A-DIGITAL-EYE

(21ST CENTURY DIGITAL CAMERAS, PHOTO PRINTERS, PAPERS, CAMCORDERS, IMAGING SOFTWARE, DIGITAL EQUIPMENT, REVIEWS AND MORE!)

Volume 16 July - August, 2002

(Last update Sunday August 25, 2002 - 11:00 am pst)

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  1. NEWS BRIEFS, SITE UPDATE & NEWS/REVIEWS AROUND THE WEB (08/25/02)
    Sharp announces it is entering the digital camera market with 2 new cameras
    Microsoft Advances Digital Imaging with the Introduction of Picture It! Digital Image Pro
    Worldwide Wireless Imaging Users Forecast to Reach 160 Million by 2007 According to InfoTrends Research Group
    Electric Fuel's Instant Power(TM) Batteries to be Sold in Over 1,200 Ritz Camera stores
    New Technology Xe847(R) Filter Produces Digital Photos and Video That Appear as Seen Through the Human Eye
    Applied Science Fiction -ASF- Announces First New York City Retail Test of Digital PIC Dry Film Processing Technology
  2. NEWS AND WEB SITE UPDATES (08/21/02 & 08/22/02)
    Ricoh Introduces The Caplio RR30 - A Revolutionary 3.24-Megapixel Digital Zoom Camera
    New Camera Reviews and News at other web sites
    Adobe announces New Elements 2.0 shipping
    Lexar 256 & 512mb SD Memory Cards Ship
    New Dazzle DVD Creation Station 200
    Epson USA announces 2 photo printers
    Kodak announces 2 digital cameras
  3. NIKON COOLPIX 5700 DISNEYLAND SAMPLE PICTURES POSTED (08/04/02)
  4. FUJI ANNOUNCES 5 NEW DIGICAMS USING NEW xD CARDS (08/01/02)
  5. QUICK UPDATES (07/30/02 & 08/01/02)
  6. QUICK UPDATES (07/30/02)
  7. OLYMPUS & FUJI DEVELOP NEW xD PICTURE MEMORY CARDS (07/30/02)
  8. NIKON COOLPIX 5700 NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE (07/28/02)
  9. NEW NIKON COOLPIX 4500 DISNEYLAND SAMPLES POSTED (07/28/02)
  10. NIKON COOLPIX 4500 DOWNTOWN DISNEYLAND FULL RES PIXS INDEX PAGE
  11. NIKON LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE DIGICAM TECH SUPPORT SITE & BRIEF NEWS (07/25/02)
  12. NIKON D100 PRODUCTION SAMPLES POSTED (07/23/02)
  13. BRIEF UPDATES (07/21/02)
  14. EPSON ANNOUNCES NEW "ULTIMATE" PHOTO PRINTER AT MAC WORLD (07/17/02)
  15. MACWORLD EXPO BEGINS TODAY IN NYC (07/17/02)
  16. CANON ANNOUNCES NEW PHOTO PRINTERS & PAPERS (07/16/02)
  17. ADOBE RELEASES IMPROVED PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS 2.0 (07/16/02)
  18. GUIDELINES & TIPS FOR NEW DSLR OWNERS POSTED (07/15/02)
  19. WEEKEND NEWS BRIEFS (07/14/02)
  20. NIKON D100, COOLPIX 4500, CASIO EXILIM & FUJI S2 REVIEW LINKS (07/12/02)
  21. CANON D60 FIRMWARE UPGRADE POSTED (07/11/02)
  22. OLYMPUS ANNOUNCES NEW DIGITAL CAMERA PRICES (07/10/02)
  23. ARGUS ANNOUNCES 2 MEGAPIXEL CAMERA AT $149 (07/08/02)
  24. KODAK ANNOUNCES NEW LONGER LASTING BATTERY FOR DIGITAL CAMERAS (07/08/02)
  25. OLYMPUS AMERICA ANNOUNCES NEW $500 FULL FEATURED 4.0 MEGAPIXEL CAMERA (07/09/02)
  26. BRIEF UPDATES (07/03/02 - 07/06/02)
  27. NIKON D100 & CP 4500 NOW ON SALE AT RITZ (06/29/02)
  28. NIKON USA SETS MSRP ON D100 AT $2500 (06/26/02 & 06/27/02)
  29. NIKON ANNOUNCES PRICES FOR NEW COOLPIX CAMERAS (06/26/02)
  30. PC EXPO/TECHXNY TRADESHOW BEGINS TODAY IN NYC (06/25/02)
  31. HP ANNOUNCES NEW 6 INK 4800 DPI PHOTO PRINTER & MORE (06/25/02)
 
VOLUME 15 - MAY - JUNE, 2002
 
 
 
 

WEEKEND NEWS ROUNDUP (09/01/02)

We are back! We have been out of town for most of August due to a rare set of circumstances, except a few weekend days where we did manage to update the site on several occasions. Things should return back to normal with daily breaking news, including lots of big news here in September as things get very interesting for the upcoming Photokina show in Germany, the largest photography show in the world, held every other year. Right now we are in a 50/50 situation regarding our ability to attend the show. If we can work it out we will be there as we very much want to attend given the huge announcements that are coming!

We are updating the main news section all day today with a number of stories including details of the new Nikon Coolpix 4300 announced Friday morning, which we have been testing the past few days, and tonight there will be a major camera announcement at 9:00 pm pst which we have also been testing out already, so be sure to stay tuned as we have lots of info going up today!

We were among the first who reported last week the announcement of electronics giant Sharp to enter the digital still camera market with 3 and 4 megapixel CCD units. We first found the story buried in a press release announcing Sharp's intention to display new products at a dealers conference. We have since found the full press release on their web site at this link.

 

New EPSON Stylus C82 All-Purpose, Photo Quality Ink Jet Printer Creates Light Resistant, Water Proof Output For $149

Epson has announced a new 4 individual color ink all-purpose photo quality printer the Stylus C82, using their new long lasting DuraBrite pigment based inks at a price of just $149. The new printer has the ability to put down ink droplets in 6 different volume sizes including a small 3 picoliter unit at resolutions up to 5,760 by 1440 dpi, for very high quality text and photo results. The printer has new faster speeds and comes in a Wi-Fi version for those who need a wireless connection at $379. The Epson Stylus C82 is already shipping to major retail stores nationwide and replaces the Stylus C80.


Newly Enhanced Formula of EPSON DuraBrite Inks Offer Extreme Durability and Higher Level of Image Quality

LONG BEACH, Calif. - Aug. 26, 2002-- Advancing off the platforms of one of its most successful and popular products to date, Epson America is launching a new ink jet printer that provides even greater performance and value for home and small office customers. The new EPSON Stylus C82 takes the throne as Epson's new flagship, all-purpose ink jet printer, selling for $149 and offering customers several new technical advancements including improved formulas of Epson's long-lasting DuraBrite(TM) inks.

The Stylus C82 replaces the Stylus C80 and is Epson's fastest four-color desktop printer ever made, using a new high-speed Micro Piezo print head that delivers up to 22 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 11 ppm in color(1). This printer also takes advantage of a unique and highly advanced imaging technology known as Resolution Performance Management(TM) (RPM(TM)). This feature enables the Stylus C82 to place up to six different ink droplet sizes as small as three picoliters at resolution levels as high as 5,760 x 1,440 optimized dpi for sharper text, greater detail and brighter colors.

"This product is tailored especially for customers who demand the highest level of text and photo quality possible on plain or recyclable paper in addition to fast output, reliability and low cost of operation," said Steve Semos, product manager, consumer ink jet printers, Epson. "Once again, we've engineered a lot of new hardware to give customers industry-leading performance, but it's the advancements in our DuraBrite inks that really make it stand out like no other printer on the market."

Enhanced DuraBrite Inks -- Water-Resistant Prints that Last up to 80 Years(2)

Epson has engineered a more advanced formula of DuraBrite inks -- made exclusively for the Stylus C82. These pigment-based inks are designed to not only produce durable, detailed output on a variety of media, but also offer richer colors and even greater highlight and shadow detail than the previous formula used with the Stylus C80. Unlike prints from traditional dye-based inks, output from DuraBrite color and black inks can be submerged in water without the ink coming off the page. This feature is designed to give creators of fliers, menus, signs, postcards and almost any other printed output the ability to produce documents and images that will withstand damage caused by moisture-based threats such as rain, spills or people with wet hands.

DuraBrite inks also have a light-resistance rating of up to 80 years on certain specialty media and an unmatched 70-year(1) rating on plain paper, making it possible to safely place prints in areas where light would normally cause images to fade quickly. Bleed-through is reduced since EPSON DuraBrite inks rest on the surface of the paper, which is ideal for applications that require double-sided printing. This reduction in dot gain also makes it possible to create ink droplets on paper that are 30 percent smaller than dye-based ink, resulting in superior detail and sharpness.

The EPSON Stylus C82 includes four separate "snap-in/snap-out" ink cartridges to maximize ink yield -- one extra-large black ink cartridge and three color ink cartridges (cyan, yellow and magenta). Since these individual color inks can be replaced at any time, efficiency is maximized, lowering the total cost of ownership. Each cartridge also contains a chip that relays ink level information on screen to the user via the printer driver, while self-sealing valves preserve the inks up to six months once removed from the printer. Therefore, reinserted cartridges that haven't been fully depleted can be reinserted for later use.

Easy to Set Up and Use

Epson has also increased its focus on setup/installation and ease of use on its latest four-color ink jet printers. Once a printer has been taken out of the box, a new plug-and-play installation feature enables Windows users to simply attach their computer and printer using a USB cable, follow a few basic onscreen instructions and in a few minutes begin printing. Choosing which printer settings to use in the driver using Windows has also been simplified with the addition of a basic icon-based user interface that will help even the most novice users find the most ideal combinations of speed and image quality for a variety of print jobs.

Users printing photographs taken from digital cameras will also find it easier to print great-looking photos on a variety of photographic papers (including borderless 4" x 6" photos) using the new EXIF Print feature. EXIF is an international standard and acronym (Exchangeable Image File format) that enables the printer to automatically compensate for advanced digital image parameters such as color space, noise reduction, white balance and more.

The EPSON Stylus C82 is capable of large-quantity printing when needed. The printer's paper input tray holds up to 150 sheets of 20-pound paper at a time, reducing the number of times a user will need to refill the tray during a large print job. It also has the capacity to print as many as 5,000 sheets per month. Additionally, the Stylus C82 offers both USB and parallel connectivity for simultaneous use of either Macintosh or Windows platforms.

Wireless and Network Connectivity

Increasing use of wireless technology protocols such as Wi-Fi have led to the creation of a similar printer called the EPSON Stylus C82WN. This product offers the same features as the Stylus C82 with the addition of a wireless Ethernet 802.11b print server that supports multiple network protocols. Users can print to the wireless EPSON Stylus C82WN through an access point or directly from a PC or Mac equipped with an 802.11b wireless adapter. As a result, users can transfer information from their computer to the printer up to 120 feet in distance at speeds as fast as 11 megabits per second. The EPSON Stylus C82WN sells for $379. An optional wireless Bluetooth interface adapter that simply plugs into the printer's parallel port is also available for $129.

Wired local area network users will be able to take advantage of a similar model called the EPSON Stylus C82N. Once again, this printer will offer the same features found in the Stylus C82 with the addition of an EpsonNet External 10/100Mbit Print Server accessory to connect the printer to a wired LAN. The EPSON Stylus C82N is available for $349.

Nikon D100 Review Page (updated)

NEW D100 SAMPLE PICTURES ORIGINAL SIZE POSTED

 

New Sharp megapixel digital still cameras (models VE-CG30U and VE-CG40U). Sharp is entering the digital still camera market with two new megapixel cameras featuring Sharp's CG Silicon(TM) Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology. Both units are outfitted with a 1.5-inch high resolution color CG Silicon LCD screen and viewfinder, which will ensure a crisp preview to properly frame a photo. The VE-CG30U has a 3.3 megapixel CCD, while the VE-CG40U features a 4.2 megapixel CCD. Both models feature full manual and automatic options, and also have 3x optical zoom and 3x digital zoom, USB driver and interface, white balance control, image effects, and 16 MB SD card. The VE-CG30U will be available this month for an MSRP of $499.95. The VE-GC40U will be available in September for an MSRP of $599.95.

 

 

Microsoft Advances Digital Imaging with the Introduction of Picture It! Digital Image Pro

Microsoft has issued a press release earlier this past week about their new digital imaging software called Picture It! Digital Image Pro 7.0, which is now available at a price of $109. The software has support for Adobe Photoshop Filters and includes 3,000 photo projects, 150 filters, 5,000 images and many mats, frames and templates. For more details see the full press release below.

New Advanced Photo-Editing Software Boasts Add Flash, Backlighting, Levels Adjustment And Adobe Photoshop Plug-in Filter Support

REDMOND, Wash., Aug. 20 - Microsoft® (Nasdaq: MSFT - News) Picture It!® Digital Image Pro version 7.0 hit store shelves today, making it easier than ever for digital camera owners, including the 9.5 million new owners,(1) to create professional-quality photos. The newest edition to the Picture It! family, Picture It! Digital Image Pro is the only product to offer the unique combination of advanced photo-editing tools, professional-quality photo projects and simplicity.

Picture It! Digital Image Pro provides photo hobbyists with easy access to a host of new advanced control features and expanded photo projects. These features enable users to add flash to a photo; reduce backlighting; adjust levels to control shadows, midtones and highlights; and open, save and automatically adjust multiple pictures in the improved Mini Lab. With Adobe Photoshop plug-in filter support, users can further enhance their photos. In addition, a new file browser, enhanced startup window, product tour and improved user interface make it even easier for users to capture and enhance their photos.

Picture It! Digital Image Pro also offers 3,000 photo projects, 150 filters, 5,000 images, and a variety of mats, frames and templates for creating professional photo projects, such as scrapbooks, photo albums, calendars and postcards. Filters with variations such as Antique, Impressionism and Watercolor add instant style to photos. New Adobe Photoshop plug-in filter support offers endless opportunity to turn ordinary photos into works of art. Users can find professionally designed content for a variety of needs, including kids' projects and business, community and home projects. Photo cards and projects are available for all occasions and seasons.

Picture It! Digital Image Pro is integrated with MSN® Photos,(2) to enable consumers to take advantage of the mobility of the Internet to store, share, collaborate and fully maximize their photo-editing and digital-imaging experience. In addition, with MSN Photos, users can seamlessly order photo reprints and gifts directly from within Digital Image Pro.

"Last year, digital cameras accounted for more than 21 percent of the worldwide camera market, and as that number continues to grow,(3) and as digital camera users continue to become more savvy and sophisticated, they are looking for products like Digital Image Pro," said Michelle Richardson, product manager for home imaging at Microsoft Corp. "Microsoft developed Picture It! Digital Image Pro to meet the evolving needs of the photo hobbyists who have come to rely on our digital-imaging products. Now for the first time, they can more easily create professional-quality photos and photo projects."

Availability

Microsoft Picture It! Digital Image Pro version 7.0 is available for an estimated retail price of $109 (U.S.). Microsoft offers a $30 rebate for users upgrading from a previous version of Picture It! or a competitive product, and an additional $10 rebate if consumers purchase any digital camera the same day they purchase the software. In addition, the product ships with $85 worth of coupons for Fuji products, Avery paper samples and Alien Skin plug-ins.

In addition to the high-end features and functionality offered by Picture It! Digital Image Pro, Microsoft provides product options for all levels of digital photography users. The latest version of Picture It! Photo provides an entry-level software package, and the seventh packaged version of Picture It! Photo Premium offers users a popular collection of midlevel photo-editing and drawing and painting options. Microsoft also is shipping the fifth-anniversary edition of Microsoft Picture It! Publishing Platinum 2002, which includes greeting cards from commercial artists, photo-editing features and thousands of ways to do print and Web projects.

 
 
 
Worldwide Wireless Imaging Users Forecast to Reach 160 Million by 2007 According to InfoTrends Research Group
 
InfoTrends has issued a new report on wireless imaging. Their research predicts that the numbers will jump from 6.6 wireless image users worldwide to 160 million by 2007. Japan already has 5 million users with cell phones that can transmit images from built-in digital cameras, and the trend should catch on here in the USA, although we predict that the majority of users in the USA are going to want to send more photographic quality images using wireless solutions, which will require a wider variety of products such as PDAs to get the job done. Here is the press release from InfoTrends.
 
BOSTON - Aug. 21, 2002--The number of wireless imaging users worldwide is forecast to grow from 6.6 million in 2002 to over 160 million by 2007, representing a compound annual growth rate of 93%, according to a new study by InfoTrends Research Group. Japan has taken the lead in this market, with 98% of all wireless imaging users in 2002 residing in Japan. By the end of the forecast period, however, wireless imaging users will be more evenly distributed among the major regions of the world. Wireless imaging is still in its early stages. Nevertheless, real products and services are available on the market, and are being used by consumers and businesses alike. For example: In Japan, over 5 million people carry cell phones with embedded digital cameras. In North America, insurance agents are sending images wirelessly from the field for inclusion in claims documents. Consumers have the ability to capture photos on the go with clip-on cameras, and send them via their mobile phones to friends and family. MMS (multimedia messaging services) is being deployed in Europe.

Worldwide, consumers can download images and graphics to their mobile phones. "Wireless imaging will have an impact on many segments of the digital imaging industry," said Michelle Slaughter, Director of Digital Photography Trends for InfoTrends Research Group. "Digital camera vendors must consider solutions for implementing connectivity from cameras to mobile communications devices and whether mobile image capture devices will impact sales of standalone point & shoot digital cameras. Additionally, players involved in digital photofinishing will need to confront ever-expanding opportunities for soft display, and find ways to assert themselves in the mobile imaging environment. Online photo service providers and software vendors will need to decide how and when to support the new mobile platform."
 
The new report is entitled 2002 Wireless Imaging Market Outlook and is available immediately. It examines the worldwide market size and market opportunities by region for Japan, Europe, North America, and Rest of World, as well as vendors developing solutions for wireless imaging. InfoTrends Research Group, Inc. (www.infotrends-rgi.com)is the leading market research and consulting firm for digital imaging.
 
 
 
 
 
Electric Fuel's Instant Power(TM) Batteries to be Sold in Over 1,200 Ritz Camera stores
 
Well here is some news from Electric Fuel Corporation and Ritz about new battery options for camcorders and digital camera owners. The press release indicates 12 hours of continuous use of digital cameras, wow! We will try to get some samples and provide a brief review of these interesting new batteries.

NEW YORK, Aug. 19 Electric Fuel Corporation (Nasdaq: EFCX - News) announced today that the Company's Instant Power(TM) chargers for digital cameras and camcorders will be sold in 1,200 Ritz Camera stores, the nation's largest retail photo chain, and on their award winning website 'Ritzcamera.com' with additional nationwide distribution from WYNIT, Inc., the nation's largest and fastest growing distributor of digital imaging products. Based upon Electric Fuel's zinc-air technology platform, the Instant Power camcorder battery connects to the camcorder through its DC jack and offers up to 10-hours of straight use time, depending upon the product's make and model. The battery comes complete with a 3-foot cord and has an integral belt clip for convenience of use. The battery offers a 5-year shelf life in the original sealed aluminum pouch.
 
The Instant Power digital camera battery offers and unprecedented 12 hours of continuous operation time, depending upon make and model type, and allows for hundreds of photos with just one battery. As with the camcorder battery, the digital camera battery pack comes with a built-in belt clip and 3-foot cord. The battery also offers a 5-year shelf life in the original sealed aluminum pouch. "This is a major accomplishment for our Instant Power division's retail efforts," commented Electric Fuel President and CEO Yehuda Harats. "The division's management team identified this sector as a strong market for us. With the photo industry expertise of Ritz and the comprehensive distribution channel of WYNIT, we feel we can capture strong market share and capitalize on the growth in this industry."
 
 
 
 
New Technology Xe847(R) Filter Produces Digital Photos and Video That Appear as Seen Through the Human Eye
 
New Technology has issued an interesting press release announcing a new filter algorithm that they claim makes digital photos and video appear as they did when captured, as seen by the human eye. The Xe847 filter can be incorporated into digital imaging devices including digital cameras, post processing software, and photo labs. Here is the full press release for more details.

Digital Arts GmbH Presents Exceptional Enhancement Technology for Digital Imaging Devices
COLOGNE, Germany, Aug. 20 - The German technology company Digital Arts GmbH has developed a filter algorithm that makes photos and video appear as they did at the moment captured. Xe847 can be integrated into digital imaging devices and photo labs. The technology is available in MacOS 9/X and MS Windows versions. Xe847 eliminates color shifts coming from the ambient light, automatically correcting such problems as blue or green reflections on skin that produce pale complexions. Digital camcorders significantly benefit from this technology. Imagine a summer vacation scene at the beach. It may be warm and sunny, but a blue color shift from the blue sky produces a cold appearance on the video. The warm atmosphere is not recorded correctly. Xe847 adjusts the output so that the memory is preserved accurately. Xe847 analyzes the scene, frame by frame, and recalculates how we would see it. The technology can either be integrated in the camera or in the post- processing software. Xe847 simulates the so-called color-constancy of the human visual system: up to a certain degree, the human eye perceives the color of objects as constant even if the ambient light or the illuminant changes. Whether illuminated by direct sunlight or fluorescent lighting, human skin always looks natural. Xe847 was developed on the basis of physiological processes in the visual cortex of the brain as well as some higher psychological effects. The software version of Xe847 is available at www.xe847.com, as Xe847-Photo ($29), Xe847-Video ($79), as a plug-in for iMovie2 ($14) and for iPhoto ($19). Free Demo and test versions can be downloaded.
 
 
 
 
 
Applied Science Fiction -ASF- Announces First New York City Retail Test of Digital PIC Dry Film Processing Technology
 
Well, for those of you who just cannot give up film yet, here is a way to get digital images from your film cameras and bring them into your computer for digital editing using software such as Photoshop etc..... Here is a press release from Applied Science Fiction on a process we first learned about at the PMA show last February.
 
NEW YORK - Applied Science Fiction(TM), Inc., the inventor of the cutting-edge digital dry film processing system Digital PIC, announces today the first Digital PIC retail test in New York City at Camera Land. With ASF's environmentally friendly Digital PIC system at Camera Land, consumers have access to self-service photofinishing in a traditional retail camera store. ASF is also the creator of the award-winning Digital ICE(TM) and Digital ICE3(TM) technologies, the leader of automatic photo restoration applications.
 
This retail test of the Digital PIC kiosk will continue through the fall of this year. Using the Digital PIC self-serve kiosk located conveniently at Camera Land's midtown Manhattan store, consumers simply drop their exposed film into the kiosk for automatic film processing, printing, and the creation of digital image files. During the development process, users can then select the images they want printed and/or enlarged, and receive their prints including an index print and a DigiPIX(TM) Digital Negative on CD in less than ten minutes. In addition, consumers have the option to edit their images by removing red-eye, cropping, and adjusting brightness or contrast before making enlargements.
 
"By being the first retailer in New York City to offer the Digital PIC direct to digital dry film processing system, we are able to differentiate ourselves from all of the competition in our market area," said Joel Paymer, owner, Camera Land. "Quality from the Digital PIC kiosk is extremely high allowing our customers to obtain high-quality photofinishing very quickly. And as a midtown Manhattan retailer where retail space is expensive, the benefits of a Digital PIC kiosk, such as the need for extremely little floor space, no plumbing, no chemical mixing, no negative handling, limited maintenance and self-service features makes Digital PIC a very attractive product for my store."
 
ASF expects that Digital PIC will be in production by the 1st quarter of 2003 with OEM partners delivering various configurations to the marketplace in the 1st half of 2003. These Digital PIC systems can be placed in traditional photofinishing and photo retail outlets, as well as non-traditional locations such as resorts, hotels, amusement parks, airports, business centers, post offices, and libraries.
 
"Our Digital PIC kiosk empowers consumers to build their custom print order at the time of film development, when excitement about their pictures is the highest thus generating increased revenues for retailers, a benefit that Camera Land is seeing first hand," said Dan Sullivan, ASF's president and CEO. "Early feedback from customers using the system at Camera Land confirms our pre-launch independent market research that found features such as ease of use, self-service, selecting and editing images for printing and enlarging, obtaining a DigiPIX digital negative on CD, and ready access to high-quality photofinishing anywhere at anytime are important consumer benefits."
 
Earlier this summer, the Digital PIC kiosk had its first ever retail test at Precision Camera & Video in Austin, TX. This system is also currently being tested at seven Boston, MA-area CVS locations. For more information, visit www.asf.com.
Digital PIC Process
 
ASF's Digital PIC technology develops 35mm film directly into a high-resolution RGB digital format in one quick step. Micro-amounts of a proprietary developing agent are applied to a roll of exposed but undeveloped film as it is fed through the processor's image-capture engine. The environmentally friendly Digital PIC process requires no water, generates no hazardous effluents, and makes complete silver recovery possible. Next, the Digital PIC system makes a digital record of each image. Once the image data is captured, color data and exposure settings are established on a pixel-by-pixel basis for each element of every image. Complete 24-exposure roll development is accomplished in less than ten minutes after the film is fed into the image-capture engine.
 
Digital PIC creates a unique DigiPIX CD. DigiPIX offers consumers tremendous flexibility for communicating with images. The CD includes an index-print file plus high-, medium- and low-resolution image files that provide the consumer a convenient avenue to share their images in many ways. Digital PIC allows for consistent image quality, and is Internet and Broadband ready. Configurations for Digital PIC technology include photo kiosks, microlabs, backoffice workstations, backlabs, and quick print stations.
 
 
 
 
NEWS (08/21/02 & 08/22/02)
 
Ricoh Introduces Revolutionary 3.24-Megapixel Digital Zoom Camera Featuring Ultrafast Shutter Response and Long life battery Support
 
Ricoh has sent us a press release on their new Caplio RR30 digital camera. The new 3.24 megapixel CCD camera features a 3x optical zoom and a very fast shutter response time of just .22 seconds along with longer battery life. The press release below has full details however we do not have US availability and pricing yet.
 
Tokyo, August 22, 2002 – Ricoh has announced the release of the Caplio RR30 digital camera.

This revolutionary new model eliminates the key banes of digital photography. Users can quickly capture action opportunities because the shutter response is the world’s fastest in this camera’s class* – at just 0.22 second. The Caplio RR30 is also a perfect travel companion, with an optionally available lithium ion battery that allows hundreds of shots between charges. The Caplio RR30 is one of a handful of digital cameras that can additionally operate with two AA alkaline or nickel metal hydride batteries, and also comes with an optional AC adapter.
 
* As of July 20, 2002, for compact digital cameras with resolutions of four megapixels or less. Speed measured as time between depressing shutter release button and starting exposure in auto focus mode without using focus lock.

The new model’s CCD delivers an effective 3.24 megapixels of high resolution, complemented by 10.2x zooming from a 3x optical zoom lens, combined with 3.4x digital zooming. For those seeking up-close detail, the Caplio RR30 allows 1cm macros. Apart from a regular continuous shooting mode, two new continuous shooting modes record the first or last 16 frames of a subject to one file in around two seconds. This is perfect for those seeking to analyze everything from a golfer’s swing to a sprinter’s gait. The Caplio RR30’s high-sensitivity mode provides incomparably better illumination of subjects in the dark to aid framing and shooting. Another key advantage of the Caplio RR30 is that it can plug in to USB cable-equipped personal computers with the provided imaging software installed, for instant image transfers.

Katsunori Nakata, general manager of the Marketing Office at Ricoh’s Personal Multimedia Products Company, says of the new model that: “We listened closely to existing digital camera users before developing this new model. And we responded with innovation.

The Caplio RR30 makes digital photography a reliably complete and user-friendly experience, such as through the long battery life and ultrafast shutter response. On top of that, the Caplio RR30’s 3.24-megapixel resolution, 10.2x zoom, and a host of other handy features make it equally suitable for the consumer market and business users, such as web writers, columnists, magazine editors, and public relations officers. The Caplio RR30 has everything you need to truly enjoy digital photography.”
 
Main Features:

Ultrafast Shutter Response
People who have used digital cameras before have likely suffered the frustrations of action shooting. All too often, the subject has almost disappeared before a shot is captured. This is because shutter responses on such cameras are so slow. But the Caplio RR30 eliminates this problem. The release time lag is just 0.22 second. The Caplio RR30 achieves such speed with its hybrid autofocusing system, comprising both external and through-the-lens focusing. The shutter speed ranges from an amazing 1/2,000th of a second to a full eight seconds. All these capabilities allow users to comfortably handle everything from portrait to action photography.

Diverse Power Sources
When on road, users can always switch to two AA alkaline or nickel metal hydride batteries in the unlikely event that the optional lithium ion battery runs out. Few other digital cameras offer such dual battery capabilities. With the lithium ion battery, up to 3,500 shots* are possible between recharges. An optional AC adapter is available for those wishing to take advantage of a nearby power source. * A maximum 3,500 shots under continuous counting mode (flash off, without zooming, LCD off, with VGA); up to 350 shots under normal usage conditions (with 50% flash and zoom usage, LCD on, 30 seconds between shots, reviews of all photos).

1cm Macro Photography
The Caplio RR30 builds on the Ricoh tradition of offering crisp macros as close as 1cm from a subject, so it can, for example, capture the full richness of settings in an engagement ring. The camera also offers macros across the zoom range up to 16cm away, while the built-in flash can be used for shots as close as 16cm.

Multi-Shot Shooting
One of the key attractions of the Caplio RR30 is that it is a perfect tool for people wanting to analyze action. Golfers, for example, might want to analyze their swings. The Caplio RR30 has two handy streaming shot modes for such people. In S- continuous Mode, it can take a stream of 16 shots in one file at 0.13-second intervals—for two seconds of footage—with just one press of the shutter button. In M-continuous Mode, with the shutter button held down the camera memorizes the last 16 shots in one file, taken at 0.13 second intervals. This is very convenient if users are unsure exactly when a particular action may start or finish.

High-Sensitivity Display
The Caplio RR30 does away with another familiar drawback of digital cameras: poor display visibility in nightclubs and other dim environments. Its high-sensitivity mode provides incomparably better illumination of subjects in the dark to aid framing and shooting.

Simple Image Transfers
The Caplio RR30 makes child’s play of image transfers. Just turn the camera off. Link via a USB cable to a Windows PC or Mac OS computer preinstalled with RICOH GATE L software installed. The computer will then instantly start importing at 3 megabytes per second. Mac OSX users can import images with iPhoto. Windows XP users can take advantage of the Windows Image Acquisition driver interface.

Hybrid Autofocusing
The Caplio RR30 incorporates a hybrid autofocusing system, comprising both external and through-the-lens focusing. The external system operates constantly, thus advancing shutter speeds and enhancing shooting in dark environments. The through-the-lens setup is handy for ensuring crispness in closeups and macro photography.

Handy Exposure Options
A 256-point light sensor scans the subject area to average and determine optimal exposure settings. The camera also offers center-weighted and spot metering and incorporates auto bracketing.


Synchro Monitor Mode
In this mode, the camera conserves power by keeping the monitor off before shooting. The monitor goes on when the shutter button is depressed to preview a shot or operate the zoom, and remains on for several seconds after a picture is taken.
Compatible with Secure Digital Memory Cards
 
The Caplio RR30 has an internal 8M memory and can also use optional Secure Digital memory cards.
These ultracompact solid-state devices do not need a power source to store information and permit fast and simple downloads of images. The camera is also compatible with Multimedia cards. Shutter speeds from 1/2000 to eight seconds The shutter range is from an amazing 1/2,000th of a second to a full eight seconds. All these capabilities allow users to comfortably handle everything from portrait to action photography.

Diverse Scene Modes and Video Captures
To remove the fuss from photography, the Caplio RR30 offers six preset scene modes. These are the portrait, sports, landscape, night scene, text, and high-sensitivity modes. Another handy feature of the Caplio RR30 is that it can capture silent video.

Quick Reviews at the Press of a Button
Most cameras require users to switch modes if they want to review results. With the Caplio RR30, however, users can take advantage of the Recview capability when in any shooting mode, simply depressing a button to instantly replay the most recent image.

 

 

NEWS & WEB SITE UPDATES (08/18/02)
 
We have been away for most of the past two weeks attempting to test out several new cameras we have including the 3 recent Nikon cameras and I have been out of town on other important business matters. A rare combination of factors has resulted in the unusual situation where both of us who run the site, Steve McLaughlin and myself David Kamanski, have been out of town and away from our computers including our usual internet connections at the same time, making it near impossible to update the site on our normal daily basis. This is a temporary situation which should be resolved over the next week or two. While we do have laptops and can occasionally connect via slow modem connections, this is hard to do in places such as Big Sur while living out of a tent. In addition, I have other obligations that are extremely important that occasionally cause me to be out of town. I had hoped one situation would resolve, but it has not as of this date and currently it could keep me out of town a week or two more. We will be adding all the main news stories from the past few weeks as some free time opens up and especially over the weekends. In the mean time here are a few quick news items.
 
 
 
 
New Reviews and News at other sites
 
Phil Askey at his dpreview web site has posted a full review of the Nikon 4500 which you should check out. He also has news of a possible new Olympus camera and new Iomega 750 Zip disks on his main news page.
 
Dave Etchells has also posted his full review of the Nikon 4500 at his Imaging Resource web site. He has also just added a review of the recent Sony P7, a small 3 megapixel camera.
 
 
 
 
Dazzle announces new USB DVD burner for digital cameras and video camcorder owners
 
This new Dazzle DVD Creation Station 200 (DCS 200) unit comes with slots for most digital camera cards and can mix photos with video and then burn a DVD with included software. The new DCS 200 is priced at $229.99 (MSRP) and available now. For more info. check out the Dazzle web site.
 
 
 
Adobe announces Elements 2.0 shipping
 
Adobe's new Elements version 2.0 is now available and shipping. Check out the Adobe web site for more information.
 
 
 
 
New Lexar SD Memory Cards Ship
 
Lexar has posted the following news about new 256 and 512MB SD memory cards at their web site.
 
Lexar Media Extends SD Memory Line With 256MB and 512MB Capacities
 
Fremont, Calif., August 15, 2002 -- Lexar Media Inc. (Nasdaq: LEXR), a leading developer of flash mass storage systems and an innovator of high-performance digital media and accessory products, today announced that it has started shipments of 256MB and 512MB capacity SD memory cards. The new cards add to the existing capacities 32MB, 64MB and 128MB. The 256MB and 512MB SD memory cards will be available at leading consumer electronics and mass merchandisers worldwide at a suggested retail price $199 and $399 respectively.
 
 
 
 
EpsonUSA announces 2 new photo printers.
 
Epson has issued a press release this past week announcing 2 new 6 ink photo printers. The new printers are the EPSON Stylus Photo 925 and 825. The Photo 925 features a automated roll paper cutter, one-touch printing buttons, and the ability to crop images without a computer. The EPSON Stylus Photo 825 is indicated to be a replacement to last year's EPSON Stylus Photo 785EPX. Both printers have up to 5760 x 720 dpi with Resolution Performance Management technology and four-picoliter droplets. Those wanting to view photos and layouts without a computer can buy an optional 1.6" color Preview Monitor at an estimated street price of $79. The EPSON Stylus Photo 825 and 925 both use Epson's BorderFree photo printing technology and come with Epson's roll paper holder accessory for printing multiple borderless 4" x 6" snapshots and panoramas on 4" rolls. Epson indicates that larger images can be produced on the printers with a maximum printable area of 8.3" x 44". The EPSON Stylus Photo 825 and 925 both support PRINT Image Matching (P.I.M.) II technology which can be used with many digital cameras and programs such as Photoshop and Elements to make it easier to print out at optimal automatic settings. The EPSON Stylus Photo 825 and 925 will be available by September at estimated street prices of $199 and $299, respectively. Here is a link to the full Epson Press Release.
 
 
 
Kodak announces new digital cameras.
 
Kodak has issued a press release about their latest digital cameras, the 3.1 megapixel, 3X optical zoom lens DX 4330 camera at a price of $349.95 and the 2.0 megapixel CX 4200 camera with no optical zoom lens at a price of $179.95. For photos, features, specifications and more information check out the Kodak web site pages for the DX 4330 and the CX 4200, and below is the full press release issued by Kodak.
 
Adding to Its EasyShare Camera Line-up, Kodak Launches High Performance DX4330 Zoom Digital Camera and Point-and-Shoot CX4200 Digital Camera - Kodak EasyShare DX4330 Debuts New LCD Screen for Improved Viewing in Direct Sunlight

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Aug. 13, 2002-- Eastman Kodak Company today added two new models to its industry-leading family of Kodak EasyShare digital cameras. The DX4330 Zoom Digital Camera is designed to deliver great pictures even under tricky picture-taking conditions, while the CX4200 Digital Camera allows people to explore the benefits and fun of digital photography. The DX4330 is the first camera to debut Kodak's new 1.8" Indoor/Outdoor LCD display for effortless viewing even in bright sunlight.
 
The powerful, 3.1 Megapixel (MP) DX4330 features 10X zoom with a premium Kodak Retinar aspheric all-glass 3X optical zoom lens, producing amazing prints up to 11" x 14". It offers high-performance features including a user-friendly dial that gives fast access to various scene modes such as close-up, landscape, sport, night or fully automatic. Other features of this new model include continuous capture of video and sound - limited only by the size of the memory card. It will be available worldwide in early September at a suggested retail price of $349.95.
 
The easy-to-use point and shoot CX4200 offers 2.0 MP with 2X digital zoom, and is ideal for great prints up to 8" x 10". It will debut in late August at a suggested retail price of $179.95.
 
"Digital camera users enjoy the immediacy of on-camera sharing with their family and friends and the new DX4330's large Kodak Indoor/Outdoor LCD enhances that experience even in bright sunlight," said Pierre Schaeffer, chief marketing officer and vice president of Kodak's Digital & Applied Imaging division. "As the latest members of the Kodak EasyShare system, the DX4330 and CX4200 offer the hallmarks of EasyShare - ease-of-use, high quality prints and the broadest number of integrated printing options."
 
The DX4330 and the CX 4200 make sharing pictures one-touch easy with the recently-introduced on-camera "share" button, which allows users to tag pictures for easy printing, e-mailing or as favorites right on the camera's LCD display. With the "share" button, print tagging is as simple as choosing the picture and selecting the number of prints required. When the cameras are placed in the Kodak EasyShare camera dock and pictures are transferred, the Kodak EasyShare software automatically launches the print screen for making prints at home or ordering prints online through service providers. E-mail tagging is also simple and powerful. Users simply tag the picture for e-mailing and select an address directly from the cameras, which store up to 32 e-mail addresses.
 
Both cameras offer an automatic picture rotation feature that ensures that pictures always appear right side up on the camera, computer or TV. In addition, the cameras ensure that users will not miss the shot because they are always ready to snap a picture even when the camera is not in the capture mode. Both come with 16MB of internal memory and consumers can expand their picture-taking capacity with MultiMediaCard or Secure Digital memory cards via the cameras' expansion slot.
Like all Kodak EasyShare cameras, the cameras are designed to ensure the highest picture quality and benefit from the power of Kodak color science inside, Kodak's built-in proprietary color management technology that produces exceptional color quality under any lighting condition.
 
Both cameras are compatible with the Kodak EasyShare camera dock II, which allows consumers to upload their digital pictures at the touch of a button and quickly recharge the camera battery pack. The dock also includes separate indicator lights for picture transfer and battery charging status.
 
Combining a full line-up of digital cameras, camera dock and enhanced Kodak EasyShare software, the Kodak EasyShare system is the recognized standard for ease of use in consumer digital photography. The EasyShare system makes getting prints virtually effortless, giving consumers the option to print at home using One Touch to Better Pictures and Kodak inkjet paper; from home by uploading to either the EasyShare print service or another online photofinisher; or at retail using Kodak digitally-enabled kiosks or over the counter.
 
 
 
 
 
NEW NIKON D100 GALLERY POSTED (08/12/02)
 
We recently completed a new gallery of Nikon D100 pictures and have a link below. These pictures were taken during the past few weeks as we have traveled to many areas of California to test the camera. We have been using a Nikon D100 with the latest firmware, version 1.01 as our camera was updated days before the official announcement. The pictures in this gallery are mostly taken in daylight at ISO 200, however over the past few nights we have been testing the ISO 800 and 1600 settings in a variety of situations, with some fantastic results we will post soon. So far the Nikon D100 is producing very good images and we have no major issues to report as the colors are coming out great and the pictures sharpen up nicely in Photoshop. The original files for these shots are available now. Let us know how you like the format! If you are interested in a DSLR or Nikon D100 we invite you to check out our latest gallery of sample shots.
NEW NIKON D100 SAMPLE PICTURES POSTED (08/12/02)

D100 SAMPLE PICTURES ORIGINAL SIZE

 

 
 
 
 
NIKON COOLPIX 5700 DISNEYLAND SAMPLE PICTURES POSTED (08/04/02)
 
We have posted our first set of sample pictures from the brand new Nikon Coolpix 5700 digital camera. The camera features a huge 8X optical zoom lens in addition to a 5 megapixel CCD, RAW files, and a full set of manual controls all within a fairly small/lightweight body. The Nikon Coolpix 5700 is currently Nikon's top of the line consumer fixed lens digital camera and thus it is not designed primarily for the point and shoot crowd. However, we used the camera out as Disneyland in the automatic Program mode to see how it would perform on its own and the results can be viewed from the link below. We also took several shots from the widest angle and then zoomed in to the full 8X zoom for a somewhat dramatic look at just how much magnification the 8X zoom provides.
 
We have now used the Nikon Coolpix 5700 on several day long trips where we have gotten a chance to formulate some initial opinions. Initially, as we stated when we first opened the box, the camera is fairly compact and lightweight considering the powerful 8X optical zoom and 5 megapixels CCD, however it is a bit heavier then a typical point and shoot camera, and it won't fit into a pocket. Accordingly, most are going to want to use the fairly nice looking Nikon neck strap and walk around with the camera hanging down in front of them. The camera's relatively small body and light weight make it easy to tolerate walking around most of the day with the camera hanging around your neck. The camera is very sturdy and overall has a nice solid quality feel to it. We found the start-up and auto focus times to be more than adequate for getting our typical shots out at Disneyland with the shutter lag time seeming to be somewhat above normal as we would expect in this category of higher end cameras, but not close to matching the Nikon D100 which we often had with us at the same time. We did enjoy the use of the Compact Flash Type II slot which accepts the IBM Microdrive, although the combination of the Microdrive and the somewhat average at best performing included rechargeable battery makes getting a second battery, or buying and keeping on hand the compatible 2CR5 throw away Lithium battery a wise idea for day long outings. We did get over 100 pictures on a single battery charge using a Compact Flash type I card and above average reviewing, so the batteries do provide enough power to get a pretty good sized set of shots. We do like the very light weight and compact battery charger which makes it easy to bring it along in a small camera bag.
 
As far as the picture quality goes, we will let you check out the sample gallery without making our final opinions for now. The colors seem to be very good, as we see in these initial sets some well saturated and fairly neutral results. The only small tendency the camera can on occasion display it to slightly blow out whites or highlights on bright sunny shots. Our quick efforts to minimize this worked pretty good by just watching the exposure settings and moving the camera's aim just a little until we saw the combined settings close down the light one increment. The only consequence we saw to this occurring on a few occasions was a bit too strong a change (for example jumping down a full f-stop when 1/2 a stop would be a finer choice) which we noticed in large blue sky shots where you can see an increase in noise due to the fact less light is reaching the CCD. We also noticed that the higher zoom levels tended to show darker exposures with less tendency to have the highlights appear too bright but at some risk of increased noise levels. We doubt either of these issues will be of any significance to most unless you are printing out a very large sizes, or if you were cropping heavily to enlarge a subject, something the 8X optical zoom is there for in the first place. Although the lens is very very good for this price range and you will get about the highest detail levels you currently can from a consumer level camera, we currently are seeing that the sharpness is perhaps just slightly below the level found in the Sony DSC 707, although it is also clear that the difference is not that much, and part of the difference can be due to the fact the Sony 707 may have a bit more aggressive sharpness applied in camera.
 
The other main issue we have noted early on is that use of the viewfinder or lcd screen in bright daylight is a bit difficult, especially for those who wear glasses, although the viewfinder has a nice dioptric control to make the proper adjustments. Still the sun tends to wash out the colors in either mode making it hard to frame the shot or keep it perfectly level. At night we were having a bit of difficulty seeing the subjects in low lighting. It would be nice if there was a low light illuminator. On the other hand the focus did just fine in most situations, and we did get some great outdoor night time concert shots, a few of which we may post soon.
 
We are overall quite impressed with the high quality of pictures you can obtain from the Nikon Coolpix 5700, as well as the superior manual controls and flexibility it offers. It is certainly producing very good to excellent results, with the ability to print out very good looking 11 by 14 inch and larger pictures. We will have a lot more comments on the camera as we continue to test it in many settings. For now we hope you will enjoy checking out the samples we obtained out at Disneyland in Anaheim, California on yet another nice sunny summer day!
 
 
NIKON COOLPIX 5700 DISNEYLAND SAMPLE PICTURES POSTED (08/04/02)
 
 
 
 
 
 
FUJI ANNOUNCES 5 NEW DIGICAMS USING NEW xD CARDS (08/01/02)
 
FujiFilm has announced 5 new digital cameras to their upcoming lineup today. The new cameras all use the new xD Picture Cards which were just announced on Tuesday. We will have more on these cameras and the HP digital imaging products announced Monday on our updates by the weekend. We were out town again Wednesday attending a special press/media event so we still have some catching up to do. While we must avoid any further details right now, we can say that there are some upcoming key announcements which will be of great interest to digital camera fans in addition to the big news this week from Fuji, Olympus & HP. For those seeking additional information about the new Fuji cameras, here is a link to The General Fuji Press Release and Fuji has also issued press releases with product photos for the FINEPIX A200 AND FINEPIX 2650 as well as the FinePix A203 and FinePix A303,and the FINEPIX 3800.
 
 
 
 
QUICK UPDATES (07/30/02)
 
As we mentioned in our last post Sunday, we did get out to Disneyland in the afternoon with the Coolpix 5700 to obtain a nice set of sample pictures, which we will post over then next few days. We then headed up the Coast of California to Solvang, a cute Danish town, where we took many shots of the Danish Buildings including colorful flowers and windmills, using the Nikon D100 (now updated with firmware version 1.01 to fix a white balance bracketing issue). As mentioned at Steve's Digicam web site if your new D100 has a green dot on the box, then you already have the new firmware. If you have firmware 1.0 as shown in your picture playback information fields, then you can send your camera in to Nikon for a free upgrade, using pre-paid mailers from Nikon. For more information check out this D100 white balance issue web site page at Nikon. In light of our photo trip several hundred miles up the Coast of California and just getting back late last night, we are behind posting a few items. We will be updating the news with some news of HP announcing new cameras and printers, as well as a few other items. We have a major media event we are attending tomorrow (Wednesday) with a large digital camera company, but for now its best we say little, and then we will be back up the Coast of California even farther this time to try and get some nice shots of the Big Sur area. The Coast has been very hazy the past week, so we can only hope to have some nice Nikon D100 and Coolpix 5700 shots for you to examine and compare within the next week. Keep checking back as we are working really hard to bring you some good information on how the new Nikon 5700, 4500 and D100 Cameras we are reviewing are performing, and we are trying to get really nice subject matter so the sample pictures will be enjoyable as well as informative as to how well the camera can do at getting pleasing results.
 
 
 
 
 
OLYMPUS & FUJI DEVELOP NEW xD PICTURE MEMORY CARDS (07/30/02)
 
Olympus and Fuji have developed a new Memory Card format called the xD Picture Card, destined for new digital cameras and other digital products which use removable memory cards expected to be announced by this fall. The new xD Picture cards will allow for much higher capacity storage, with initial cards to reach 128MB and 256 cards expected before the end of the year. The tiny new cards are claimed to be smaller and lighter then other formats, and yet they have announced that next year we will see 512 MB and 1 Gig storage sizes, with the cards eventually reaching a size of 8 Gigs down the road. The new memory cards can also fit into a Compact Flash Adaptor for use in all cameras which currently support the use Compact Flash cards. The new xD Picture cards will be made by Toshiba and will be available for use with pcmcia adaptors and USB card readers. For more information see the Olympus Press Release below, or use this link to the Fuji Press site for the Fuji Press Release which includes some additional technical information such as the 3MB per second record transfer speeds and more.
 
 
Olympus Announces Development of xD-Picture CardTM,
A Revolutionary Ultra-Compact Digital Camera Memory Media

World's Smallest Memory Cards Offer Storage Capacity Up to 8 Gigabytes, Lower Power Consumption, and Compatibility with Different Digital Camera Brands

July 30, 2002, Melville, NY-- Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. and Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd (Fujifilm) of Japan today announced they have jointly developed the xD-Picture Card(tm), a new type of memory media with an ultra-compact design about the size of a postage stamp, image storage capacity of up to 8 gigabytes, compatibility with different digital camera brands, and prices that are comparable to current SmartMedia(tm) cards.

The name of the new xD-Picture Card was inspired by the words "eXtreme digital" to signify the excellence of this new memory media for recording, storing, and transporting audiovisual information. The xD-Picture Card will be produced on consignment by Toshiba Corporation in Japan and introduced in the Americas this fall along with digital cameras from Olympus and Fujifilm that support the media.

Olympus and Fujifilm cooperated on the development of the xD-Picture Card to respond to the needs of consumers using today's advanced digital still cameras. These users require greater memory capacity, and with initial memory sizes from 16 to 128 megabytes at introduction, and followed by 256 megabytes by the end of 2002 and larger sizes up to 8 gigabytes in the future, the new xD-Picture Card(tm) meets and exceeds memory needs.

Camera users concerned with compatibility of digital media between different brands of digital cameras will appreciate the xD-Picture Card's versatility. With a Compact Flash(tm) adapter the xD-Picture Card can be used with any Compact Flash compatible device for even more possibilities. A USB Reader/Writer provides easy computer connectivity, and a PCMCIA PC Card adapter for laptops and other devices ensures the easy downloading of data.

Although similar in some ways to all flash media, xD-Picture Cards are designed for increased durability and reliability despite their size. The small size of the card will also allow for digital manufacturers to design even smaller, more stylish and powerful digital devices in the future.

"Olympus has been a supporter of SmartMedia in our digital cameras since the introduction of our first digital camera in 1997, and we plan to continue distributing this media for our customers," said John Knaur, Product Manager for Digital Consumer Products Group at Olympus, "As the needs of digital camera users evolve and the demand for greater memory capacity combines with the necessity for compatibility, Olympus and Fuji are responding with a new media designed to grow along with the market and meet the challenges of tomorrow."

xD-Picture CARD MAIN FEATURES

Ultra-compact 0.79" x 0.98" x .067 size
With a volume of 0.85cc and a weight of 2g, the xD-Picture Card boasts the smallest form factor of any digital memory card, making it exceptionally portable and convenient. The miniature size of the new Card will enable development of even smaller digital cameras.

Planned capacities up to 8GB
Four types of Cards will be available initially: 16MB, 32MB, 64MB, and 128MB.
256MB Cards are planned to be introduced this December, with 512MB and 1GB-8GB Cards to follow from the next year.

Core media concept
PC Card adapters and USB card readers will be available simultaneously with xD-Picture Cards, allowing easy interfacing with personal computers. A CompactFlash(tm) adapter is being developed that will allow use of xD-Picture Cards in cameras designed for CompactFlash(tm) media. Plans to adapt the new media for PDAs, audio players and other IT appliances are also underway.

For more information, contact Olympus America Inc, Consumer Products Group, Two Corporate Center Dr., Melville, NY 11747-3157, ph: (631) 844-5000 (800) 622-6372, Fax: (631) 844-5262 or the Olympus Web Site: http://www.olympusamerica.com.
 
 
 
 
NIKON COOLPIX 4500 SAMPLE PICTURES FROM DISNEYLAND POSTED (07/28/02)
 

We have added a new set of samples from Disneyland taken using the new Nikon Coolpix 4500. We have added a new thumbnail page made from Photoshop 7 with links to medium sized shots and the unaltered original picture files which are about 1.3 megs each (click on the med. sized shot to the right). They take about 4 or 5 seconds to download on broadband and most are looking really colorful, sharp and well exposed. We are working on how to best present the medium sized pictures using this new format, including compression levels (currently at 5 = aprox. 75kb files at 700 by 525 resolution) and sharpness (currently none). Check them out and give us your feedback!

 
NEW NIKON COOLPIX 4500 DISNEYLAND SAMPLES POSTED (07/28/02)
 
 
 
 
 
NIKON COOLPIX 5700 NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE (07/28/02)
 
Our affiliate partner RitzCamera.Com has now added the Nikon Coolpix 5700 to their lineup and it is now available from our link below. The camera was initially expected to ship a few weeks ago but was delayed until this weekend, so those of you who have been waiting for a Coolpix 5700 for quite some time now, the wait is over! The Nikon Coolpix 5700 is a top-notch camera featuring an impressive 8X zoom lens and a 5 megapixel CCD. We just received a full production review unit from Nikon at the start of the week and we have already been out to Disneyland on Friday night to start our testing process. We got some great flash shots and some really colorful concert pictures from our first use. We have also started to test the zoom abilities as well as the cameras abilities to handle highlights, especially in light of our extensive use and testing of the Coolpix 5000. We will post some of our initial test pictures along with our Disneyland Gallery as soon as we can after we get back from taking more pictures at Disneyland and California Adventure Parks later today. So far we have found the camera to be relatively small & light considering the powerful lens, although it is a bit bigger then the pocket type cameras. While out walking around Disneyland we used the included neck strap which allowed the camera to hang comfortably in front of us, with hardly a notice. The camera seems quick to start up and can be used in a simple point and shoot mode, with the flash appearing to meter better then the CP 5000, and we are more consistently getting good flash results, with the built in pop-up flash. Don't forget that the camera has a hot shoe and can accept speed lights, including several really nice units from Nikon such as the SB-80x. We have so far found the lens and zooming capabilities of the CP 5700 to be very good and we hope to get some great examples later today out at the parks. For those of you who are interested in getting one of these cameras now, or if you want more information, be sure to use our links below and go for it!
 
Nikon CoolPix 5700 Review Pages
 
ORDER THE NIKON COOLPIX 5700 AVAILABLE AT RITZ
 
 
 
 
 
NIKON LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE DIGICAM TECH SUPPORT SITE & BRIEF NEWS (07/25/02)
 
Nikon has added new features to its web site making it easier for Nikon Digital Camera owners to get tech support for their cameras, including free software downloads, firmware upgrades, FAQs, info. on accessories, contact information, and PDF files with software and camera user manuals. Here is the press release with links to the new Nikon Digital Camera Tech Support Site.

Nikon Launches New Digital Tech Support Center on NikonUSA.com

New Addition to Product Site Offers Digital Product Owners Easy Access to Software Upgrades and Technical Service Information

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 25 - Nikon Inc., the world leader in photography, today announced the addition of a Digital Tech Support Center to the existing information and services provided on its product website, NikonUSA.com (www.nikonusa.com). Within the Digital Tech Support Center, visitors can now quickly and easily gain access to valuable technical information about Nikon digital imaging products, including product FAQs, firmware upgrades, new software uploads and various additional technical information for Nikon digital SLR cameras, Coolpix digital cameras and Coolscan film scanners.

"With the popularity of digital imaging, digital SLR photography and the expansion of our Coolpix line of consumer digital cameras, we recognize the great value in making our technical expertise readily available and at the fingertips of our customers," said Jerry Grossman, Vice President, marketing for consumer digital products and compact cameras at Nikon Inc. "With the incorporation of the Digital Tech Support Center into our NikonUSA website, Nikon digital camera and Coolscan owners can now log on to obtain the tools necessary to keep their products running at peak performance and utilize the latest technology."

The new Digital Tech Support Center includes the collection of information previously available through NikonTechUSA, combined with the user-friendly, NikonUSA interface. The result is a site where digital camera and Coolscan owners can visit to learn about all digital product upgrades and technical service updates, information on repairs, Microsoft and Mac OS product compatibility and even upgrades and trial versions of NikonView and Capture browsing and photo-editing software.

Visitors will also find resources including FAQs and product manuals for popular Nikon digital cameras and scanners ready for download in PDF format.

To learn more about the Digital Tech Support Center, please visit the following webpage on NikonUSA: http://www.nikonusa.com/photography.

 

BRIEF NEWS (07/25/02

Imaging Resource has posted a detailed review of the new 6 megapixel DSLR Fuji S2 using a 3rd generation SuperCCD for improved image results. Dave Etchells liked the camera a lot. Check out the IR Fuji S2 findings!

We now have a brand new 5 megapixel, 8x optical zoom Nikon Coolpix 5700 for review, and we will be posting samples and some initial impressions by this weekend. Our initial comments upon opening the box and checking the camera out are to note how relatively small and light weight it is for having such a powerful 8X optical zoom. This thing is fairly tiny and it looks very nice in black with a gold ring around the end of the lens. As many of you know we posted extensive coverage on the CP 5000, including a page showing the performance with all the accessory lenses. Now its time to compare how the 5700 stacks up! We have some great new shots from the CoolPix 4500 as well as some night shots from the D100 which we will post later tonight. We will also have some comparison shots between the 3 Nikon cameras taken out at Disneyland posted by the end of this weekend. We are going to try and take some scenic shots of the California Coast with these cameras on a short photo shoot trip Sunday and early next week, so stay tuned as we see how these new Nikon's perform!

If you are looking to buy a D100 keep checking with Ritz as we understand many cameras are shipping to buyers now and the wait may be shortest by using our online links. With repect the the Nikon Coolpix 5700, we understand that Ritz is going to have a link available for purchase soon, so check back in a few days for an update if you want to be one of the first to get one.

For those of you looking for even more information of the Forgent patent claim to licensing fees for the jpeg picture compression standard here are a few links. We are going to hold off just a little longer with any detailed commentary on this situation as the legal process unfolds. We have yet to see any reason for major concern that this will cost digital camera owners any significant price increases in the long run, but we will monitor the situation. For now check these articles out.

Forgent Networks Clarifies Licensing Arrangement

Patent Claim May Spell End of JPEG Standard

JPEG Press Release Concerning recent patent claims

 
 
 
 
NIKON D100 PRODUCTION SAMPLES POSTED (07/23/02)
 
We have posted our first set of Nikon D100 photos using a final production model. These photos were just taken out at Disneyland and Downtown Disneyland located in Anaheim, California in the afternoon and evening hours. We have indicated all the settings and the lens used to obtain these pictures on the gallery page at the link below. Most of the shots were taken using the built-in flash for a flash fill effect, with results that are just outstanding. We have to say that based upon our first use of the camera, we are very pleased with the outstanding colors the D100 produces. So far we have found the Auto Focus to work fast, the camera feels very solid & good to hold, (much lighter then the D1x we shot with for 2 months last year) and the shutter is quiet and smooth. The pictures we have posted include links to download the original files, or you can view them in 2 smaller sizes. In an effort to keep the jpeg compression low, the smaller pictures on the gallery page are still rather big in file size, as are the 1024 by 640 versions, which we saved using 100 quality, or very little compression. We will have a lot more information about our findings on the Nikon D100 as we test it over the next few weeks, and we will have a lot more samples to let you see how the camera is performing in real world settings. In addition, our first use of Nikon Capture 3 today was very positive as we loaded NEF raw data files in very quick times, and the controls over the images is very impressive. For now we hope you get a change to check out these initial pictures we are posting, we think you will agree they are very colorful, sharp and pleasing!
 
 
NIKON D100 DISNEYLAND GALLERY I
 
And for more infomation see our Nikon D100 review page, which we will be updated as we add more test results, samples and impressions.
 
Nikon D100 announcement & link to our Nikon D100 Preview Page
 
 

 

 

 

BRIEF UPDATES (07/21/02)

We have up-loaded a couple dozen shots taken from the Nikon Coolpix 4500 on Thursday evening at Downtown Disneyland. We have not had a chance to resize them put our normal sample pages together, but for those of you who want to see how the CP 4500 does, we are going to post a link to the index page which will allow you to download the original files, which are about 1.3 megs each. All shots were taken in fully automatic, no changes at all. We have to get going now, the haze is burning off, so off to shoot some more. We will have more later tonight. For you bird lovers be sure to check out picture no. 44, the camera did very well with this full zoom, close up from about 8 feet away. Here is the link to the CP 4500 Index Page.

Steve Sanders over at one of the most popular digital camera web sites on the web, Steve's Digicams has posted the first full review we have seen from a final production 5 megapixel, 8X optical zoom Coolpix 5700 camera. Steve had posted a "First Look" review of the CP 5700 (as did our other friends over at Imaging Resource) without any final conclusions back in May based upon a pre-production model. Steve has now had a chance to test out a final production model and along with posting some sample pictures, which you can view and download, he has now put up a fairly detailed final conclusion containing his findings and overall opinions. Steve give many high marks for this flagship camera in the Nikon Coolpix line, while pointing out a few areas he'd still like to see improvements in, but overall he says it comes down to final image quality and there is where he feels Nikon has delivered great results! Check out Steve's Nikon Coolpix 5700 full camera review.

As we pointed out last week, Steve has also just posted a full review of the new Coolpix 4500, which we received from Nikon last week and will be testing out at Disneyland all day today (OK, we are a bit cheap as our year pass is not good on Saturdays in the Summer, so we go out on our only other fully open day, Sundays)! We will post some very colorful and pleasing sample pictures from the Coolpix 4500 we were able to quickly grab out at Downtown Disney late Thursday afternoon, perhaps this morning before we head on out. It takes us about 7 - 8 hours round trip to shoot our standard areas which many of you regulars know we do of each camera so you can attempt to compare colors etc... of the same or similar scenes, and it further takes us about 4 hours or longer on the hotter draining type days, to set up the samples with links. We do have several other current 4 megapixel cameras, so we will try and get a few side by side samples to help you compare which camera results you prefer and we will try and add some key first impressions by tomorrow. We will post our First Look review of the CP 4500 hopefully by the end of the week and then a more final review with our conclusions after a few more weeks of testing at several other locations and under different lighting conditions.

Jeff Keller, over at another one of our other favorite and friendly digital camera web sites called the Digital Camera Resource Page, has posted a review of the recently released 5 megapixel Minolta Dimage 7i, which along with the Sony DSC-707, is in the same category (5 megapixel CCDs & large zoom lenses) as the new Nikon Coolpix 5700. In addition to the Dimage 7i review, Jeff had the opportunity to get side by side shots with Coolpix 5700, allowing us to see how each camera handles the same scenes. Jeff has also posted a set of samples pictures from the Nikon Coolpix 5700 as well as the CP 4500. We understood our CP 5700 review unit was sent or is on its way and now should arrive early this week, so we will have to wait until next weekend before we have our normal Disneyland samples and our first impression review up.

We understand that several web sites will be posting their final reviews based upon production models of the Nikon D100 over the next several days, with Fuji S2 reviews coming up any time now also. We will keep you updated as well as post links just as soon as they go up. We expect Phil Askey at his very helpful DPReview web site to post some very detailed test results comparing the D100 with the S2 any moment now. Phil indicated on his site that he was set back a few days with an illness, so we'd like to say we hope he is gets well soon and we all need to remember these are just cameras, so a delay here and there is understandable as good health is and should always be our top priority.

We hope to have some samples as well as an initial Nikon D100 First Look review up early this week. Please stay tuned as we are giving these 3 new Nikon cameras (CP 4500, CP 5700 & D100) are full attention over the next two weeks as after that we will be tied up with other work projects for about a month or more. Readers should remember that NikonUSA just got 3 new Coolpix cameras in to distribute along with the extremely popular D100, at the very same time frame and so taking care of all that business and getting all of us review sites review cameras in between has been no easy feat to accomplish. Please be patient for all of the web sites to post their reviews including us (we are working as fast as we can) and understand how helpful it is that these early web based reviews are made poss