Digital Camera News and Reviews

Panasonic HX-WA10

Panasonic has today announced a new HD camcorder that is waterproof and has a pistolgrip. The HD camcorder is called Panasonic HX-WA10 and is able to withstand depths down to three meters for up to an hour.

The HX-WA10 is able to record Full HD videos with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and 16 megapixel still photos. Other specifications is 5x optical zoom, 2.7″ TFT LCD screen and it comes with the HD Writer VE 1.0 software that lets you upload videos to Facebook and YouTube.

Panasonic has not announced a price or when the Panasonic HX-WA10 camcorder will be for sale on the market.

Press release:
New Waterproof Full-HD Camcorder HX-WA10 enables users to shoot both photos and videos in high quality.

Panasonic today announced the release of the new waterproof Full-HD Camcorder HX-WA10, which allows easy, effortless photo and video shooting. The WA10 is also optimized for shooting outdoors and in rainy weather. It captures stunning, detailed images with Full-HD 1920×1080 resolution, thanks to Backside Illumination (BSI) technology for shooting in dimly lit conditions, and 16-megapixel still image recording with top-class digital camera quality. This lets users easily enjoy authentic HD shooting in a wide range of situations.

The MPEG-4 AVC file format (MP4) is convenient for uploading and editing images with a PC or the Internet. Blog and SNS handles are also easily used. Operation of the WA10 is very very easy thanks to the included HD Writer VE 1.0 software, which is compatible with both YouTube and Facebook, With the release of this new multi functional camcorder, Panasonic offers users the ability to shoot Full-HD videos and high-resolution photos, even during rugged outdoor, recreational and everyday activities.

Some of the new video features of the new HX-WA10 include:

Waterproof for Active Shooting
The WA10 can be used to a depth of 3 meters underwater for up to 60 minutes4/5 complying with IPX8 standards.

4. Must be placed in dry conditions for more than 10 minutes after being used in water for 60 minutes.
5. This doesn’t guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.

Bright and Stunning Full-HD Video Shooting with BSI Sensor
The BSI (Backside Illumination) sensor technology has improved the sensitivity of the CMOS sensor, making it possible to shoot images with high-resolution Full-HD quality even in dimly lit areas. Full-HD video (1920 x 1080 pixels) can also be captured in all kinds of year-round outdoor conditions, not only in the rain or while swimming in a pool or the ocean, but also during marine sports6 such as snorkelling and surfing, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The PC-friendly MPEG-4 AVC file format (MP4) makes it super easy to load and edit data with a PC. It’s also hassle-free to directly upload video clips to YouTube or Facebook with the included application after editing.

6. When using the camera in sub-zero or hot and humid conditions, be careful of condensation.

16-Megapixel Still Image Recording – Highest Class Resolution among Compact Digital Cameras
The WA10 captures 16-megapixel photos, in addition to Full-HD video shooting. By separating photo and video capture buttons: images can be captured by using only the thumb to press the desired button, without having to change modes. By pressing the still image button, even while shooting a movie will produce a photo with resolution of up to 2 megapixels.7
7. Varies depending on the Movie mode used for shooting.

Other features of the WA10 include:

– Stylish, easy-to-hold vertical design
– 2.7 -inch wide TFT LCD monitor
– Capable of shooting faraway subjects with an optical 5x zoom/12x Advanced zoom for movie recording.
– Blur-free shooting with E.I.S (Electrical Image Stabilizer)
– Automatic optimal settings with iA (Intelligent Auto) mode8/9
– Captures faces beautifully with Face Detection
– Clearly records sound with stereo microphones
– MP4 recording for easy PC networking
– Mini HDMI Terminal10 for enjoying even more beautiful Full-HD resolution
– Compatible with large-capacity recording media SDXC memory card
– Rechargeable via USB port: High-power mode

8. iA includes 4 settings: Face detection/Intelligent Scene Selector/Intelligent Contrast Control/AF and AE Tracking
9. The functions included in iA may not be applied when conditions do not call for them.
10. An HDMI mini cable is not included.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G is an interesting prime lens that is very fast with its f/1.4 and an interesting focal length at 35mm. The lens uses Nano Crystal Coat to reduce flare and it has Silent Wave Motor for fast and silent autofocus. The website Photography Blog has now reviewed this Nikon Lens.

Photography Blog ends up giving the Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G a “Highly Recommended” rating with an overall score of 4.5 stars out of 5 possible. The lens gets a perfect score on design, image quality and features, a bit lower on ease of use while it scores lowest on value for your money. The Nikkor lens gets you pictures of excellent quality so if you got the money to spend and want a fast prime lens this might be your choice for Nikon DSLR cameras.
Read the full review of the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G lens here.

HP LaserJet Pro CM1415fnw

PC Magazine has reviewed a multifunction laserjet printer from HP. The printer is called HP LaserJet Pro CM1415fnw and is able to print, copy, fax, and scan in addition to print up to 12 pages per minute, or so HP claims.

Some key features for the HP LaserJet Pro CM1415fnw:
-Multifunction printer (print, copy, fax, and scan)
-Print speeds up to 12 pages per minute in black and 8 pages per minute in color
-Touch screen control
-USB, Ethernet, Wireless connectivity

PC Magazine ends up giving the CM1415fnw an overall score of 4 out of 5 possible stars. On the positive side the reviewer enjoys the color touch screen that makes the machine easy to control and the printing results are pretty good. On the negative side there are aspects such as no automatic duplexing, low paper capacity and the printing process could be a bit faster. If you are looking for a laserjet that is extremely easy to use this HP printer might be your choice.
Read the full review of the HP LaserJet Pro CM1415fnw color multifunction MFP printer here.

Nikon Coolpix L24

Nikon has announced a new budget camera called Nikon Coolpix L24 that is targeted at entry level photographers. The L24 will have 14 megapixels, a 3.6x optical zoom lens (37mm wide-angle, 134mm telephoto), 3″ LCD screen, able to use ISO 1600 and Easy Auto Mode.

The Nikon Coolpix L24 will be launched in February 2011, cost about $120 and be available in red, black and silver.

Press release:
Nikon’s Newest Coolpix Digital Cameras Are The Easy Way To Amazing Images, Preserving Memories, Capturing HD Video Or Sharing Photos With Friends And Family

Whether Shooting, Sharing, or as a Stylish Accessory, There is a Nikon COOLPIX for Every Occasion

MELVILLE, NY (Feb. 8, 2011) –Today, imaging leader Nikon continues to steer innovation to create models as diverse as the needs of users by announcing four new COOLPIX compact digital cameras. Whether it’s a weekend excursion with the COOLPIX S6100, posting photos and videos on social networks with the COOLPIX S3100 or S4100, or casually shooting life’s events with the COOLPIX L24, Nikon provides an enhanced user-experience with astounding imaging quality and point and shoot simplicity.

“The latest Nikon COOLPIX cameras reflect a shift in digital photography where more and more types of consumers are sharing social content at a rapid pace,” said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. “With new, easy-to-use features such as HD video capability and mid-range zoom shooting capabilities, these COOLPIX cameras inspire consumers to shoot, record and share, while also serving as an expression of personal style.”

Great Photos and Video Made Easy with COOLPIX Technology
A hallmark of the COOLPIX brand, Nikon inspires fashion with its compact cameras in vibrant colors to match any personal style and budget. The new COOLPIX S6100, COOLPIX S3100, COOLPIX S4100, and COOLPIX L24 incorporate Nikon’s world-class NIKKOR lenses, delivering accurate detail and brilliant color, as well as Nikon’s EXPEED C2™ digital image processing engine, to help ensure high-quality pictures with stunning color and sharpness. Additionally, all four COOLPIX cameras include Scene Auto Selector or Easy Auto mode, which automatically recognizes the shooting situation and adjusts camera settings accordingly for great pictures.

To capture flattering portraits, the Smart Portrait System incorporates a series of automatic functions including In-Camera Red-Eye Fix tm, Face-Priority AF, Face Priority AE, Smile Mode, Blink Warning and Skin Softening to flatter even the most camera-shy subject. The new COOLPIX S6100, COOLPIX S3100 and COOLPIX S4100 feature a new Pet Portrait mode that enables automatic recognition of users’ dog or cat by detecting the pet’s face.

COOLPIX S6100: Power and Performance in a Pocketable Package
Whether a user is a fashionista, foodie or fan of fun in the sun, the Nikon COOLPIX S6100 continues the Nikon commitment to stylish performance by offering weekend warriors and photographic trendsetters the versatility of a 7x optical zoom in a compact body. The COOLPIX S6100 features the highest resolution ever seen in a COOLPIX camera, 16-megapixels, allowing users to zoom and crop into their images and capture even the most minute details. Paired with a 7x wide-angle optical Zoom-NIKKOR ED glass lens, the S6100 personifies the user who needs a multi-role camera for the ultimate in versatility.

The COOLPIX S6100 also features an enhanced touch-screen interface that utilizes tabs to open up screen space, making it easier than ever to capture exotic architecture from afar or a beautiful coastal sunset away from home. Users can share or compose images on the 3-inch high resolution (460,000-dot)Touch screen, and take in the scenery or the people and places with confidence.

COOLPIX S4100 and S3100: Shooting to Sharing the Simple Way
The Nikon COOLPIX S4100 and S3100 are two stylish compacts that scream for self expression through a trendy exterior design and user-friendly operation. The Nikon COOLPIX S4100 features an intuitive touch screen interface for a user-friendly seamless operation that makes it easy to compose and share images. The S4100 ’s bright 3-inch high resolution (460,000-dot)Touch screen is perfect for showcasing images and HD video. Users can later upload their photos online to Nikon’s myPicturetown R photo hosting service or other social media websites via computer.

Both the COOLPIX S4100 and S3100 are sleek and colorful, compact cameras that feature 14 megapixel resolution with a 5x wide-angle Zoom NIKKOR glass lens. These trendy COOLPIX cameras come wrapped in a compact, go-anywhere package and are perfect tools for young users to generate content. For those seeking stylish portability, the super slim S3100 saves on space with a crisp 2.7-inch LCD screen and complements any style with seven available colors.

COOLPIX L24 Digital Camera is Compact and Easy To Use at an Affordable Price
The COOLPIX L24 features premium styling for the Lifestyle-series class of COOLPIX cameras. The new COOLPIX L24 continues to empower users with more amazing features such as 14 megapixel resolution and 3.6x optical Zoom-NIKKOR glass lens than its very reasonable price would suggest.

For the shooter who enjoys taking photos at an affordable price, the NikonCOOLPIX L24 is the ideal compact camera for any situation from birthday parties to the school play. The COOLPIX L24 also affords users the options to record video with sound to capture their memories to share for years.

Pricing and Availability
The S6100 will be available in March 2011, and will retail for $199.95* MSRP in silver, black, red, and violet. The S4100 will be available in late February, and retails for $179.95* MSRP in plum, silver, red and black. The S3100 will be available in late February 2011 and retails for $139.95* MSRP in a choice of colors, including silver, red, blue, purple, pink, yellow, and black. The L24 will be available in late February 2011, and retails for $119.95* MSRP in red, silver, and black,

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image ™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

*Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.