Konica Minolta Introduces The Maxxum 7D – World’s First Digital SLR Camera With Revolutionary Body-Integral, Anti-Shake Technology
New 6.1 megapixel interchangeable lens digital camera represents the culmination of the optical and photo-imaging expertise of two of the most respected names in photography
Mahwah, NJ (September 15, 2004) – Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. today unveils the new Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera. This groundbreaking new 6.1-million-pixel resolution, interchangeable lens digital camera is the world’s first digital SLR featuring a body-integral CCD-shift, Anti-Shake (camera-shake compensation) technology that combines enhanced picture quality, performance and improved handling characteristics. This new digital SLR also features a large, easy-to-view, high-definition 2.5-inch color LCD monitor and is compatible with virtually any Maxxum AF lens. "Drawing on the tradition of technical expertise that gave birth to the Maxxum 7000, the world's first body-integral autofocus 35mm SLR camera, the RD-175, one of the world's first consumer-use digital SLR's, and the world's first washless photofinishing system, the NPS-1 Mini Lab, the Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D draws on more than a century of optical and photo-imaging expertise of two of the most respected names in photography," said Todd Schrader, vice president of marketing for Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. "In addition, the new Maxxum 7D also inherits the intuitive operating ease of the award-winning Maxxum 7 35mm SLR, and maintains full compatibility with Maxxum system lenses and accessories which is sure to please loyal Maxxum photographers around the world." Specifically designed to match the performance requirements of the camera’s large 6-megapixel CCD, the Maxxum 7D’s unique, built-in exclusive CCD shift-type Anti-Shake technology makes this new camera the first digital SLR to feature a body-integral Anti-Shake function. This system instantly and precisely shifts the CCD to compensate for camera motion. And it’s so effective photographers can shoot at shutter speeds up to three steps slower than what they could use without it. So even in low light, photographers can keep their images clean and sharp, free of the image-degrading noise that creeps in when they boost ISO sensitivity. And because the mechanism is integrated directly into the Maxxum 7D’s cameras body, it works with virtually any Maxxum AF lens – a major advantage for photographers when compared to bulky and expensive lens-based optical stabilization systems and software-based "digital correction systems" that can degrade image quality. Konica Minolta’s award-winning Anti-Shake technology provides images with reduced blur due to camera shake, even when shooting dimly lit scenes or when using telephoto lenses and shooting macro subjects without the aid of flash or a tripod. The Maxxum 7D offers effective Anti-Shake protection with every lens* in the Maxxum AF line. Whether using telephoto, wide-angle, zoom, macro or standard, the system analyzes data on focal length, current aperture setting, and focusing distance so that it can optimize Anti-Shake performance to offer the highest level of protection.
* Except AF16mm Fish Eye and Macro Zoom 3x – 1x.
In addition, the camera also features a large, easy-to-view, high-definition 2.5-inch color LCD monitor housed on its back-plate. The large screen handles the tasks of menu navigation and image display, also providing shooting information and camera setting displays. The New Maxxum 7D also features Konica Minolta’s proprietary, CxProcess™ III image processing technology that delivers high-definition, natural-looking images. High speed image processing is achieved using the all-new Advanced LSI engine designed to help provide fast data handling for improved camera responsiveness and control. In keeping with its acclaimed Maxxum film SLR counterpart, the Maxxum 7D inherits a similar, simple-to-use dial and lever operation system. Enhancing handling further, the new model also features a superbly-bright, easy-to-view, high-performance viewfinder designed to be comfortable and easy to use. The new digital SLR also offers a comprehensive function set, designed to meet a diverse range of photographic challenges and user needs, complemented by a broad range of Maxxum accessories that give photographers a complete system back-up.
Maxxum 7D Backgrounder
Product Highlights - Body-integral CCD-shift Anti-Shake technology reduces blur caused by camera shake and supports all Maxxum AF lenses.
- A large, easy-to-view 2.5-inch high-definition, 207,000-pixel color LCD monitor that combines menu navigation with image and data display.
- Stunning picture quality derived from a high resolution, 6.1-million-pixel (effective) 23.5mm x 15.7mm size CCD and exclusive Konica Minolta CxProcess™ III image processing technology.
- Incorporates a central, cross hair type, 9-point and 8-line autofocus (AF) sensor array providing high-precision AF and high performance subject tracking of moving subjects.
- Combines simple operation in a stylish, compact package inheriting the product ideals of the Maxxum range of film SLR cameras. Upgraded, high-end shooting and versatile imaging functions designed to satisfy any photographer’s needs, whether they are amateur or enthusiast.
- Excellent system back-up and accessories to cater to a broad range of shooting styles and conditions.
Features: Anti-shake Technology and CCD Shift Mechanism The world’s first*1 digital SLR with body-integral CCD-shift Anti-Shake technology, including compatibility with Minolta A-Mount optics and allowing all Konica Minolta interchangeable AF lenses to be used.*2 The award winning Konica Minolta Anti-Shake technology was selected as "European Photo Innovation of the Year 2004 – 2005" by EISA*3 and provides the equivalent correction effect*4 with a shutter speed 2 - 3 steps slower. Konica Minolta’s Anti-Shake technology makes it possible to reduce blur caused by camera shake, even when taking photos in dimly lit or twilight scenes, in natural light with a telephoto lens, as well as macro shots – without relying on a higher ISO setting or the aid of a flash or tripod. Anti-Shake responds quickly to both broad, slow-swaying motion of the camera body and the higher frequency shaking typical of camera shake caused by the photographer’s hands. The Anti-Shake technology can be switched on or off via a dedicated switch on the camera’s back and when active, an Anti-Shake indicator is displayed on the viewfinder to keep the user informed when it’s active. Easy-to-View 2.5-inch High-Definition LCD Monitor Centrally mounted on the camera’s back-plate is the large, easy-to-view 2.5-inch, high-resolution, 207,000-pixel color monitor. It quickly and clearly displays captured shots for fast image appraisal. Image histogram data can be overlaid without obscuring the displayed image and thanks to its large size, it can display up to a 16-frame thumbnail index display. Intuitive Operation with Dial-&-Lever System The new Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D inherits the dial and lever operation system from the highly-regarded Maxxum 7 35mm SLR camera. This similarity allows intuitive operation for Maxxum 35mm SLR users moving up to the new digital Maxxum 7D. Menu and Navigation Display The LCD monitor works as a Navigation Display allowing seamless operation with clear and concise camera settings displayed with comprehensive shooting information, indicated with large, easy to read text. Aiding ease of use further, the display automatically switches from horizontal to vertical format when shooting in the upright "portrait" format. Advanced LSI Image Processing Engine A newly developed Advanced LSI image processing engine for the Maxxum 7D enables high-speed processing of large quantities of data and designed to improve image processing at high-sensitivity settings ensuring reduced image noise while retaining high picture quality. This combination also helps ensure easy handling similar to the smooth-shooting rhythm associated with 35mm film SLR cameras. Konica Minolta’s CxProcess™ III Consistently high picture quality is ensured by the 6.1-million-effective-pixel CCD, the unique CxProcess™ III image processing technology, and a combination of Konica Minolta’s expertise in photosensitive materials and exposure control technologies. Each is integrated here in the new Maxxum 7D to ensure superb picture quality and to help make the most of any attached AF lens. CxProcess™ III is an original, image processing technology designed to provide impressive and natural-looking images. CxProcess™ III, achieves these stunning, natural-looking images by integrating a broad range of photographic technologies gained from Konica Minolta’s long years of experience in this field. It ensures clear and crisp pictures, natural skin tones and packs in detail, ideal for shooting landscapes or macro subjects. High-Performance, High-Speed Autofocus (AF) The new Maxxum 7D incorporates a central, cross hair type, 9-point and 8-line AF sensor array providing high-precision AF and high performance subject tracking of moving subjects within the frame. The AF system enables both Predictive Focus Control and Subject Tracking for high-speed focus adjustment of moving subjects, making it ideal for fleeting moments or sports photography. High-Speed Continuous Advance and Image Processing with Large Capacity Image Buffer The new Maxxum 7D allows high speed continuous shooting of up to 9 consecutive frames at up to 3-frames per second in both RAW or RAW+JPEG modes thanks to a large image buffer. Additionally, it allows continuous shooting of up to twelve 3008x2000 JPEG images at the extra-fine image-quality setting and 15 JPEG images the same size at the fine image-quality setting. These high-speed shooting capabilities are ideal for capturing momentary expressions, sports or fleeting action shots while retaining high picture quality throughout. RAW+JPEG Simultaneous Recording Photographers can choose to shoot either JPEG or RAW images or both combined with the simultaneous RAW + JPEG dual-format capture mode for improved, post-shoot workflow. Easy-to-View, High-Performance Viewfinder A spherical acute matte focusing screen is used in the viewfinder for accurate, bright critical focusing assessment. The new model incorporates an optical glass pentaprism viewfinder with a 0.9x magnification factor and 95% field of view for easy scene assessment and composition. Highly Durable and Reliable Magnesium-Alloy Body The new camera is sturdy, compact and stylish featuring a magnesium alloy front body panel and base. Comprehensive Image Adjustment and Control for Creative Picture Capture - Image correction: 5-step fine control adjustment for sharpness, contrast, color saturation and hue.
- White balance (WB) setting: In addition to the auto mode, the new camera has six presets for WB plus a custom mode for precise white balance settings in difficult lighting conditions. This model also features numerical settings for color temperature, which gives photographers a higher degree of color temperature matching. Fine-tuning is possible over a range from 2500K to 9900K in 100K increments, providing a broader range than with the auto white balance or preset white balance alone.
- Zone Matching: New technology that allows the precise reproduction of tonal gradations in highlights and shadows, essential in difficult shooting conditions with predominant highlights and helps ensure noise-free low-light images. The camera’s Zone Matching system permits effective control of high and low key tone capture; the former important for highlight capture in shots such as a white wedding dress, the latter for low light situations.
Maxxum System Accessories Konica Minolta has also introduced two new zoom lenses, each designed to provide optimum image quality when used with the new Maxxum 7D digital SLR – the Konica Minolta AF ZOOM 17 – 35 mm f/2.8 – 4 (D) and the Konica Minolta AF ZOOM 28 – 75 mm f/2.8 (D). A broad range of existing Maxxum-system accessories is also available for use with the Maxxum 7D including D-series flash units, remote cords and an angle viewfinder. The D-series flash and D-series lenses, which include built-in focus distance calculations, when used in combination with the new Maxxum 7D, provide improved exposure accuracy. Combined with high-precision ADI flash metering, the camera provides high-precision lighting control that answers the most demanding and diverse needs.
The new dedicated VC-7D Vertical Control Grip for the new Maxxum 7D connects to the camera body and provides a secure grip on the camera while enhancing easy, vertical camera control and overall ease of use, particularly when shooting upright, portrait-format shots. The VC-7D’s sure-hold grip provides confident handling characteristics and features a dedicated shutter-release button, front and rear control dials, autofocus (AF)/manual focus (MF) control button, auto exposure (AE) lock button and AF area selector button, thereby delivering comfortable and reassuring handling characteristics to the camera in either horizontal or vertical shooting situations. The VC-7D allows two lithium-ion batteries to be used simultaneously for an extra power supply. This allows photographers to take advantage of shooting many more images before worrying about recharging the batteries. Adding still more versatility, standard AA Ni-MH batteries can also be used. Konica Minolta’s new DiMAGE Master is optional software to improve creative workflow for advanced users. Diversified tools for classifying and comparing images boost work efficiency of selecting the best shots. Newly developed RAW processing program enables more accurate color reproduction. NOTES:
*1) As a lens-changeable digital SLR camera
*2) With the camera’s AF macro-zoom 1x – 3x specialty lenses and Anti-shake function turned off.
*3) The European Imaging and Sound Association, publishing 50 major photography and AV magazines in 20 European countries
*4) Anti-Shake picture blur correction effect amount varies with shooting conditions and lenses used
Konica Minolta Introduces Two New Zoom Lenses Designed Specifically For Use With The New Maxxum 7D Digital CameraMahwah, NJ (September 15, 2004) – Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. introduces today two new interchangeable zoom lenses, each designed to provide optimum image quality when used with Konica Minolta’s new digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera – the Maxxum 7D. The new Konica Minolta AF ZOOM 17 – 35mm F/2.8 – 4 (D) lens and the new Konica Minolta AF ZOOM 28 – 75mm F/2.8 (D) lens offer superior handling characteristics making them ideal in a diverse range of shooting situations. "Although the new Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D digital SLR camera is fully compatible with the existing line of Maxxum autofocusing lenses – nearly 40 in all – these two new lenses have been designed specifically with the Maxxum 7D in mind,"said Todd Schrader, vice president of marketing for Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. "With these two digital lenses in the Maxxum photographer’s camera bag, a wide range of shooting situations are covered while providing superior image quality." These new auto focus lenses are designed to produce high quality digital images especially when used in combination with the new Maxxum 7D and its body-integral Anti-Shake technology. In addition, these lenses provide unparalleled creative control because of their circular apertures. Using a round aperture enhances the defocused areas of an image with smoother, more natural looking gradations of tone. These lenses also incorporate Konica Minolta’s Advanced Distance Integration (ADI) flash metering. When attached to the new Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D, these new lenses provide the camera with additional information on focusing distance to further enhance the electronic flash lighting performance and exposure accuracy when using either the built-in flash or the external flash units such as the Konica Minolta Maxxum Flash 5600HS(D), Konica Minolta Maxxum Flash 3600HS(D), or the Konica Minolta Maxxum 2500(D) Flash units.
Konica Minolta Introduces New Image Editing And Enhancing SoftwareKonica Minolta’s DiMAGE Master software further enhances the creative opportunities for photographers using DiMAGE digital cameras
Mahwah, NJ (September 15, 2004) – Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc. introduces the new image editing and enhancing software DiMAGE Master to coincide with the launching of the world’s first digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera with body-integral anti-shake technology, the Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D. DiMAGE Master is optional software designed to improve creative workflow for professional and advanced digital camera users. The software’s newly developed 3D Lookup Table technology for RAW processing enables more accurate color reproduction, and can process any RAW images taken by Konica Minolta digital cameras. Diverse image management operations, such as viewing, classifying, correcting, printing and more, can be performed in the three main operating windows.
"Serious digital photographers will especially appreciate the ease-of-use and enhanced workflow that DiMAGE Master software permits," said Todd Schrader, vice president of marketing for Konica Minolta Photo imaging U.S.A., Inc. "Konica Minolta software engineers recognize that efficient image management is a vital tool for today’s’ digital workflow. We are pleased to make this powerful software application available to photographers using our digital cameras.
Enhanced work efficiency Organizer Window – Users can browse images quickly by viewing the instant thumbnail display. Focus checker quickly enlarges a small portion of an image with just a click - just like checking film slides on a light box with a magnifier to confirm focusing results. Images can be classified into four customizable categories with just the click of a button. Examiner Window – Advanced and unique tools are available for accurate and effective comparisons that help to select the best shot from several images taken under the same shooting conditions. Images can be interactively displayed and examined in detail on the basis of quantitative analysis of exposure, histogram, white balance and focus. Photofinisher Window – DiMAGE Master software provides a sophisticated platform for image retouching with professional and user-friendly functions in the Photofinisher Window. Each editing screen for white balance adjustment or tone-curve tuning can be opened from the tool menu in the Photofinisher window. The variation palette allows an image to be corrected by comparing it to other slightly corrected images that are automatically displayed surrounding it. High-quality images 3D Lookup Table (3D-LUT) color conversion technology and the advanced automatic white balance algorithm with precise analysis of image data enable accurate color reproduction. The new DiMAGE Master supports various color spaces and color management using ICC profiles, allowing users to print images as they expected or viewed on PC monitors. It also features the print function that converts color space directly from RAW to printer’s color space for the best performance of printers. Main features: 3D-LUT color conversion Enables more accurate color reproduction by converting RAW image data precisely in individual color with a newly developed algorithm. Customizable classification Image files can be easily organized into four customizable categories just by clicking a button or dragging and dropping. Focus checker Enlarges a selected portion of an image to confirm focusing results with just a mouse-click. Image comparison Tools are available for comparing images side-by-side and interactively in details on the basis of objective analysis of histogram, white balance, etc. Color management The color management system using ICC profiles is built for color matching. For instance, the ICC profile for Konica Minolta inkjet photo paper renders the best color reproduction for use with Konica Minolta inkjet photo paper. Image correction jobs Helps to save image correction settings for easy application to other images. Advanced sharpness correction Sharpness can be appropriately enhanced by the precise and flexible adjustment of spatial frequency response. Snapshot Image corrections can be stored temporarily as a thumbnail next to the displayed image. Apply processing function Allows batch processing of multiple corrected images and then saves them at one time. System requirements Windows 2000 Professional, Windows XP home/Professional. Mac OS X or later v10.1.3 - v10.1.5, 10.2.1- 10.2.8, v10.3.0 - 10.3.5
About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc., headquartered in Mahwah, NJ, is the North American sales and marketing subsidiary of Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc. (Tokyo, Japan). On August 5, 2003 Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc. was formed to enhance both the competitive business capabilities and earning capacities of Konica Corporation and Minolta Co., Ltd. Consumers around the world have come to know and trust the Konica and Minolta brands for all their imaging needs. Since the earliest days of the photo industry, Minolta and Konica have applied their talents and resources to create products and services that are essential to the world of imaging. Today, these efforts concentrate on the most important aspects of imaging: the quality of the images, the tools and methods for creating images, and the creation of environments for the application of images. This focus on the essentials of imaging ties together the company’s key business and consumer product lines. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of 35mm and Advanced Photo System film, single-use cameras, digital and 35mm film cameras, accessory lenses, binoculars, photographic and color measurement meters. In addition the company offers color print photo papers, Inkjet photo paper, digital minilabs, digital film scanners, optical instruments, software and advanced imaging and sensing technologies. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. also provides wholesale photofinishing services and Internet imaging services. It is a complete imaging company, from input through output. For more information about Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc., its products and services, visit www.ph.konicaminolta.us. | 
