High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography has been quite controversial over the past few years. But, if you thought HDR photos had fans and foes, just wait until HDR video catches on.
The above clip from Soviet Montage is captured using 2 Canon 5D Mark II cameras shooting the same scene simultaneously with the aid of a beam splitter. One camera is recording at +2 EV and one camera is recording at -2 EV.
Regardless of how you feel about the HDR effect, you have to admit that these shots are interesting at least. You can also bet that a feature like this will be built-in to a camera within a couple of years or so.
The Pentax K-r is an entry-level 12.4MP DSLR with a ton of features. In addition to a CMOS image sensor, the Pentax K-r features a 3-inch LCD 921k-dot resolution screen, a 6 fps frame rate, built-in Shake Reduction and low light sensitivity up to ISO 25600. In addition to the still image features, the K-r can capture 720p video at 25fps. The K-r is powered by either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or by 4 AA batteries.
The Pentax K-r should be available in October 2010 starting at an initial retail price of $799.95. Check availability on Amazon.com.
In addition to the K-r, Pentax also announced a new 35mm f/2.4 lens, which will be available in October 2010 at an initial retail price of $219.95. Check availability at Amazon.com.
The Pentax Optio RS1000 is a 14MP point and shoot camera with a 4x optical zoom lens. The RS1000 is an ultra-compact caemra that is about the size of a credit card and comes with a bargain initial price point of $149.95.
The RS100 should be available in October 2010. Check availability on Amazon.com.
The Pentax Optio RZ10 is a 14MP point and shoot camera with a 10x zoom lens, built-in image stabilization and a 2.7″ LCD screen.
The RZ10 should be available in October 2010 at an initial retail price of $219.95. Check availability on Amazon.com.
The P7000 is Nikon’s flagship point and shoot camera. It is fitted with a 10MP sensor, 7.1x optical zoom, the ability to capture RAW format images (finally) and 720p video capture at 24 fps. The P7000 also features a hotshoe for attaching an external Nikon Speedlight.
Additionally, Nikon steps up the game with an external mic input on the compact shooter, which will add to the functionality of optical zoom during video capture and full time AF. By using an external microphone for audio capture, the P7000 allows us to avoid the problem of internal camera noise during video recording. Of course, this feature is likely of limited use for most users, but certainly signals that Nikon is taking video customers seriously.
With the P7000, Nikon finally looks like it has the feature list to tackle Canon’s G-series (e.g., the new Canon G12) head on.
The Nikon P7000 carries an initial retail price of $499.95 and should be available in September 2010. Check availability on Amazon.com.
Nikon P7000 Key Features
10.1-megapixel, large 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor
7.1x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom-NIKKOR ED Glass Lens
5-way VR Image Stabilization System
3-inch 921k dot resolution LCD
RAW file function compatible with Mac and Windows
PSAM (Program, Shutter, Aperture, Manual) exposure control
The Nikon Coolpix S80 is 14MP point and shoot camera with a 5x optical zoom lens and a touch-sensitive 3.5-inch OLED screen. The Nikon S80 should be available soon at an initial retail price of $329.95. Check availability on Amazon.com.
Nikon Coolpix S80 Key Features
14.1-megapixel CCD sensor
5x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom-NIKKOR ED Glass Lens
3.5-inch Ultra-High Resolution (819,000-dot) Organic LED (OLED) Clear Color Display
Full HD (720p) Movie with Stereo Sound and HDMI Output
The Nikon Coolpix S8100 is a compact point and shoot camera that features a 10x optical zoom and a 12.1MP backside illuminated CMOS sensor. The new S8100 should be available in September 2010 at an initial retail price of $299.95. Check availability on Amazon.com.
