Pentax has announced a new rugged camera model, the WG-1, and a GPS-capable version, aptly named the WG-1 GPS.
The new camera sports a 14MP sensor, 5x optical zoom (28-140mm equivalent), 720p HD video capture, and a 2.7-inch LCD. Of course, as a rugged model, the WG-1 covers the standard “rugged” specs: waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, freezeproof to 14-degrees F and dustproof.
The WG-1 carries a retail price tag of $349.95, while the GPS-enabled model runs $399.95. Both models should be available in April. Check availability for the WG-1 at Amazon.com.
Tenba has announced its new Vector collection of colorful camera bags. The Vector series bags are geared toward the consumer and prosumer audio, with an emphasis on design and function.
There are a variety of bag types, such as compact camera pouches, DSLR bags, shoulder bags and large daypacks, which allow for all sorts of camera arrangements. The new bags range in price from $12.95 to $79.95. Check availability at B&H Photo.
Samsung has announced a pair of budget-friendly compact cameras in the new PL20 and ES80.
The PL20 sports a 14MP sensor and 5x optical zoom lens (27-135mm equivalent). The PL20 also captures 720p HD video at 24fps. The Samsung PL20 should be available in March at an initial retail price of $119.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.
The ES80 is a 12MP basic point and shoot camera with a 5x optical zoom lens (27-135mm equivalent). The Samsung ES80 carries an initial retail price of $99.99 and should be available in April. Check availability on Amazon.com.
More photos and specs for the cameras below. [click to continue…]
Canon has announced a pair of new entry-level DSLRs – the EOS Rebel T3i and EOS Rebel T3.
The Canon Rebel T3i features an 18MP CMOS sensor, a 3-inch vari-angle LCD (very similar to the 60D) and captures HD video in full 1920 x 1080 resolution at 24p, 25p, or 30p. A new feature for EOS cameras, the T3i allows users to magnify HD video between 3x to 10x while retaining Full HD quality. Additionally, you can opt to record video clips (dubbed “Video Snapshots”) at 2s, 4s, or 8s while capturing still images.
A big boost for the Rebel line is the T3i’s ability to control Canon Speedlites courtesy of a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter. The Canon Rebel T3i should be available in March and retails for $799.99 for body only and for $899.99 with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II kit lens. Check availability on Amazon.com.
The Canon Rebel T3 becomes the entry-level Canon Rebel, and sports a 12.2MP CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processor and 9-point AF system. The Rebel T3 can also capture video, albeit at a lower 720p resolution. The Canon Rebel T3 should be avialable in March at an initial retail price of $599.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.
In addition to the new Rebel models, Canon has also introduced two new entry-level Speedlites – the 320EX and 270EX II, priced at $249.99 and $169.99, respectively. The new Speedlites should be available in April.
More product photos and details below. [click to continue…]
Refreshed versions of Canon’s popular 500mm and 600mm super-telephoto lenses will be available, respectively, in May and June 2011.
The Canon EF 500mm F/4L IS II USM and EF 600mm F/4L IS II USM offer reduced weight and greater durability over their predecessors. The addition of two fluorite lens elements should also provide better image quality over the older lenses as well.
In addition to other features, the new lenses offer a feature aimed at HDSLR shooters, which Canon calls “Power Focus.” According to Canon, “This mode allows manual rack focusing to be operated smoothly by turning a playback ring that is normally used for the focus preset function. Both low-speed and high-speed focus shifting are available.”
All these improvements come at a price though.
The EF 500mm F/4L IS USM will retail for $9,499.00 (check availability at B&H Photo and Amazon), while the 600mm F/4L IS USM will retail for $11,999.00 (check availability at B&H Photo and Amazon).
Complete details and more images for the new lenses are below. [click to continue…]
