Preview of the Canon 400D/ Rebel Xti by Luminous Landscape

Although it has just been announced, Luminous Landscape has a preview of the new Canon 400D / Rebel Xti. Here's what they write:

"With the Rebel XTi Canon's entry level DSLR has gown up, and in some ways even surpassed its older sibling the 30D. Try as I might, given the feature set, implementation and price point, I find it really hard to find fault with the XTi. Within the current Canon paradigm I find that the XTi has an easy to learn and use interface. Few of the camera's controls are problematic, and image quality is about as good as it gets from a non-full frame DSLR. Many pros will likely find themselves buying an XTi or two as their backup camera, and even find themselves using it more than their big guns when light weight and small size are paramount.

By way of an observation – it has always been Canon's MO to put new technology into their lower end cameras first, then migrating the things that work to their pro level cameras on the next generation. I am assuming that this will be the case with both their new dust elimination capabilities and their higher resolution sensor. A bit of quick math shows that with the small photo sites and greater fill factor found in the XTi, a full frame sensor using this technology would yield between 22–24 Megapixels. The issue likely will be, can the Digic II processor support high enough frame rates at this data volume to meet the demand of pro users? Likely not, and so a Digic III is said to be just around the corner. This issue may even be the reason behind our likely not seeing a new 1 Series body for another half year or so, as noted below. "



Click here for the full preview.

Sony Alpha takes 20% market share in Japan

According to Bloomberg, Sony Corporation has taken more than a fifth of Japan's digital single-lens reflex camera market in its debut month. Considering that the only other 10 megapixel DSLR on the market within the same range was the more expensive Nikon D200, I'm not surprised.

What will be interesting is if the Sony Alpha can maintain this momentum when the similar spec Nikon D80 and the Canon 400D / Rebel Xti goes on sale.

Bloomberg write : ".. Sony, which began selling its ``alpha DSLR-A100'' on July 21, had a 21.6 percent share in the month and a 19 percent share in the three weeks to Aug. 20, compared with the Tokyo-based company's target for 10 percent of the global market this year, according to data compiled by BCN.

The camera is one of the "champion products'' Sony Chief Executive Officer Howard Stringer has said the company will focus on to revitalize profit. Stringer's strategy is to concentrate investment on fewer devices, including flat-screen televisions and digital cameras, after cutting jobs and shutting factories.

Sony's first SLR can shoot photos at 10.2 megapixels and sells for about $900 without a lens and $1,000 with one. The camera is compatible with older lenses made by Konica Minolta Holdings Inc., whose SLR business Sony bought this year.

"On top of having a powerful brand name for digital cameras, Sony sent out a clear message with the $1,000 pricing for a 10.2 megapixel camera, which led to the high market share,'' said Shigehiro Tanaka, BCN weekly publication's editorial director. "Sony successfully used Minolta's assets, as many consumers bought only the body,'' he said.

Taking From Canon
"It seems like Minolta camera fans, who had been waiting for a new product for years, are rushing to buy'' Sony's camera, said Koji Ashizawa, senior managing director at Canon Marketing Japan Inc., the domestic sales unit for Tokyo-based Canon. After the initial jump in sales, they "should settle'' at around Sony's target of a 10 percent market share, he said after a press conference unveiling Canon's new digital SLR today." Canon's market share fell to 33.3 percent in July from 51.6 percent in the previous month. Nikon's dropped to 27.4 percent, from 32.6 percent, partly because the dominant camera makers did not have new models. Canon's "EOS Kiss Digital N,'' was the best-seller in July, and Nikon's "D70s'' came in third. Both models were introduced in the first half of 2005.

Highest-Margin Segment
Single-lens reflex cameras have become the most profitable part of the digital camera market, as price competition has driven margins lower for compact cameras. The models have interchangeable lenses and appeal to professionals and hobbyists.

Canon today unveiled its new "EOS Kiss Digital X'' model with a 10.1 megapixel sensor, which will go on sale on Sept. 8 for an estimated retail price of 90,000 yen ($770) without a lens. The company plans to make 180,000 units per month.

Canon Marketing's Ashizawa said the company is aiming for a 45 percent market share with the new model alone in the first four months of its launch to Dec. 31. "Normally, you would think it's impossible, but we can do it,'' he said.

"The digital SLR market is still small and Sony is still new in this area. It is unclear how long Sony will be able to maintain the high share at this point,'' said BCN's Tanaka. "Canon and Nikon are expected to fight back, so Sony's 20 percent share is not concrete,'' he said.

Digital camera shipments are forecast to rise to 67.3 million units in 2006, up 4 percent from last year, according to the Camera & Imaging Products Association. Digital SLR shipments are expected to lead the gain, with a 23 percent increase from a year earlier, and reach 4.7 million units.

Panasonic Struggles
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., which entered the fastest growing part of the digital camera market a day after rival Sony, had a 0.8 percent share in July and 0.9 percent in August. The company's 7.5 megapixel "LUMIX DMC-L1'' models are sold for about $2,000 with a Leica lens.

Matsushita, the world's biggest consumer electronics maker, plans to sell about 50,000 units in the eight months or so to March 31, or the end of the Osaka-based company's fiscal year. The maker of Panasonic brand electronics allied with Olympus Corp. to jointly develop digital SLRs in January 2005.

"The price difference with Sony is more than 100,000 yen,'' BCN's Tanaka said. "It is their challenge to appeal to high-end amateurs,'' he said.

Sony and Panasonic's entry into the digital SLR market, ``is much welcomed, as this will raise consumer awareness and accelerate the growth of the overall digital SLR market,'' said Canon Marketing's Ashizawa. Canon expects the domestic digital SLR market to grow to more than 1 million units by 2010 from the estimated 660,000 units this year.



Source: Bloomberg

Canon EOS 400D / Digital Rebel Xti (29 page pdf file)

If you want more detailed information on the Canon 400D / Rebel Xti then here is a 29 page pdf file hosted by Rob Galbraith with permission from Canon. It is an excellent piece of information for those who can't get enough of it. It's called the Canon EOS Digital Rebel Xti white paper and it can be downloaded here

Canon EOS 400D / Rebel Xti Press Release

At last, the Canon EOS 400D / Rebel Xti has finally been release and this is what they say in the Press release:

Aug. 24, 2006--Canon's EOS Digital Rebel XT model - the camera that set all time sales records for digital SLRs of any persuasion (supplanting the original Digital Rebel's claim to that title) - now takes its place alongside of the newest member of the irrepressible Rebel clan: the 10.1 megapixel EOS Digital Rebel XTi SLR camera. For 16 years, the Rebel brand has stood for advanced, sophisticated and easy-to-use. The new Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera continues that legacy, taking discriminating photo hobbyists, enthusiasts, advanced amateurs and SLR aficionados to places digital dreams are made of...and more economically than ever before.

"The EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera continues to lead the way with impressive innovations and an array of advancements simply not found on other digital SLRs in the sub-$1,000 price-range," stated Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon USA, Inc. "Canon technology is born of inspiration, imagination and our passion to help photographers make the best pictures possible. Nowhere is the combination of undeniable quality and value more evident than on this new EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera."

In stores mid-September, the EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera is offered in both sleek brushed silver patina and "pro" matte black finishes. It is available in two kit configurations: with and without Canon's high quality EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens. The EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera will be available for an estimated selling price $899* with the zoom lens kit, while the body only kit will carry and estimated selling price of $799*. In order to maintain an appropriate pricing structure, the Digital Rebel XT model will carry an adjusted estimated selling price of $799* with the zoom lens kit and $699* for the body only kit.

No mere intermediate upgrade, this new EOS Digital Rebel XTi SLR continues Canon's combination of imaging excellence, intuitive ease of use and affordability. Indeed the EOS XTi Digital SLR camera now leads the Digital Rebel revolution with such marquee features as its higher 10.1 megapixel resolution; refined and redesigned Canon CMOS sensor; larger, easier to read 2.5 inch display screen (along with simplified and streamlined menu navigation), and the remarkable EOS Integrated Cleaning System, a self-cleaning image sensor unit/dust removal system that is available on no other camera of any make, at any price.

Despite the addition of these and other imaging improvements - including Canon's fast, high-precision 9-point autofocus system and a new maximum burst rate in large/fine and raw quality modes that - at three frames per second - is double the capability of the Digital Rebel XT SLR, The EOS Digital Rebel XTi SLR makes its debut at a price point that is $100 less than its top-selling sibling was at its introduction and hundreds of dollars less than other SLR cameras and camera kits in its class.

CMOS Sensor-tivity
At the heart of the Rebel XTi SLR's high-resolution image capability is its large, single plate, CMOS color image sensor. Designed and manufactured by Canon specifically for the Rebel XTi SLR, this highly responsive sensor's 10.1 million pixels are fractionally smaller than the pixels in the 8 megapixel Rebel XT model, yet deliver markedly improved resolution, enabling the sensor to capture more image information. This results not simply in the ability to generate larger images, but also permits details from cropped images to be rendered with higher image quality than cropped images from lower resolution sensors. At 22.2 x 14.8 mm in size, this new CMOS sensor maintains the 1.6x conversion ratio found on many other members of the EOS Digital SLR line including the Rebel XT and the EOS 30D models.

Inherently more efficient than CCD type image sensors, Canon CMOS sensors significantly reduce image noise levels by converting light values to electrical signals on the chip rather than having them converted elsewhere in the camera. The Rebel XTi SLR's CMOS sensor goes further still, maintaining an exceptional dynamic range while reducing the noise level that one might typically expect for a pixel size delivering such high resolution. Canon engineers and designers achieved this breakthrough in sensor design by reducing the space between the chip's microlenses while at the same time increasing the sensitivity of each photodiode. As a result, the camera achieves 20 percent greater resolution than an eight-megapixel sensor with comparable noise reduction and dynamic range.

The Digital Rebel XTi SLR also continues the long-standing tradition of featuring a wide range of ISO settings (100 -1600) with the ability to "float" to any intermediate step along that range in fully automatic modes while allowing the user to set the ISO manually at full step intervals in the camera's creative modes.

The Dust Free Zone
Beautiful, high-res images marred by the presence of ugly high-res dust spots can be cause for painstaking, time consuming photo retouching (with varying degrees of success). Canon takes the quest for imaging excellence and easier camera maintenance a unified giant step forward with its new, two-tiered dust removal technology called the EOS Integrated Cleaning System, available only on the EOS Rebel XTi camera.

While real world shooting rarely achieves "clean-room" standards, Canon has gone out of its way to design the XTi model to first create or attract no dust. Canon begins by minimizing the dust and particles created by the camera itself, by reformulating the materials used in the body cap and shutter to materials more resistant to particle "fall out" due to normal use and wear. Canon also treats the camera's low pass filter with an anti-static charge to prevent static-charged dust from adhering to it.

Still, recognizing that humidity and a variety of real world conditions can cause dust to enter and adhere to the sensor or low pass filter despite the most scrupulous of efforts, Canon created the Self Cleaning Sensor Unit. The low pass filter on the front of the CMOS sensor is attached to an ultrasonic vibrating unit that literally shakes the loose dust particles off of the surface. The newly liberated dust is then captured by an adhesive material that keeps the particles from becoming airborne again once the camera moves.

The self cleaning sensor unit's ultrasonic anti-dust shake activates automatically for one second whenever the camera is powered on or off, ensuring that the camera will be as relatively dust free as possible and can be activated at other times through a simple menu selection.

Despite the ingenuity behind the Self Cleaning Sensor Unit there are occasions when dust particles of a stickier nature are not vibrated free of the low pass filter. In these situations, the Dust Delete Data function can be engaged. Simply put, by aiming the camera at a white wall or even a white piece of paper (or, in a pinch, removing the lens from the camera) the Dust Delete Data function will map the size and position of the dust particles remaining on the low pass filter. Once the dust is "mapped", that information is attached as metadata to all subsequently shot images regardless of recording format, RAW or JPEG. When the images and appended dust data map are transferred to a computer using the Rebel XTi's new Digital Photo Professional software, the dust information can be subtracted from the images simply by selecting the "apply dust delete data" option. Users can update the Dust Delete Data at any time via controls found in the Rebel XTi's LCD menu.

Bigger and Brighter: XTi Model's Brilliant LCD Monitor
Among the decidedly user-friendly enhancements built in to the new Digital Rebel XTi is the 2.5 inch, 230,000 pixel color TFT LCD monitor with its wide, 160 degree viewing angle. The envy of the EOS digital SLR line, this new screen features a viewing area that is nearly twice as large as the Rebel XT model's 1.8 -inch monitor, and offers six brightness settings for easy viewing of images and menu options in a wide range of lighting conditions. Indeed, this brilliant monitor is approximately 40% brighter at its maximum setting than screens found on the top-tier EOS-1D Mark II N, EOS 5D and EOS 30D digital SLRs. The monitor is also the new home for all camera settings information. This was previously housed on a separate LCD. This new configuration allows for more information and larger font & icons in one easy-to-view area.

The monitor is even intuitive enough to automatically (and temporarily) turn the display off when the camera is raised up to the user's eye. This feature not only saves valuable battery life but also avoid subjecting the user to distracting screen brightness when looking through the viewfinder. For maximum battery life, the LCD display can be shut off manually as well.

Picture Style Optimizes Images
In keeping with this new, bigger, brighter monitor is the Rebel XTi SLR's redesigned menu, made bolder, easier to read and easier to navigate. Notable among the expanded info screen menu features offered for the first time on a Digital Rebel camera are the RGB histogram and the Picture Style functions first introduced on the Canon EOS-1D Mark II N, EOS 5D cameras and most recently added to the EOS 30D's imaging arsenal. With Picture Style, users can more easily select presets for sharpening, contrast, saturation, and color tone that most closely reflect their needs and intent for a particular picture. Similar to selecting the film type in order to achieve a desired result, the Picture Style feature offers six setting choices--Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome--with an additional three user defined settings available.

Fast Focus
Also migrating to the Rebel XTi camera from the upper reaches of the EOS Digital SLR line is Canon's flexible folder management system with capability to store 9,999 images in a folder as well as manual creation of new folders and perhaps most importantly, the same high precision 9-point Autofocus sensor and AF unit found on the EOS 30D SLR.

Like its Digital Rebel predecessors, the EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera is equipped with Canon's standard EOS EF lens mount making it compatible with Canon's complete line of EF lenses as well as the EF-S line of lenses created specifically for the EOS 20D, and EOS 30D prosumer digital SLRs, and the EOS Digital Rebel models.

While the Digital Rebel XTi offers the same fast 3 frames per second as the Digital Rebel XT model, the burst rate in Large/Fine JPEG and Raw settings has nearly doubled, from 14 eight- megapixel JPEG images and five eight- megapixel RAW images on the Rebel XT model to 27 10.1 megapixel JPEGS and ten 10.1 megapixel RAW images on the new Rebel XTi camera.

CANON Software $avings: Bundled and In the Box
Purchasers of the EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera or any of Canon's digital SLRs are never faced with extra-cost software to make the camera perform to its full capabilities. Rather, Canon continues its long-standing tradition of including "in the box", a comprehensive software bundle that includes both the camera's utility programs and Canon's Digital Photo Professional software (presently in version 2.2). Compatible with both Mac OS X and Windows XP operating systems** formats, the Digital Photo Pro software assists users with everything from image transfer and viewing, image enhancement and editing, RGB image editing functions, image noise reduction, viewing, processing and editing of RAW images, Direct Print functions and Canon's groundbreaking new Dust Delete Data functions.

The EOS Technological Legacy
The EOS Digital Rebel XTi camera maintains the top-tier technologies that have helped power the EOS line of digital SLRs to the forefront of the industry and the marketplace. These include Canon's power efficient DIGIC II Image Processor and E-TTL II, Canon's evaluative-through the lens exposure control that ensures optimal exposure even in difficult lighting conditions.



Specifications of the new Canon 400D / Rebel Xti is revealed on their official Japanese and Australian website. Here are the links

Canon Japan

Canon Australia

Canon 400D / Rebel Xti

Canon has released the successor to the 350D, the 400D / Rebel Xti. According to the Canon website in China (no longer working), the new Canon 400D / Rebel Xti has a 10 mega pixel CMOS sensor and now competes directly with the Nikon D80. This is great completion and it will be interesting if it will hurt the sales on the current 30D which only has an 8 mega pixels sensor.

Here's a screen dump of the website before it was removed. (Translated to English)

Fujifilm Finepix F30 Review by Popphoto

The Fujifilm Finepix F30 has been reviewed by Popphoto.com and writes:

"The Fujifilm Finepix posted impressive numbers in the lab, keeping noise at bay all the way up to ISO 3200, which scored a 2.45 (Moderate) in our noise test, with just about a 20% drop in resolution (1310-Very High) over the resolution results for ISO 100 (1655-Extremely High.) Fujifilm is doing a lot of things right with their in-camera processing and noise suppression algorithms to post results such as these. Color accuracy is excellent (Average Delta E: 7.94 ISO 100 Auto White Balance.) The 3x zoom shows slight barrel distortion at 38mm (17%), imperceptible barrel at 78mm (.07%) and imperceptible pin cushioning at 108mm (.02%.)"

In terms of ISO performance it concludes with:

"This camera has a truly usable ISO range of ISO 100 to ISO 800, and makes images at the extreme ISOs of 1600 and 3200 that can hold up to comparison with ISO 400 and 800 results from some of its competitors.

The world is not made entirely of perfectly lit bright sunny days calling for ISO 100 -- and Fujifilm deserves praise for pushing camera performance technology towards much more usable high ISOs in the compact market"

So far all the reviews I've read have been quite favorable of the F30; it is definitely on my shopping list.



Click here for the full review.

Nikon D80 review by Hardwarezone

The Nikon D80 has been reviewed by Hardwarezone and although the camera is yet to be released for sale, a review was performed and was recommened favourably.

It writes: "The Nikon D80 is a fantastic camera for its price. It is definitely better than its predecessor D70s but not quite the level as the mid-range D200 even though they share some similar features. And this is rightly so, because that's exactly how Nikon has positioned the D80 - the upper rung of budget DSLR cameras. However that doesn't deny the D80 from sharing certain attributes as its dearer D200 brother. For instance, besides some of the key specs, you can expect the same good quality build and a generous rubber cushioning on the grips for extra comfort.

For those of you willing to wait out no matter the availability concerns, the D80 will put a smile on your face when you lay your hands on it. With the D80, Nikon offers a complete DSLR lineup where there's something for almost every segment and price category, with this excellent newcomer taking a favorable spot between the low and midrange DSLR categories of the D70s and the D200. The D80 is definitely the best Nikon camera yet for its entry-level class and is strongly recommended for beginners migrating to the DSLR scene.

"
For the full review click here.

Nikon D80 User manual

For those who wants to find out more about the Nikon D80, you can download the user manuals here. Please beware, the pdf file is a massive 9.39 MB and it's actually called "The Nikon Guide to Digital Photography with the D80 Digital Camera".

Pre-order your Nikon D80

D80 DSLR Camera w/Nikon 18-55mm F/3.5-4.5G AF-S DXS Lens - Pre-Order Now! Highly Anticipated - The Nikon D80 DSLR Announcement Is Here!Building on the extraordinary success of the D70 and D70s, Nikon introduces the new D80(TM) digital SLR camera -- an impressively featured, high performance camera that incorporates Nikon's latest digital and photographic technologies, and offers advanced features as well as automated operation to satisfy any photographer with the passion to create beautiful photographs and preserve special moments. With a new 10.2 effective megapixel DX Format CCD image sensor and an exclusive high-resolution color processing engine inherited from Nikon's latest professional digital SLR cameras, the D80 can render images with incredible resolution, sharp detail and vibrant color that is unmatched in this class of cameras. And it can shoot these images fast - at speeds of up to 3 frames per second, for up to 100 consecutive shots (in JPEG Normal mode), ensuring that the camera's always ready for the next fleeting moment. Paired with the 18-55MM f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens providing an 18-55mm focal length range, the lens can be conveniently used to photograph everything from wide angle landscapes to portraits and is well suited for use at parties, on vacation, and other occasions. 10.2 Megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD Imaging Sensor New High-resolution Nikon image-processing engine Instant 0.18 sec. start-up with fast 80ms shutter response Continuous shooting at up to 3 frames per second and up to 100 consecutive JPEG images Up to 2,700 images per battery charge Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II, plus Variable Center-Weighted and Spot Metering In-Camera Image Retouching Built-in Speedlight with Nikon i-TTL flash metering and two-group Wireless Commander 2.5-inch LCD color monitor with 170 degree wide-angle viewing 11-area AF system with Wide-area Center Segment and Auto-area AF functions Seven Digital Vari-Programs plus Programmed Auto with Flexible Program, Shutter-Priority Auto, Shutter-Priority Auto and Manual Image Optimization Functions Large, bright 0.94x viewfinder Built-in Slideshow function with Pictmotion The D80 works with the efficiency and grace of a fine-tuned instrument, powering up in only 0.18 seconds and capturing a picture with an imperceptible shutter lag time of just 80 milliseconds (0.08 seconds). A new 11-area auto- focus system detects focus with superb precision and can even track a moving subject across the frame, shifting focus instantly and automatically to any of the 11 auto-focus points that detect the subject. The D80's large, bright 0.94x viewfinder affords a remarkable view not found in many digital SLRs, making critical composition easier and more pleasing. The camera's rechargeable battery can last up to 2700 shots on a single charge, while also providing a real-time Fuel Gauge of the percentage of charge remaining in the battery at all times. And like all Nikon digital SLR cameras, the D80 feels solid and substantial while being both compact and comfortable

The Nikon D80 is ready

The much anticipated Nikon D80 has been revealed and this camera is sure to expand Nikons dominance in the DSLR market. The new Nikon D80 does have some impressive features in addition to the 10 megapixel sensor. They include a 2.5 inch LCD screen, a 2700 shot battery!, 0.08 seconds start-up and an 11 area Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus sensor just to name a few. The only disappointing thing about the camera is the use of SD cards rather than compact flash as D70/D70s up graders will need to purchase new cards. Why couldn't Nikon developed a slot for both cards!

Anyhow, it will be interesting to see if the Sony Alpha A100 can make an impact on Nikons sales in the coming months.

Here what they say about the new Nikon in their press release.

- 10.2 Megapixel D80 Offers Outstanding Performance, Ease Of Use, Versatile Personal Control and Exciting In-Camera Editing Tools
- All New 7.5x 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX Nikkor Lens Included with the D80 Outfit Creates a Compelling Option for Photo Enthusiasts

Building on the extraordinary success of the D70 and D70s, Nikon today introduced the new D80(TM) digital SLR camera -- an impressively featured, high performance camera that incorporates Nikon's latest digital and photographic technologies, and offers advanced features as well as automated operation to satisfy any photographer with the passion to create beautiful photographs and preserve special moments. With a new 10.2
effective megapixel DX Format CCD image sensor and an exclusive high-resolution color processing engine inherited from Nikon's latest professional digital SLR cameras, the D80 can render images with incredible resolution, sharp detail and vibrant color that is unmatched in this class of cameras. And it can shoot these images fast - at speeds of up to 3 frames per second, for up to 100 consecutive shots (in JPEG Normal mode), ensuring that the camera's always ready for the next fleeting moment. The D80 works with the efficiency and grace of a fine-tuned instrument, powering up in only 0.18 seconds and capturing a picture with an imperceptible shutter lag time of just 80 milliseconds (0.08 seconds). A new 11-area auto- focus system detects focus with superb precision and can even track a moving subject across the frame, shifting focus instantly and automatically to any of the 11 auto-focus points that detect the subject.

The D80's large, bright 0.94x viewfinder affords a remarkable view not found in many digital SLRs, making critical composition easier and more pleasing. The camera's rechargeable battery can last up to 2700 shots on a single charge, while also providing a real-time Fuel Gauge of the percentage of charge remaining in the battery at all times. And like all Nikon digital SLR cameras, the D80 feels solid and substantial while being
both compact and comfortable. But more experienced photo enthusiasts will admire the D80 most for its bevy of creative controls and features that make photography with the camera so much more enjoyable and rewarding. Its new Optimize image menu, for instance, offers complete control over the look and feel of your pictures, allowing you to boost saturation and create pictures with vivid color, or shoot black-and- white pictures with a choice of four filtration effects, or even create your own custom look that expresses personal style and creativity. Other creative tools include an all-new image Retouch menu for in-camera image editing, built-in i-TTL flash control with the ability to control up to two remote groups of Speedlights, as well as over 32 Custom settings to customize several attributes of the camera's performance.

"The Nikon D70 and D70s cameras proved to be extraordinarily successful due to the excellent value they offered to passionate photo enthusiasts
when each was introduced. They offered an ideal balance of features, performance, innovation and price, making them appealing to a very broad
range of photographers. With the introduction of the D80, Nikon is significantly raising the bar for a camera in this class," said Edward
Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc.

"By bringing high- end features and technologies inherited from our professional line of cameras to the passionate photo enthusiast, while
making the camera simpler and more enjoyable to use, we believe the D80 will represent the 'sweet spot' for anyone looking for a new level of
digital SLR camera performance and value. Paired with the new 7.5x 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX Zoom-Nikkor lens, the D80's performance and versatility becomes even more compelling for consumers," he added.

Unrivaled Image Quality
At the heart of any digital camera lies its image processing engine - a sophisticated processor that determines, among other things, the overall
color rendering and image quality of pictures taken with the camera. One of the key advances developed for the D80 is Nikon's own high-resolution image processing engine that inherits best-of-breed technologies from Nikon's latest professional digital SLR cameras, including color independent analog pre- conditioning and high-precision 12-bit digital image processing algorithms, which combine to produce natural-looking images that benefit from faithful color and tone reproduction. A new dedicated high-performance processing chip greatly accelerates performance on all levels, while also achieving lower power consumption, assuring more pictures per battery charge.

The D80 also benefits from Nikon's exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II, to ensure accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting
conditions. Evaluating, rather than merely measuring or averaging the true content of each scene, input from the system's frame-wide 420-pixel sensor is automatically referenced against an onboard database of over 30,000 scenes from actual photography to calculate final exposure value.

Variable Center- Weighted metering and Spot metering centered on the active focus area are also available, as are exposure compensation and auto exposure bracketing. Sophisticated exposure automation combined with options for complete user control help to make the D80 an ideal high-performance digital SLR for passionate photography enthusiasts.

Speed to Burn
One of the hallmarks of Nikon's digital SLR cameras is how fast they operate, not only when capturing images, but also when processing them. The
D80 proudly carries this tradition forward. Not only is the camera powered
up and ready to shoot in only 0.18 seconds, it also reacts at blazing speeds when the shutter button is pressed. With a minimal shutter lag time
of just 80 milliseconds (0.08 seconds), and the ability to shoot 3 frames per second up to 100 consecutive shots (in JPEG Normal mode), the camera is ready to shoot whenever that priceless expression or special moment presents itself. Images shot are processed instantly and recorded rapidly to the inserted SD memory card. Preview images are also displayed near instantly.

The D80's new 11-area auto-focus system also fulfills its role in the overall speed of the camera, delivering fast and precise focus under
varying shooting conditions. Adopting a refined version of Nikon's advanced Multi-CAM 1000 AF Sensor Module, this new 11-area AF system with center area wide-frame operation adds effective new focusing options that will instill greater confidence in getting the desired shot. An all-new
Auto-Area AF mode measures all eleven focus areas and automatically determines which of them are on the primary subject.

Creativity Comes Standard
The Nikon D80 is designed to inspire creativity at every level. For this reason, the camera includes a wide assortment of features and tools to
empower all kinds of users, ranging from the novice to the seasoned pro, to pursue their creative vision, instantly and right from within the camera. D80 photographers will enjoy the camera's built-in Multiple Exposure mode for unique composite image effects, or the Optimize menu options that closely tailor results to the scene at hand or the intended use of an image or to a custom preference of the photographer. Optimization of sharpening, tone (contrast), color, saturation and hue is controlled by the user-selected choice of Normal, Softer, Vivid, More Vivid, Portrait, Custom and Black-and- White. The black-and-white mode can be customized using red, green, yellow and orange filter effects as well as image sharpening and tone compensation.

The D80 also features an all-new image Retouch menu, with exclusive in- camera editing functions that will certainly keep D80 users engaged when
they're not busy shooting. Options within the Retouch menu include:

* D-Lighting: Automatically balances underexposed portions of an image to enhance detail in these areas, without affecting the highlights of the
picture.

* In-camera Red-eye Correction: Automatically removes the annoying red-eye effect sometimes caused by flash.

* Trim: Images can be trimmed within the camera to produce smaller files with reduced display sizes for easy sharing or greater efficiency for
specific end purposes.

* Image Overlay: Merges a pair of selected RAW files taken with the D80 to create a composite image within the camera as a RAW or JPEG file. This
feature is especially useful when trying to create a soft-focus effect with two similar images.

* Monochrome settings: Monochrome settings can be applied to any color image in the camera, to convert it to a pleasing monochromatic picture,
either in black-and-white, sepia or cyanotype.

* Filter Effects: Can be used to emulate and apply the effects of a Skylight filter or a Warming filter to any image stored on the inserted SD card. A Customized Color menu within filter effects can also be used to make subtle shifts in color to any image in the camera. For anyone just beginning to enjoy the added performance and versatility of digital SLR photography, creative shooting is as simple as rotating the Digital Vari-Program mode dial on the camera. The D80 has seven preconfigured program modes to optimize the camera for specific shooting conditions and greatly increase the chances of taking a great photograph. In "Portrait" Mode, for example, the camera automatically optimizes the color, hue, and saturation levels to capture the most flattering skin tones, softens the focus of the background images to emphasize the face and applies a milder form of in-camera sharpening. Users can choose from Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close- Up, Sports, Night, Landscape or Night Portrait.

The D80 also offers creative ways to share pictures, with its built-in Pictmotion slideshow feature, which includes style selections that control
transitions and background music. Shows can be enjoyed on the 2.5-inch LCD, or complete with audio on a television when connected via the supplied AV cable.

Creature Comfort
The D80 features refined ergonomics and design, borne from Nikon's extensive experience designing successful SLR cameras for over 50 years. As
a result, the camera is incredibly comfortable to use and handle, and incorporates several new features that enhance its usability. The D80
features a large and bright viewfinder with large 0.94x magnification to ensure the clearest view possible for precise composition. Included is a
built-in diopter adjustment control knob that also makes it easier to fine-tune the view to match eyesight. The viewfinder's integrated grid display
can also be turned on to assist with composition.

A large new 2.5-inch 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD provides an ultra-wide 170-degree viewing angle from all directions. Navigating the spacious preview of your images is easy with a new dedicated Zoom button, magnifying images on screen up to 25 times their original size. A new RGB histogram display aids in evaluating exposures with greater precision. Other playback options include single frame, 4 or 9-image thumbnail display, an improved histogram display and highlight point display. A new menu interface featuring refinements to the carefully chosen color scheme and increased font size makes navigation easier on the eye, easier to understand and easier to use. Menus can be customized to display only selected items using the new "My Menu" set.

The D80 is slimmer and more compact than its predecessors, and remains true to Nikon's commitment to intuitive operation. The size, layout and operation of all buttons and controls are designed for maximum ease of use.

System Strength
With the D80, users also have complete and seamless compatibility with Nikon's extensive Total Digital Imaging System, and the camera is designed to take advantage of many of the technologies built into Nikon accessories.

The D80's powerful built-in Speedlight is compatible with Nikon's Creative Lighting System, and can wirelessly control up to two groups of Speedlights in full TTL mode, taking the guesswork out of multiple flash photography. Compatible Speedlights within the Creative Lighting System include the SB-800, SB-600 and Nikon's Wireless Close-up Speedlight Systems, featuring the SB- R200.

The D80 also offers unprecedented compatibility with Nikon's extensive selection of AF Nikkor lenses as well as new DX Nikkor lenses, which are designed exclusively for use with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras. Nikkor lenses, famous for optical superiority, add to the D80's ability to deliver outstanding images.

The D80 will also have an optional MB-D80 battery pack available, extending the shooting capability in an ergonomic design that adds shooting stability. Able to run on either one or two EN-EL3e rechargeable batteries or six AA-size batteries, the pack also features an additional command dial and alternative buttons for shutter release and AE-Lock/AF-Lock that make vertical shooting more comfortable.

The D80 is also fully compatible with Capture NX software (available for purchase separately), Nikon's highly versatile and elegantly simple new photo editing solution designed to help photographers tap the full potential of NEF (RAW) images. Featuring an innovative user interface that provides easier access to powerful and visually intuitive enhancement tools, Capture NX's powerful photo image processing and editing tools can
also be applied to JPEG and TIFF files to satisfy a broader range of photofinishing needs and applications.

The D80 will be available beginning September 2006 for an estimated selling price of $999.95 for body only and $1299.95 for body and lens outfit, including the new 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S IF-ED DX Nikkor Lens.



Source

The current DSLR Market

Here is an interesting article by TWICE on the digital camera market. As indicated by the huge growth and profit of the top two digital SLR camera manufacturers Canon and Nikon, the growth of the digital SLR market is set to continue. Here are some interesting supporting quotes:

"Some categories that were hot in 2005, such as camera/printer bundles, have cooled considerably, while others, such as compact models and digital SLRs have continued to burn, said Liz Cutting, NPD imaging analyst. "

“Overall, growth is starting to slow,” said Fred Lerner, Ritz Interactive president. “But the growth in digital SLRs has taken everyone by surprise — it's still at double digits, driven by some really spectacular products.”

"Through May, digital cameras (including SLRs) were up 17.5 percent in units and 12.1 percent in dollars vs. the same period in 2005, Cutting said. The category has also come off its single best week during the run-up to Mother's Day, suggesting that the gloomier forecasts may be a bit too pessimistic — at least for 2006. “We don't see a downturn until 2008,” Cutting predicted."

One bright spot, predicted to weather the slowdown in compact camera sales and provide a healthy dollar volume, is digital SLRs. “We don't see d-SLR sales slowing until past 2009,” Cutting said.

Will more consumers embrace pricier digital SLRs than film consumers of old snapped up 35mm SLRs? Delis think they might. In their heyday, film SLR cameras rarely broke the 2 million unit mark. NPD predicts close to 2 million d-SLRs will be sold this year, at a time when d-SLRs are still relatively expensive. All firms predict the strong growth in this category to continue long after compact digital camera sales slow.

Inexpensive d-SLRs have spurred more use of photography in business, Delis said. “During the film era, 3 percent of all cameras purchased were used for business. Today it's 10 percent.”

“There is a very high satisfaction level with digital cameras in general and that has helped drive d-SLR sales” as consumers look to upgrade, Lerner said.

There are an estimated 308 camera models on store shelves from over a dozen manufacturers. The strong growth in d-SLRs has tempted other manufacturers to forge partnerships to get a piece of the action. How long can the market bear the competition?

“There will be a shake-out. We can't continue to support all these manufacturers,” Lerner said.

“There's no room for the old and new entrants,” said Chris Chute, imaging research manager, IDC. The consumer electronics brands have to prove themselves in the d-SLR category where strong photo brands dominate, Chute added. “The real question is whether they take share away from Canon.”

Source: TWICE

Canon 350D / Rebel XT Successor

Does Canon have a successor to the successful 350D/XT Rebel? It seems something must be happening as I cannot see Canon sitting still whilst the competition grows and increase by releasing new models such as the Sony Alpha A100. In addition, Canons long time rival, Nikon is announcing their "yet to be formally announced" Nikon D80 this month.

Judging by the rumors, an interesting pdf file has emerged depicting the rumored successor to the Canon 350D / Rebel XT as the Canon 370D with only 8 mega pixels. If this is true, it seems to follow the same small incremental path as the Canon 30D was to the Canon 20D. In reality, the Canon 30D should have been called the Canon 20Da or Mark II as the gains, although greatly needed was just an upgrade.

Although this is just a rumor, I think the next Canon may be called the 400D as this seems more like the next progression. If the sensor is still 8 mega pixels in size, it may be a move by Canon to ensure the low noise remains low as this is one of Canons main advantages. Only time will tell.


source: www.infodigitalcamera.com

Nikon getting stronger

With increasing competition Nikon continues to grow stronger and expand steadily in the digital SLR camera market. This is despite increasing sophisticated functionality and a downward trend in prices.



With the latest financial figures indicating a steadily increase in net sales and profit it looks like Nikon will only go higher in the future. According to the business model shown below, Nikon aims to expand its DSLR camera market by more than 40%. I'm sure the Nikon D80 will help push this further.



It seeks to do this by:

1. Seeking to maintain its position as the leading pioneer in the digital SLR camera market. By going forward, it will combine various outstanding features with other elements that win the hearts of customers and ensure long-lasting loyalty. The Nikon D80 is one of many to come.

2. Continue the timely introduction of new products is imperative to secure profitability in the digital compact camera market. Achieving this requires the swift development of products that directly satisfy customer needs. Besides strengthening marketing capabilities, Nikon will bolster ties between product development, production, advertising and sales to facilitate sharp response to market trends.

3. Investing heavily in fast-advancing digital technology with the aim of releasing appealing and unique products.