for affordable zoom lenses that
support true wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle photography. In
response to this market demand and to provide users with a truly
comprehensive lens system, Canon has expanded its EF-S lens offerings
to now include four lenses - the new EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM
and EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM zoom lenses as well as standard
and USM versions of the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens. (Canon
U.S.A., launched the standard EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens
in August of 2003 in conjunction with the EOS Digital Rebel SLR.)
The EOS 20D digital SLR is also fully compatible with all Canon
EF lenses and with the entire system of Canon EX Speedlites and
accessories, including the new Speedlite 580EX flash.
White Balance Compensation
The EOS 20D camera has professional level white balance controls.
In addition to Auto, it has six presets, a Custom setting and
direct specification of color temperature. White balance can
be corrected for blue, amber, magenta or green; white balance
bracketing, up to +/- 3 whole stops, can be performed for magenta-green
as well as blue-amber.
Flash Forward: Canon Speedlite 580EX
When the EOS 20D digital camera is used with the built-in flash
or the new Speedlite 580EX, color temperature data transmission
is enabled. The camera has an extensive complement of white balance
controls, processing parameters, bracketing options, shooting
modes and custom functions that permit the camera to be configured
for any situation; the revised menu format, simplified control
layout and clever new Multi-controller make the camera easy to
use.
Evolved E-TTL II Flash Exposure Control
Though still compatible with all EX-series Speedlites, the "smarter"
E-TTL II system captures the subject as a "plane" and
ensures that images containing various colors and levels of reflection
are captured accurately and optimally. The system compares the
ambient light with the reflected pre-flash off the subject reported
in all 35 metering zones and selects the areas with a small difference
to be weighted for flash exposure calculation. This system also
eliminates or under weights areas with large difference recognizing
them as an extremely reflective object in the background or as
a highly reflective subject, smartly ensuring it by considering
the distance information data provided from compatible EF lenses.
The system similarly prevents over-exposure when photographers
lock focus and recompose the shot by considering the flash output
level calculated according to the broader distance. The camera
also allows users to select an average metering pattern by using
its custom function settings.
New CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC II Image
Processor
The EOS 20D digital SLR includes Canon's latest CMOS image sensor
technology as well as the new DIGIC II Image Processor. The CMOS
features high-speed 4-channel data reading, brilliant new microlens
technology, a 2nd generation, on-chip noise-reduction circuit,
and low-noise, high-speed amp, which produces accurate color,
extremely low noise and fast recording even at ISO's of 400 and
above. Canon's DIGIC II image processor is without question,
the most powerful imaging processor that the company has ever
put into a digital camera. It boasts improved color reproduction
of high-saturation, bright subjects, improved auto white balance
precision, and wider dynamic range in highlight areas. In addition
to its image quality improvements, the DIGIC II chip is also
responsible for speeding up camera performance in areas such
as start-up time, autofocus calculation, card-writing speed,
direct printing and data transfer speed through the new USB 2.0
High Speed interface.
New .CR2 Raw Format
The Canon EOS 20D digital SLR incorporates the same new RAW format
featured in Canon digital cameras from the EOS-1D Mark II model
onward. The file extension is .CR2 (Canon RAW, 2nd edition).
The RAW data records the white balance data, processing parameters,
and other settings. All these settings can be edited freely with
compatible RAW file conversion software such as Canon's EOS Viewer
Utility and Digital Photo Professional software, which are supplied
with the camera.
Exif 2.21 Metadata and Adobe Color Space
There is no need to worry about color space any longer. The EOS
20D complies with DCF 2.0, revised to support Adobe RGB, and
Exif 2.21. Images taken in Adobe RGB will have the Adobe RGB
color space information, not the ICC profile, appended to the
Exif information. (If Adobe RGB is selected from the 20D digital
camera's Color Space menu, all processing parameters are available.)
Therefore, applications and devices compatible with DCF 2.0 and
Exif 2.21 will be able to handle Adobe RGB in the same way as
sRGB. When software compatible with Exif 2.21 is used, images
captured with the EOS 20D will open automatically in the Adobe
RGB color space. When a printer that complies with Exif 2.21
is used, the printer will adjust the color saturation of the
print suitably.
Camera Direct Printing
As with the EOS 10D model, the EOS 20D digital SLR is compatible
with PictBridge, CP Direct and Bubble Jet Direct print transfer
protocol. It also enables DPOF Print Ordering, Version 1.1. The
basic specifications are the same as those of the EOS-1D Mark
II digital SLR. Printer communications can be set to Normal or
PTP (Picture Transfer Protocol) with the menu's Communication
setting (PTP is required for PictBridge direct printing). PictBridge
compliant and Compact Photo Direct printers allow up to eight
steps of horizontal trimming, up to five steps of vertical trimming,
and a range of print sizes.
Updated Software
The EOS 20D will be supplied with the latest versions of Canon's
popular Digital Photo Professional and EOS Viewer Utility software,
as well as Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0 for image editing.
Kit Configurations
The EOS 20D will be available in body-only or two separate zoom
lens kit configurations. All three kits include the camera body
as well as the BP-511A lithium-ion battery pack, Battery Charger
CG-580, USB Cable IFC-400PCU, Video Cable VC-100, a wide neckstrap,
3 software CDs, printed instruction manuals, and a 1-year Canon
U.S.A. limited warranty. The first zoom lens kit includes the
standard EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens and the second kit†
includes the EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Wide Angle Zoom lens.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer,
business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company
is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America,
and is ranked #35 on the latest Business Week list of "Top
100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is
a top patent holder of technology, ranking second overall in
the U.S. in 2003. Canon Inc. achieved global revenues of $29.9
billion in 2003; 9.8 billion of which came from Canon Americas.
For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
CANON'S NEXT "G"ENERATION POWERSHOT G6 DIGITAL CAMERA MERGES ADVANCED DSLR FUNCTIONALITY WITH COMPACT PORTABILITY
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. Aug. 19, 2004 - Canon's new 7.1-megapixel PowerShotâ G6 digital camera offers photographers and photo enthusiasts a flexible, full-featured tool for expanded creative control. The simply sophisticated PowerShot G6 digital camera features a new compact design, advanced ergonomics and brilliant Canon optics that deliver beautiful images.
"Expanding on the popularity of our previous G-series digital cameras, we designed the PowerShot G6 model with photo enthusiasts and advanced amateurs in mind," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the Consumer Imaging Group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ). "The PowerShot G6 digital camera is an extraordinary combination of advanced features, genuine Canon optics, exceptional image quality with the DIGIC Image Processor and a compact and comfortable design."
PowerShot G6 Digital Camera's Powerful
Performance
Equipped with a higher resolution 7.1-megapixel CCD-type sensor,
the PowerShot G6 digital camera captures 3072 x 2304 pixel images
with exceptional detail and color fidelity. The digital camera
offers users a vari-angled 2.0" LCD monitor for better on-camera
viewing and Canon's exclusive DIGIC Image Processor, which increases
image quality and processing speeds while reducing power consumption.
Canon's powerful 4x all-glass optical zoom lens provides photographers
with a 35mm equivalent range of 35-140mm, a fast maximum aperture
of f/2.0-3.0 and macro focusing down to 2 inches. The additional
4.1x digital zoom extends the camera's telephoto capabilities
to provide photographers with 16x combined zoom functionality.
The PowerShot G6 digital camera has been reengineered with a host of new features, including a faster start-up time, simultaneous RAW+JPEG recording and an enhanced large size (640x480) movie mode. Compared to its predecessor, the PowerShot G5 model, the PowerShot G6 camera's high speed zooming from wide to telephoto has been shortened by up to 30% while the speed of the camera's auto focus has also been increased by up to 55% for better performance compared to the PowerShot G5 camera.
Key PowerShot G6 features:
· High-resolution 7.1-megapixel CCD sensor for improved
image quality;
· 4x optical/4.1 digital/16x combined zoom
· 9-point AiAF (new to the G-Series) for fast and precise
focusing
· Intelligent Orientation Sensor, which automatically
rotates vertical shots during playback;
· 12 EOS-based Shooting Modes plus Photo Effects, Custom
Modes, enhanced Super Macro Mode, Wide-area FlexiZone AF/AE and
Spot Metering for customizing the camera to each individual user's
shooting style:
· Advanced Movie Mode shoots VGA quality 640 x 480 movies.
ID Photo Print and Movie Print options also available;
· Accepts Compact Flash Type I and Type II media;
· Flexible 270° Swivel LCD, Vari-Angle monitor together
with an ergonomic hand grip and an EOS-style control layout for
easier handling;
· Exclusive Canon DIGIC Image Processor with iSAPS Scene
Recognition Technology for faster processing and excellent image
quality; and
· The latest versions of Canon's popular ZoomBrowser EX
(Win) and ImageBrowser (Mac) software with powerful new features,
plus ArcSoft PhotoStudio and VideoImpression.
New Compact Body Design
Housed in a rugged body, the PowerShot G6 digital camera is significantly
smaller (by 10 percent) on the outside than the previous model.
Measuring a compact 4.13 x 2.87 x 2.88 inches and weighing in
at just 13.4 ounces, the PowerShot G6 digital camera sports an
improved ergonomic design that includes an enhanced "SLR-type"
grip for easier handling. The camera's electronic dials and enlarged
icons, as well as its redesigned user interface screen, have
been repositioned to add to its ease of operation while sleek
metal parts contribute to the new camera's elegant appearance.
The advanced features and reduced body size of the camera not only suit the needs of advanced amateur photographers, but also of photographers in vertical industries such as law enforcement and dentistry. Whether capturing evidence during an investigation or getting in close to snap the intricate details of dental work, the PowerShot G6 digital camera has the versatility to meet the imaging needs of all photographers.
PowerShot G6 Digital Camera Lights Up
Flash Photography
For creative flash photography, the PowerShot G6 digital camera
includes a 5-mode built-in flash with red-eye reduction and first
or second curtain sync. The flash can be operated manually or
automatically. Additionally, the camera is fully compatible with
Canon's powerful EX-series Speedlites and E-TTL wireless flash
accessories for superior lighting quality - including the new
Speedlite 580EX. The PowerShot G6 digital camera is also compatible
with high-quality Canon supplementary lenses including Wide and
Tele converters as well as a Close-up lens. The combination of
the PowerShot G6 digital camera with optional Macro Ring Lite
MR-14EX, Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC58D and the 500D Close-up
lens is ideal for high-resolution intra-oral dental photography
at relatively low cost. Also available is the Lens Hood LH-DC30,
for photography in bright sunlit situations.
The DIGICÔ Difference
Canon developed the proprietary DIGIC (Digital Imaging Integrated
Circuit) Image Processor specifically for use with its line of
digital cameras. The technology combines the jobs of image processing
and camera function control into one chip. Because it was specifically
designed for use in digital cameras, it is also capable of handling
JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control
and processing; gain control (control of CCD signal amplification);
Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most
other functions of the camera. The result is a product that offers
faster and more powerful auto focus than ever before, faster
image processing, better image quality and longer battery life.
Photo Printing Made Easy
As with all of Canon's digital cameras, the PowerShot G6 digital
camera offers Direct Printing, making it simple, quick and convenient
to produce high-quality photos without the need for a computer.
Other printing enhancements include ID Photo Print allowing the
user to make ID photo size prints by cropping the image to the
required ID size, while Movie Print enables the consumer to print
a series of still images from a recorded movie.**
The PowerShot G6 digital camera kit includes a USB cable, AVC-DC300 AV Cable, Battery Charger CG-580, rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack BP-511A, 32 MB Compact Flash card, a Wireless Controller WL-DC100 and Digital Camera Solution CD, ArcSoft Camera Suite CD, neckstrap and lens cap. The PowerShot G6 digital camera will be available in September for an estimated selling price of $699.99*.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer,
business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company
is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America,
and is ranked #35 on the latest Business Week list of "Top
100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is
a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in
the U.S. in 2003, with global revenues of $29.9 billion. For
more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
-
- CANON'S NEW POWERSHOT S70 DIGITAL CAMERA STUFFS SEVEN-MEGAPIXEL RESOLUTION AND A 28-100MM WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENS INTO A COMPACT BODY
- LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. Aug. 19, 2004 - Canon's latest addition to its S-Series, the 7.1-megapixel PowerShotâ S70 digital camera widens the photographic options for consumers and enthusiasts alike with its high performance 28-100mm UA wide-angle 3.6x optical zoom lens and a compact, two-toned dark metallic and black body, expanding upon the popular 5.0-megapixel PowerShot S60 digital camera that Canon launched in May.
- "The PowerShot S70 digital camera combines state-of-the-art optics with an increased resolution 7.1-megapixel sensor and a sleek design to satisfy consumers, enthusiasts and professionals that depend upon imaging for their business operations, " said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc. "The wide angle capabilities of the PowerShot S70 and S60 digital cameras allow real estate and insurance professionals as well as photo enthusiasts to capture a wide angle view without additional attachments or converters, ultimately streamlining their imaging process."
- Wide Angle Lens/UA Lens Technology
Both the PowerShot S60 and S70 models are equipped with a uniquely designed 3.6x optical zoom lens that covers a focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 100mm telephoto (35mm film equivalent). This new lens features Canon's exclusive Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical technology, called UA Lens technology for short, which produces outstanding sharpness and clarity while at the same time allowing the camera body to be even thinner and more compact than previous models with smaller zoom ratios. The 28mm zoom setting makes real estate photography, group photos and travel photography much easier, while the UA technology produces crystal clear image quality at all focal lengths.- Sleek New Design
The S70 model's stylish dark metallic and black two-tone body with elegant chrome accents has a smooth-sliding lens cover that acts as an on-off switch. A redesigned control layout on the rear of the camera replaces the multi-controller found on previous S-series models with separate controls for zooming and menu selection, making the S70 camera easier to use. Canon has also upgraded the LCD monitor with a new animated menu navigation system that makes it easier to select custom settings and other adjustments.- In order to increase the amount of photographs users can capture, Canon developed a new lithium-ion battery pack, the NB-2LH model, which delivers approximately 26% higher capacity than the previous NB-2L.
- Enhanced Features
The PowerShot S70 digital camera sports a variety of superior features that enhance its usability and make it stand out from the crowd. Notably, the camera's macro function allows photographers to shoot a subject from as close as 1.6 inches and the camera's optional tele-converter extends the focal length to 200mm.- Additional noteworthy enhancements of the PowerShot S70 digital camera include:
· Faster start-up
· Faster continuous shooting at 2.0 frames per second;
· 13 shooting modes including enhanced VGA Movie Mode;
· RAW+JPEG recording with user-selectable JPEG resolution
· Optional teleconverter, wireless controller and underwater housing accessories.
· Print/Share Button for easy direct printing and downloads.- Underwater Possibilities
For year-round vacations, Canon's new PowerShot S70 digital camera is compatible with a new optional underwater housing, the WP-DC40. Designed for capturing fabulous underwater photos while snorkeling, in the pool, or just to protect the camera while boating or on the beach, the housing is available for an estimated street price of $240*. For the underwater enthusiast, Canon will offer a new waterproof case weight set (WW-DC1) that is compatible with all of its underwater housings. Available in packs of four, these weights allow the camera to "stay put" for steady underwater photography.- To capture the best underwater shots, the PowerShot S70 digital camera includes a new "underwater" preset for the white balance. This feature automatically sets the camera to the correct white balance for underwater shooting so photographers do not have to worry about the difficulty of operating manually.
- The DIGICÔ Difference
Canon developed the proprietary DIGIC (Digital Imaging Integrated Circuit) Image Processor specifically for use with its line of digital cameras. The technology combines the jobs of image processing and camera function control into one chip. Because it was specifically designed for use in digital cameras, it is also capable of handling JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control and processing; gain control (control of CCD signal amplification); Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most other functions of the camera. The result is a product that offers faster and more powerful auto focus than ever before, faster image processing, better image quality and longer battery life.- Quick and Easy Photo Printing
When it comes to printing, consumers want it done quickly and easily. The PowerShot S70 digital camera offers a range of new printing features including Canon's Print/Share button, ID Photo Print, and Movie Print.** The Print/Share button has a blue light indicator, which signals the user when printing can begin, just by pressing the button. This feature is operational when the camera is connected to a Canon Compact Photo Printer, Canon Direct Photo Printer or PictBridge compliant printer and set to Playback mode. When connected to a Compact Photo Printer, users can crop the recorded image to the appropriate size prior to printing ID photo size prints. The camera offers 28 different sizes providing ID photo dimensions for use in countries around the world. The Movie Print feature is also used when the camera is connected to a Compact Photo Printer. It prints a series of still images from a recorded movie onto a single sheet in the form of an index print.- The PowerShot S70 digital camera also offers a Direct Transfer feature, which allows users to instantly transfer images - one at a time or all at once - from the camera to a Windows computer using a USB connection.
- The Canon PowerShot S70 digital camera comes bundled with battery pack NB-2LH and charger
CB-2LT, USB cable and 32 MB Compact Flash card. Optional accessories include the new waterproof case WP-DC40, Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC10, 2.0x Tele-converter TC-DC10, which extends the focal length to 200mm and Wireless Controller WL-DC100. The PowerShot S70 digital camera will be available in September for an estimated street price of $599.99*.- Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #35 on the latest Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2003, with global revenues of $29.9 billion. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
NEW CANON POWERSHOT A SERIES CAMERAS TAKE GREAT PICTURES SIMPLY AND AFFORDABLY- PowerShot A400, A85 and A95 Digital Cameras Are New Entry Level Models With Extraordinary Image Quality and Performance
- LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Aug. 19, 2004 - Canon expands upon the success of its PowerShotâ A-series digital camera line with three new models. Named after their AA-battery power source, the new PowerShot A400, A85 and A95 digital cameras carry estimated street prices ranging from $179.99 - $399.99*, providing consumers with an exceptional combination of top-of-the-line features, functional design and excellent image quality at a tremendous value.
- "Our A-series digital cameras have been widely adopted by mainstream consumers because of their combination of feature-set, image quality and price," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon USA, Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). "This combination has opened the digital doorway to first time camera buyers, new parents recording their children's early moments, teenagers taking pictures of themselves and their friends and generally, people looking for a quality digital camera at an entry-level price."
- According to the NPD Group, Inc., two of the top 10 best selling cameras and three of the top 20 best selling cameras in the first half of 2004 are Canon PowerShot A-series models.
- PowerShot A400 Digital Camera
Available in September for an estimated street price of $179.99*, this fun new entry-level model is made for people who enjoy simple, easy digital camera functionality. Intended to make a graceful impression while retaining a light and contemporary design, the new 3.2-megapixel PowerShot A400 digital camera comes in four exclusive, fun colors: Silver, Sky Blue, Lime Green and Sunset Gold. These lively and unique colors help create a personal style that stands out in a crowd.- The new PowerShot A400 digital camera features a 2.2x Optical/3.2x Digital/7.0x combined zoom lens. The camera's extraordinarily fast shutter release with the Quick Shot function and Special Scene Modes enhances picture taking in special situations, including Portrait; Night Scene; Foliage; Snow; Beach; Fireworks; Underwater; and Indoor. These features enable first-time digital camera users to capture, print and share high quality, clear images.
- The PowerShot A400 digital camera is the first A-series model to use SD media, a miniature memory card format that helps to make the camera body smaller and lighter. In fact, the camera is 11 percent smaller than its predecessor, the single-focal length PowerShot A310 digital camera. Designed with first-time digital camera buyers in mind, the new model strategically positions all the control buttons on the top and rear of the camera so consumers can use one hand to operate it. The PowerShot A400 comes equipped with a USB cable, 16MB SD Memory Card and two AA Alkaline batteries.
- The PowerShot A85 Digital Camera
Available in August for an estimated street price of $299.99*, consumers can enjoy a feature-filled 4.0-megapixel digital camera with 3.2x optical zoom lens and a large 1.8" LCD monitor for easy image previews and reviews.- As a replacement for last year's popular PowerShot A70 model - the best selling digital camera in the U.S in 2003, according to NPD Group, Inc. - the PowerShot A85 camera sports 13 shooting modes including Special Scene Modes for spectacular shots in special situations, including Kids & Pets and Underwater modes for capturing fun vacation memories or weekend family get togethers.
- The PowerShot A95 Digital Camera
Also available in August for an estimated street price of $399.99*, Canon's new 5.0-megapixel PowerShot A95 digital camera replaces the popular A80 unit and merges the capabilities of Canon's prosumer-level 'G' series line with the form factor of an A-series model.- The highly advanced 5 Megapixel digital camera features a new larger 1.8" vari-angled LCD monitor for easier image preview and review as well as FlexiZone AF/AE for off-center subjects. The PowerShot A95 digital camera offers users 14 easy-to-use Shooting Modes, including Special Scene Modes that will help create exceptional images.
- Appealing to a wide range of consumers the PowerShot A85 and A95 models cross over into specialized applications as well. For teachers and students that make classroom presentations and real estate professionals who often need to capture interior and exterior images of a house, the A85 and A95 cameras provide exceptional performance at affordable prices.
- Advanced Features
All three of the new A-series PowerShot digital cameras are equipped with 9-point AiAF, a feature normally found in Canon's high-end models, that allows users to get crisp, clear images quickly, even with off-center subjects. The PowerShot A85 and A95 models are compatible with a wide range of optional accessories, including supplementary wide-angle, telephoto and close-up lenses as well as dedicated waterproof housings with a depth rating of 130 feet (WP-DC50 for A95 model and WP-DC30 for A85 model). Both cameras come equipped with Type I CompactFlash card media (32MB included), a USB cable and four AA Alkaline batteries. Consumers may purchase rechargeable Canon Alkaline NiMh (Nickel Metal Hydride NB4-200 AA-size batteries) separately.- Print/Share…At the Touch of a Button
The new A-Series digital cameras offer Direct Printing functionality, making it easy, quick and convenient for anyone to produce high-quality photos without the need for a computer. The Print/Share button, found on most of Canon's new PowerShot models, also speeds and simplifies printing to compatible Canon and PictBridge-enabled printers. The Print/Share feature also enables one-touch Direct Transfer to Windows XP, Me, 2000 and 98 computers, for use with image processing programs, uploading to the Internet or emailing. Once connected, the Print/Share button will light up blue, indicating that it is ready to print.- For quick and easy printing of high-quality images, Canon's CP printers offer the perfect option. In just 85 seconds***, consumers have printed photos right in their hands for sharing with friends and family. New to the line of Compact Photo Printers is the ability to print on 4" x 8" paper-ideal for family holiday photos or to announce the arrival of a new baby.
- Other printing enhancements found in each new model include:
· An ID Photo Print feature that allows the user to make ID photo size prints by cropping the image to the required ID size (up to 28 sizes),
· Movie Print mode enables the consumer to print a series of still images from a recorded movie; and
· Postcard Date Imprint mode lets users select a date stamp that can be imprinted in the corner of a picture.- The DIGIC™ Difference
Canon's new PowerShot A400, A85 and A95 digital cameras include Canon's DIGIC technology. Canon developed the proprietary DIGIC (Digital Imaging Integrated Circuit) Image Processor specifically for use with its line of digital cameras. The technology combines the jobs of image processing and camera function control into one chip. Because it was specifically designed for use in digital cameras, it is also capable of handling JPEG compression/expansion; memory card control; LCD/Video control and processing; gain control (control of CCD signal amplification); Auto Exposure; Auto Focus; Auto White Balance control and most other functions of the camera. The result is a product that offers faster and more powerful auto focus than ever before, faster image processing, better image quality and longer battery life.
CANON SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
WITH FLAGSHIP SPEEDLITE 580EX AND ACCESSORIES
EOS System Photographers of All Levels Benefit From a Powerful Flash Featuring E-TTL II Compatibility, Small Size, and Fast Recycle Time
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Aug 19, 2004 - The long awaited evolution in Canon's Speedlite family of EOS system flashes is here. The Speedlite 580EX flash takes its place as Canon's new flagship Speedlite, replacing the popular Speedlite 550EX model. A more powerful flash with a maximum guide number of 58/191 at ISO 100 in meters/feet (at 105mm focal length), faster recycling, more consistent color and enhanced controls are among the improvements that all photographers, especially those who shoot digital, will find useful.
"We designed the Speedlite 580EX flash from the ground up specifically to maximize digital photography," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). " This new flash takes the best features from existing models and adds functionality that enhances digital photography. We now offer a Speedlite that yields great performance with a more comfortable and easy to use interface, in a smaller and lighter package thanits predecessors."
E-TTL II Compatibility
The Speedlite 580EX flash is compatible with Canon's E-TTL II
(Evaluative Through The Lens) auto exposure technology. When
combined with a compatible Canon camera, E-TTL II utilizes subject
distance and other information that automatically modifies flash
power, resulting in accurate flash exposure regardless of subject
size, reflectance, or photographic composition. This is great
news for photographers that shoot high contrast or reflective
subjects, like those encountered in wedding photography. Photographers
can now capture every detail from the black of tuxedoes to the
white of wide smiles and wedding dresses.
Digitally Optimized
The Speedlite 580EX flash is compatible with all film and digital
EOS cameras as well as G-series and Pro-1 PowerShot digital cameras.
The flash includes two features especially for digital photography.
EOS 20D and EOS-1D Mark II** digital SLR users will especially
appreciate the Speedlite 580EX flash's ability to auto-compensate
for the size of the CMOS sensor, and zoom the flash head automatically
to match the effective focal length conversion. This feature
allows the Speedlite 580EX flash to maximize the efficiency of
its light distribution and produce more flashes from a set of
batteries. When used with the EOS 20D or 1D Mark II** digital
SLR cameras, the flash and camera communicate to make fine adjustments
to auto white balance by electronically monitoring the charge
level of the batteries and the duration of each flash burst,
resulting in consistently accurate color for every shot.
Speed, Power and Flexibility
Smaller, lighter, faster and more powerful than its predecessor,
the Speedlite 550EX flash, Canon has further enhanced the new
model by reducing the full-power recycling time by about 25 percent,
while increasing the maximum Guide Number power rating by about
50 percent. These improvements are possible because of flash
head optimization, circuit resistance reductions and changes
in circuit design.
The new flash unit provides photographers with intuitive controls. Mimicking the style found on Canon's line of popular EOS Digital SLRs, the 580EX model's new control dial, SET button and a high-speed sync / shutter curtain synchronization button put all major functions at the fingertips of the photographer.
The Speedlite 580EX Flash features an AF-assist beam, which is now better matched to the different focusing point arrangements of various EOS SLRs, compared to earlier models. The unit includes a swiveling flash head that turns a full 180 degrees in both directions, while a single release lock controls tilt and swivel adjustments. A wide-angle diffuser found on the Speedlite 580EX flash covers focal lengths as short as 14mm. The flash also features a new catchlight reflector for optimal lighting quality during bounce-flash photography. The Speedlite 580EX flash features a total of 14 Custom Functions that provide maximum control over various flash functions such as recycling with external power and auto-zooming to match sensor size.
New Accessories and EOS System Compatibility
To accompany the new Speedlite 580EX flash, Canon is offering
a new external power pack called the Compact Battery Pack CP-E3.
This battery pack reduces full power recycling time from about
six to 1.7 seconds and increases the number of full-power flashes
per charge from approximately 100 to 432. The Speedlite 580EX
flash is also fully compatible with the E-TTL/E-TTL II Wireless
Autoflash system and can be used as an on-camera controller or
an off-camera remote flash.
Pricing and Availability
Canon's new Speedlite 580EX flash and Compact Battery Pack CP-E3
will be available in October for estimated selling prices of
$479* and $220*, respectively.
CANON WIDENS OPTIONS FOR EOS 20D AND DIGITAL REBEL SHOOTERS WITH THREE NEW EF-S WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENSES
New EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM, EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 USM Zoom Lenses Offer Wide Angles of View For Small Sensor Digital SLRs
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. Aug. 19, 2004 - Canon broadens its EF-S-type lens offerings to include three new wide-angle zoom lenses. The EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM, EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 USM zoom lenses will be available this fall for estimated street prices of $799*, $599* and $169*, respectively.
Particularly among advanced amateur and professional photographers, there has been a growing need for affordable zoom lenses that support true wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle photography. Canon initially responded to this market demand in August of 2003, when it announced the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens. This lens was launched in conjunction with the EOSâ Digital Rebelâ, which has subsequently become the most popular digital SLR to date in terms of units sold, according to NPD Market Research. Now, to provide EOS Digital Rebel and EOS 20D users with a truly comprehensive lens system, Canon has expanded its EF-S lens offerings with 3 new models.
By reducing the distance from the rear of the lens to the focal plane and reducing the size of the image circle to match the size of the APS-C imaging sensor used in digital SLRs such as the EOS 20D and Digital Rebel, Canon's EF-S lenses reduce the size, weight and cost of wide-angle lenses for these cameras while at the same time producing high image quality with superb resolution and contrast at all focal lengths.
"With the expansion of our EF-S lens offerings, we continue Canon's tradition of providing professional photographers and amateur enthusiasts with the most innovative, peak performance lenses available," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ). "These new wide angle zoom lenses provide phenomenal flexibility, remarkable results and are invaluable additions to the camera bags of travel, nature and other 'on the go' photographers."
EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM
This exciting new zoom lens provides ultra wide-angle coverage to the EOS 20D and Digital Rebel shooter. Equivalent to a 16-35mm zoom for a 35mm film camera, it offers excellent performance and optics designed from the ground-up for digital SLR use. Excluding fisheye lenses, the EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM has the shortest minimum focal length ever offered for interchangeable lens digital SLRs with APS-C image sensors.
Photographers will achieve consistently excellent image quality throughout the zoom range of this lens because of its 3 Aspherical elements and 1 Super-UD element in a 13-element optical formula. A ring-type ultrasonic focusing motor (USM) provides fast and silent AF along with full-time manual focus. Minimum focusing distance is 9.5 inches for breathtaking close-ups. The EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM is relatively light and compact at 3.5 inches in length and a weight of 13.6 oz. The new lens accepts 77mm filters and can be fitted with an optional bayonet-mount lens hood.
EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
This new EF-S lens brings true wide-angle to telephoto coverage
to EOS 20D and Digital Rebel photographers. It features Canon's
Image Stabilization system, allowing safe hand-held photography
at shutter speeds up to three steps slower than otherwise possible.
And of course, it's optically optimized for digital SLRs. A ring-type
USM delivers fast and silent auto focus, as well as full-time
manual focus when in the AF mode.
The EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens provides a 5x zoom ratio and an angle of view equivalent to a 27-136mm lens on a 35mm camera. The new lens also uses a glass-molded aspherical lens element with aspherical surfaces on both sides for superb image quality throughout the entire zoom range and it features a closest focusing distance of 12 inches at all focal lengths. The EF-S 17-85mm IS lens is 5% shorter and 12% lighter than the EF 28-135mm IS lens and accepts 67mm filters.
EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 USM
This is the USM version of the popular EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
zoom lens that is available in kit form with the EOS 20D and
Digital Rebel. Both lenses have an angle of view equivalent to
a 29-88mm lens on a 35mm camera. Weighing in at just 6 oz. and
measuring only 2.5 inches in length, the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
USM produces exceptional image quality in an ultra-compact package.
The new lens accepts 58mm filters and features Canon's exclusive
Micro USM II focusing motor technology for swift and silent AF.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America, and is ranked #35 on the latest Business Week list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent-holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2003, with global revenues of $29.9 billion. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
