February 2009

The US$699 12.3 megapixel Olympus Stylus E-620 dSLR was introduced in February of 2009. It is representative of the digital imaging industry's effort to make digital SLR cameras smaller, lighter and more advanced while at the same time adding the kinds of entertaining and useful features and functions that up to now have primarily been available in consumer point-and-shoot cameras. Consider it an advanced entry-level digital SLR with more than adquate resolution and some very nice features, among them the swivel LCD, the 7-point autofocus and the multiple aspect ratio shooting. [Read description and specs of the Olympus E-620 dSLR]

Fuji, too, launches a waterproof point-and-shooter
Everyone seems to be getting into waterproof cameras! The very small 10-megapixel FinePix Z33WP, available in four bright colors, is Fujifilm's entry, joining Olympus, Pentax, Panasonic, Canon and a number of specialty manufacturers. The camera's maximum depth rating of ten feet makes it suitable only for very shallow dives, but it's great for snorkeling and other activities in and around the water. The Z33PW has a large and bright 2.7-inch LCD display, a 3x optical zoom, digital anti blur, and some fun features and functions. If the 10-foot depth limit or lack of ruggedness doesn't cramp your style, the list price of US$199 makes this new Fuji a fun and very affordable choice among waterproof cameras. [See description and specs of the Fujifilm Z33WP] -- Posted Monday, February 23, 2009 by chb

PowerShot D10: Canon's first waterproof, freeze proof and shockproof camera
The 12-megapixel PowerShot D10 is Canon's first entry into the waterproof/rugged space. The camera is fairly large and heavy, but well equipped to handle most of the abuse it may encounter outdoors. It is dust and waterproof, and it can handle being dropped from up to four feet. Divers can take it down to 33 feet of depth, enough for many scuba adventures. The camera's controls are large and arranged so you can operate it with a glove. Optical lens stabilization reduces blur. Thanks to Canon's DIGIC 4 processor, the camera offers speedy operation, onboard image correction, and advanced face recognition modes. The list price is US$329. [See description and specs of the Canon PowerShot D10] -- Posted Wednesday, February 18, 2009 by chb