Click on the L3v for a QTVR tour

Kyocera Optics, Inc. adds two new models to its popular Finecam series for 2003, the 3-megapixel Kyocera Finecam L3v and the 4-megapixel Kyocera Finecam L4v. Both cameras use Kyocera's new "DayFine" 2.5-inch color LCD monitor with increased brilliance and contrast even in the brightest outdoor conditions.

The Finecam L3v is packed with a wide assortment of features that allow the user to create amazing pictures. The Finecam L3v contains a 3x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom for a maximum of 6x zoom. Both cameras feature multi-shooting modes, which include macro, landscape and color (color, sepia, b/w), and five flash modes handle all lighting situations: auto flash, red-eye reduction auto flash, fill-in flash, flash-off or nighttime portrait.

The new Finecam L3v and L4v cameras make it easier than ever to remember when and where pictures are taken with voice message recording capability. A recorded message, up to 30 seconds in length, can be attached to each image with this very exciting feature. Additionally, an AVI movie mode gives users the option of recording a movie with sound, up to 120 seconds. The movie can be played back on the camera's large LCD monitor, a computer monitor or a home television.

The included CR-V3 Lithium battery provides up to an impressive 3-plus hours battery life. Two rechargeable Ni-MH AA batteries (optional) may be used instead. A Battery Conservation Power Save option allows one to choose the length of time that the camera remains active before automatically shutting off. The camera sports a unique front LED "Picture Confirmation Light" (PCL) that signals the subject as to when their image is about to be captured. The L3v and L4v are encased in metal, weigh approximately 6 ounces and measure 4.4" W x 2.1" H x 1.4" D in dimension.

The Finecam L3v and L4v feature Epson's revolutionary new PRINT Image Matching (PIM) technology, enabling them to work perfectly with the newest generation of EPSON Stylus Photo printers. With PRINT Image Matching, critical image specific parameters for printing are recorded by the camera and saved in each image data file. PRINT Image Matching-enabled Epson Stylus Photo printers use this information to ensure that they accurately reproduce the image created by the camera. Kyocera's new Finecams use Secure Digital (SD) or Multi Media Cards (MMC) for memory, commonly used with PDA's and Kyocera Smart Phones. ArcSoft's Pixela Software is included and images are downloaded to any PC via the accompanying USB cable.

Finecam L3v Features:

• 3-megapixel imager for up to 2048x1536 still images
• 3X optical zoom, F/2.8 (38-115mm 35mm equivalent)
• Huge 2.5-inch color LCD monitor w/110,000 pixels
• Aperture Priority (F/2.8 or F/9.6)
• Program AE w/automatic shutter (1 - 1/2000 sec.)
• Long shutter speeds of 2, 4, or 8 sec
• Manual focusing possible (0.6m to infinity)
• Metering modes: Evaluation, Center-weighted or Spot
• Selectable ISO sensitivity; Auto, 100, 200, and 400
• Flash with 5 modes (Auto, Red-eye reduction, Fill-in, Flash Off or Night Backdrop)
• Color modes (Color, Sepia or Black & White)
• Exposure compensation (+/- 2EV in 1/3EV steps)
• Compact and durable metal body design
• Flexible power - CR-V3 or 2xAA NiMH
• Epson PRINT Image Matching compatible

The Finecam L3v outfit includes a CR-V3 Lithium-ion battery, 16MB SD card, USB data cable and video cable, the street price is around $399.00 for the L3v and $499.00 for the L4v.

Physical Views

The Finecam L3V compared in size to a standard CD disc.

The Finecam L3v compared to the Pentax Optio 33L