PMA 2001 Special Report Our daily reports from the Photo Marketing Association's show in Orlando Florida - February 11 through 14, 2001.

Quick links to info on the new Adobe PhotoShop Elements $99 ASF's ICE3 in New Nikon Scanners Canon FS4000US High-Speed Film Scanner Canon PowerShot A10 and A20 Canon CP-10 Card Printer Canon PowerShot S300 Canon S800 Photo Bubble Jet CanoScan 1230UF & 2400UF Color Flatbed Scanners Canon ZR30MC, ZR25MC, ZR20 Camcorders Casio QV3500EX Plus Contax N Digital SLR 2001 DIMA Digital Camera Shoot-Out Winners eye Q Digicam Features LightView QVGA Display EFS Finally Demo'd by Silicon Film EPSON Stylus Photo 780/890/1280 Printers Epson PRINT Image Matching technology EPSON Stylus Pro 5500 Fujifilm FinePix 2300, 4800, 6800 Kodak's New Inkjet Media Kodak MC3 - Camera/MP3/Video Kodak & Olympus Join Forces Kyocera Finecam S3 3-Megapixel Lexar Media 512MB CF Type I Minolta Dimage S304, 5 and 7 Nikon D1H and D1X Pro SLRs Nixvue Photo Album Panasonic PV-DV851, PV-DV901 PV-DV951 Camcorders Pentax EI-3000 SLR-like SanDisk 512MB CompactFlash Type I Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P30, P50, S75 Sony Mavica MVC-FD87, FD92, FD97 Sony Cyber-shot & Mavica Press Releases Sony TRV30 1.5-Megapixel Camcorder Toshiba PDR-M11, M21, M61, M65

02-11-2001

PMA 2001 - The "BIG" Show You could say "the weather's here, wish you were," it's as if the local Orlando tourist bureau had ordered up this week's weather especially for the participants of the PMA show. Daytime temps near 80 degrees and as you can see, beautiful blue skies with just a touch of morning fog that clears out by the time the convention center opens. The photo industry's biggest show is really something that has to be seen to be believed. The major manufacturers spend a small fortune on incredibly impressive and extravagant displays of their latest wares. The bigger the name, the bigger their display area - some of them you could spend an entire day in and still not see everything they have to offer. I'll come back and re-do these daily reports a little fancier after we get home, working "on the road" from a laptop is not exactly easy, the keyboard alone is driving me nuts. So please bear with me, I'm doing the best I can with only a little sleep and a day of walking and talking on the show floor.

02-10-2001

Lexar Media to Launch Pro Series 512MB CF Type I Card In Summer 2001 ORLANDO, Fla., PMA Booth 3160, Feb. 10 -- Lexar Media, a leading designer, developer and marketer of award-winning high-performance digital film and connectivity products for the digital photography market, is planning to release its 512 MB Type I CompactFlash card in Summer 2001. Designed to meet the needs of the professional photographer, this will be Lexar's highest capacity card, which will offer enhanced image capabilities for the latest high- resolution megapixel digital cameras. It will compliment Lexar Media's existing 320 MB and 256 MB high capacity professional series digital film products. "Lexar Media consistently seeks to break barriers when it comes to digital film," said John Reimer, Lexar's president and CEO. "Professional photographers have unique needs and with the introduction of higher megapixel digital cameras, the demands are greater than ever. We intend to provide them with ultra high capacity storage so they can shoot even more pictures with a single card." The 512 MB digital film card is being developed to complement the next generation of high-end, high-megapixel professional digital cameras and camera backs such as the Nikon D1X and the Kodak Professional DCS Pro Back, which generate file sizes up to 48MB per image. Typically, top professionals using high-end digital cameras also insist on flash memory-based digital film because of its reliability and performance over lower cost, but very fragile hard disk alternatives. Reimer continued: "Lexar's leadership in the digital film market has helped pave the way for professional digital photographers to shoot the way they like, to get the pictures that build reputations and portfolios. We're proud to be a partner in their success."

02-11-2001

Canon Provides Fun, Features and Affordability to a New Generation of Digital Camera Users With PowerShot A10 and A20 Models LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--Feb. 11, 2001-- Canon U.S.A., Inc. is providing a new generation of consumers with a fun and affordable way to experience digital photography with the introduction of the PowerShot A10 and A20 digital cameras. Their compact size and light weight (4.3 x 2.8 x 1.5 inches, 8.8 ounces), along with features usually found only in higher priced digital camera models, make the PowerShot A10 and A20 the perfect choice for consumers who are making the transition from analog to digital imaging. In addition, both cameras are capable of creating credit card-sized prints as well as stickers using Canon's new CP-10 printer, adding hours of photographic fun and providing another way for consumers to share their images with friends and family. Nearly identical in appearance, both new cameras share a wealth of features designed to make digital photography easy and satisfying for all users from beginners to advanced amateurs, with the main difference between them being their maximum resolution. The PowerShot A20 has a 2.1 megapixel CCD while the PowerShot A10 features a 1.3 megapixel CCD. Both cameras incorporate a newly developed 3x optical zoom lens and offer features and image quality normally found in more expensive models, such as a primary color filter and adaptive signal processing for maximum image quality, high-precision auto white balance, exposure sensitivity automatically set according to brightness, three point AiAF autofocusing system for precise and simple focusing, shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/1500 second and a built-in flash with slow-sync functions for creative photography in low light. The PowerShot A10 will also be available in a Photo Print Kit which will include the new CP-10 printer. A new digital signal processing IC in the PowerShot A10 and A20 cameras enables high-speed image processing and rapid data transfer through the cameras' USB interface. The PowerShot A10 and A20 take advantage of this feature by offering a Direct Print mode that enables users to print hard-copy images using Canon's new CP-10 printer. The CP-10 makes printing from digital files simple and fun by allowing users to control all print settings directly from the camera's LCD monitor. Printer data is then transferred to the CP-10 directly through a dedicated interface cable. The new, ultra-compact printer produces beautiful, 300 x 300 dpi credit card-sized color prints in as little as 56 seconds. The CP-10 can also be used to print eight miniature copies of the same image on one sticker sheet, adding a new dimension of fun for everyone. Each sticker measures approximately 0.9 x 0.7-inches. The PowerShot A10 and A20 cameras are equipped with a newly-developed 5.4-16.2mm f/2.7-4.8 (equivalent to 35-105mm in 35mm format) 3x zoom lens which is ideal for a wide range of picture-taking situations from landscapes to portraits. The all-glass lens is designed using 9 elements in 7 groups, including one highly-refractive, glass-molded aspherical element. The aspherical element effectively suppresses distortion and provides high resolution. The Canon folks were busy showing the new PowerShot cameras To help reduce the overall size of other PowerShot-series cameras, Canon elected to use lithium-ion batteries. However, the PowerShot A10 and A20 are powered by four AA-size batteries. This decision was based on the type of consumers interested in these new cameras and also because AA batteries are relatively inexpensive and much more readily available when compared to other batteries, making their replacement more economical and convenient. The PowerShot A10 and A20 both feature three-point AiAF autofocus system for fast and accurate focusing, exposure compensation up to +/- 2 stops in 1/3-stop increments, and Auto White Balance with manual overrides for various types of light such as daylight, cloudy, tungsten and fluorescent. The new cameras also include shutter speed capabilities from 1 second to 1/1500 second; an improved primary color filter array with adaptive signal processing for outstanding color reproduction; automatic ISO adjustment based on the brightness of the scene; a selection of 9 image quality (resolution/compression) modes; a real-image optical zoom viewfinder; single and continuous shooting up to 1.7 frames per second; Macro and infinity modes for close-ups and landscapes; Auto Play mode for slide shows; DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) support; Stitch Assist for panoramic images and a built-in flash unit with red-eye reduction and slow-sync modes for greater flash flexibility. The PowerShot A20 is also equipped with switchable NTSC/PAL video output. Bundled with a comprehensive suite of programs enabling image management, editing, compositing and printing, the PowerShot A10 and A20 come with Apple QuickTime 4.1, Canon RemoteCapture 1.3, and PhotoStitch 3.1 for both Macintosh and Windows, as well as Canon ZoomBrowser EX 2.6, PhotoRecord 1.2 and WIA and TWAIN drivers for Windows, plus ImageBrowser 1.6 and a Photoshop-compatible plug-in for the Mac. Features integrated in both ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 and ImageBrowser 1.6 include TimeTunnel and SlideShowMaker. When using ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 or ImageBrowser 1.6, users can take advantage of new and improved features for auto layout printing, self-running full-screen slide shows, and automated preparation of images for use as e-mail attachments. A number of new and exciting accessories are available for the PowerShot A10 and A20 cameras including a Wide Conversion Lens (WC-DC52) that, when attached to the A10 or A20, create a wide angle effect equivalent to 24.5mm (35mm format). The conversion Lens Adapter (LA-DC52) is required for use with the wide angle adapter. In addition, the camera's will also accept Canon's 250D close-up lens along with any 52mm filter for special effects. A new underwater housing will allow the camera's to go as deep as 100 feet and is ideal for the beach and in any weather condition. A compact power adapter and rechargeable Ni-MH batteries and charger will also be available. The Canon PowerShot A10 and A20, as well as the PowerShot A10 Photo Print Kit will be available at authorized Canon dealers in the second quarter, 2001 and have the following suggested retail prices: PowerShot A10 $499 PowerShot A20 $599 CPK-A10 Photo Print Kit $699 Canon Expands Its Line of Digital Cameras With the Introduction of the PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--Feb. 11, 2001-- Canon U.S.A., Inc., is once again combining its expertise in camera design and advanced digital imaging technology to create the latest addition to its line of PowerShot digital cameras: the PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH. The camera's ultra-compact and elegant stainless steel design is based on the extremely popular PowerShot S100, and offers new and improved features including a powerful 3x zoom lens, making it the world's smallest and lightest 2.1 megapixel camera with a 3x zoom lens. Aside from the PowerShot S100, the new S300 joins several other PowerShot-series cameras including the newly introduced PowerShot A10 and A20, as well as the current Pro90 IS and G1 models. The PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH is Canon's second ultra-compact digital camera. In addition to its high-resolution, and retractable 3x zoom lens, the S300 offers a number of new and improved features including: direct print capabilities from the new Canon Card Photo Printer CP-10; 20 frame-per-second movie clips with audio at selectable resolutions up to 640x480 pixels; shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/1500 second; an adaptive primary color filter for improved color reproduction; a choice of nine image quality modes; automatic exposure sensitivity adjustment; a high-output light guide flash; and a new high-speed digital signal processing IC with low power consumption. Chuck Westfall (Asst Dir/Technical Information, Canon U.S.A.) demonstrates new PowerShot S300 and CP-10 Card Printer A new digital signal processing IC in the PowerShot S300 enables high-speed image processing and rapid data transfer through the cameras' USB interface. The PowerShot S300 takes advantage of this feature by offering a Direct Print mode that enables users to print hard-copy images using Canon's new CP-10 dye-sublimation printer. The CP-10 makes printing from digital files simple and fun by allowing users to control all print settings directly from the camera's LCD monitor. Printer data is then transferred to the CP-10 directly through a dedicated interface cable. The new, ultra-compact printer produces beautiful, 300 x 300 dpi credit card-sized color prints in as little as 56 seconds. The CP-10 can also be used to print eight miniature copies of the same image on one sticker sheet, adding a new dimension of fun for everyone. Each sticker measures approximately 0.9 x 0.7-inches. The Canon PowerShot S300 can record movie clips with audio at 20 frames per second in any of three resolution modes: 640x480, 320x240 or 160x120. PowerShot S300 movie clips are recorded as QuickTime AVI files, with the image data saved in the Motion JPEG format and the sound in the WAVE format. The video portion of the PowerShot S300 movies can be replayed on the camera's LCD monitor. Full audio-video playback is possible with a connected TV monitor or a compatible PC after downloading. Downloaded movie clips can be edited, saved, and sent to others via e-mail using the PowerShot's S300's bundled software. Due to the new digital signal processing IC, the S300's movie clip processing speed is approximately 2.7 times faster that other models in its class. The elegant stainless-steel body styling of the PowerShot S300 is based on the popular PowerShot S100, but the S300 features a new 3X (equivalent to 35-105mm in the 35mm format) f/2.7-4.7 all-glass aspherical lens compared to the 2X zoom lens on the S100. The body dimensions and weight of the S300 are slightly larger than the S100 at 3.7 x 2.5 x 1.2-inches and 8.5 ounces, but the PowerShot S300 is still the world's smallest 2.1 megapixel digital camera with a 3X zoom lens. The Digital ELPH features a 0.37-inch, 2.1 megapixel CCD sensor that creates full color or black-and-white images up to 1600x1200 pixels when set to the camera's Large resolution mode. The camera also offers an additional resolution settings of 1024x768 and 640x480 when set in the Middle or Small modes, which are ideal for on-screen applications, such as Web sites and CD-ROMs and allow more images to be recorded on a single CompactFlash memory card. The new camera is compatible with Type I CompactFlash Cards and will be shipped with an 8MB CF card. The new PowerShot S300 is supplied with the following standard accessories: Lithium Battery Pack NB-1L, Battery Charger CB-2LS, an 8MB CompactFlash Card (FC-8M), Interface Cable for USB (IFC-300PCU), AV Cable (AVC-DC100), Wrist Strap (WS-110), and PowerShot Solutions Software CD-ROM. Optional accessories include AC Adapter Kit ACK500 (which contains Compact Power Adapter CA-PS500, DC Coupler DR-500, and an AC Power Cord) and Soft Compact Case PSC 300 (with space for an extra battery and CF card) as well as spare batteries, CF cards and interface cables. In addition to Card Photo Printer CP-10 previously mentioned, Canon will also introduce a new WP-DC100 dedicated underwater housing with a depth rating of 100 feet. The PowerShot S300 digital camera will be available in the second quarter, 2001, and have a suggested retail price of $699. Canon's New Card Photo Printer CP-10 Produces Credit Card-Sized Color Prints in Less Than 60 Seconds LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--Feb. 11, 2001-- Canon U.S.A., Inc., continues to expand its line of digital imaging equipment with the introduction of the Card Photo Printer CP-10. Compatible with Canon's new PowerShot S300 Digital ELPH, A20, and A10 cameras, the CP-10 makes printing from digital files simple and fun by allowing users to control all print settings directly from the camera's LCD monitor. Printer data is then transferred to the CP-10 directly through a dedicated interface cable. The new, ultra-compact dye-sublimation printer produces beautiful credit card-sized color prints in as little as 56 seconds. Rounded edges allow for easy print storage and an elegant presentation. Additional features of the new printer include 300dpi image resolution, a UV overcoat to further protect the image, a choice of bordered or borderless images, compatibility with DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) and compatibility with sticker paper for added imaging fun. Canon elected to incorporate dye-sublimation (dye-sub) technology in lieu of the typical thermal wax printing systems used for small sized prints due to dye-sub's superior color accuracy and excellent 256-level tone control. The CP-10 color printer offers the same 300-dpi resolution as Canon's top-of-the-line CD-300 dye-sub printer, so even though the print area is smaller, the same image quality is retained. In addition, since the colors in dye-sub prints can be degraded by touching the image or faded by continuous exposure to direct sunlight, the CP-10 (like the CD-300) incorporates a fourth processing step to protect the image from any form of deterioration. Once the yellow, magenta and cyan layers are in place, a clear protective overcoat is placed on the print to protect it from UV rays and fingerprints, providing as much protection and archival-type longevity as with traditional silver halide prints. After image data has been sent to the printer, the typical dye-sublimation printing process requires a separate pass for each ink color, resulting in relatively long printing times. However, for the CP-10, a new digital signal processing IC was installed with the USB interface of Canon's compatible digital cameras (PowerShot S300, A20 and A10), enabling fast data transfer and image processing. Along with the small print size (approximately 3.4 x 2.1 inches), these features allow bordered or borderless prints to be produced in 56 or 58 seconds respectively. The CP-10 can also be used to print eight copies of the same image on one sticker sheet, adding a new dimension of fun for everyone. Each sticker measures approximately 0.9 x 0.7-inches. Card Photo Printer CP-10 stands out from other products not only because of its quality, speed, and ease of use, but also because of its elegant design and ultracompact size. Measuring just 4.2 x 4.9 x 1.8 inches and weighing only 18 oz., the CP-10 is the smallest and lightest digital printer in its class. A translucent blue case with stainless steel accents makes the CP-10 attractive as well as functional. The CP-10 also complies with the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard which allows printing specifications (image selection, number of prints, and date/time imprinting) to be specified in advance. The Card Photo Printer CP-10 will be available at authorized Canon dealers in the second quarter, 2001, at a suggested retail price of $399.(a) Ink/Paper sets will be available in 36-sheet packages (or 18-sheet sticker sets).

02-11-2001

Minolta Shows New Dimage S304, Dimage 5 and Dimage 7 Minolta showed three new cameras, the Dimage S304 (below), Dimage 5 and Dimage 7 which were kept behind glass. We did get to see and hold them during a meeting but they didn't have any batteries in them so we couldn't actually try them out. The Dimage S304 has a 3.3-megapixel image sensor, a 4x optical (35-140mm 35mm equiv) zoom lens. The Dimage 5 and 7 both feature a 7x optical zoom and identical bodies, the Dimage 7 is shown above. These cameras employ electronic viewfinders (EVF) to give the user a true TTL view, similar to the Olympus C-2100 and Canon Pro90 cameras. The Dimage 5 has a 3.3-megapixel sensor and its zoom range is 35-250mm. The Dimage 7 uses a larger 2/3-inch 5.2-megapixel CCD and its zoom range is 28-200mm. For more pictures of the cameras see the Imaging-Resource's report.

02-11-2001

Kodak Announces New Media For All Inkjet Printers, Free Picture Page Software Online ORLANDO, Fla., February 11 -- Making it easier for consumers to get the most from their digital images, Eastman Kodak Company is now offering three new inkjet papers and a free download of Kodak Picture Page Software from the Internet. The expanded inkjet media portfolio provides consumers a wider selection of paper grades and finishes so they can choose the paper most appropriate for their photo printing applications. "Kodak's ability to understand and satisfy consumer needs is most likely the reason that Kodak was once again cited by a recent Lyra U.S. Home Inkjet Printer Research Study as the brand preferred by more users than any other inkjet photo paper brand," said Willy Shih, president of Kodak's Digital and Applied Imaging group. Once again, Kodak is demonstrating its ability to meet the needs of those consumers who are seeking professional quality output of digital images, from any inkjet printer, with the introduction of Kodak Ultima Picture Paper, High Gloss and Kodak Ultima Picture Paper, Satin. Both of the new Ultima Picture Papers have a suggested retail price of $12.99 for 15 sheets. "Consumers are interested in showcasing their photographic abilities and in taking pictures that endure," added Shih. "When images are printed on the new Kodak Ultima Picture Paper using current Hewlett-Packard or Epson printers, prints will last 20 25 years. Prints will last more than 30 years when printed on the new Ultima Picture Paper using the Kodak Personal Picture Maker 200. Kodak Ultima Picture Paper, a heavy-weight stock that produces sharp, brilliant output delivers on both quality and durability. In fact, Kodak Ultima Picture Paper is the heaviest weight photo paper on the market at 270g/m2." Another new extension to the inkjet media line is Kodak Premium Picture Paper, Satin, offering a surface alternative to traditional glossy pictures. Premium Picture Paper is the ideal product for consumers wanting to share memories, and it delivers the same print longevity as the Ultima paper. Creating beautiful, borderless prints is easy with Kodak Premium Picture Paper for Borderless Inkjet Prints. Formerly labeled Kodak Premium Picture Kits, the new product eliminates the software CD found in the original pack making it more affordable. Kodak Premium Picture Paper for Borderless Inkjet Prints is available in 5"x 7", 4"x 6", wallets and 1 up 4"x 6" sizes. Kodak Picture Paper, Soft Gloss, has been enhanced from its previous version and now incorporates a heavier weight stock. This affordable photo paper is coated on both sides for versatility and is ideal for printing album pages and any kind of photos on medium weight stock. The new inkjet media products are available now at office superstores and consumer electronics stores nationwide. Kodak Picture Page Software Kodak Picture Page Software makes it simple to transform digital pictures into borderless prints, album pages and photo enlargements on the desktop. It also incorporates Kodak One-Touch Printing technology that enables a simple, one-step set up for printing on Kodak paper. With One-Touch Printing, other printers print better, no matter the make or model. The technology eliminates the need to change printer driver settings when printing pictures. It also produces rich, true colors and professional-looking results that you expect from Kodak. Kodak Picture Page Software supports Microsoft Windows platforms. Kodak is now making its popular Picture Page Software available for download free on www.kodak.com. It is also available on a CD-ROM for a nominal fee plus shipping and handling. Kodak's expanded line of inkjet paper and software enable people to print their pictures in a variety of ways at home or in the office. With today's announcements, the company's line up now includes three tiers of photo papers, as well as greeting cards, letter and report products and bright white paper, compatible with all popular inkjet printers. From professional-quality glossy paper to T-shirt transfers and more, Kodak makes a wide array of products designed to meet the requirements of all home and office printing applications. For additional information about Kodak inkjet media products, visit our Web site on the Internet at www.kodak.com/go/inkjet or call 1-800-235-6325.

02-11-2001

Silicon Film Technologies Demonstrates EFS-1(TM) at PMA; Electronic Film System Turns Conventional 35mm SLR Into a Digital Camera ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- PMA - Silicon Film Technologies, Inc. today conducted the first public demonstration of its Electronic Film System (EFS) technology to attendees at PMA 2001, the largest exhibition of imaging products and services in North America. The company's first product, EFS-1, is designed to fit into the film compartment of select 35mm SLR cameras and allow the user to capture digital images with no modification to the camera. The systems' three components, (e)film(TM) Cartridge, (e)port(TM) Carrier and (e)box(TM) Storage module, are designed for the image capture, image transfer to a PC or Mac®, and remote image storage respectively. EFS-1 was demonstrated at Silicon Film's PMA booth #3411. "The genesis of EFS-1 carries us to a new and exciting plateau," said Ken Fay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Silicon Film. "This demonstration is a goal we have been seeking for some time, and we are very happy to be conducting it at this prestigious show. Silicon Film's EFS-1 is a limited edition product targeted at prosumer photographers, which includes the serious hobbyist up to semi-pro and professional levels," Fay continued. "After we conduct the required certification and 'beta' testing, we will announce a confirmed shipping date." Silicon Film's patented technology is based on a high-resolution CMOS image sensor and the extreme miniaturization of the required electronics to achieve (e)film's unique adaptability. The value of the EFS-1 design is that prosumer photographers can extend the use of their sizeable investments in 35mm SLR cameras, lenses and other accessories to "bridge" the conventional film and digital worlds, all with a single photography system that is both completely familiar and comfortable. Further, the user can easily switch between conventional film and digital, depending on the shooting requirements. "With the explosive growth of digital photography, we have certainly been challenged to keep up with a rapidly advancing market," said J. Bruce Totty, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Silicon Film Technologies. "We migrated from our original 800k pixel CMOS sensor to a 1.3 million pixel sensor which we are demonstrating here at PMA. Our next generation EFS products will match our product features with other competitive market offerings and have the unique advantage of the (e)film concept." "EFS-1 proves a concept that just made sense from the beginning," said Doug Howe, Chief Marketing Officer, Silicon Film Technologies. "The combination of our advanced image science, use of leading-edge CMOS imager technology and the functionality of an SLR camera provides us a strong market opportunity. Plans are in place to expand the compatibility of our product with additional camera models in the future."

02-11-2001

Kodak DC4800 Price Reduced to $599 ORLANDO, Fla., February 11 -- Since its launch last summer, the Kodak DC4800 digital camera has been capturing digital pictures around the world. In the process, it's also captured more than a few accolades from professional photographers. With a recently reduced price of $599 (suggested retail), the DC4800 features 3.1 megapixel resolution and a sleek design with a pop-up built-in flash. A recent firmware upgrade to version 1.04 enhances picture-taking in low-light conditions (available at www.kodak.com/go/dc4800). The company has also added Windows Millennium support for this camera. "We knew we had a great camera, but it's always wonderful to have that belief endorsed by photographers who are really using it in the field," said Willy Shih, president of Kodak's Digital and Applied Imaging group. "The DC4800 has the range of features to satisfy pros and the ease-of-use to appeal to consumers. That's a real winning combination." Professional photographers are singing the praises of the lightweight and versatile camera. "The camera produces incredible image quality," said Al Francekevich, a studio advertising photographer from New York City. "I made a number of 11" x 17" prints and simply marveled at the sharp detail and brilliant color. I now use the DC4800 camera to shoot professional portraits and family photos and to create specialty items like invitations." Vincent Versace, a natural light photographer from Los Angeles said, "The DC4800 possesses a superb user interface. You certainly do not have to be a digital photography expert when you pick up the DC4800. The camera actually helps you become one." A photojournalist from Santa Fe, New Mexico, Tony O'Brien was taken by the sophisticated design of the DC4800. "The DC4800 camera is superbly designed," he said. "Its light weight and unobtrusive body, reminiscent of a traditional single lens reflex camera, belie its high-tech functionality. I'm amazed at what the camera can do." Debbie Caffery, a fine arts photographer, enjoys the camera's flexibility. "This camera is perfect for shooting stock images. It gives me many options for creativity and control in my work. The fact that I can shoot in color, black and white or sepia is fabulous." And finally, nature and wildlife photographer Tim Davis was succinct in explaining why he preferred shooting with the DC4800: "Creative control, intuitive design and ease-of-use make the DC4800 camera a real winner," he said.

02-11-2001

Canon Introduces The Canoscan FS4000US High-Speed Film Scanner For 35mm And Advanced Photo System Films February 11, 2001 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., announced today that it is introducing a new high-speed film scanner designed for use with virtually all 35mm and Advanced Photo System films. The CanoScan FS4000US is a high-performance, desktop film scanner that offers 4000-dpi optical resolution at 42-bits, the highest specifications in its class. The new scanner accepts 35mm and Advanced Photo System films, including slide film, and helps consumers bridge the gap between analog and digital imaging by providing a means of downloading conventional photographs into a computer for creating prints, Photo CD's, email and personal web sites. The scanner offers a number of new and improved features including 4000 dpi optical resolution for outstanding clarity plus 14-bit A/D conversion for exceptional gradation and accurate color reproduction; two built-in interfaces - USB for easy connection to personal computers and SCSI-2 for high-speed data transfer; FARE, a Canon-developed dust and scratch "detect and correct" function; Automatic film type detection; Autofocus; and a full range of scanning functions using FilmGet FS for Windows and Mac. "The age of computers and digital technology has narrowed the chasm between analog and digital imaging," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, vice president and general manager of Canon's Photographic Products Group. "Canon's heritage and reputation as an innovator in imaging technology crosses both areas and provides consumers with the tools they need to easily and creatively make the transition from analog to digital. The new CanoScan FS4000US scanner is a good example of how Canon continues to provide new and exciting alternatives to create, and share, photography with the world," Mr. Hashimoto concluded. The CanoScan FS4000US's combination of high scanning resolution and natural color reproduction meet the strictest demands of photo enthusiasts and small business users - two of the major categories of film scanner users. Content creators for print, Web and multimedia will be more than satisfied by the FS4000US's top scanning speed of 48 seconds (using SCSI 2), which is faster than other manufacturers' models, even at higher price-points. The CanoScan FS4000US provides 42-bit scanning capability which supports recognition of literally trillions of different colors. The result is extremely accurate color rendition compared to the original film, which retains subtle details in the highlight and shadow areas of the scanned image. In addition, the new scanner features optical resolution up to 4,000 dpi as well as an improved color tone algorithm for more accurate color reproductions from original art. The CanoScan FS4000US's rated dynamic range is 3.4. The FS4000US performs primary scanning using a 3-line CCD color image sensor. This sensor is a 1-chip photoelectric conversion element with an array of three lines of receptor elements, each with a built-in filter for R (red), G (green) or B (blue), along with scanning function circuits. Primary scans are at 4,000-dpi resolution, and use 4,000 of the CCD's 5,400 pixels in the vertical scanning direction. Light passing through the film is formed into an image on the CCD, converted into voltages, and output to the signal-processing circuits as signals in each of the RGB colors. Each of the RGB colors is controlled independently by the CCD, which has a built-in electronic shutter for correct exposure so that it can acquire optimal exposure data for both negative and slide film. The FS4000US scanner uses new hardware and software independently developed by Canon to detect dust and scratches on the film and correct those defects in the resulting image file. FARE (Film Automatic Retouching and Enhancement) detects flaws by comparing an image scanned by infrared light with one scanned by visible light. While the scan made with visible light includes dust and flaws on the film's surface as part of the color data, the infrared scan shows image defects only. By superimposing both scans, the scanner can determine the exact position and size of the flaws, and correct them. FARE can be manually turned on and off by the user. The scanner advances film automatically using both a film holder advance and film advance housing movement. The 35mm filmstrip holder or slide mount holder is advanced by meshing the flat gear on the bottom of either film holder with the feed gears located on the scanner. The film advance movement, in contrast, moves the film holder (35mm filmstrip holder, slide mount holder, or APS film cartridge holder) that is set in the film advance housing, providing a secondary scan in the main scan sequence. The film advance housing is capable of minute movements using a high-precision feed screw rotated by a stepping motor. This makes possible high-precision 4,000-dpi secondary scanning that was impossible with previous gear-driven film advance mechanisms. The new scanner also includes a built-in autofocus mechanism that adjusts the focus if the film surface is not at the designed distance to the scanner. This step is performed before pre-scanning, assuring the sharpest scans possible. Manual override of the autofocus is also provided. The CanoScan FS4000US is fully compatible with PCs that support Microsoft Windows 98, Windows 2000, and Windows Me (Millennium Edition). The scanner is also compatible with iMac, iBook, PowerBook, Blue/White G3, all G4's and Mac OS 8.6-9.1 (when using the USB connection). When using the high-speed SCSI 2 interface, the scanner is compatible with Power Macintosh and Mac OS 8.1 or higher. A comprehensive software bundle including Adobe's powerful Photoshop LE image editor and Canon's FilmGet FS driver software is included with the scanner. Windows and Mac users can create quality images for immediate use with FilmGet FS. When used with popular TWAIN-compliant image editors like Adobe Photoshop and Photoshop LE, FilmGet FS allows Windows users to access the scanner directly from the application and perform basic image-editing functions such as setting resolution and bit-depths for input and output, color balance, tonal curves, levels and contrast. An Adobe Photoshop-compatible plug-in module provides similar functions for Macintosh users. Installation of either driver can be accomplished by using the setup CD-ROM provided with the scanner. Adobe Photoshop LE offers a wide range of image editing functions which allow users to alter the size, color, brightness, contrast and cropping of digital images. Users may also select, rearrange and superimpose elements from scanned images, and add special filter effects. The finished image can then be imported into web pages or desktop publishing documents. Photoshop LE runs on both Windows and Macintosh platforms. The Canon FS4000US film scanner measures 3.7 (W) x 5.75 (H) x 14.7 (D)-inches and weighs 5.3 lbs. It will be available at authorized Canon dealers in the second quarter, 2001, and have a suggested retail price of $1,099.*

02-11-2001

Dazzle® Digital Video Creator Line Expanded, New Price Points Set With Video Capture, Editing, Sharing Solutions North Branford, Conn., (February 11, 2001) -- The Retail Brands Group of SCM Microsystems, Inc. announced today that it has added two new low-cost USB video connectors to its popular Dazzle Digital Video Creator (DVC) line. With the new Dazzle Digital Video Creator 50 (DVC 50) and Dazzle Digital Video Creator 80 (DVC 80) video connectors, even inexperienced users can quickly and easily capture video from any camcorder, TV, VCR or webcam. The captured videos can then be edited/enhanced, stored on a CD, emailed, or incorporated in Power Point presentations. Available for up to 50 percent less than other connectors on the market, the new Dazzle DVC products join SCM's expanding array of affordably priced video capture, edit and share solutions sold under the Dazzle brand that span the consumer, prosumer and professional arenas. Dazzle DVC 50 is a $49.99 USB video capture device that provides Windows® Millennium Edition (Windows Me) users with the link they need to capture video on their PC so they can take advantage of the editing capabilities of the Movie Maker software that is included with Windows Me. Dazzle DVC 50 includes composite and S-Video connections to the camcorder. For Windows 98, 2000 and Me systems, the Dazzle DVC 80 includes built-in audio/video ports and easy-to-use Dazzle MGI VideoWave 4 video editing software (a $100 value) for $69.99. The Dazzle DVC 80 also includes composite, S-Video and RCA audio connections to the camcorder. After capturing their videos, DVC 50 and DVC 80 users will be able to take advantage of Movie Maker or Dazzle MGI VideoWave 4 editing software to enhance them with images, effects and sound. The completed videos can be compressed, stored on CDs and shared with friends and family. SCM has enhanced the value of its new Dazzle DVC video capture devices by including free membership to Dazzle Webcast Theater”. Following the one-click uploading to Dazzle Webcast Theater, users can limit the viewing of their video to invited guests only or they can make it available to the general public. Users can also create a URL for each video which can easily be added to a website or personalized e-mails inviting friends or business partners to view the video. Regardless of the Dazzle DVC selected, installation is a simple matter of connecting the DVC's USB cable to the USB connector on the PC and then connecting the camcorder to the DVC. With USB connectivity, the DVC is hot-pluggable--it can be connected to the camcorder or removed without having to shutdown or reboot the system.

02-11-2001

Panasonic Introduces New, High Performance Digital Palmcorder® Camcorder Line SECAUCUS, NJ (February 11, 2001) - At the Photo Marketers' Association (PMA) Show in Orlando today, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC) debuted three new high- performance Palmcorder combination digital camcorder/digital still cameras. Engineered to produce pristine, high resolution video that is close to professional quality, and equipped with a host of enhancements for both digital video and digital still photos, the new products are targeted to videographers and digital imaging aficionados. All three products feature a new ultra-compact design, ergonomically configured for the ultimate in control, comfort and balance. As stunning to look at as the images they produce, models PV-DV851 and PV-DV901 pack a Mega Pixel CCD into a sleek, incredibly compact design. The CCD is capable of producing up to 500 lines of horizontal resolution with superb definition. Additionally, the camcorder can produce an outstanding 1200 x 900-pixel still image for breathtaking photos. The top-of-the-line model PV-DV951 is equipped with the same type of 3CCD camera system used in Panasonic professional broadcasting equipment. Separate 1/6-inch (410,000-pixel) CCDs are utilized to reproduce the red, green and blue colors that compose an image. Color and delicate tones are faithfully reproduced. For crisp, high-resolution video, the progressive scan mode creates images with double the resolution of interlaced video, with virtually no motion artifacts. The PV-DV951 Digital PalmcorderÒ Camcorder is capable of up to 540 lines of horizontal resolution and incredibly sharp 1488 x 1128- pixel still images. All three models feature the built-in Panasonic PhotoShot digital still camera function, and the unique capability to link to a PC1 in three different ways: i.Link (IEEE 1394 PC interface), PHOTOVU LINK2 and CARD LINK3. The CARD LINK Memory Card slot accommodates either a MultiMediaCard or the new SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card. Captured digital still photos can be viewed in advance on the camcorders' color LCD monitors, and deleted if desired to free up memory for new shots. Images can be transferred to a computer for use in e-mail or printed documents, viewed on a TV as a slide show, or printed out with a Panasonic digital color photo printer. The progressive PhotoShot mode enables users to record still pictures with higher resolution, finer details, and smoother image contours than the normal PhotoShot function. This feature captures the image data and temporarily stores it into two separate field memories. The two images of the exact same moment are then combined with no time lag, eliminating the need for simulations. This results in 1.5 times the resolution of standard-recorded stills for a beautifully clear and brilliant picture. All three Palmcorder digital camcorder models also feature CARD LINK. The Memory Card slot and USB SD Card Reader (an accessory that attaches to a PC to read memory cards) accommodate both MultiMediaCards and the new SD (Secure Digital) media format. Both types of memory cards can be used with other devices. About the size of a postage stamp, the SD card features large storage, great flexibility, excellent security and fast data transfer. SD is the quickest flash memory format, with a read/write speed of 2MB/second, and is easy to reformat for use in a variety of devices. The PV-DV951 also features a new Optical Image Stabilizer system. The system uses two movable lenses and two fixed lenses. Two gyro sensors operate at 480 times per second to detect even slight shaking, and two linear motors instantly shift the lens to compensate. The result is clear, sharp images, free of picture degradation even when shooting from a moving vehicle or using the zoom lens. Among the new features shared by the three models is a convenient multi-image playback function. It allows the user to view 9 consecutive still images on the LCD screen in the Playback mode - great for analyzing that golf swing. Also new for 2001 is a manual focus ring for fast, easy, manual focus control with a more realistic "camera feel." Using the LCD monitor, the P-I-P (Picture-in-Picture) feature lets users insert a small still shot over the video being recorded. This is a great in-camera effect and a convenient feature for including an establishing shot, saving editing time later. All three new models also feature analog video in, enabling consumers to re-record old analog tapes onto mini DV tape. The PV-DV851 and PV-DV901 feature Digital Electronic Image Stabilization. All feature 10x High Definition optical zoom and 100x digital zoom***; high-speed shutter; wireless remote control; high quality digital PCM (12- bit/16-bit) stereo audio; audio dubbing in SP mode; headphone jack; external microphone input jack; 5-mode program AE, and a variety of built-in digital video special effects for adding creative flair to recordings. Price and availability: All three cameras will be available in May 2001, pricing is as follows; PV-DV851 $1599.95, PV-DV901 $1799.95, PV-DV951 $2299.95

PMA 2001 News Index