News flash: The company decided to adopt a definitely pro-active approach to the problem with the beheading of the top management and the replacement of most of the direction team. The new President will be Hiroyuki Sasa and a new Chairman has been chosen: Yasuyuki Kimoto. No less than 11 new directors have been named!

Observers will interpret this as the clear will to break free from the past and the decision of stock holders to force the company to spend more energy on its own development than into the defense of its former management. Assuredly, this is a strategic decision in favor of pursuing more forward-thinking activities, but it may also be a move to separate themselves from a former management tied to too many risks for Olympus itself. Whatever it may be, this is pretty good news for the Customers and for the future of Olympus.

Let’s hope for the photo business that this will not shake the company down while it is trying to bring interesting innovations to the customers.

PS: It seems that the apparent suicide of the managing director of Olympus India is not related to this same issue.

Don’t let the photo mislead you, this is not a good old APS-C digital SLR camera. On the contrary, this is a surprising little camera taking its inspiration from many books and many different worlds.

• The Olympus OM-D goes back to the small size of the 1980’s Olympus OM (relative, but small for this era). but it is not compatible with the old (and fair) OM range of lenses.
• It is sensitive: ISO 200-25600 on a 16.9 MP imaging sensor
• This is a PEN camera (with a micro-4/3 digital sensor, which is slightly smaller than the more traditional APS-C form factor)
• This camera is quick and snappy: 60 – 1/4000 sec and up to 9 frames/sec
• It is weather-sealed and quite rugged.

There are only two flies in the ointment: Will the financial wealth of Olympus cast a dark shadow on the camera? And won’t the 1100€ price tag (for the EM5 model shown) be too high?

I know that photo caemras seem to be always more expensive, but a little gem like this one will be leaving a dark stain on the checkbook stub and the credit card invoice slip…

Press Release

Olympus Imaging has today launched the much anticipated new OM-D (OM Digital Compact System Camera) series, with the announcement of its inaugural E-M5 model. Featuring an integrated 1.44 megapixel electronic viewfinder and 16 megapixel LiveMOS image sensor, it is the world’s fastest auto-focusing camera and is equipped with the world’s first five-axis image stabiliser integrated into its weather-proof alloy body.

The OM-D series heralds a new technological epoch in interchangeable lens digital cameras, as conventional digital SLR camera designs come to an evolutionary end in user experience and portability. With its high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) and real-time digital interface, the Olympus E-M5 immerses the photographer fully into the creative process through a genuine WYSIWYG experience. Exposure, colour and filter effects are seen live, not after the picture has been taken.

Using FAST-AF (Frequency Accelerated Sensor Technology Auto Focus), that combines the high drive speed of the new LiveMos sensor, the latest MSC (Movie & Stills Compatible) lens technology, and a very short release lag, the E-M5 is the world’s fastest* autofocusing camera. 3D subject tracking is a new feature in continuous AF mode for enhanced focusing accuracy of moving subjects.

Olympus has also developed world’s first five-axis image stabilisation (IS) system. In addition to the standard two-axis camera pitch/yaw movement detection and compensation, the system in the E-M5 is also capable of detecting vertical and horizontal translational movement, and roll along the lens axis. IS compensation is effective up to a maximum of -5 EV. With a newly designed mechanism for shifting the sensor, the effects of IS can be seen live through the electronic viewfinder in both still shooting and recording video.

For maximum convenience, an eye-level sensor automatically switches Live View between the rear OLED touch-sensitive screen and the EVF when the camera is lifted to eye-level for shooting. This new tilting 3″ OLED capacitative touch-screen enables tap-shooting with focus point selection, and image playback control.

The new 16 megapixel LiveMOS sensor with a maximum 240fps frame rate captures broadcast quality Full HD video. A newly designed video processing algorithm provides superb video quality with significantly reduced aliasing. Undesirable rolling-shutter effects are now reduced to negligible levels.

Designed as a creative tool that you can take with you everywhere, even in inclement conditions, the E-M5 is both splash and dustproof**, and features a light yet robust magnesium alloy chassis.

Other Features

• New EVF Creative Control function provides live interactive highlight and shadow adjustment and white balance control
• Ergonomic twin input control dials
• Bundled with clip-on FL-LM2 weatherproof flash
• Wireless flash control (when the bundled FL-LM2 or the new FL-600R strobe unit, is attached)
• Shutter speed range 60-1/4000th seconds including Bulb
• 120fps maximum EVF display rate in still shooting with 29ms display lag enables sequential shooting display with minimal viewfinder delay (default frame rate is 60fps, adjustable to 120fps). Video refresh during video recording is as fast as 240fps, reducing the rolling shutter effect entirely.
• New Li-ion battery BLN-1 and new charger BCN-1

*As of Feb 2012 based on Olympus in-house tests; when the M.Zuiko Digital 12-50mm lens is used

**Camera becomes fully environment-proof when used with the M.Zuiko Digital 12-50mm lens

NEW SYSTEM ACCESSORIES

HLD-6 battery grip kit

HLD-6 kit comprise of HLD-G and HLD-P. It provides for both vertical and horizontal camera holding, or just vertical if the top half (HLD-G) is used without the battery pack grip (HLD-P). A total of two BLN-1 batteries – one in the camera body, one in the grip can be used together. Features weather-sealing.

FL-600R Flash Strobe

The new FL-600R flash strobe has a maximum guide number of 50 (ISO200) and can work either as a wireless commander or slave strobe with both E-M5 and PEN models. The flash head tilts down 7 degrees and up 90 degrees, with 180 degrees rotation on either side. It uses 4 AA batteries for fast recycling, has a built-in wide diffuser panel for a 16mm equivalent coverage, and a small pull-out reflector plate to create catch-lights in portraits. For video recording, it has a built-in 1W LED.

Underwater Case PT-E08

Works to a depth of 45 meters. This new housing uses a waterproof lens port that is bayonet-mounted and replaceable. The standard underwater lens port accepts the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 II, M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm f4.0-5.6 lenses. When an optional port adapter is used, an underwater lens port compliant with the Four Thirds System standard can be attached on it. This design is expected to make the two lenses, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 8mm f3.5 Fisheye and ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50mm f2.0 Macro, usable with the underwater case.

As the FL-LM2 flash provided as standard with the OLYMPUS OM-D incorporates the wireless flash control function, it can also control the UFL-2 Underwater Flash.

TECHNOLOGY ADDENDUM

1. High-performance Electronic Viewfinder with Creative Control interface

• Bright and Clear from edge to edge
• Large exit pupil to keep nice visibility even when eye position is shifted
• 100% field of view
• Maximum magnification ratio: x1.15
• Eyepoint: 18 mm
• Dioptre adjustment: -4 to +2m-1
• Optional large eye cup

The E-M5’s integrated electronic viewfinder with 1.44 megapixel resolution not only provides an extremely clear view courtesy of Olympus high-performance all-aspherical viewfinder optics, it provides real-time feedback of exposure and settings with a WYSIWYG experience in picture making and movie recording. Elements of the new Creative Control interface can be superimposed onto the live picture to assist intuitive interactivity. An example shown below is the new highlight and shadow curve adjustment feature.

Aspects of Creative Control visible through the EVF include: Highlight-Shadow, White Balance, Picture Aspect and View Magnification

2. World’s first 5 axis image-stabilisation

Current 2-Axis Image Stabilization New 5-Axis Image Stabilization

Most contemporary IS systems whether integrated into camera body or lens-based are only able to detect movements in a 2-axis orientation – pitch and yaw. A world’s first 5-axis system has been developed for the OM-D series that provides comprehensive stabilisation for almost all forms of camera shake possible including horizontal and vertical translational movements, as well as roll movement around the lens axis. Overall IS performance is significantly better than two or three axis IS systems. This new stabilisation system is capable of up to -5 EV of image stabilisation. Handheld macro photography is a big beneficiary of this new IS system, as would long-lens or low-light shooting situations.

This new MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) IS unit incorporates Olympus’ pioneering SSWF (Supersonic Wave Filter) dust reduction system for dust-free photography. A new IS drive mechanism enables the effect of stabilisation to be viewed in real-time through the EVF. Like all Olympus PEN and DSLR cameras with built-in IS, image stabilisation can even be extended to OM legacy lenses that are non-electronically coupled, via manual focal length input.

3. Advantages of Contrast Detection Vs Conventional SLR Phase Detection in low-light AF performance

Contrary to popular belief, conventional phase detection (PD) AF systems found in the majority of available DSLRs are actually technology limited in low-light focusing situations and hence provide much lower AF performance even if a large aperture lens (e.g., f1.4) is used, when compared to contrast (CD) AF type systems. Most conventional phase detection systems can only make use of light flux equivalent to f5.6 or 10 degrees by default, even when a taking lens of larger than f5.6 aperture is used. This weakness is inherent in the actual working principle of most PD AF systems in use today as shown in the diagram below.

Contrast Detect AF systems on the other hand benefit make full use of the corresponding increase in the amount of light with larger aperture lenses for better AF accuracy in low-light photographic situations.

4. Dust and Splash-proof alloy body

The E-M5 body uses a comprehensive weather-proofing system. When used with the M.Zuiko Digital 12-50mm lens which is also dust and splashproof, the camera system is fully sealed against the elements. The accessory FL-LM2 flash, as well as the HLD-6 battery grip kit are also weather-sealed.

For maximum chassis strength, a special high-precision casting process akin to injection moulding is used to create the rugged magnesium alloy chassis that protects the sophisticated electronics and mechanics.

1. colorful cameras
2. retro-styled cameras that try not to look old

Two recent examples: A white Nikon V1 and a retro-styled Samsung NX-200 RS (with only a metalized plastic top to distance itself from the usual all-black livery).

They did not reach very far, though. There still some before we can draw on the surface of the camera like with our mobile phones…

While waiting for this dream future, we still have to be patient until we see the next camera from Olympus which (according to PhotoRumors) could well look a lot like an Olympus OM SLR camera from old times.

Funny, but until there is some clarification of the financial status of the Olympus mother company, I will sit and look from some distance, with a tender smile on my face.

It is now nearly certain that this camera will be named OM-D (to draw from the excellent fame of the analog SLR cameras of the 80’s) or OM-Digital and this was publicly confirmed by the publication of a full-page ad in Amateur Photographer magazine (under the big title of “OH MY GOODNESS!”) and it would be the announcement that Olympus people have long been touting in the tune of “here comes the Pro Pen!” to give a big cousin to the PEN hybrid camera of the same brand.

Furthermore, Olympus has widely suggested that the camera would be shown to the press on February 8th (very soon) and could be available in March 2012.

Up to this point, the information is nearly certain but there are also rumors that require confirmation.

Let’s start with the pictures of the camera where we are told that they are an OM-D mock-up from Olympus: Several web sites tried to take advantage of the situation by showing us nice 3D renderings built from the available (lack of) information (Tecnofotografia and Livedoor). But it is almost certain that none of those is coming from Olympus 3D files. We only have very partial close-ups (probably distributed by Olympus itself through 43rumors in order to keep the buzz up).

However, thanks to a post from Wells Fargo Advisors, we are nearly sure of some key items:

• A frame very similar to the old OM-1 (but smaller), without a mirror but with interchangeable lenses,
• 16 MP digital sensor,
• Fast AF system (it should be a strong feature of this camera),
• Price: 100.000 yens in Japan or US$1.100 in the USA or 1.000 Euros in Europe

After that, we are entering the realm of more or less wild speculations.

• Magnesium alloy body (like for pro D-SLR),
• Sensor stabilization,
• Sensitivity: ISO 100-25600,
• Dust- and weather-proof body and lenses (like for Pentax),
• Electronic View finder (EVF) trying to fake a good optical view finder (quality?),
• Built-in flash,
• Autofocus system based upon 3D tracking (as for Nikon),
• Black and white/silver versions, with leather-style covering.

So, if some of these will certainly be proven more rumors and wishes than reality (and I would think the combination would look very good even at the very high price shown above), I keep some skepticism. Is it a good idea to invest our hard-earned money in products from a company whose financial future is so uncertain? However, we must praise Olympus for working hard to draw the attention to cameras which could be able to defend the brand future. Long live the OM-1 and -maybe- the OM-D.

Abilene Camera specialize in Mail Order Camera Repair and Restoration of Classic manual focus 35mm SLRs dating from 1960 to 1990.

Now that smoke and dust are settling down we can see more clearly (it produced a small hike up in the stock prices and we heard that the rumors of mafia crime implication are no longer credible). The financial status stays very difficult, at best. All the analysts are agreeing on the prediction of a capital raise to bring some new cash (though it will certainly get the previous owners and the current management expelled).

But the conditions are ill chosen. Specifically, Olympus has a tough choice to make:

1. either they wait for the troubles to fade out, and the company will run out of cash; They will have to sell parts, the photo division now becomes “the crown’s jewels” to be auctioned off, if it happens soon.
2. or they try to quickly raise new funds on the market [1], and the management will be quickly shown the exit door by the new owners.

In this last case, the big question is “Who would want of that?” The names most commonly heard are:

• Sony: They have enough free cash, but what would they look for in such a mess, except a fast investment with an even faster cash out?
• Fujifilm: They are already present on very similar markets (Medical Imaging and Photography) but they may loose even their shirt and their boots at this table. According to Reuters, they did not decide yet.
• Panasonic: could be interested in grabbing some patents, some designers and the means to reboot its own photo camera business.

So, we will have to stay alert for news in this beginning of the year to know how Olympus will end: Eaten by a raider or lightened by a severe diet?

As a matter of fact, we are witnesses to an almost unbelievable financial chronicle on a background of fraud, creative accounting (of the kind that leads company Officers to jails) and possible links to organized crime. Would you believe it? Of course, we must be aware that there may be some unfounded data here, but a few facts are now official.

The story starts back in 1998 when the Japanese finance world was rocked by rumors of huge losses at Olympus. Then, everything went back to normal after some strong comments from Olympus management… Up to when the ex-Executive Officer of Olympus UK, Michael Woodford, started talking and singing to the whistle-blowing tune. At first quite skeptical, we heard that the mother company was several years in trying to hide huge losses from the end of the ’90s through financial practices less than legally sound.

Olympus would have lost enormous amounts of money in the ’80s and ’90s in unsafe short-term investments. This did not look too unusual, even for an industrial company. But it starts getting weird when we hear that the company would have been trying to hide these losses (probably around 700 million US dollars, according to official declarations; But it is said that there are about 5 billion US dollars missing in the balance sheet) by investing in young and fast-growing companies. As a matter of fact, it would have been -only- a way to write off quick huge losses rather than any other thing. So, it amounts to a colossal accounting fraud, maybe hidden behind the cooperation of some financial institutions.

The fact that this is an accounting technique so well-known that it has a Japanese name (“zaitech“) does not seem enough to exonerate lies on a long period of time. Olympus is risking a de-listing from Stock Exchange markets. Its managers could be confronted to the judge. In Japan, in the US or in the UK. It has also been said that this scandal also includes connections to organized crime (far worse than a league of shabby finance directors) which would have been recruited (and paid) to help build the fraud.

The stock fell through the ground (see above). The situation is serious enough that the company may be crushed and could simply disappear (after a quick de-listing).

The consequence could be dramatic for the photo camera brand. Even if photo activities could be sold by the manufacturer of endoscopic and medical equipment, the current situation of the camera division is not very favorable and there is a significant risk that nobody would buy it if this drags on for too long.

For several months, I have been predicting the possible disappearance of one or more photo brands from the D-SLR market. I often said that I saw Sigma as the most likely candidate because of its hesitant and inconsistent strategy here. But Olympus could overtake them in this dramatic race to the crash-test wall. Let’s meet again before the end of 2011 for more. It would leave only memories of marvelous cameras which reached semi-mythical status.

Nevertheless, in front of this fast-moving news landscape, we should not under-estimate the action of individual egos of the managers and ex-managers: Michael Woodford is leading a campaign to be called back at the head of Olympus as a savior.

Sources:

• New York Times
• Bloomberg
• New York Times

The most recent release of Capture One (version 6.3) now supports the new RAW files grnerated by the most recent Sony products using the huge 24 MP sensor:

• Sony Alpha 77
• Sony Alpha 65
• Sony NEX-7
• Sony NEX-5n

We should also list the support for the most recent Olympus:

• Olympus E-P3
• Olympus E-PL3

Olympus launches a new hybrid photo camera, the E-PL1s. But, this is certainly not a major announcement:

• It’s an evolution of the Olympus E-PL1 bringing the ISO 6400 ability
• You will find it in Japan only
• It stays the samllest EVIL/Hybrid camera in the world right now

Tow lens kits will be available with the following:

• M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm F3.5-5 .6 II
• M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm F3.5-5 .6 II and M.ZUIKO 40-150mm F3-5.6

Olympus BioScapes 2010 Winners Gallery

In a way, this was expected, but the news are now official. Olympus wants to develop itself totally in the EVIL kind of digital, like the cute little PEN cameras.

More precisely, Toshiyuki Terada, Product Manager at the SLR Planning Department of Olympus, said to Fotopolis that this implied both not replacing the current DSLR cameras like the Olympus E-620 and removing -later in the future- all the SLR cameras from the Olympus range.

This could not be clearer, but it’s true that the market of the low-cost SLR camera is highly competitive and a place where Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony are fighting to the death (they are the only ones currently able to keep investing here).

• Canon EOS 60Dli>
• Nikon D3100
• Nikon D7000
• Olympus E-5
• Pentax K-5
• Pentax K-r
• Sony SLT-A33
• Sony SLT-A55
• Sony Alpha 560
• Sony Alpha 580

But, let’s also see what the camera and accessories manufacturers did not announce or launched too discreetly.

• Panasonic launches a new Lumix: The GH2 sports an 18MP CMOS sensor in a body very similar to the Lumix GH1. 1080p video capture, autofocus is 2x faster.
• Panasonic: New “G” lenses (14 mm f/2.5, Vario 100-300 mm f/4-5.6 Mega O.I.S., 3D 12.5 mm f/12)
• Sigma is ready to push forward after the SD15 (very late in the market) with a new Foveon sensor at 48 MP (15.3 x 3) which will arrive in a future camera to be named Sigma SD1. Notice that Sigma announced that the SD1 sensor will be protected against dust by a glass filter which will hermetically close the mirror chamber (this should be very efficient).
• Pentax : SMC DA 18-135 mm f/3,5-5,6ED AL [IF] DC WR zoom lens for the Pentax K range of SLR photo cameras.
• Leica M9: A special edition built out of titanium (for rich art collectors).
• Große Überraschung (Big surprise): Fuji presents a very cool new APS-C compact camera, the FinePix X100 which looks a lot like a smaller Leica M9 (very good looking) and which nobody heard about before (did you hear about any kind of link for it?). Price: About US$ 1000 or 1000€
• Adobe announces a new Elements version: Adobe Photoshop Elements 9
• Sigma 150 mm Macro and 120-300 mm f/2.8 stabilized
• Leaf Aptus-II 12 medium format photo camera with 80 MP resolution and €23,995 / $31,995 price tag
• Samyang présented two new lenses: V-DSLR 8 mm F3.5 Aspherical IF MC Fish-eye CS et AE 14 mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UM
• Metz comes with 3 flashes: 44 AF-1 (99.90€), 36 AF-5 (69.90€), 24 AF-1 (179.90€).

Official Olympus E-5 Sample Images

A 12MP MOS sensor, a 3″ LCD display with 920k pixels, a LiveView mode with Contrast AF, 720p video capture and shutter speed up to 1/8000s.

At $1699.99, this is not a cheap camera, but if the pictures are at the right level, it could be a hit.

It becomes quite clear that Olympus is concentrating a lot of efforts on this format, and that the perspective becomes more readable.

Nota bene: At the same time, Olympus UK reduces the price of an E-PL1 kit with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens, now at 750€ or £449.99.

There was a dire need of a respectable tele-zoom in the Olympus lens range. This is now corrected with nothing less than a 75-300 mm f/4,8-6,7 (equivalent to a 150-600mm). If this was a bit too much for your taste, they also brought a nice 40-150 mm open at f/4,0-5,6 (much more reasonable).

The 75-300mm comes in cloth of black and silver according to your taste, at the price of €899.00/$899.99. Available in December 2010.

The 40-150mm will sell for €329.00/$299.99 as early as October 2010.

Furthermore, you will be able to shoot pictures with an Olympus E-P2 Special Black EVF Edition for €1079.00, and an Olympus E-P2 Special Black Flash Edition at €1049.00/$999.99, from October.

photo credit: davidgsteadman

When buying a photo camera, we often research in order to decide if this is the best camera, if its features will be goo enough, but will it be robust enough? Will it be useful or necessary to purchase a warranty contract extension? Will it fail very soon?

When somebody asks me these questions (and it happens quite often since I consider myself some kind of photography expert), I am usually without good answers; Nobody really speaks about this dirty little secret: Reliability of photo cameras is a taboo issue. In most cases, talking only happens for very extreme situations (I will not mention any pro camera events in the past few years). But on a daily basis, will my camera follow me everywhere? will it survive the bad treatment I will apply? Or will it fail at the sight of the first cloud (of dust or rain)? Preferably just a couple of days after the end of the warranty period?

photo credit: Orin Zebest

So, I decided to collect more than the usual information to try and answer these questions with more than: Entry-level cameras are too cheap to be robust, are less protected than pro cameras; And, mechanics fail more than electronics.

And, I found a few interesting articles with adequate documentation. Of course, they are the rightful product of the business of some shops repairing or renting equipment and accepting to share their data with us.

And I found interesting data. For example, there is nearly no information on photo cameras, or camera bodies. But SquareTrade published rather detailed report about the repairs they did in the recent years (though mostly on point-n-shoot cameras) with some frightfully clear conclusions, like:

• More than 10% of the cameras failed before 2 years
• The statistical projection tells that there are/will-be more than 15% failure within 3 years
• Accidents are a major cause for failure: 40% of cameras were broken in such a way; We are rougher than our cameras!
• The more expensive, the more robust
• For SLR cameras, Canon and Nikon go hand-in-hand

And to think that the failure rate of major brands is around 4% within two years for a camera whose price is nearing 1000€…

But, look at the graph below:

I would like to believe that you can extend these figures out of point-n-shoots and into the SLR market, but my own professional experience with quality and reliability management (in the automotive world, if you want to know) tells me that we should not even try.

On the opposite, I found additional data about interchangeable lenses to plug into our SLR cameras. Two studies from LensPlay and LensRentals bring some more light to the issue.

From LensPlay, hundreds of lenses and users have been analyzed: among the voluntary answers provided for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Minolta/Sony, Tamron, Tokina and Sigma, only Minolta/Sony produced less than 200 answers (a pretty nice representation of the market).

LensRental gives us a finer status because they go down to a model-by-model level. So, it’s no longer necessary to compare brands, but you can get a good idea of which glass piece is more fragile or more sturdy than others, forgetting about the good (or bad) fames.

We also appreciate a lot some of the additional comments like:

• The super tele prime lenses (300mm f/2.8, 400mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4, 600mm f/4) from either Canon or Nikon are among the more reliable lenses (their simplicity is probably a good reason for such a score).
• The Sigma 120-400mm & 150-500mm had a 45% repair rate (as long as they were included in the LensRentals catalog of products).
• The Canon 50mm f/1.2 and Sigma 100-300mm are well under 10% (which is considered a good level in LensRentals)

Of course, these raw figures must be taken with a grain of salt: Rentals are often more mis-handled than bought parts, but the relative results are quite certainly representative of the underlying reality. And for example, the Canon 100-400mm seems to have an unfair bad fame about the reliability of its stabilization mechanism.

All in all, many reasons to treat your photo hardware with some care…

Sources:

• PetaPixel
• LensPlay
• LensRentals

• Nikon has been telling the world that they intended to have a great year 2010. It seems that they will bring a new DSLR (it could be the Nikon D700x, Nikon D700s, or Nikon D800 according to the rumor mill). It would be confirmed according to the banner visible on LetsGoDigital. But this is apparently a fake built from press material from the older Nikon D3 (via NR).
• Yesterday’s press conference did not bring a single SLR though (Coolpix S8000, Coolpix S6000, Coolpix S4000, Coolpix S3000, Coolpix P100, Coolpix L110, Coolpix L22, Coolpix L21, nothing less!)
• Plenty of people expect to see the Canon EOS 60D arriving now, but it’s still uncertain. NL/DPR predicts a set of features: CMOS 18MPs, 6.3fps, HD 24 and 36fps, Digic IV.
• According to CR, Canon is preparing a new Rebel/EOS camera whose name should be Rebel T2i (the European name could be 550D or EOS 600D), with video, fixed LCD of improved resolution.
• At last, Canon would present the very pro Canon EOS 1Ds Mk IV
• Samsung should extend its new NX line, possibly with some lenses (waiting a little more for a new NX camera body).
• Olympus and Fuji should bring only P&S cameras.
• The Sony rumour line is totally silent, which could be indicator that either they are efficient at keeping a lid on the new Alpha 750 or there is nothing in preparation.

So, let’s wait a little more.

But, apart from the rare occasions when you really need it, it’s too expensive for you and me. Why not build it yourself? Instructables does the demonstration with a Nikon D90, but it could be done with any other camera.

If you have to ask for the price, you can’t afford it. But, it’s £1999.99 in the UK.

All in all, you will find several hundred SLR camera tests, feature lists, prices and the special offers from our preferred partners.

• Olympus sample video
• Amateurphotographer: First look and update
• CNet preview of Olympus E-P1
• DPReview: Olympus E-P1 movie samples

But you can also find a similar tool at Olympus (and it takes into account the specificities of 4/3 sensor format, of course): Perfect Lens finder.

For a demonstration, check this green camera for the military (Olympus) and this white camera for a wedding day (Leica):

They are clearly in competition with the surprising white, green or be-jeweled cristal Pentax K2000 “bling-bling” SLR cameras.

Source: Photography Blog.

Far from any other worldwide photo event, Olympus just launched its newest SLR photo camera: Olympus E-450. This 4/3-sensor-based SLR camera is essentially an upgrade of the already good camera Olympus E-420, bringing a more than adequate 10MP resolution (more than enough for most photographers, and enough to print in A4/Letter size) to a more up-to-date enveloppe.

Olympus E-450 improvements:

• Better, brighter LCD back screen
• 3 Art Filters (Pop Art, Soft Focus and Pin Hole – I fear this is not going to make good/better photos…)
• Longer continuous shooting sequences (8 RAW images, instead of 6 in the E-420)

Clearly, these Recession times are pushing manufacturers to make minors improvements to already existing models rather than creating truly new cameras (check the Panasonic DMC-GH1 and its older brother DMC-G1). But a good SLR camera made slightly better is still a good camera.

All the technical details of the Olympus E-450.
All the technical details of the Olympus E-420.

UK Press Release document

31 March 2009 – Building on the success of the popular E-420, the new E-450 is packed with features that encourage new comers to DSLR to have fun and explore their creative potential. Three in-camera Art Filters apply stylish effects to any image at the touch of a button. Image composition is simplified via Live View on the bright LCD. Packed with features yet easy to use straight out of the box, this latest addition to the Olympus E-System range is not only one of the smallest and lightest models on the market*, it also boasts all the benefits of the Four Thirds Standard at an affordable price. The E-450 has a full range of Olympus’ innovative E-System technology on board and will be available in stores from May 2009 at a recommended retail price of around £450 for the standard lens kit.

Olympus E-450 digital SLR – main features:

Usability
• Extremely easy operation – use it straight out of the box

Functionality
• Three Art Filters
• Improved Live View with contrast AF, Face Detection, Shadow Adjustment Technology & phase difference detection AF system
• Perfect Shot Preview to enable comparison of the results of various settings adjustments before actual shooting
• TruePic III+ image processor

Portability
• One of the world’s smallest and lightest D-SLRs providing the ultimate in portability

E-450 Key features
• 10 Megapixel Live MOS sensor
• High-contrast 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD with 176° viewing angle
• The original Supersonic Wave Filter for dust protection
• 28 shooting modes (5 Exposure Modes, 5 Creative Modes, 18 Scene Select Modes)
• Built-in flash (GN12, ISO 100) with commander function for wireless off-camera flash synchronisation
• Wireless flash control in up to 3 groups (separate press release available for Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R flash units)
• 3.5fps with up to eight images in RAW buffer
• One-touch white balance
• AE/AF-lock functionality
• ISO 100 to 1600 for wide-ranging sensitivity
• Depth of field preview function
• 49-segment digital ESP
• Bracketing function (Exposure)
• Detailed info screen with histogram
• Based on Four Thirds Standard
• Dual memory slot for CompactFlash and xD-Picture Card

The Olympus E-450 is available in the following configurations:

• Olympus E-450 body only
• Olympus E-450 Lens Kit
(E-450 body with ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6 lens)
• Olympus E-450 Double Zoom Kit
(E-450 body with ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6 and ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm 1:4.0-5.6 lenses)

* As of 02.2009
** Full contrast AF performance is available with Olympus lenses including the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm 1:4.0-5.6, ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6, ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm 1:4.0-5.6, ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm 1:4.0-5.6, ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm 1:2.8 “pancake” lens and the ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II.

The E-450 will sit between the E-420 and E-520 in the UK market with all three being available until further notice. This will provide consumers with the widest choice of E-System DSLR’s yet seen – one for every pocket and one for every need.

A creative powerhouse
Developed with amateurs in mind, the easy-to-use Olympus E-450 brings a high performance D-SLR to users with unbridled imaginations. A range of Art Filters allows photographers to stretch the limits of their creativity, without complicated software or a computer. Introduced with the E-30, this function gives pictures a make-over by selecting from one of three Art Filters. Inspired by the kaleidoscopic colours of the pop art movement, the Pop Art effect, for example, infuses photographs with rich shades to give pictures a livelier, dynamic feel. Soft Focus, on the other hand, makes pictures seem ethereal and otherworldly, while Pin Hole gives images an air of secrecy. Framing shots perfectly is also a breeze with the generous 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal II LCD with 176° viewing angle, which allows you to shoot from virtually any perspective and is even brighter than the E-420’s. The Live View functionality with the camera’s contrast AF** capabilities, on the other hand, allows you to comfortably judge exactly what results to expect, even before images are shot. This way, what you see is what you get, no matter what the perspective! Further guaranteeing pictures are optimally exposed, Face Detection Technology automatically detects and focuses on faces while Shadow Adjustment Technology balances out shadowy areas. 28 shooting modes, including automatic, semi-automatic and manual shooting options, ensure complete versatility. Nice pictures at the touch of a button – what more could you ask for?

Trusted and true
Olympus has packed the E-450 with everything an entry-level photographer needs to take high-quality pictures. It is equipped with Olympus’ proprietary dust reduction system, the Supersonic Wave Filter, which protects from the threat of dust – and has become the world’s leading solution against dust on the image sensor. Additionally, a powerful 10 Megapixel Live MOS sensor provides incredible resolution for crisp, detailed shots. This is supported by the incorporation of the TruePic III+ image processor: it guarantees exceptionally true-to-life image reproduction while reducing noise and enhancing processing speed. It is possible to shoot at up to 3.5fps in full Megapixel mode with up to eight images in RAW buffer. Compact and light, the E-450 boasts all the advantages of Four Thirds and Olympus state-of-the-art technology in a handy format everyone can appreciate.

Full range of accessories
The Olympus E-450 is compatible with nearly all E-System accessories, such as 19 lenses with a focal range of 7 – 300mm (equivalent to 14 – 600mm on a 35mm camera) and various flash systems. A perfect companion for this compact model, for example, is the short-barreled and lightweight ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm 1:2.8 (equivalent to 50mm on a 35mm camera) Pancake lens. The E-System D-SLR newcomer also ensures perfect light no matter what with up to three Wireless Flash groups familiar from the professional E-3. Available are the FL-50R and FL-36R wireless flashes. And in any situation where a flash is needed, new robust Olympus Flash Brackets, such as the FL-BK04, guarantee good light and maximum flexibility. Two flashes can also be mounted on the practical FL-BKM03 Twin Flash Bracket.

Rookie creative types will find everything they want from a digital SLR in the E-450. One easy-to-use package unites Olympus technology and incredible E-System features such as the Supersonic Wave Filter and Live View with artistic options like Art Filters. Look for the new E-450 in stores as of the end of May 2009 at a retail price of €xxx.

FotoMagazin, German monthly photo magazine, tells us the news in its lastest (April) issue: Pentax joins Olympus in the non-race. After Nikon whose Nikon D700 had shown an honorable restraint with its 12 mega-pixels only digital sensor (in 24×36 Full Frame sensor format), here is Gabriele Remmers, Marketing Communication Manager of the Division of Imaging Systems of Pentax Europe, who revels that today it is more important to bring out image quality, low levels of noise and deep details rather than a pixels explosion. End of the show! Let’s start being serious about quality.

I have to say that I fell in love with this Gabriele. In the interview, we can surprise her defending optical viewfinders (as the pentaprism of our SLR cameras) against Electronic View Finders (EVF).

But, for the most entrenched pentax lovers like some of our readers, she may have a surprise in store when she is questionned about the upcoming cameras. Speaking of 35mm Full Frame, she tells us that you will have to be very very patient. There’s nothing on the drawing table, Pentax is stuck with its range of APS-C “small sensor” lenses. No Full Frame before creating (shoudln’t I say “re-creating”) a full range of lenses targetting this sensor format (some extension of the current D-FA and FA ranges). And if you look into mid-size format, Pentax is still thinking about it but with a low priority (nothing to be expected in the short term).

So, what will be the next Pentax K30D? Quite certainly an APS-C SLR camera with a 12 to 15 mega-pixel sensor optimized for image quality, with an optical viewfinder looking through a nice pentaprism.

Akira Watanabe, manager of Olympus Imaging’s SLR planning department, in an interview given to CNet at the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) fair, said: “We have no intention to compete in the megapixel wars for E-System” Olympus’ line of SLR cameras [1]. Instead, Olympus intends to work on improving the Image Quality, the sensitivity, the noise levels, etc.

For most people this may come as shocking news. Everybody has grown used to the continuous increase in number of mega-pixels in photo cameras. But most photographers will have noticed that the larger the sensor and the smaller the number of pixels (in a specific technology generation), the better the images.

For Olympus, 12 mega-pixels is enough. It is enough for nearly all reasonable amateur applications (including some large prints).

Nikon did something less obvious when they launched the Nikon D700. But this is in the same: The Nikon D700 opted for a relatively small sensor resolution (only 12 MP on a large Full Frame sensor) to favor image quality (IQ). But they did not say so.

Let’s hope that many other companies will participate in this truce and transform it into a new competition for quality rather than quantity.

According to Canon Rumours, there could be some concentration moves around the camera manufacturers. Up to this, it’s just in line with what I’ve been telling about some brands whose CEOs have heart burns from the intense current competition.

But they also give us names and combinations to think about.

• Panasonic could buy the photo division of Leica. Assuredly weirder than certain.
• Panasonic could buy Olympus. Here comes credibility. And it would be industrially much more tenable.
• Samsung could buy Hoya, the owner of Pentax. If Pentax is suffering financial pains, Samsung is nearly certain to come and help. But why buy Hoya? This would be bizarre.