Articles from January 2013

How to use DPReview Galleries

The Apple iPhone kickstarted the smartphone era, and in the process, introduced a huge number of people to photography for the first time, through photo sharing and image manipulation apps. However, the advent of so-called 'smart cameras', which run mobile operating systems but feature much larger sensors and zoom lenses, could threaten Apple’s dominance in the field of mobile photography. As the line blurs further between phones and connected cameras, how will Apple respond? Click through for our take on the possibilities at connect.dpreview.com.

LensRentals' Roger Cicala has published an interesting article comparing 24-70mm F2.8 lenses from Canon, Nikon and Tamron, using both an optical test bench and Imatest results from Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Nikon D800E bodies. This provides some insights about the interaction between the sharpness of the lens and resolution of the camera's sensor, and under what practical circumstances you might see any difference. It's worth reading for anyone interested in the long-running question: what provides more detail, a higher resolution sensor with a good lens, or a lower resolution sensor with a great lens?   

Fujifilm has released firmware updates for its X-Pro1 and X-E1 mirrorless cameras and the XF 35mm F1.4 R lens. The updates for both cameras introduce compatibility with the XF 14mm F2.8 R wideangle lens, and promise improved autofocus performance. Version 1.04 for the X-E1 also includes tweaks for users of external remote releases and the MIC-ST1 stereo microphone. Meanwhile v2.02 for the XF 35mm lens promises better autofocus accuracy, and requires the latest camera firmware to be fully effective. Click through for more details and download links.  

Mobile Photography Awards (MPA) have announced the winners, runners up and honorable mentions of their 2013 competition. A record number of entries were received in this year's competition from participants around the globe, demonstrating increasing interest in mobile photography as an art form. We've picked some of our favorites from the 19 categories.

CP+ 2013: Tamron is showing off its newly-announced 14-150mm F3.5-5.8 Di III VC stabilized superzoom lens for Micro Four Thirds, while Olympus has a revised version of its 75-300mm F4.8-6.7. Though Tamron hasn't yet announced the price or availability of the 14-150mm, the prototype it has on display is working and the company gave us a hint about how much it will charge.

Pentax has released firmware updates for its K-5, K-5 II, K-5 IIs, K-30 and K-r digital SLRs. With these latest firmware versions, all cameras gain improved overall stability and enhanced contrast AF performance when using the 560mm f/5.6ED AW lens. The updates are available for immediate download from the company's website - click through for download links. 

Olympus has announced the Stylus XZ-10 enthusiast compact - a smaller, cheaper addition to the range alongside the well-regarded XZ-2. It's built around a 26-130mm equivalent F1.8-2.7 lens, coupled with a 12MP 1/2.3" type backlit CMOS sensor that offers ISOs up to 6400 and sensor-shift image stabilization. It can record 1080p Full HD movies with stereo sound, with Multi-motion Movie IS to reduce blur while walking. The 3" 920k dot LCD is touch-sensitive, but unlike the XZ-2's doesn't tilt, which helps make the camera slimmer. The package is rounded off by a full set of manual controls including a customizable round-lens control ring, but there's no hot shoe or support for an external EVF. It'll be available from March 2013 for £349.99 in black, brown or white.

Fujifilm has announced the FinePix F900EXR, a 20X zoom, raw-capable compact superzoom with built-in Wi-Fi, offering what Fujifilm claims is the 'world's fastest AF'. The F900 uses a 16MP EXR-CMOS II sensor with Phase Detection AF technology and sensor-shift image stabiisation. A near-identical twin of the F800EXR in other respects, it offers the same 25-500mm equivalent lens, captures 1080p movies, P,A,S,M shooting modes and the ability to wirelessly transfer files via the free 'Fujifilm Camera Application' app for Android and iOS devices. Price and availability details have not been given.

Fujifilm has launched the Finepix S6800 and S4800 superzooms with stabilized 30x (24-720mm equiv.) zoom lenses. The 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor-based S6800 captures 1080p60 full HD and high speed movies, while the 16MP CCD-based S4800 is limited to 720p30 videos. Both come with 3-inch LCDs and run on four AA batteries. The S6800 and S4800 will be available from March 2013 at a retail price of $249.95 and $229.95 respectively. The company has also launched the $99.95 JX680 ultra-compact with 26-130mm optical zoom lens, 16MP sensor and full HD video recording that will available around the same time.

Olympus has announced the M.Zuiko Digital ED 75-300mm 1:4.8-6.7 II, an updated version of its lightweight 150-600mm equivalent telephoto lens for the Micro Four Thirds system. While most of the changes are cosmetic, the lens elements feature the latest ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating to resist scratches and reduce ghosting. Like its predecessor, this version also includes Olympus' MSC technology which aims to minimize focusing noise during video capture. The lens will be available only in black from March 2013 at an estimated street price of $549.99.

Nikon has issued a minor firmware update for its D4 professional DSLR. Versions A 1.04 and B 1.02 improve performance of the camera's Subject Tracking AF feature in AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) mode. The firmware is available for immediate download from the company's website. Click through for the link.

CP+ 2013: With the WG-10 Pentax has created a more affordable waterproof digital camera, one that still withstands depths of 33 feet, as well as the usual drops, dust, cold, and pressure. With a 14MP CCD sensor, Pentax says the camera can produce 'poster size' images thanks to its new imaging engine, and can also capture 720p videos. Its 5x lens zooms from 28-140mm equivalent.

CP+ 2013: Pentax announces the WG-3 rugged digital camera, available with and without a built-in GPS. Both versions feature an image-stabilized 16MP CMOS sensor, and now an F2.0-4.9 lens with 25-100mm equivalent zoom. Both are also waterproof down to 45 feet, drop-resistant from heights of 6.6 feet, dust-resistant, and can handle temperatures down to 14F. Finally, they're back-pocket-safe, meaning you can sit on them and they're still likely to work (they can handle up to 220 pounds of pressure).

Sony has announced it plans to release several firmware updates for A-mount and E-mount systems on February 4, 2013. Updates to Alpha and NEX bodies relate mostly to lenses, including the addition of Dual-AF support for 11 lenses on the A99, and Fast Hybrid AF support for six E-mount lenses on the NEX-5R and NEX-6, among others. Three E-mount lenses also get updates to enable Fast Hybrid AF support. See table below for more detail on which bodies and lenses will get updates.

Casio has announced two additions to its High Speed Exilim series, the EX-ZR700 and EX-ZR400. The EX-ZR700 uses a 16.1 MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor, 3 inch LCD and a stabilized 18x, 25-450mm equivalent optical zoom lens. The EX-ZR400 is similar to its predecessor the EX-ZR300, inheriting its 16.1MP BSI-CMOS sensor and 24-300mm equiv. lens, and comes equipped with a long-lasting battery promising 515 photos on a single charge. Both cameras feature the company's latest Exilim Engine HS 3 processer and new shooting modes including a Premium Auto Pro and an All-In-Focus Macro mode. There is currently no information available about their price and availability.

Tamron has announced that it's developing an image stabilised superzoom lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras. The 14-150mm F/3.5-5.8 Di III VC (Model C001) is poised to become the first third-party zoom for the system, and will offer a 28-300mm equivalent focal length range. It uses the company's Vibration Control (VC) system to counteract hand-shake, and a stepper motor for fast and silent autofocus. The lens will also feature a metal barrel and be available in a black or silver finish. Price and availibility are still to be confirmed.

The latest Apple tablet rumors rang true this morning with the official announcement of a 128GB version of the fourth generation iPad, twice the capacity of the previous maximum capacity model. The new tablet will go on sale Tuesday, Feb. 5 for US$799 with wi-fi and US$929 with cellular and wi-fi. We look at the advantages of a large-capacity tablet for photographers on connect.dpreview.com.

Tokina has announced it will be exhibiting two soon-to-be-released lenses at the CP+ trade show in Japan. The AT-X 70-200 F4 PRO FX VCM-S is a telephoto zoom that's designed for use on both full frame and APS-C SLRs, and features both optical image stabilisation and a ring-type ultrasonic autofocus motor with full-time manual override. Meanwhile the AT-X 12-28 F4 PRO DX is a replacement for the company's existing 12-24mm F4 wideangle zoom for APS-C cameras. But rather than making the lens wider to match its competitors, Tokina has chosen to extend it further into the 'normal' range, to give an 18-42mm equivalent zoom. 

CP+ 2013: Sigma has announced four additions to its 'Art' range of prime lenses, including a 60mm F2.8 DN lens for mirrorless cameras and an updated 30mm F1.4 DC for APS-C DSLRs. Alongside these are redesigned versions of its 30mm and 19mm F2.8 DN lenses for mirrorless in metal bodies. Like these lenses, the 60mm F2.8 DN features a metal casing and will be available for the Sony E and Micro Four Thirds mounts. It will offer a 90mm equivalent field of view on Sony NEX cameras or 120mm equivalent coverage of Micro Four Thirds bodies. The Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC is a completely redesigned version of the popular normal lens for APS-C DSLRs - it will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts. Price and availability details have not been given.

CP+ 2013: Nikon has announced the AF-S Nikkor 18-35mm F3.5-4.5G ED full-frame wideangle zoom and the AF-S Nikkor 800mm F5.6E FL ED VR, a super-telephoto prime that comes with its own dedicated teleconverter. The 18-35mm is a consumer-grade wideangle to extend the options available to buyers of the company's more affordable D600 model, and will cost around $750 / £670. The 800mm lens, which uses fluorite glass, will cost around $18,000 / £15,600 and comes with an exclusive, matched 1.25x teleconverter that gives a 1000mm F7.1 combination.

CP+ 2013: Nikon has unveiled a quartet of mid-level Coolpix compacts including the Coolpix P520 42x superzoom and S9500 22x compact superzoom, alongside the Coolpix L820 30x budget superzoom and the S6500 12x compact. The P520 features the same 24-1000mm equivalent zoom seen in the P510 but moves to an 18MP BSI CMOS sensor and is compatible with the optional WU-1a Wi-Fi module. The S9500 has built-in Wi-Fi and fits the same 18MP sensor into a slim body with a 25-550mm equivalent lens.

CP+ 2013: Nikon has announced the Coolpix AW110 and S31 tough, waterproof cameras. The AW110 is the more resilient and feature-packed of the two. It features a 16MP BSI CMOS sensor, OLED screen and a 28-140mm equivalent stabilized zoom. It is waterproof to 18m (59ft) and shockproof from a height of 2m (6.7ft) and includes both GPS and Wi-Fi. The S31 is built around a smartphone-sized 10MP sensor and includes a 29-87mm equivalent lens. It's waterproof to 5m (16.5ft) and shockproof from a height of 1.2m (3.6ft).

CP+ 2013: Nikon has announced the CoolPix S5200 and L28 - two affordable compact cameras. The S5200 is a 6x compact with a 26-156mm equivalent stabilized zoom lens and a 16MP BSI CMOS sensor. It features a 3" LCD screen and built-in Wi-Fi capability and will retail for around $180. The L28 offers a slightly more modest 26-130mm 5x zoom lens in front of a 20MP CCD sensor. It uses AA batteries and will sell for around $120.

CP+ 2013: Canon has announced three long-zoom compacts, the PowerShot Elph 330 HS, the Elph 115 IS and the A2500. The Elph 330 HS, called the Ixus 225 HS in Europe, is a Wi-Fi capable 12MP CMOS camera featuring a 10x, 24-240mm equivalent lens. The Elph 115 IS, known as the Ixus 132 in Europe, has a 16MP CCD sensor and an 8x, 28-224mm equiv stabilized zoom. A Wi-Fi variant, called the Ixus 135 is available in Europe. Finally, the A2500 is an inexpensive model using the same 16MP CCD chip placed behind a 28-140mm equiv zoom. It has a slightly smaller screen than the A2600 launched at CES.

CP+ 2013: Panasonic has announced the Lumix G Vario 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 II Asph. Mega O.I.S - its latest affordable kit lens for Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras. The 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 II is the company's fourth variable aperture standard zoom (following the 14-45mm, original 14-42mm and 14-42mm power zoom), and gains two aspherical elements to help make the lens smaller than the existing version. The 14-42mm II will be available as a kit option with both the DMC-GF5 and DMC-G5 in most markets.

Pentax has released three multi-colored variants of its Q10 small-sensor mirrorless camera for the Japanese market. The color scheme is based on characters from the country's popular science-fiction franchise Neon Genesis Evangelion. Apart from the cosmetic changes, there are no spec differences in these editions compared to the original camera. Click through for a link to the press release and (shudder) some pictures...

Google has rolled out an updated version of its Image Search feature with faster browsing speeds and a redesigned UI. Users can now view larger versions of images in a preview window with an option to flip through images using arrow keys, and limited metadata, including the pixel dimensions of the original file, is displayed alongside the thumbnail. Click through for more information and a link to Google's blog post.

With so many options available, choosing a printer can be a complicated task. In this first part of our Printer Primer, learn the basics of what you'll need to know in order to narrow your choices.

Over the last few years the line between the once totally separate worlds of video and stills photography has been getting gradually more blurred. This article aims to explain all.

In 2010 we undertook a major overhaul of the way we rate and score cameras for the final conclusion of our in-depth reviews. This page explains how we produce those scores, how to interpret them and how they compare with the old system

Think Tank Photo has announced the Sub Urban Disguise series of camera shoulder bags, to be available in February. These bags feature flip-top lids that open away from your body, front organizer pockets, stretchable side pockets and will be available in four sizes. The company has also announced an updated version of its Change-Up multi-function camera bag scheduled to be available around the same time. Prices and availability information to be confirmed.

Chinese software company LZeal has announced ezShare - a Wi-Fi SDHC card with an on/off switch to reduce power consumption in cameras without menu options to control such cards. When the wireless function is turned on, images can be accessed via a web browser, suggesting it offers an HTTP server, like Toshiba's FlashAir cards. There are also dedicated apps for smartphones and tablets. The Class 10 SD cards are available in 4GB, 8GB, 16GB and 32GB capacities. Prices and availability information to be confirmed.

Rescinding its previous blanket ban against all mobile photography, international stock photo agency Alamy has announced that it will now allow images taken on mobile devices in its Live News service. To be accepted into Live News, Alamy has stated that smartphone images must have news, sports or entertainment value. And in case you were wondering, 'Instagram-style filters' are not allowed. Click through for the full story on connect.dpreview.com. 

We're delighted to be able to announce the introduction of mobile-optimized access to our forums. The mobile forums are one of the benefits that have been made possible by the new forums code we introduced in October 2012. This first release of the mobile forums supports the majority of full forum features, including both flat and threaded views - with the last-used format persisting when you next visit. We'll be building on the feature set in the coming months.

A Vietnamese site is sharing what it claims are sample images from Sony's new Xperia Z smartphone, compared with shots from both the Apple iPhone 5 and the Oppo Find 5, both of which will feature Sony's new 13-megapixel Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor. Although we can't vouch for the integrity of the sample shots, if they're genuine, the comparison provides an interesting look at what the Xperia and Oppo Find 5's cameras may be capable of. Click through for the full story, and images, on connect.dpreview.com.

There's no shortage of quality raw conversion options on the market, but there's little consensus as to which solution is the best choice. We've put three of the most popular cross-platform applications through a comprehensive comparison of performance, features and of course, image quality. Whether you're new to raw processing or looking to make a switch from your current software, read our article to find out which one is right for you.

Epson has said it is starting full production of its high-resolution SVGA LCD panel for use in electronic viewfinder cameras. The 1024 x 768 pixel screen sits alongside the company's existing 800 x 600 pixel display, as used in the Olympus OM-D and, we suspect, in Fujifilm's X100 and X-Pro1. The latest panel, unveiled at Photokina, offers the same 2.36m dot resolution as announced in the Fujifilm X100S. It'll be interesting to see how it compares to the Sony OLED display of the same resolution used in various Sony models and Fujifilm's X-E1.

Sony has announced the E 20mm F2.8 - a moderately wide-angle pancake prime lens for its NEX cameras. The moderately-fast E-mount pancake will offer a 30mm equivalent field of view and adds another compact lens option for NEX shooters. It will be available in April for around $350. Sony has also said it will offer its video-targeted 18-200mm OSS F3.5-6.3 power zoom lens as a standalone product. Previously only available bundled with the NEX-VG30 camcorder, it becomes the company's third E-mount 18-200mm superzoom and will cost around $1200.

Nikon has relaunched its image sharing and storage service as 'Nikon Image Space'. Unlike 'myPicturetown', this service will be open to non-Nikon users as well. However, owners of Nikon cameras are eligible for 20GB of free storage space compared to 2GB for regular members.

Pentax Ricoh has announced a firmware update for its GR Digital IV compact camera. Version 2.21 adds an Auto option to the camera's Dynamic Range Compensation feature, promises to improve the Noise Reduction function at higher ISO settings and enhances zoom operation in playback mode. The update also fixes a number of bugs. The firmware is available for immediate download from the company's website

Olympus has issued a press release confirming JK Imaging and four other companies have formally signed-up to the Micro Four Thirds standard. JK Imaging announced last week that it would be offering MFT cameras under the Kodak brand. Australian company Blackmagic Design, which already offers a movie camera with a passive Micro Four Thirds mount and is rumored to be working on a fully compliant version, also joins. The other three signatories are less consumer-facing.

Just a week after announcing it was licensing the Kodak brand name, JK Imaging has been showing a Micro Four Thirds camera at a press conference in China. Details are vague but the camera, reported to be called the S1, does appear to be sporting the official Micro Four Thirds logo. The camera, which will offer Wi-Fi for communication with smartphones, is said to be based around a Sony CMOS sensor. (via PetaPixel)

Giottos has announced a range of tripods that use a unique 'Y'-shaped centre column profile to offer a more compact folded package. The 'Silk Road YTL series' replaces the existing MTL range in its entirety, and according to Giottos offers a 30% space saving without any sacifice in stability or weight capacity. The range includes 12 models offering 3- or 4-section legs, conventional 2-way or tilting centre columns, and weight capacities from 5 to 10 kg. They'll be on sale from mid-January, with at prices starting from £100 for aluminium, or £220 for carbon fibre models. 

The Commons, Flickr's collection of public domain images, is five years old. To celebrate, Flickr has created galleries of the most viewed, 'favorited' and commented-upon images. The Commons was launched in 2008 with 1500 photos, in partnership with the US Library of Congress. Five years later, the collection boasts more than 250,000 images. Click through for more information, and links to the galleries of most popular images in the growing collection. 

Pentax has released the first firmware updates to its K-5 II and K-5 IIs digital SLRs, which were released in September of last year. Firmware version 1.01 offers contrast adjustment option for the cameras' LCD displays as well as 'stability improvements'. The updates are available for immediate download from the company's website - click through for download links. 

The Lumia 920 is Nokia’s current flagship smartphone and the second phone graced with the Finnish manufacturer's PureView branding. Unfortunately this is not the same, large-sensor 'PureView' concept as the 808 but a fast F2.0 lens, optical image stabilization and true multi-aspect-ratio support still make the Lumia 920, at least on paper, look like a very promising connected imaging device. Peter Ferenczi has tested the phone for Connect, click through to see how he got on.

I take my little Sony RX100 for a spin on the wild side to see how it fares as a "in your face/pocket" stealthy editorial fashion shooter!

Phase One has announced that it has updated its Capture One Pro raw conversion software to version 7.0.2. This includes support for several additional cameras, including the Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1 and XF1, Canon EOS 6D and EOS M, Sony SLT-A57 and NEX-5R, and Olympus XZ-2 iHS. The update is available immediately from the company's website, as a free download for users of Capture One 7.

The latest version of Capture One brings support for Fujifilm's X-Trans sensors - something we noted other software struggled with, when we reviewed the X-Pro 1. Beta versions of the software have caused a lot of excitement for X-Pro1 and X-E1 users finally looking to get the most from their photos. Do the results live up to the expectation? We had a look.

Specialist accessory manufacturer Metabones and optics company Caldwell Photographics have jointly announced the 'Speed Booster', a lens adapter for mounting SLR lenses on APS-C and Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras that reduces the focal length by a factor of 0.71x and increases the maximum aperture by 1 stop. The Speed Booster also promises sharper images compared to using the lens with a simple adapter. The first version will allow use of Canon EF lenses on Sony NEX bodies, and will be available this month from Metabones' web site for US$599. Support for additional lens mounts (including Nikon F) and camera systems (including Fujifilm X and Micro Four Thirds) is also planned.

Lenovo might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think of smartphones but the Chinese company is one of the biggest sellers in its home market. Its latest offering is the K900 - a 5.5" smartphone - slightly larger than the three we detailed yesterday but with the same 1920 x 1080 pixel count to give a resolution of 400ppi. It also features a 13MP Sony Exmor RS (stacked CMOS) sensor behind a 22.4mm equivalent F1.8 lens. Click here to find out more.

CES 2013: High-resolution screen advances were on display at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week, with everyone from tablet makers to television manufacturers pushing pixel count further than ever before. Sharp stole the show, in terms of screen resolution technology by exhibiting a 85-inch 8K LCD screen prototype. Co-developed with Japanese broadcaster NHK, the UHDTV screen offers 16 times the resolution of a standard 1080 TV and would allow you to display a 33MP image without downscaling or cropping. 

CES provided a chance for us to get our hands on two of the latest smartphones. Interestingly, Sony's Xperia Z, ZTE's Grand S and the Huawei Ascend D2 are all built around 5", 1920 x 1080 pixel screens and feature 13MP cameras. All run Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) and yet, despite the spec similarities, there are still differences - in the user experience as well as the processors used. We had the opportunity to use all these phones, to see how they behave - find out what we thought.

Perhaps the most interesting camera at this year's Consumer Electronics Show is the Fujifilm X100S - a hugely impressive upgrade to the X100, which was one of our favorite cameras of the past couple of years. Read our short hands-on look more details.

The Fujifilm X100S is the latest in a recent rush of cameras to include phase-detection elements on its imaging sensor, giving an AF system that is a hybrid of contrast and phase-detection methods. However, Fujifilm also uses this system to provide a unique and incredibly clever manual focus aid - which could finally allow digital cameras to offer the speed and convenience enjoyed by manual-focus SLR and rangefinder users. Fujifilm UK has posted a video showing 'Digital Split Image' focusing and Japanese camera site DCWatch has published details that allow us to show how it works.

Canon has announced two additions to its range of Cinema EOS prime lenses, a 14mm T3.1 and 135mm T2.2. The CN-E14mm T3.1 L F and CN-E135mm T2.2 L F are both designed to be used on movie cameras with image sensors up to 35mm full frame in size, and include a range of features optimized for movie shooting. These include geared focus and aperture rings with markings designed to be read from the side of the camera, 11-bladed circular aperture diaphragms, and all-metal weather-resistant construction. The 14mm T3.1 will be available from April 2013 at an estimated retail price of $5,500, while the 135mm T2.2 will appear in May for $5,200.

CES 2013: As promised we've used the CES show as an opportunity to get our hands on the Samsung NX300. The latest model shares its looks with the NX210 but has been substantially re-worked under the skin. We had a chance to play with the NX300 and Samsung's innovative 3D variant of its 45mm F1.8 lens that has been developed alongside it. Click here to see what we found.

The UK's biggest high-street camera retailer, Jessops, has gone into administration, putting 192 stores and 2,000 jobs at risk. The company's website is not accepting orders and administrator PricewaterhouseCoopers has said vouchers and returns would not be honoured at present. The company, that has been slow to respond to competition from internet retailers, was rescued in 2009 by HSBC, which bought into the company in return for writing off some of its debts. However, increasingly stringent credit terms imposed by suppliers (a common move when there is doubt surrounding the future of a company), and predictions of further falls in camera sales led to the administrators being called.

CES 2013: Sigma has announced the DP3 Merrill, the latest iteration of the company's enthusiast large sensor compact camera. Nearly identical to the earlier DP Merrill models, this camera features the familiar 15x3MP APS-C Foveon X3 sensor, but it is now mated with a 50mm (75mm equiv.) F2.8 lens. The lens lends itself to portraiture and, with a minimum focus distance of 22.6cm, offers respectable 1:3 magnification. Video recording is still limited to VGA resolution but the DP3M can shoot at up to 4 frames per second for 7 frames in Raw.

CES 2013: Sigma has published details of what it will be showing at the CES show, including pricing details for two of the lenses it announced at Photokina 2012. The 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM, part of the company's 'Contemporary' line of lenses, will retail for around $499. Meanwhile the 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM, which falls into the company's 'Sports' category, will sell for around $3,599. The company has also given details of a monochrome processing mode that it's added to its Sigma Photo Pro processing software for its Foveon-sensored cameras.

CES 2013: Olympus has announced the Stylus Tough TG-2 iHS, the latest flagship of its Tough series of waterproof compact cameras. This update to the TG-1 model is now waterproof down to 15m (50 feet), has a 12MP CMOS sensor and a 4x optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture starting at F2.0. Further rounding out the specifications are a 3.0" OLED rear display, built-in GPS and elevation recording and 1920 x 1080 video output. The TG-2 iHS will be available in March in both red and black versions for US $379.99.

CES 2013: Olympus has announced the Stylus SH-50 iHS, which the company claims is the first compact camera to feature E-M5-style 5-axis image stabilization. The 16MP camera also features a 24x 25-600mm (equiv.) optical zoom lens, 1080i60 video output and a touch-sensitive 3-inch rear LCD. Taking design cues from the company's higher-end PEN cameras, the SH-50 iHS sports a textured hand grip and will be available in March in both black and white versions.

CES 2013: Olympus has announced the TG-830 iHS and TG-630 iHS, two new additions to the company's TOUGH series of travel-friendly waterproof compact cameras. The mid-range TG-830 iHS is waterproof to 10m (33 feet) and has a 5x optical zoom lens to go along with its 16MP back-side illuminated CMOS sensor. Video can be recorded in 1920 x 1080 resolution, with the option to capture high speed clips at 120 fps in 720 resolution mode, for slow motion playback. The entry-level TG-630 iHS is waterproof down to 5m (16 feet). Both models will be available in March in a range of colors.

CES 2013: Olympus has announced the Stylus SZ-16 iHS and the Stylus SZ-15 iHS - a pair of 24x compact superzoom cameras. Both cameras offer an 25-600mm equivalent zoom range. The SZ-16 iHS is based around a 16MP CMOS sensor, allowing it to offer 1080p video and the other high-speed features needed to wear the company's iHS branding. The SZ-15 makes do with a 16MP CCD sensor, restricting it to 720p video capture. The SZ-16 iHS uses Olympus' previous-generation TruePic V processor, while the SZ-15 uses an older TruePic III+ chip.

CES 2013: Nikon USA has announced it is releasing the D5200 launched elsewhere in November 2012. The 24MP upper entry-level DSLR gains the 39-point AF system from the company's higher-end models. The camera will cost around $899.95 with the Nikkor 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 VR kit lens. It includes an articulated 920k dot LCD and is compatible with the clip-on WU-1a Wi-Fi module. We previewed it back when it was launched in Europe so, if you still don't know what makes the D5200 tick, the preview should cover it.

CES 2013: Nikon has launched two additional camera and two lenses to the Nikon 1 mirrorless system. The 10MP 1 S1 and 14MP 1 J3 are two small mirrorless camera both featuring hybrid-AF. The 1 J3 looks a lot like the previous 1 Js but sees the mode dial moved to the camera's top plate. The S1, meanwhile is a smaller, less expensive model aimed squarely at point-and-shoot users. In addition Nikon has announced the 1 Nikkor 6.7-13mm F3.5-5.6 VR 18-35mm equivalent wide-angle zoom and a retractable superzoom lens, the 1 Nikkor 10-100mm F4-5.6 VR.

CES 2013: Nikon US has announced a radio-frequency camera triggering system compatible with all its current DSLRs. The WR-10 system works over a 60m range and, unlike the current infrared system, does not require a line-of-sight between the trigger and the camera. Users of mass-market Nikons (D600 and below) can use the WR-T10 transmitter to focus or fire cameras with WR-R10 receivers attached to them. Owners of pro-grade DSLRs with 10-pin connectors can use the WR-A10 adapter to connect the R10 to their camera. This combination allows the camera to act as a host that can remotely trigger up to 64 other cameras.

CES 2013: Nikon has announced the Wi-Fi-enabled Coolpix S6500 compact camera. It includes the latest 'Glamour Retouch' effects including 'Reduce Dark Circles' and 'Redden Cheeks'. The camera is built around a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor, 12x 25-300mm (equiv.) optical zoom lens and offers Full HD video recording capabilities. It will available late January for a suggested retail price of $219.95 in silver, black, red, and orange.

CES 2013: Sony has announced five Cyber-Shot compacts, including the Wi-Fi-capable, 16MP CMOS-based DSC-WX80 with its 25-200mm equivalent zoom lens. There are also two CCD-based W-series cameras - the DSC-W730 which shares its lens with the WX80, and the DSC-W710 that has a 5x 28-140mm equiv. zoom. Beyond these are the 16MP CCD-based 5x rugged, waterproof DSC-TF1 and the 26x DSC-H200 superzoom.

Just posted: Our hands-on first look at the Fujifilm X100S. Fujifilm's update of its large sensor, fixed lens X100 adds significant upgrades, including a 16MP X-Trans CMOS sensor with on-chip phase detection AF, a higher resolution LCD display in its unique Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, and the company's latest user interface. But there's a whole host of smaller improvements too, which promise to iron out many of the X100's particular quirks. In our first look preview, we take a detailed look through what's changed compared to its predecessor.

Just posted: Our hands-on preview of Fujifilm's updated enthusiast zoom compact, the X20. Using the same basic design as X10, including its fast 28-112mm equivalent F2-2.8 zoom lens, the X20 uses a completely new sensor, a 2/3"-type version of the X-Trans CMOS design used in the company's X-system cameras, but with added on-chip phase detection AF. It also gains an 'Advanced Optical Viewfinder' that's capable of displaying overlaid exposure information, and a couple of design tweaks to take better advantage of this. In our preview we take a closer look at what the X20 has to offer the enthusiast photographer.   

CES 2013: Fujifilm has announced the X100S - a significantly enhanced replacement for its X100 large sensor, fixed-lens compact camera. The X100S retains its predecessor's classic styling but has been extensively re-worked inside, with a 16MP X-Trans sensor that includes on-chip phase-detection elements (a technology first utilized by Fujifilm), and a higher-resolution LCD in its Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder. A faster 'EXR II' processor, along with the on-chip AF information help Fujifilm offer what it says is the world's fastest AF. The X100S backs-up its rangefinder-esque looks with a digital split-image manual focus system, allowing fast manual focusing. A great many fine details of the camera have also been enhanced - we look in greater detail in our hands-on preview article.

CES 2013: Fujifilm has announced the X20 - a substantially upgraded re-working of its high-end enthusiast compact. The biggest changes over the X10 are the adoption of the X-Trans color filter pattern from the company's mirrorless cameras, along with an LCD added to the optical viewfinder to allow shooting information to be overlaid. A faster processor and on-chip phase detection elements promise fast focusing while the addition of a 'Q' quick-menu button should also improve the camera's usability.

CES 2013: Fujifilm has announced the 16MP FinePix HS50EXR, its new flagship superzoom camera. The HS50 features a 42x 24-1000mm (equiv.) optical zoom lens and a new EXR CMOS II sensor. A 3" articulated rear LCD complements the camera's built-in 920k dot electronic viewfinder. The HS50 records 1080p60 video alongside stereo audio. An 'Intelligent' hybrid autofocus system allows for automatic switching between contrast and phase-detection AF operation. Burst modes as high as 11 fps are possible in full resolution mode. A more affordable HS35EXR has also been announced, which features an earlier version sensor, 30x optical zoom and 1080p30 video recording.

CES 2013: Fujifilm has announced the FinePix SL1000, a 50x superzoom camera. The 16MP SL1000 features a 24-1200mm (equiv.) optical zoom lens and a newly developed image stabilization system. In addition to the exceptionally wide focal length range, the lens can focus as close 1cm (.39 inches). A 3" articulated rear LCD complements the camera's built-in 920k dot electronic viewfinder. The camera is capable of burst rates of up to 10fps at full resolution. The SL1000 records 1080i60 video alongside stereo audio.

CES 2013: Fujifilm has announced the FinePix XP60, the latest addition to its rugged waterproof line of compact cameras. The 16MP XP60 is waterproof down to 6m (20 feet), has a 5x optical zoom lens, image stabilization and can record 1080i60 video. A dedicated 'burst mode' button offers up to 10fps at full resolution. The camera also comes with a sweep panorama mode as well as several effects filters. The XP60 will be available in March.

CES 2013: Fujifilm has launched three mid-range superzoom cameras - the 46x S8500, the 42x S8300 and the 40x S8200, all based around otherwise similar specifications. The Europe-only S8500 offers a 24-1104mm equivalent range, while the North America-only S8300 has to make do with a 24-1008mm equivalent range. Meanwhile the S8200, available in all territories, gets a 24-960mm equiv zoom. All three models share a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor and 460k dot rear screen.

CES 2013: Fujifilm has announced the FinePix T550, its latest compact travel zoom camera. The T550 has a 16MP CCD sensor, features a 12x 24-288mm (equiv.) optical zoom lens, image stabilization and 1280 x 720 video. The camera also comes with a sweep panorama mode as well as several effects filters. In the UK Fujifilm is releasing the T500, which is identical aside from a 2.7-inch versus 3.0-inch rear LCD panel.

CES 2013: Panasonic has announced the Lumix DMC-ZS30 (TZ40 in Europe) and ZS25 (TZ35 in Europe) compact superzoom cameras. The higher specified ZS30 features a 20x optical zoom, 1080p60 video and Wi-Fi capability. The biggest new feature on offer, however is Near Field Communication (NFC), a close-proximity radio connection that the ZS30 can use to initiate a Wi-Fi connection with a compatible device simply by tapping the two together. The cameras will be available at the end of March in both black and white color schemes.

CES 2013: Panasonic has announced the Lumix DMC-TS5 (FT5 in Europe) and TS25 (FT25 in Europe) compact waterproof and shock-resistant 'adventure' cameras. The higher specified TS5 is waterproof at depths of up to 12m (39 feet) features a 28-128mm equiv 4.6x zoom lens, 1080p60 video and Wi-Fi capability. New on offer is Near Field Communication (NFC), a close-proximity radio connection that the camera can use to initiate a Wi-Fi connection with a compatible device simply by tapping the two together. The cameras will be available at the end of March in a range of colors.

CES 2013: Panasonic has announced the Lumix DMC-XS1 compact camera. The 16MP XS1 body is only 14mm thick, sports a 24mm (equiv.) 5x optical zoom lens and includes the company's MEGA O.I.S image stabilization system. Panasonic has also announced the Lumix DMC-FH10 and F5 compact cameras. The FH10 provides the functionality of the XS1 (minus the Creative Control filters) in a larger camera body, while the entry-level F5 uses a slightly smaller-resolution 14MP sensor. All three cameras will be available at the end of March.

CES 2013: Panasonic has announced the Lumix DMC-SZ3 compact camera. The 16MP CCD sensor SZ3 sports a 25mm (equiv.) LEICA DC 10x optical zoom lens and offers a 10fps burst mode. The camera records 1280 x 720 video and offers 14 creative shooting modes. The SZ3 will be available at the end of March in black, blue and white color options. A CMOS variant, the SZ9, will be released in European markets.

CES 2013: Panasonic has introduced the DMC-LZ30, a 35x superzoom offering a 25-875mm equivalent zoom range, based around a 16MP sensor. The LZ30 features a large, 3.0", 460k dot LCD and uses a CCD sensor, restricting it to 720p HD video output. In common with most of the cameras being launched at CES, it features a resolution-boosting extra zoom mode, HDR, panorama function and a choice of pre- and post-shot creative effects.

CES 2013: Panasonic has announced the lifestyle-oriented HX-A100 'wearable' camcorder. The video camera includes an 'Earthhook' which allows for hands-free video recording. HD video can be captured at 1920 x 1080 at 60 fps. Wi-Fi connectivity allows for live streaming on Ustream and you can use a smartphone or tablet to start and stop recording. The HX-A100 is also waterproof up to 1.5m (5 feet). Pricing and availability are yet to be announced.

CES 2013: Canon's PowerShot N, with its 'either way up' design and Creative Shot processing filters, is one of the most unusual cameras we've seen for some time. Canon's talking about it as a companion to a smartphone, and to this end it includes Wi-Fi connectivity and the ability to upload photos and videos to social media. We've had the chance to handle one briefly, and have prepared a quick first impressions article to give an idea of how it works.

Just Posted: Our hands-on preview of the Pentax MX-1. The enthusiast sector has become so vibrant that our pre-Christmas roundup included nine cameras. Not wanting to be left out of the action, Pentax-Ricoh has launched its own 12MP camera with a 1/1.7" sensor - the MX-1. As well as a slightly familiar-looking 28-112mm equivalent, F1.8-2.5 zoom lens, the MX-1 takes the unusual step of including brass top- and base-plates - meaning its classic looks should become even more pronounced as it ages. Read on to find out more.

CES 2013: Pentax has announced the MX-1 - its entry into the enthusiast compact camera sector. The MX-1 features classic styling and construction, with brass top- and base-plates. It's based around a stabilized 12MP BSI CMOS sensor and a familiar-sounding 28-112mm equivalent F1.8-2.5 lens. In addition the MX-1 features a flip-out 920k dot rear screen. It includes a top-plate exposure compensation dial and rear thumb wheel to control a UI very much like those in the company's DSLRs. We've borrowed a pre-production version of the camera and have prepared a hands-on preview article.

CES 2013: Canon has announced the PowerShot N, a compact camera designed specifically as a smartphone companion for the Instagram generation. The N is built around a tilting touch-screen, and its round-lens zoom controller and shutter release are designed to make it behave identically whether held right-way-up or upside-down. It offers a 'Creative Shot' mode that generates multiple versions of your image, so you get the shot you composed plus five alternatives with different crops and processing effects. Canon promises one-touch Wi-Fi connectivity to make it easier to upload images and video to your smartphone and the internet. To extend its capability beyond that of a smartphone, the N has a 28-224mm equivalent lens and a 12MP CMOS sensor that works with a Digic 5 processor.

CES 2013: Canon has refreshed its lineup of compact cameras with the launches of the Elph 130 IS and the PowerShots A3500 IS, A2600 and A1400. The Elph 130 IS (called the IXUS 140 in Europe), features an 8X, 28-244mm equivalent zoom in front of a 16MP CCD sensor. Although it features Wi-Fi, it does not promise the PowerShot N's one-touch convenience and uses a previous-generation Digic 4 processor. The A3500 IS is also Wi-Fi capable but features a 5x, 28-140mm equivalent, stabilized lens and the same 16MP sensor. The less expensive A2600 loses the A3500 IS's stabilization and Wi-Fi, while the AA-battery-powered A1400 gains an optical viewfinder.

CES 2013: Pentax Ricoh has announced it will offer its Q10 small-sensor mirrorless camera in 100 different color combinations. The cameras will be built to-order when the customer requests a particular combination, though no details are given of how long it expects the process to take. The Q10 is the company's second Q-series interchangeable lens camera. Built around a 1/2.3" 12MP BSI CMOS sensor, the Q10 is the smallest, lightest mirrorless interchangeable lens camera on the market. The Q10 in your choice of color, with a 02 28-83mm equivalent zoom lens for around $599.95.

We've just posted a gallery of real-world samples from the new Nikon 1 V2, with its bundled kit zoom, the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6. The V2 is a significantly different camera from its predecessor, offering much more enthusiast-friendly ergonomics and a new 14MP sensor, among other refinements. As well as 25 JPEG images we've also included four Raw conversions, to give a better idea of the camera's potential. Click through for a link to the full gallery.