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Thursday, August 23 2007
Olympus overhauls compact camera lineup
Hoping not to be overshadowed by Nikon's big news, Olympus announced eight new compact cameras today, effectively overhauling its entire consumer camera lineup. Leading the charge is the Stylus 790SW (shown), the company's latest shockproof and waterproof model that's now available in several colors. Also headlining the new lineup is the SP-560 UZ, the latest ultrazoom compact, with an 18x optical zoom lens. The company also introduced a trio of hi-res fashion cameras, the Stylus 1200 (12MP), and the Stylus 830 and 820 (8MP each). Finally, Olympus introduced three new low-end FE models. All models now have face recognition as well as several other upgraded features, and several offer new Shadow Adjustment technology, which brightens shadows in scenes automatically. Interestingly, on the day when Nikon re-entered the pro market in a serious way, Olympus's long-rumored pro DSLR was not in evidence.
For details, including all specifications, availability and pricing, read all of the Olympus press releases:
OLYMPUS STYLUS 790 SW: A NEW SLEEK, STYLISH CAMERA BUILT TOUGH FOR TAKING AMAZING PHOTOS ANYWHERE, ANYTIME
Worry-Free Digital Compact Camera Withstands Life’s Everyday Adventures
CENTER VALLEY, Pa., August 23, 2007 – Olympus today introduces the Stylus 790 SW, the newest addition to its stylish and durable Stylus SW line of digital compact cameras. Available in five stunning colors (orange, blue, lime, black and silver), the shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof and dustproof camera captures amazing images in any situation – whether it is a day of fun at the beach, an action-packed snorkel adventure, a family ski trip or a night out with friends.
The camera’s good looks, smooth design and rugged exterior contain an array of innovative features and technologies that ensure sharp, vibrant images in any environment. These signature features include:
Face Detection Technology tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Even if your subjects are moving, the camera continuously tracks your subjects' faces without having to press the shutter button;
Shadow Adjustment Technology enables users to preview and capture their images as they see them with their naked eye. Shadow Adjustment compensates for difficult lighting situations, increasing the detail in highlights and shadows, to produce more balanced photos;
2.5-inch HyperCrystal™ LCD screen features anti-glare technology that improves visibility in bright sunlight and a wider viewing angle (176 degrees in every direction) for easier composing and sharing of images with others; and
TruePic III™ Image Processor reduces graininess in images to deliver sharper, more vivid photos even at high ISO settings.
“The Stylus 790 SW offers the performance and durability that consumers have come to trust from the Stylus SW family with a sleek new look and innovative feature set,” said Mark Hoffman, director, Product Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology ensure effortlessly sharp, bright images anytime, anywhere. The rugged, waterproof body design makes it the ideal camera for active lifestyles and a must-have for vacations and outdoor (or underwater) adventures.”
Worry-Free Shockproof Design
Built with durable materials and shock-absorption technology that minimizes the impact delivered to the lens and circuitry when dropped, the Stylus 790 SW offers superior durability in a point-and-shoot digital camera.
Takes Pictures Underwater
By combining a light-weight, aluminum exterior with rubber gaskets and O-rings to seal the interior from the elements, Olympus delivers a slim body design that performs as well under water (down to 10 feet / 3 meters below the surface) as it does on land. The inclusion of four preset underwater scene modes makes the Stylus 790 SW the perfect camera for the pool, waterpark or snorkeling in the ocean. The Stylus 790 SW also features a water-repellant lens coating to prevent water droplets from forming on the lens so you get crystal-clear shots no matter how wet the shooting environment.
Freezeproof for Winter Fun
You can take the cold, so why shouldn’t your camera? Unlike other point-and-shoot cameras, the Stylus 790 SW still performs when the temperature dips below freezing (14 degrees Fahrenheit;
-10 degrees Celsius) so this camera is ready to hit the slopes.
Dustproof for Everyday Durability
The Stylus 790 SW is the perfect camera for a trip to the beach or the great outdoors. Its airtight construction makes the camera impervious to dust, dirt and other particles. Shoot without worry even in harsh conditions; and when the camera gets dirty, just rinse it off in the sink!
Face Detection Technology
Face Detection Technology tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.
Shadow Adjustment Technology
Shooting outdoors in bright daylight can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark shadowed areas and bright sunlit areas – while the human eye is capable of detecting the nuances between dark and light and all the details in between, image sensors traditionally have not been quite as sensitive. The Stylus 790 SW addresses this challenge head-on with Shadow Adjustment Technology, which compensates for extreme contrast where the shadow areas are underexposed and lack visible detail. With this technology, users can preview and capture images with the same contrast as their naked eye.
Large 2.5-Inch HyperCrystalTM LCD
The Stylus 790 SW boasts a large, high-resolution HyperCrystal LCD, which displays clear, high-contrast images. It increases the brightness of the LCD for better visibility in low-light and bright-light situations – perfect for composing pictures underwater or in direct sunlight. Images are also viewable on the 2.5-inch LCD from 176-degrees, enabling photos to be composed from a wider range of angles and viewed by several people at once.
Digital Image Stabilization
The Stylus 790 SW features Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) for capturing crisp, clear pictures. By boosting the camera’s ISO sensitivity and shutter speed, DIS freezes the action and provides blur-free images, even when you or your subject is moving.
Perfect Shot Preview
The Stylus 790 SW features a Perfect Shot Preview mode that enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-frame window on the LCD before snapping the shot. This feature allows users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It is a great way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as exposure compensation, white balance and metering.
TruePic III Image Processor
Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III also captures sharp images at high ISO settings, which are traditionally associated with increasing image noise or producing grainy photos.
Bright Capture Technology for Easy Low-Light Photography
Low-light photography has never been easier thanks to Olympus’ revolutionary Bright Capture Technology. A brightened preview on the LCD enables simple composition, and with specific scene modes for high sensitivity settings (up to ISO 1600) and rapid auto-focus, even fast-action photos can be captured under low levels of available light.
LED Illuminator
An LED Illuminator works like a mini-flashlight on the front of the camera to enhance focus and exposure for macro shooting – great for underwater close-ups where light is scarce. The LED also works in conjunction with Bright Capture to help illuminate your subject when taking low-light portraits.
Stylish, Compact, Rugged Design
The Stylus 790 SW combines light, durable body construction with shock-absorbing materials throughout the interior and the sealant technology used in Olympus underwater housings. In addition to the shockproof and waterproof construction, the Stylus 790 SW features a light-weight, all-metal body and clean, smooth lines that make it the ultimate pocket camera. At a slim 0.8 inches, the camera easily slips into a pocket, handbag or backpack.
27 Selectable Shooting Modes
With 27 pre-programmed shooting modes, such as Beach & Snow, Available Light Portrait, Sunset and Under Water Snapshot, the Stylus 790 SW makes it easy to capture beautiful images in a variety of lighting and shooting situations. The Stylus 790 SW features a Movie Mode that can record TV-quality video (640x480/30fps) with sound – above and below the water’s surface.
In-Camera Editing
With in-camera editing features such as red-eye fix, resizing, adding frames or text, and color or saturation adjustments, users can edit photos anywhere with ease – touch up or embellish photos without a computer.
Olympus Underwater Housing, Floating Strap, Silicone Skin and Premium Cases
Olympus offers a number of optional accessories, specifically designed for the Stylus 790 SW. For users looking to capture their underwater adventures deeper than 10 feet, Olympus offers the PT-041 underwater housing, which enables users to take pictures as deep as 130 feet (40 meters). A highly visible floating wrist strap frees consumers’ hands when swimming or chasing the next big wave, and a silicone skin protects the camera from scratches. Additionally, Olympus offers premium cases in a variety of colors, including camel and red leather, and a durable, sporty neoprene case is perfect for active or outdoor expeditions.
OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software
OLYMPUS Master™ 2 software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to a computer quick and simple. Images are easily organized by folders or albums and are searchable by date in the Calendar View. With one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or e-mailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee? Theater Pack to create professional-quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.
Availability
The Stylus 790 SW will be available in September 2007. It includes: a wrist strap, camera WIN/Mac USB cable, audio/video cable, LI-42B Li-Ion rechargeable battery and charger, manual, warranty card and OLYMPUS Master 2 software (CD-ROM).
U.S. Pricing
Stylus 790 SW Estimated Street Price: $299.99 (U.S.)
OLYMPUS’ GROUNDBREAKING 18X OPTICAL ZOOM DIGITAL COMPACT CAMERA JUST GOT SMARTER
New Camera Offers 27mm Wide-Angle Lens, Face Detection, Shadow Adjustment Technology, TruePic III and Other Innovative Features
CENTER VALLEY, Pa., August 23, 2007 – Olympus introduces the new SP-560 Ultra Zoom digital camera, the all-in-one solution for consumers looking for power and versatility for any shooting situation. The compact SP-560 UZ blends ease-of-use with an industry-leading focal range (27mm wide-angle to 18x optical zoom), an 8-megapixel image sensor and the latest technologies to deliver superior image quality and performance.
These new innovative technologies include:
Face Detection Technology: tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Even if your subjects are moving, the camera continuously tracks your subjects' faces without having to press the shutter button;
Shadow Adjustment Technology: allows users to preview and capture their images as they see them with their naked eye. Shadow Adjustment compensates for difficult lighting situations, increasing the detail in highlights and shadows, to produce more balanced photos;
TruePic III™ Image Processor: reduces graininess in images to deliver sharper, more vivid photos even at high ISO settings;
Perfect Shot Preview: enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on the LCD screen before snapping the shot; and
Dual Image Stabilization: combines the benefits of Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization and Digital Image Stabilization to ensure beautiful, blur-free images in any situation.
“The SP-560 UZ can capture more with one lens than most other cameras capture with two or three lenses,” said Mark Hoffman, director, Product Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “This versatile compact camera will literally expand your photographic horizons, allowing you to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to the intricate details of a wildflower. Robust features such as Dual Image Stabilization and a variety of new technologies will appeal to everyone from photo enthusiasts looking for more creative control to first-time users looking for an easy-to-use point and shoot camera.”
Amazing Focal Length Far and Wide
The key component to quality imaging is precision optics, and the SP-560 UZ delivers. This camera’s versatile yet compact 18x super telephoto zoom gets users close to the action. At the same time, the wide-angle (27mm) lens captures more in each frame. Its super-macro capabilities capture the subtlest details from as close as one centimeter. The compact lens construction combines high-refractive, aspherical and extra-dispersion (ED) lens elements to deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity. The bright, F2.8-4.5 lens provides the equivalent of 27-486mm focal length with 100x total seamless zoom (5.6x digital zoom).
Face Detection Technology
Face Detection Technology tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.
Shadow Adjustment Technology
Shooting outdoors in bright daylight can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark shadowed areas and bright sunlit areas – while the human eye is capable of detecting the nuances between dark and light and all the details in between, image sensors traditionally have not been quite as sensitive. The SP-560 UZ addresses this challenge head-on with Shadow Adjustment Technology, which compensates for extreme contrast where the shadow areas are underexposed and lack visible detail. With this technology, users can preview and capture images with the same contrast as their naked eye.
TruePic III Image Processor
Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III also captures sharp images at high ISO settings, which are traditionally associated with increasing image noise or producing grainy photos.
Perfect Shot Preview
The SP-560 UZ features a Perfect Shot Preview mode that enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-frame window on the LCD before snapping the shot. This feature allows users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It’s a great way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as exposure compensation, white balance and metering.
Dual Image Stabilization
Dual Image Stabilization technology enables users to take crisp, clear pictures in virtually any shooting situation – adjusting for camera shake and a moving subject. Olympus’ mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization keeps images sharp by adjusting the CCD to compensate for camera shake, which often occurs when zooming in on your subject and in low-light conditions when shutter speeds are slower. Digital Image Stabilization freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blur caused by a moving subject.
High-Speed Sequential Shooting and Pre-Capture
Capable of capturing images at an incredible 15 frames per second (image size reduced), the SP-560 UZ offers the highest burst rate of any compact digital camera. The inclusion of Pre-Capture technology, which works in conjunction with High-Speed Sequential Shooting, enables users to capture the action before and after fully pressing the shutter button. Pre-Capture begins working as soon as the focus is locked, automatically archiving five frames in the camera’s buffer memory prior to the shutter release – virtually guaranteeing that none of the action will be missed even if the user’s reaction time is slow. Perfect for situations where timing is essential, such as photographing a tennis player serving, children playing or a whale breaching.
High-Resolution 2.5-Inch LCD and Electronic Viewfinder
Compose and display incredible images on the camera’s bright 230,000-pixel LCD. The high-resolution screen enables you to review pictures, scroll through menu options and treat friends and family to a digital slide show with ease. The SP-560 UZ also features an electronic viewfinder with dioptric correction.
33 Shooting Modes Including TV-Quality Video with Sound
The SP-560 UZ makes it easy to take great photos in a variety of scenarios and lighting situations with 33 shooting modes, including TV-quality video with sound (640x480/30fps). Simply select the desired mode for portraits, landscapes, night scenes, fast-action, macro and more.
Bright Capture Technology for Easy Low-Light Photography
Low-light photography has never been easier thanks to Olympus’ revolutionary Bright Capture Technology. A brightened preview on the LCD enables simple composition; and with specific scene modes for high sensitivity settings (up to ISO 3200) and rapid auto-focus, even fast-action photos can be captured under low levels of available light.
Full Manual and Automatic Control
The Manual, Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority modes give users versatility and control for optimal performance in any situation. Users can express their creative vision – adjusting the f-stop for detailed portraits with softened backgrounds, or slowing the exposure speed to create the blurred effect of motion, or just sit back and let the camera do the thinking through the use of the automatic settings.
Underwater Housing and Accessory Lenses for Expanded Capabilities
An underwater housing (PT-037) works with the SP-560 UZ, enabling great images to be captured while scuba diving to depths of approximately 130 feet (40 meters) beneath the surface. The SP-560 UZ also features a threaded lens barrel, which enables easy attachment of the TCON-17 teleconversion lens for more than 30x optical zoom (requires CLA-10 Lens Adapter). Olympus also offers a nylon ultra-zoom carrying case.
OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software
OLYMPUS Master 2 software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums and searchable by date in Calendar view. Also, with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or e-mailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee™ Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.
Availability
The SP-560 UZ will be available in October 2007. It will also include: Neck Strap, WIN/Mac USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, four AA Batteries, Manual, Warranty Card and OLYMPUS Master 2 Software CD-ROM.
U.S. Pricing
SP-560 UZ Estimated Street Price: $449.99 (U.S.)
THREE NEW ADDITIONS TO OLYMPUS STYLUS FAMILY BLEND STYLE AND PERFORMANCE
New Digital Compact Cameras Build on More Than a Decade of All-Weather Durability, Beautiful Styling and Industry-Leading Innovation
CENTER VALLEY, Pa., August 23, 2007 – Olympus today proudly announces the newest additions to its Stylus family of sleek All-Weather digital compact cameras – the Stylus 820, Stylus 830 and Stylus 1200 – which combine elegant design with power, performance and reliability.
Consumers are able to be a part of the action while capturing beautiful images thanks to the superior features offered in the Stylus 820, Stylus 830 and Stylus 1200. These features include Face Detection Technology, Shadow Adjustment Technology, Perfect Shot Preview, Image Stabilization, large HyperCrystalTM LCD screens and Preset Shooting Modes. The three new Stylus cameras also enable consumers to capture TV-quality video with sound, and the cameras easily connect directly to a television or LCD screen for convenient playback.
Additionally, the Stylus 830 features Dual Image Stabilization, which combines mechanical Sensor-Shift Stabilization with Digital Image Stabilization to compensate for both camera shake and moving subjects – ensuring blur-free images in virtually any shooting situation. The camera also offers 5x optical zoom to bring the action closer and a large 2.5-inch HyperCrystal LCD in a sleek, compact design. The Stylus 830 also provides illuminated buttons for easy viewing in low-light situations.
The Stylus 820 and 1200 feature a 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD, which is great for easily composing, editing and sharing images with friends and family. Additionally, capturing breathtaking landscapes is a snap with the in-camera panorama mode offered in the Stylus 820 and Stylus 1200. The Stylus 1200 also provides an incredible 12-megapixels for maximum image quality when producing large-format prints or cropping/enlarging a portion of an image.
“Olympus continues to deliver superior optics and industry-leading innovations for an amazing digital photography experience,” said Tomoko Matsunaga, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “The new Stylus cameras offer style and sophisticated technologies for the discerning consumer.”
Image Stabilization for Blur-Free Photos
Dual Image Stabilization technology combines two technologies – mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization and Digital Image Stabilization – to provide one powerful anti-blur solution for capturing great images whether the photographer or the subject is moving. Olympus' mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization keeps images sharp by adjusting the CCD image sensor to compensate for camera movement, which often occurs in low-light conditions when shutter speeds are slower. Digital Image Stabilization freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blurry images often caused by a moving subject. By combining the two technologies, the Stylus 830 users are
able to take crystal clear images in virtually any shooting situation. The Stylus 820 and Stylus 1200 feature digital image stabilization (DIS) and DIS Edit, which enables the user to retouch blurry photos right in the camera.
Stylish, Ergonomic Body Design and All-Weather Durability
Stylus digital cameras are renowned for their high performance, style and ability to withstand the elements. The Stylus 820, Stylus 830 and Stylus 1200 feature light-weight metal bodies with rubber gaskets throughout the interior to ensure that rain, sleet and snow will not get in the way of great photos. Additionally, the three new cameras feature ultra-compact bodies less than 1-inch thick. The Stylus 820 is offered in red, blue, black and silver. The Stylus 830 is offered in orange, green, blue, black and silver. The Stylus 1200 is offered in black and silver.
Large HyperCrystal LCD
The Stylus 830 boasts a large, high-resolution 2.5-inch HyperCrystal LCD with high contrast and anti-glare technology for clear visibility, even when composing pictures in bright sunlight. The Stylus 820 and 1200 feature an even larger 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD. Images are viewable on the LCD screen from 176-degrees, so photos can be composed from a range of angles and viewed by several people at once.
Face Detection Technology
Face Detection Technology tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Even if your subjects are moving, the camera continuously tracks your subjects' faces without having to press the shutter button.
Shadow Adjustment Technology
Shooting outdoors in bright daylight can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark shadowed areas and bright sunlight areas – while the human eye is capable of detecting the nuances between dark and light and all the details in between, image sensors traditionally have not been quite as sensitive. The Stylus cameras address this challenge head-on with a new Shadow Adjustment Technology, which compensates for extreme contrast where the shadow areas are underexposed and lack visible detail. With the new technology, users can preview and capture images that have the same contrast as seen with the naked eye.
Millions of Pixels for Superior Image Quality
The 8-megapixel CCD image sensor inside the Stylus 820 and Stylus 830 delivers high-quality images that are consistently sharp and vivid even when printed in large formats. The Stylus 1200 offers a 12-megapixel image sensor – perfect for creating huge, poster-size enlargements.
Optical Zoom in Ultra-Slim Body Design
The Stylus 820 and Stylus 830 feature new lens technology that enables the 5x optical zoom lens (36mm – 180mm, F3.3 – F5.0 equivalent in 35mm photography) to bring the action five times closer, and then tucks away into a compact body less than 1-inch thick. The Stylus 1200 features a bright, 3x optical zoom lens (35mm – 105mm, F2.8 equivalent in 35mm photography).
Perfect Shot Preview
The Stylus 820, Stylus 830 and Stylus 1200 feature a Perfect Shot Preview mode that enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-window screen before snapping the shot. The new feature allows users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It is an ideal way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as zoom, exposure compensation, white balance and metering.
TruePic™ III Image Processor
The Stylus cameras feature Olympus’ exclusive new TruePic™ III image processor developed for the demanding performance of Digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras. Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III also captures crisp, clear images at high ISO settings, which are traditionally associated with increasing image noise or producing grainy photos.
In-Camera Panorama
The Stylus 820 and 1200 feature the new in-camera panoramic photo shooting capability, which captures three images and stitches them together to create one amazing panoramic picture. Users can easily do this by pressing the shutter button and slowly panning across a panoramic scene. The second and third images will be automatically captured and stitched together with the first image – resulting in one panoramic-size picture. To create the ultimate panoramic picture, consumers can use the Olympus Master Software 2 to stitch up to 10 images together to produce an even larger panoramic image.
Bright Capture Technology for Easy Low-Light Photography
There are times when a photographic opportunity is best captured with ambient light (e.g., when trying to capture the softness and warmth of a candlelit dinner or natural skin tones in subdued lighting). Olympus' Bright Capture Technology makes it possible to clearly compose and capture subjects on the LCD in low light. Specific scene modes for high sensitivity settings and rapid auto-focus enable even fast-action photos to be captured with low levels of available light. Plus, Bright Capture Movie lets consumers record the moments in the dark even after the candles are blown out!
Preset Shooting Modes Make It Easy to Capture Great Images
The Stylus cameras make it easy to take great photos in a variety of scenarios and lighting situations. Simply select the desired mode for portraits, landscapes, night scenes, fast-action, macro and more. The Stylus 820 and Stylus 1200 offer 24 shooting modes, and the Stylus 830 offer 26 shooting modes.
In-Camera Editing
With the new Perfect Fix, multiple editing features can be applied at once. The Stylus 820, Stylus 830 and Stylus 1200 feature Red-Eye Fix and Lighting Fix. The Stylus 820 and 1200 also include Digital Image Stabilization Edit and other in-camera editing features such as (red-eye fix) resizing, frames, text options, color brightness and saturation adjustments enable users to edit photos right in the camera.
OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software
OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums and searchable by date in Calendar view. Additionally, with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or e-mailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee™ Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.
Olympus Premium Cases
Olympus also offers premium cases in a variety of colors, including camel and red leather, and a sporty neoprene case perfect for active or outdoor situations.
Availability
The Stylus 820 will be available in September 2007, and the Stylus 830 and 1200 will be available in October 2007. The cameras ship with: a wrist strap, WIN/Mac USB cable, audio/video cable, LI-42B Li-Ion rechargeable battery and charger, manual, warranty card and a CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master 2 Software.
U.S. Pricing
Stylus 820 Estimated Street Price: $249.99. (U.S.)
Stylus 830 Estimated Street Price: $329.99. (U.S.)
Stylus 1200 Estimated Street Price: $349.99. (U.S.)
NEW OLYMPUS FE-SERIES CAMERAS COMBINE EASY OPERATION WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
Three New Digital Compact Cameras Offer Choice of 12.0-Megapixel Image Sensor, 4x Wide-Angle Lens and Face Detection Technology for Crisp, Clear Images
CENTER VALLEY, Pa., August 23, 2007 – Olympus has taken the FE-Series to a new level of performance and ease of use. From the most powerful image sensor to the largest LCD screen and the newest technological innovations, the FE-300, FE-290 and FE-280 offer something for everyone. Common to all three cameras is their ultra-slim design, affordable price and intuitive features, which enable anyone to capture all of life’s moments in brilliant detail.
Each easy and fun camera also offers its own unique features including:
FE-300: The slimmest compact camera to provide a 12-megapixel image sensor for producing large-format prints with incredible detail and Face Detection Technology for capturing sharp, brilliant portrait pictures;
FE-290: A 4x zoom for getting closer to a subject, a 28mm wide-angle lens for taking beautiful panoramic shots and an impressive 3-inch LCD for composing and displaying captured images; and
FE-280: A super-slim body available in four trendy colors (red, blue, black and silver) with Face Detection Technology, which tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.
“We’ve added even more features and performance to the ultra-slim FE-Series without adding complexity,” said Jennifer Schmell, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Whatever your need, from large-format printing to increased zoom, there’s an FE camera for you.”
Powerful Image Sensor
The FE-300 features a powerful 12.0-megapixel image sensor, which allows photographers to make large-format prints and crop photographs dramatically while maintaining image quality. Producing impressive 16-inch by 20-inch prints of dramatic landscapes, portraits or flowers will be a snap with this high-resolution (1/1.72”) image sensor.
High-Resolution LCD Screens
The FE-290 features an extra large 3-inch LCD screen, and the FE-280 and FE-300 feature large 2.5-inch LCD screens. Composing shots and sharing images with friends and family is easier than ever thanks to the FE-Series large, high-resolution LCD screens. Additionally, the backlight boost button increases the LCD from bright to a super-bright setting, making it easier to capture and view images in challenging environments such as direct sunlight or low-light situations.
Face Detection Technology
Face Detection Technology tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Even if your subjects are moving, the camera continuously tracks your subjects' faces without having to press the shutter button.
Expanded Control and Easy Operation
In some situations, consumers may want more creative control when composing images. The three new FE cameras offer Program Auto Mode. Located on the cameras’ mode dial, this option enables consumers to easily adjust ISO and white balance. Additionally, the new FE-Series cameras feature in-camera Help Guides, making digital photography simple and fun for users of all ages and skill levels. A tutorial “shooting guide” educates users on tips for achieving specific effects, such as “shooting into backlight” and brightening subjects. The shooting guide not only provides detailed descriptions for various situations and environments, but also sets the camera with the touch of a button, making the transition from learning to taking great pictures instantaneous.
Perfect Shot Preview
The FE-300 and FE-280 feature a Perfect Shot Preview mode, which enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-frame window on the LCD before snapping the shot. This feature allows users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It’s a great way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as exposure compensation, white balance and metering.
Digital Image Stabilization Mode and Edit
The new FE cameras offer Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) for capturing crisp, clear pictures. DIS freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blurry images often caused by a moving subject. The FE-280 and FE-300 also feature Digital Image Stabilization Edit, which uses a built-in gyro sensor to track camera movement and enables users to fix blurry images right in the camera. The FE-280 and FE-300 also feature high ISO sensitivity, which extends the flash working range, enabling users to capture clear, bright subjects and backgrounds in low-light situations.
Perfect Fix
Life does not always go as planned, so the FE-280 and FE-300 feature Perfect Fix, which allows users to modify pictures after they take them. Perfect Fix sharpens unanticipated blur, improves lighting and eliminates red-eye.
TruePicTM III Image Processor
The FE-280 and FE-300 feature Olympus’ exclusive new TruePic III image processor, which was developed for the demanding performance of professional Digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras. Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III also captures crisp, clear images at high ISO settings, which are traditionally associated with increasing image noise or producing grainy photos.
Bright Capture Technology for Easy Low-Light Photography
The FE-280 and FE-300 include Bright Capture Technology, enabling consumers to preview and shoot images and movies in low light using specific scene modes. It is perfect for situations when a flash is not appropriate to capture the softness and warmth of a candlelit dinner or natural skin tones in subdued lighting.
PreSet Shooting Modes Make It Easy to Capture Great Images
The inclusion of preset shooting modes, accessed via a rotating dial and menu button on the back of the cameras, makes it easy to capture great images in a variety of lighting situations, such as Sports, Fireworks and Night Scene with Portrait. All three cameras offer VGA-quality video and sound, which enable users to create short movies that can be emailed to family and friends. The FE-290 offers 17 shooting modes, while the FE-300 offers 18, and the FE-280 offers 21, including three underwater scene modes.
OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software
OLYMPUS Master 2 Software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums and searchable by date in Calendar view. And with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee™ Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.
Olympus Premium Cases and Silicone Skin
Olympus also offers premium cases in various colors, including camel and red leather, and a sporty neoprene case perfect for active or outdoor situations. Silicone skins that protect the camera from scratches are also available in colors for the FE-280. Additionally, the PT-038 underwater housing can be used with the FE-280, enabling even the most novice photographer to take beautiful underwater images.
Availability
The FE-280, FE-290 and FE-300 will be available in August 2007. Each will include a LI-42B Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery and Charger, USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, Wrist Strap, Manual, CD-ROM with OLYMPUS Master™ 2 Software and Warranty Card.
U.S. Pricing
FE-280 Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
FE-290 Estimated Street Price: $249.99 (U.S.)
FE-300 Estimated Street Price: $299.99 (U.S.)
© 2007 Adorama
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