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February 27, 2006

Canon Pro Level Printer Lineup

Canon has unveiled three new printers designed for the professional photographer: the 8-colour dye-based ink PIXMA Pro9000 and 10-colour pigmented ink-based PIXMA Pro9500, both 13x19 inch desktop printers, as well as the imagePROGRAF iPF5000, a wide format printer capable of prints up to 17 inches in width that features a 12-colour pigmented ink set. [ more ]

Flash Work Website Added to BeBit

Canon has launched a new addition to the BeBit section of their website with a focus on the flash technology employed in the EOS camera systems. Flash Work has detailed information on E-TTL II as well as the newest digital SLR cameras and Speedlite flash units. [ more ]

February 21, 2006

Canon Debuts 22 New Products

canon_logo.jpg Canon will showcase 22 new products at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) trade show, February 26th - March 1st (Canon Booth #3509), in Orlando, Fla.

-- EOS 30D Digital SLR: As a step-up from the EOS 20D model. Scheduled for a mid-March delivery

-- EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM: Already legendary for its image quality, Canon has improved upon its original EF 85mm f/1.2L II lens with a new model that has approximately 1.8X faster autofocusing than its predecessor to meet the needs of demanding professionals. Available in mid-March, the lens has an estimated street price of $2,099.

-- EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM: Professional photographers and advanced amateurs with APS-C size digital SLRs now have access to the fastest Canon EF-S zoom lens yet. Three-stop optical image stabilization along with three aspherical and two UD elements combine to make this new lens a must have item for owners of the EOS 30D, EOS 20D, EOS Digital Rebel XT and EOS Digital Rebel SLRs. Scheduled for delivery in mid-March, this lens has an estimated selling price of $1,149.

-- PowerShot Digital ELPH Cameras and new SD430 functions: This year, the Canon Digital ELPH line continues the tradition of fitting the latest advanced features into compact and stylish packages.

-- PowerShot SD430 Digital ELPH Wireless camera gains the ability to share images wirelessly with other SD430 digital cameras with a new feature called Wireless Camera-to-Camera Communication. A Firmware update for the camera via web download is required (Available tentatively May 2006).

-- PowerShot SD700 IS Digital ELPH camera is a six-megapixel model with the first ever 4X optical zoom lens on a digital ELPH camera, and this lens features Optical Image Stabilization. The camera also includes an optical viewfinder and a 2.5-inch wide viewing angle LCD. Scheduled for delivery in April, the PowerShot SD700 IS Digital ELPH camera will carry an estimated selling price of $499.99.

-- PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH camera ELPH is a six-megapixel camera with a huge 3-inch LCD and a new intuitive touch sensitive control dial for smooth operation. It will be available in March for an estimated selling price of $399.99.

-- PowerShot SD600 Digital ELPH camera is a six-megapixel model with a 3X optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. This camera maintains an optical viewfinder. It will be available in April, for an estimated selling price of $349.99

-- PowerShot A-series cameras: Named for their use of AA batteries, Canon's PowerShot A-series digital cameras feature high image quality and offer comfortably placed controls for consumers to capture, save, and share images of meaningful memories, personal milestones, and family functions. Four more cameras will join the "A-List" line this year with more advanced features still at a value minded price.

-- PowerShot A700 digital camera includes a 6X optical zoom, six-megapixel resolution, 22 shooting modes and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. Available in March, the A700 model will carry an estimated selling price of $349.99.

-- PowerShot A540 digital camera is a solid mid-range model, with six-megapixel resolution, a 2.5-inch LCD screen and a 4X optical zoom. It will be available in March for an estimated selling price of $299.99.

-- PowerShot A530 digital camera is a five-megapixel model that replaces last year's top-selling four-megapixel A520 model. It retains the A520's 4X optical zoom and 1.8-inch LCD screen. Also scheduled for March delivery, the PowerShot A530 digital camera will have an estimated selling price of $229.99.

-- PowerShot A430 digital camera features four-megapixel resolution, 4X optical zoom and a 1.8-inch LCD screen at the astoundingly low estimated selling price of $179.99.

-- PowerShot S3 IS Digital Camera builds on the success of its multi-talented predecessor, the PowerShot S2 IS model. The new six-megapixel digital camera features an image stabilized 12x optical zoom that can even be used in the camera's advanced movie mode. Easy to use controls, stereo sound recording, a 2.0-inch Vari-Angle LCD and a unique MovieSnap function make this camera feel at home in the hands of photography novices as well as advanced amateurs. Scheduled for April delivery, the PowerShot S3 IS digital camera will carry an estimated selling price of $499.99.

-- Canon DC40 and DC100 DVD Camcorders: Canon's newest DVD camcorders offer something for everyone and the best of both worlds for shooting home movies and stills. The DC40 DVD camcorder is a true hybrid capable of taking four megapixel stills, while the modestly priced and ultra slim DC100 DVD camcorder is a steal at $499.99, especially with a 25x optical zoom.

-- imagePROGRAF iPF5000 Large Format Printer provides a 12-color pigment-based ink set and is designed to produce professional-style prints with outstanding archival image quality, using Canon's new Lucia pigmented inks. The iPF5000 device is ideal for professional photographers looking to have their work stand out in a crowd. This next evolution in Canon's large format portfolio provides one of the industry's largest color gamuts with a new 12-color inkset. Available in April, the printer will carry a manufacturer's suggested list price of $1,945.

-- PIXMA Pro9500 model is the first PIXMA photo printer to use ten pigment ink cartridges with Canon's new Lucia pigmented inks which provide Photo Black, Matte Black, Gray, Photo Magenta, Magenta, Photo Cyan, Cyan, Yellow, Green, and Red for true-to-life color and monochrome prints that are ready for the gallery wall.

-- PIXMA Pro9000 printer uses eight dye-based ink cartridges to deliver prints that rival the color of photo lab film. Users can also take advantage of new Direct Print features and bundled software to help speed up workflow.

-- PIXMA MP800R and MP830: Productivity and photo fun join Canon's newest All-In-One printers. The PIXMA MP800R Photo All-In-One brings home the ease of wireless communication to printing, scanning, and copying, while the PIXMA MP830 Office All-in-One features Super G3 FAX capability, and an automatic document feeder that can copy two-sided documents for faster operation. Available in March, the Canon PIXMA 800R Photo All-In-One and the PIXMA MP830 Office All-In-One will have an estimated selling price of $399 and $299 respectively.

-- REALiS Multimedia Projectors feature Canon's patented, proprietary latest generation AISYS (Aspectual Illumination System) optical system. AISYS enhances LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) technology to achieve crisp, color-rich, intricately detailed images by efficiently utilizing and equalizing light from the projector lamp. Canon's AISYS-enhanced LCOS technology displays exceptionally detailed, seamless, lattice-free motion or still images.

-- REALiS SX6 Multimedia Projector features 3,500 ANSI lumens, SXGA+ high-resolution, and Adobe RGB color support, so that professional photographers and graphic artists can project images in the color space with which they were captured. The manufacturer's suggested list price for the REALiS SX6 Multimedia Projector is $6,999, available in mid-May.

-- REALiS SX60 Multimedia Projector features 2,500 ANSI lumens and SXGA+ high-resolution, designed to meet the demands of professionals with critical viewing requirements (engineer, designers, etc.). Its ultra-quiet 27dB noise level, 2000:1 contrast ratio, and lattice-free image properties also appeal to home cinema enthusiasts. The REALiS SX60 Multimedia Projector will be available in mid-May for a manufacturer's suggested list price of Projector is $5,999.

-- REALiS X600 Multimedia Projector is the world's first XGA resolution LCOS projector to deliver high quality and exceptional color reproduction at an affordable price. This projector provides excellent price-performance with 3500 ANSI Lumens for clear display of large images, even in brightly lit situations. This projector is ideal for business presentations and boardroom installations. The REALiS X600 Multimedia Projector will be available at the end of May for a manufacturer's suggested list price of $3,999.

Canon EOS 30D Officially Announced

992_canon_30d_front01.jpg

Yeah Baby, new cameras from Canon. Its going to be a busy day for all Canon buffs.

The 30D shares the same 8.19 megapixel CMOS sensor as the 20D including other core components such as the 9-point AF system, 5 fps max shoot rate, and 1/8000 top shutter speed. And yes, it remains compatible with 20D accessories. Some notable enhancements include a new 2.5-inch 230K color LCD, Canon's more flexible Picture Style menu, an increased burst depth, and the welcome ability to change the ISO while looking through the viewfinder. [ more ]

February 10, 2006

Two Reviews for Canon 5D

Canon5D_front.jpg Both Bob Atkins Photography and Shutterbug have recently completed reviews for the Canon EOS Full-frame Digital SLR.

At around $3000, the Canon EOS 5D is currently the lowest cost full 35mm frame DSLR available. In fact it's the lowest price full frame DSLR that ever has been available. The EOS 1Ds Mk II sells for in the region of $7200 and right now that's the only other option for a full frame 35mm DSLR. The Kodak 14c had a pretty short life which perhaps say ssomething about it's practicality and problems with noise and speed of operation. The EOS 5D is not only cheaper, but a far more practical camera with better usability. much faster operation and an ISO range from 50 to 3200 with good image quality.

Bob Atkins states,

The EOS 5D will likely be regarded as something of a landmark camera and shows how much digital technology has advanced in only a few years. [ more ]

One key statement in the Shutterbug review really struck a chord with me.

It seems to me, from what I’ve experienced using the Canon EOS 5D, it’s unlikely to disappoint. [ more ]

All in all both people gave the 5D glowing reviews. I currently have the 5D on my wishlist and should be a proud owner of the 5D in April of this year.

February 9, 2006

Joby Gorillapod: Great New Gadget

gorrilapodaction06.jpg

Gizmodo had a link to this great new little photo gadget. This mini tripod is meant for smaller point and shoot cameras. It has 3 bendable/poseable/flexy legs that allow you to sturdily support your camera while taking pictures. Available for $25 through the Gorillapod website. [ more ]

I just added this product to my personal wishlist.

SD450 Review at DPReview.com

sd450_586x225.jpg
Announced in August 2005, the SD450 (which goes by the name of Digital IXUS 55 in Europe) is the latest in a long line of ultra-compact 'ELPH' or 'IXUS' cameras stretching back to early 2000 (and a lot farther back than that in the film camera world). Essentially a fairly minor upgrade to the popular SD400 (Ixus 50), the SD450 incorporates two UA (Ultra-high Refractive Index Glass Molded (GMo) Aspherical lens) elements which has allowed Canon to produced its smallest cameras yet to feature a 3x zoom. New features include a larger 'wide viewing angle' 2.5-inch monitor, a direct access ISO button, a nifty orientation sensor that rotates the display of images as you turn the camera round in playback mode and some fancy playback effects. It may be smaller than a credit card, but Canon has still managed to cram a fairly comprehensive range of features into the SD450. [ more ]

DigitalCameraInfo.com Reviews the S80

Canon-S80-Vanity-275.jpg Canon’s PowerShot S80, the new flagship of Canon’s S-series, incorporates 8 megapixels for shooting still images and a movie mode that records an impressive 1024 x 768 pixels. It replaces the S70 with more resolution, a bigger LCD screen, revamped menus, a different body design and of course, those XGA movie capabilities. The XGA video size captures about 2.5x more data per frame than the regular VGA movie modes. The Canon PowerShot S80 has a 3.6x optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. The hybrid S80 was announced in August 2005 and was available for the holiday shopping season with an original retail price at $549 [ more ]

The conclusions from DigitalCameraInfo.com are that this camera is an ok digital camera and not a very good camcorder. It is also not worth the price tag of $549.

Is this the Canon EOS 35D?

Engadget has posted a story that links to possible photos of the soon to be announced Canon 35D.

Norwegian camera site Fotografi.no has posted some pics of a camera the site claims is Canon's next DSLR, the 35D. [ more ]

February 7, 2006

Canon Fullframe vs. APS-C Sensor Review

Bob Atkins has done an extensive comparison of the merits of the Canon fullframe 5D vs. The Canon APS-C 20D.

The conclusion is that the 5D wins the comparison but with some caveats.

It's a win, but not a total "slam dunk" for the full frame sensor, at least as far as the EOS 5D vs. EOS 20D goes. With good lenses the results from the EOS 5D are better, though with noticeably higher vignetting when lenses are used wide open. Of course you can mostly compensate for vignetting in software, but still you may lose something. With low cost lenses shot wide open, the full frame advantage disappears, and in situations where you have your longest lens in use on an APS-C camera, switching to a lower pixel density full frame camera and cropping will lead to lower resolution images. [ more ]

February 6, 2006

Canon PowerShot A410 review

LetsGoDigital.org has done a review for the Canon PowerShot A410.

The Canon A410 has a resolution of 3.2 Megapixels, which is admittedly a rather low resolution in these modern times. The Canon A410 is a camera that ranks in the lower regions of the Canon digital camera assortment. The camera has been rewarded the title of entry-level model, a label that will without question appeal to a large group of consumers. The camera replaces the PowerShot A400 and introduces several improvements in the process. Among these we find a different design, a 3.2x optical zoom and the integration of the now well-known DIGIC II processor. [ more ]

Tech Tips by Chuch Westfall

Chuck Westfall has written a series of Tech Tips for the various high-end Canon cameras for the February issue of The Digital Journalist. [ more ]

The informaiton about adding your name and copyright to the incamera Owners Field on the 5D is one thing I never thought of doing.

February 3, 2006

Megapixel Race is Pretty Much Over

David Pogue has written an article for The New York Times that is a prelude up to the annual Photo Marketing Association convention later this month. His article details some interesting themes for the future for digital cameras (i.e. Image Stabilization, Wireless, and Video.)

One interesting point was a quote from Chuck Westfall, director of media for Canon's camera marketing group.

"In compact cameras, I think that the megapixel race is pretty much over. Seven- and eight-megapixel cameras seem to be more than adequate. We can easily go up to a 13-by-19 print and see very, very clear detail." [ more ]

February 2, 2006

Bob Atkins Reviews the Canon EF-S 17-85/4-5.6 IS USM

ef-s_17-85.jpgSummary: A good lens with a very effective Image Stabilization system. Perhaps the best "one lens" choice for the Digital Rebel XT and EOS 20D.

The Canon EF-S 17-85/4-5.6 IS USM is designed for use on the Canon EOS Digital Rebel, Digital Rebel XT and EOS 20D Digital SLRs. It's a general purpose lens with a field of view coverage equal to that which would be given by a 27-136mm zoom on a full frame 35mm camera, so it's pretty much an analog of the well respected EF 28-135/3.5-5.6 IS USM. It covers the focal lengths most commonly used by the majority of photographers. [ more ]

I currently own a 300D Digital Rebel that came with the stock EF-S 18-55mm, f3.5-5.6 lens. I have tried to use that stock lens as my general walk-around lens for about a year and have never been too happy with its performance. I'm planning on doing some upgrades to most of my equipment come April and I may just have to add this new offering to my shortlist.

February 1, 2006

Canon's New 4.3 Megapixel DC40 DVD Camcorder Provides High Quality Widescreen Video and Photos

66307.jpgCanon announces the new DC40 DVD camcorder. With its super slim design and 10x optical zoom lens, this compact DVD camcorder includes a 4.3 megapixel CCD image sensor that produces outstanding widescreen video and doubles as a digital camera for excellent photos.

"For people who capture images of family functions for posterity, or who wish to record vivid vacation images that they can playback on their widescreen TVs, Canon's feature-filled DC40 camcorder rises to the occasion - as Canon's camcorders are The Official Camcorder of Life," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon has incorporated a wide array of new features in the DC40 camcorder that make this new model easy-to-use and provide excellent image quality. These features include:

Excellent Image Quality

When using Canon's new DC40 camcorder, consumers can capture their memories with confidence that they will maintain excellent image quality. Canon's DC40 model combines a 4.3 megapixel CCD image sensor with an RGB Primary Color Filter to achieve high resolution and rich, vibrant color reproduction that rivals the image quality from some 3-CCD models.

The camcorder includes Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV image processor. Acting as the camcorder's 'brain' the DIGIC DV image processor recognizes when people are shooting video or still photos. I then processes the color information in the correct color space for each format (video or still photos), so whether consumers watch their movies on TV or print 8 x 10-inch photos, they will consistently receive video and photos in exceptional color and clarity.

Record Direct to DVD

Because the DC40 model records directly to a DVD, consumers can easily put the disc into their DVD player and watch their movies in the comfort of their living room.

The DC40 camcorder accepts the three-inch DVD-R/-RW discs, which can store up to 60 minutes of video (120 minutes on a double sided disc) and are compatible with most home DVD players, both old and new. Canon chose the DVD-R/-RW format to ensure high compatibility with a range of DVD players. Consumers can easily locate scenes without having to rewind or fast forward and create playlists of favorite scenes- right in the camcorder.

True Widescreen Video

Along with Canon's new ZR and Elura Mini-DV camcorders, the DC40 model includes Canon's Widescreen HR (High Resolution) 16:9 recording, which allow users to enjoy a full-screen image on their widescreen TV with vivid detail and clarity. Canon's Widescreen HR not only delivers a wider picture, the method, in contrast to some other systems, uses a wider area of the CCD image sensor to strike more pixels and deliver higher resolution for superior widescreen image quality.

The camcorder includes a 2.7-inch Widescreen display panel making it easy to compose shots in cinema-style. As widescreen television sets begin to replace standard TVs, consumers can appreciate the ability to frame and record in Widescreen HR and then enjoy full-screen playback on their widescreen TV for a theatre-like experience at home.

One-Touch Dubbing

Making copies of DVD home movies is a breeze with DC40 DVD camcorder One-Touch Dubbing feature. When using the supplied My DVD for Canon video editing software, one press of a button is all it takes to make DVD copies to share movies with friends and family.

Editing and Sharing DVDs

The DC40 DVD camcorder comes complete with software for editing video and photos on a PC or making copies to share with family and friends. After transferring their recordings to a PC, users can create entertaining movies by editing video, adding photos, titles, and creating a play menu among other features. When completed, they can burn their project to a DVD in the camcorder or to a DVD drive. The same software allows users to create DVD copies of original home movies easily and is compatible with most Windows operating systems.

Easy Video Recording

Now consumers can shoot rock-steady video without a tripod - even at maximum telephoto. The camcorder includes a Smooth Zoom Control feature, which provides a choice of three fixed zoom speeds. It also includes Level Shot Control, which are horizontal/center indicator markers that allow users to steady their picture while zooming in and out. The camcorder also includes a built-in lens cover which automatically opens in record mode and closes when switched to playback or turned off.

Bright Lights, Big Memories

The DC40 DVD camcorder also features a built-in Ultra Video Light for low-light conditions, a built-in flash and Red-Eye Reduction. So whether attending a twilight wedding or out-and-about in the daylight sun, the DC40 DVD camcorder will record well exposed images in virtually any lighting conditions.

"Say Cheese" Advanced Photo Features That Are Simple To Use

The DC40 DVD camcorder includes a full range of advanced photo features, including:

* Simultaneous Photo Recording for capturing both the video of everyone singing happy birthday as well as the still photo of the child blowing out the candles;
* Nine point AiAF Autofocus system for fast and accurate focus in still mode;
* Progressive Photo helps reduce blurring resulting in crisp photos;
* High Speed Shutter of up to 1/720 of a second for great photos in bright conditions;
* Aperture Priority (AV) and Shutter Priority (TV), providing further creative control to the photo enthusiast; and
* Special Scene Modes like those found on a Canon PowerShot digital camera; Portrait, Snow, Night, Sports, Sunset, Spotlight, Fireworks, Beach.

The camcorder records photos onto Mini-SD cards. Popularly used in today's newest cell phones, the Mini-SD format offers high-capacity storage in a compact size; therefore, people can view their recorded memories at home or visiting the grandparents.

Direct Print

For fast and easy, one-touch printing of photos at home, Canon incorporated the Print & Share button into its DVD camcorder line-up. Like all PowerShot digital cameras, the new Canon DC40 Camcorder works seamlessly with Canon's petite SELPHY Compact Photo Printers, its full line of PIXMA printers and any PictBridge enabled printers. Consumers simply connect their camcorder to a PictBridge-enabled printer, press the lighted Print/Share button, and images emerge. Presto! It is that simple.

The Canon DC40 DVD camcorder will be available at the end of March 2006 for an estimated selling price of $899.

Canon February Promotions

pixma_50_020106.gif $50 Rebate with Purchase of Qualifying Product

Buy a select new Canon PIXMA Photo Printer/All-In-One or Canon SELPHY DS810 Compact Photo Printer and any new Canon Powershot Digital Camera or Canon Digital Camcorder with a Memory Card Slot or a new laptop or desktop computer and get a $50 mail-in rebate.

Rebate Valid Dates: 02-01-2006 -- 03-31-2006

Download Coupon PDF

Qualifying Products:
PIXMA iP4200
PIXMA iP5200
PIXMA iP5200R
PIXMA iP6210D
PIXMA iP6220D
PIXMA iP6600D
PIXMA iP90
PIXMA MP170
PIXMA MP450
PIXMA MP500
PIXMA MP780
PIXMA MP800
PIXMA MP950
SELPHY™ DS810