All it takes is a click of a mouse or “Shazam” during SuperBowl to help CFKF help more kids.

 SAN DIEGO, Jan. 29, 2012 – Sony’s newest Cyber-shot® digital still cameras make it easy to capture beautiful memories anytime and anywhere.

Partnership Connects Contour Cameras to MOD Live Technology for Use as a Viewfinder 

DENVER, CO, (SIA) – January 26, 2012 – Contour, (www.contour.com) a leader in making it easy to capture and share epic moments with hands-free video, and Recon Instruments, award winning innovator of Micro Optics Display (MOD) technology for action sport athletes, today announced a partnership to launch the Contour Camera Connectivity App for MOD Live, turning Recon-ready goggles into a viewfinder for Contour+ and ContourGPS cameras. MOD Live provides skiers and riders with instant information useful for both novices on beginner slopes or experts carving up the backcountry, including speed, location, jump analytics, temperature, altitude and more. These unique solutions can be seen live at Contour’s SIA booth #4528 or ISPO booth A1.225 (Hall A 1).

 “Contour is excited to partner with Recon Instruments, expanding our connectivity offerings,” said Contour CEO, Marc Barros. “Now, Contour and Recon users can use their MOD Live-enabled goggles making it easier than ever to capture epic moments from the mountain. Our continued efforts to merge video, data and Bluetooth connectivity show our ongoing commitment to innovation and to helping people of all skill levels share highlights from their adventures.”

 The Contour Camera Connectivity app is a free app users can download on their computer, allowing them to view what their Contour camera sees on MOD Live’s virtual 14 inch display. The remote control uses Bluetooth technology to connect a Contour+ or ContourGPS camera to the MOD Live unit. Now, with the touch of button, MOD Live can easily connect to Contour Bluetooth enabled cameras for easy accessibility to changing camera settings, starting/stopping the camera from up to 10 yards away, and viewing battery life on-the-go. In order to get started, download the app at HQOnline.reconinstruments.com, plug in MOD Live to a computer, pair a Contour+ or ContourGPS camera via Bluetooth with the remote control, and your MOD Live turns into a viewfinder.

 “The Camera Connectivity app transforms our display into a view finder, allowing skiers and riders to setup shots without taking off their goggles and gloves,” said Darcy Hughes, Chief Marketing Officer Recon Instruments. “We are thrilled to be launching with Contour and their Bluetooth enabled, high definition video cameras.”

 Contour’s award winning, hands-free HD video cameras let people shoot quality video from anywhere and everywhere, and with MOD Live technology, users can connect their camera and Recon-ready goggles. MOD Live and Contour connectivity gives ski and snowboarding enthusiasts one device that displays their ski/snowboarding analytics, elevation, temperature, camera display, adjust camera settings and more.

 The MOD Live currently ships with several industry first applications including: Jump, Buddy Tracking, Smartphone Connectivity, a Navigation app pre-loaded with the largest database of trail maps in the world, and Music Playlist Mode.

 The Contour Camera Connectivity App will be available to download at HQOnline.reconinstruments.com. For additional information about Contour+ and ContourGPS cameras, please visit www.contour.com, Facebook.com/Contour or follow us at @Contour_cam. For additional information about Recon Instruments and MOD Live, please visit www.reconinstruments.com or follow us at @Reconinstrument and facebook.com/reconinstruments.

 About Contour

Contour designs award-winning, easy-to-use tools to help active people capture and share epic moments through video. With Contour’s hands-free cameras, accessories and apps, creating high-quality and sharable highlights is easy and starts with the touch of one button. For more information about Contour please visit www.contour.com.

 About Recon Instruments

Recon Instruments strives to innovate and lead direct-to-eye communications in any fast-paced environment, such as action sports. A multi-patent and patent-pending technology platform integrates Micro Optics Display systems with state-of-the-art sensor and GPS technology, providing easy access to navigation, communication, and performance-based information. With offices in Vancouver and London, and boundless testing grounds on Whistler and beyond, Recon Instruments is dedicated to advancing the performance, participation and ethos of sport. Trust your instruments. www.reconinstruments.com

Enjoy Ease of Use with Start-Up Time of 0.99 Seconds and Time Between Photos as Short as 0.29 Seconds

Las Vegas, NV January 9, 2012 – Casio America, Inc., today announced the release of the EX-ZR15, a new addition to the EXILIM lineup of digital cameras. This new model is equipped with an array of shooting functions that set it apart from conventional compact digital cameras, including super-wide-angle shooting and a background blur function that makes the most of Casio’s original high-speed technologies.

The EX-ZR15 is powered by the EXILIM ENGINE HS, a high-performance engine that combines high-speed shooting and high-speed image processing. Further leveraging Casio’s high-speed technologies, the new EX-ZR15 compact digital camera significantly improves on operability and functionality. The new model boasts a start-up time of 0.99 seconds, 0.13-second high-speed auto focus, and time between photos as short as 0.29 seconds. The EX-ZR15 allows users to experience the pleasure of continuous shooting so no important moments are missed, even when using shooting modes that apply complex image processing needed for difficult scenarios, such as the HDR and HS night scene modes.

While the EX-ZR15 is a very compact digital camera, it is loaded with an array of powerful functions that make picture-taking even more fun, including a background blur effect that accentuates the subject and softens the background, and the new Wide Shot function that lets users create impressive super-wide-angle shots by panning the camera (equivalent to 17-mm wide-angle when converted to 35mm film format). Furthermore, the EX-ZR15 is equipped with a more advanced HDR-ART function that can create artistic images. The improved function now enables users to produce dramatic movies from everyday scenes.

Main Features of the EX-ZR15

EXILIM ENGINE HS with high-speed shooting and high-speed image processing
The EX-ZR15 incorporates the EXILIM ENGINE HS for high-speed shooting and high-speed processing. In addition to a multiple CPU and dual image processing circuits, the camera is equipped with a reconfigurable processor that delivers functional and performance flexibility plus high-speed processing based on Casio’s latest technologies. With the engine, the EX-ZR15 is fast from the time the power is turned on until the unit is turned off, with 0.99-second start-up time, 0.13-second high-speed auto focus, 0.29-second minimum time between photos, and approximately 1.8-second shutdown time, making picture-taking virtually carefree. The EXILIM ENGINE HS also achieves functions that were simply impossible before, such as HDR-ART, which creates artistic photographs, and enables simultaneous movie and continuous still image shooting.

HDR technology faithfully reproduces images as they really appear
With Casio’s HDR technology, each press of the shutter button actually takes several shots at different exposures and instantly combines them into a single image with a wide dynamic range. This minimizes washed out or overly dark areas, creating a photograph that captures all the rich tonal gradation of the scene just as it appears in real life. The HDR technology also reduces the blur caused by a subject’s movements during continuous shooting, leaving only beautifully crisp, clear photographs.

HDR-ART function for creating artistic photographs is now available for shooting movies
The EX-ZR15 features Casio’s HDR-ART function for enabling anyone to create truly artistic photographs* at the press of the shutter button, unlike anything possible with conventional cameras before. The function works by combining continuous shots with differing exposures and performing highly precise image analysis to locally change levels of contrast and color saturation. Users can select from three different processing levels of art effects. The HDR-ART function can also be applied to movies shot by the user, allowing them to produce dramatic movies from everyday scenes.

Background blur function lets users take impressive photographs like a single-lens reflex camera
Casio has employed its high-speed burst shooting technologies to create an original technique for processing the background scene of a shot like the soft blur effect attainable using a single-lens reflex camera, thereby accentuating the subject of the photo.

Scenes come alive in their full expansiveness with the Wide Shot function
The EX-ZR15 combines continuous shots taken with high-speed burst shooting when the user is moving the camera, enabling powerful super-wide-angle shots. Users can choose wide-angle shooting modes equivalent to 17 mm or 21 mm.

Casio’s Multi Frame SR Zoom maintains refined image quality to a maximum zoom of 14x
The wide-angle 28 mm, 7.0x optical zoom lens offers zoom performance equivalent to a maximum of 14x optical zoom with Casio’s Multi Frame SR Zoom, which actually combines a number of still images to maintain the image quality needed for high-resolution photography.

Slide Panorama captures 360-degree panoramic images
The EX-ZR15’s high-speed burst shooting and automatic composite image functions allow users to create natural-looking panoramic images just by panning the camera across a scene.

Users can enjoy producing high-resolution Full HD movies
The EX-ZR15 enables beautiful high-resolution Full HD movies. Even while shooting a movie, users can take still 16-megapixel high-resolution images with high-speed burst shooting using the Still In Movie function, and can also use the optical zoom and continuous auto focus.

Premium Auto function produces beautiful photos with just a press of the shutter button
Premium Auto enables the camera to automatically analyze the scene being photographed – including distinguishing night scenes, back lighting, a blue sky, green trees or a sunset – as well as sensing any human faces in the frame, the movement and position of the subject, and whether a tripod is being used. It simultaneously optimizes settings for exposure, ISO sensitivity, focus location, photo blur correction, tonal range and color balance, and level of noise reduction. Images are analyzed pixel by pixel to apply different correction to people and backgrounds. Premium Auto delivers an advanced level of full auto photography, ensuring high quality photos with just a press of the shutter button.

The EX-ZR15 will be available in Black, White, Red and Gold and will ship in April for $329.99.

About Casio America, Inc.
Casio America, Inc., Dover, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions, established in 1957. Casio America, Inc. markets calculators, keyboards, digital cameras, mobile presentation devices, disc titles and label printers, watches, cash registers and other consumer electronic products. Casio has strived to fulfill its corporate creed of “creativity and contribution” through the introduction of innovative and imaginative products. For more information, visit www.casiousa.com.

Extreme “Four-Way Protection” Refines What a Durable, Stylish Outdoor Camera Should Be

Valhalla, N.Y., January 5, 2012 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of the all new FinePix XP150 (with GPS) and XP100 (without GPS) digital cameras that take rugged protection and durability to a whole new level. Now, they are Waterproof to 33ft (10M) and Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. In addition, the all new XP50 also fights water, shocks, cold and debris by being Waterproof to 16.5ft (5M) and Shockproof to 5 ft (1.5M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof. With all this protection, you are certain to get your most adventurous shots, all with an extremely attractive camera body that is easy to use.

As a follow up to the highly successful XP-Series and its definitive “Four-Way Protection” each camera has been redesigned to deliver a brighter LCD screen, faster auto focus speeds, better ergonomics, and advanced functionality for all weather conditions.

The new durable FinePix XP-Series now feature the powerful and performance-driven 14-MegaPixel CMOS sensor, faster start-up and shot-to-shot times, up to 10 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, a 2.7” anti-reflective, high-contrast LCD that has been brightened for clear viewing even in direct sunlight, and the high-precision, FUJINON 5x wide angle optical zoom lenses (28-140mm) with a reinforced hardened glass lens barrier and water repellent coating.

“Active families have redefined the uses for a digital camera, and Fujifilm’s versatile and durable XP-Series lets consumers capture images in more places,” said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “The XP150, XP100 and XP50 thrive in elements that most cameras are afraid of, and allow users to capture photos and movies in new and unique ways, even underwater.”

Four-Way Protection
The FinePix XP150 and XP100 are Fujifilm’s most rugged and durable digital cameras that are perfect for mountain biking, hiking, skiing, surfing, and anything else that defines an extreme adventure. Both the XP150 and XP100 are Waterproof to 33ft (10M) and Shockproof to 6.5 ft (2M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof.

The XP50, also extremely tough and stylish, is perfect for active families on the go that want a camera they can take anywhere without worrying about its safety. Consumers can drop them, soak them, freeze them, and even cover them in dirt and mud, and the XP-Series will come out unscathed and taking great pictures. The XP50 is Waterproof to 16.5ft (5M) and Shockproof to 5 ft (1.5M), Freezeproof to 14°F (-10°C) and Dustproof.

Newly Redesigned Double Locking Door
The ergonomically-designed cameras are housed in a metal uni-body chassis for durability, and now feature a totally redesigned double locking door that seals and protects the battery and memory card slots, along with the USB and micro-HD ports. This new, heavy-duty door keeps the XP-Series cameras watertight and locks out dust and debris in any situation that you can throw at it.

HD Capability
The FinePix XP150, XP100 and XP50 all offer stunning movies in full 1080p HD – even underwater – with sound at 30fps with one-touch ease. Many consumers are happy to enjoy HD movies on their PC, but with the optional HD Player accessory kit, with wireless remote control (HDMI cable not included), families can gather around their home HDTV to enjoy amazingly detailed stills and high resolution movie playback.

Advanced Image Stabilization
The XP-Series all have a powerful sensor shift Dual Image Stabilization (CIS) system. CIS works as the photo is being taken as it combines a mechanically stabilized sensor with high ISO to combat camera/hand shake and subject movement for improved low light shooting. The result is an expanded range of shooting situations where the cameras can be used without the need of a tripod or other support. With CIS working in the background, you can capture sharp, colorful scenes and portraits underwater or at night.

Tracking Auto Focus (AF)
Created specifically to capture an action shot, the AF function tracks fast moving subjects so they don’t escape from the frame in a blur. Subjects will be tracked automatically for as long as it is kept in the frame and the shutter is half-pressed; when users fully press the shutter button your subject will be in the centre of the photo in perfect focus.

GPS and Geo-Tagging (XP150 only)
The FinePix XP150 features a high sensitivity GPS antenna that is now quicker and easier to pinpoint your location, no matter where you are in the world. The FinePix XP150 also includes an electronic compass, Photo Navigation and GPS Geo-Tagging

In addition to these innovations, the cameras are loaded with the following features:

• 360° Motion Panorama Mode: Automatically creates a stunning panoramic (horizontal or vertical) picture.
• Scene Recognition Auto (SR AUTO): This mode intelligently identifies the scene type and necessary shooting conditions to optimize picture perfect potential.
• Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the XP-Series cameras are fitted with Fujifilm’s latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
• Li-ion Rechargeable Battery: The XP150 and XP100 both feature an extended-life rechargeable Li-ion battery with charger for up to 330 shots per charge. The XP50’s rechargeable Li-ion battery delivers up to 220 shots per charge. Either way, the XP-Series allows users to shoot all of their images without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of their trip.
• Movie Editing Mode and Blog mode: Get creative and add finishing touches to movies and images, among others, you can choose from black and white, Sepia, or you can even add a dynamic lighting effect, all this in-camera.

The FinePix XP150 and XP100 will be available March 2012 at $279.95 and $249.95, respectively. The XP150 will be available in black and orange, while the XP100 will come in black, blue, orange, silver and green.

The FinePix XP50 will be available in March 2012 for $199.95 and will also come in black, blue, orange, silver and green.

An accessory kit for the new XP-Series containing an adjustable float strap, protective silicone skin and a neoprene sports case will be available in spring 2012.

NOTE: For more information, please go to: www.FujifilmUSA.com/CES2012.

For complete camera specifications, please go to: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/.

About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings America Corporation, consists of five operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division sells consumer and commercial photographic products and services including film, one-time-use cameras, online photo services and fulfillment, digital printing equipment and service. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras. The Motion Picture Division provides motion picture film, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides binoculars, and optical lenses for closed circuit television, videography, cinematography, broadcast and industrial markets. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. markets a range of Fujifilm products and services. For more information, please visit www.fujifilm.com/northamerica, or go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss.

FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Tokyo, Japan, brings continuous innovation and leading-edge products to a broad spectrum of industries, including electronic imaging, digital printing equipment, medical systems, life sciences, graphic arts, flat panel display materials, and office products, based on a vast portfolio of digital, optical, fine chemical and thin film coating technologies. The company was among the top 16 companies around the world granted U.S. patents in 2010, and in the year ended March 31, 2011, had global revenues of $25.8 billion*. Fujifilm is committed to environmental stewardship and good corporate citizenship. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmholdings.com.
* At an exchange rate of 86 yen to the dollar.

   

“We are extremely pleased with the traffic at this year’s show but more importantly our exhibitors were very pleased with the turnout, booth activity, and willingness attendees showed toward purchasing products and services,” says Jeff McQuilkin, Group Show Director for The Nielsen Company. “Our educational seminars were very well attended, which is a further indication that industry professionals and enthusiasts continue to want to learn about the latest techniques from industry experts.”

“PhotoPlus Expo is the most important photo industry show in the U.S. for Think Tank Photo,” explains Chris Butcher, National Sales Manager for Think Tank Photo. “We have a unique opportunity to meet with photographers who are industry leaders and see innovative products from major manufacturers as well as creative startups. This year Think Tank brought more staff and more bags than ever and we could barely keep up with the number of interested people who came to our booth.”

Brad Malcolm, President of Athentech, which produces Perfectly Clear image correction software, concurred. “We noticed a record number of downloads of our 30-day free trial during the three days of PhotoPlus Expo. The level of interest and willingness by attendees to take a closer look at our software was incredible. If we can translate a good majority of the downloads into actual sales after the show, PhotoPlus Expo will be the best show for us during 2011.”

PDN PhotoPlus Expo 2012 will be held from October 25-27, 2012 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York.

About PDN

PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo

Designed for professionals in the photographic and imaging industries, PhotoPlus Expo showcases the latest advances in photography. Held annually at the Javits Convention Center, attendees have the opportunity to explore an inspiring array of photography and imaging products and services – everything from image capture and color management to retouching and storage – all from the industry’s leading manufacturers. The show also offers over 115 photography and imaging seminars and hands-on labs taught by world-renowned experts with a focus on cutting-edge innovations in digital imaging products and techniques.

About WPPI

Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), a division of Nielsen Photo Group, is an organization that serves the educational and business needs of wedding and portrait photographers. WPPI is a professional organization that exists to help member photographers by providing them with exclusive information, programs and professional services to assist with their photographic artistry and business needs. WPPI routinely supplies its members with new benefits and valuable industry information enabling them to succeed in today’s active photo market business.

Collaborates with FedEx Office, Sims Recycling Solutions and Close the Loop to Offer Customers Ink Cartridge Recycling

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 27, 2011 – Continuing its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, announces a new nationwide inkjet cartridge recycling program. Designed in collaboration with FedEx Office^®, Sims Recycling Solutions and Close the Loop, this program utilizes the best environmental practices in treatment of recyclable materials.

Canon PIXMA printer users can now drop off empty genuine PIXMA inkjet cartridges at more than 1,600 FedEx Office Print and Ship Centers across the United States. From FedEx Office locations, cartridges will be consolidated by Sims Recycling Solutions, who specialize in the large-scale processing of electronic waste. After being consolidated by SIMS Recycling, the Genuine Canon ink cartridges go to Close the Loop, a “material recovery” company specializing in the recycling of inkjet cartridges. This program will be free of cost to all Canon consumers.

“With the rise in consumer environmental awareness, Canon is pleased to offer customers the opportunity to participate in this national recycling program,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications, Canon U.S.A. “Environmental responsibility and awareness have always been a top priority for Canon, and recycling is one of the simplest yet most beneficial aspects of this.”

The recycling program will tie into the Canon Generation Green initiative that focuses on helping to reduce the environmental burdens in all stages of a product’s lifecycle. Generation Green is designed to provide business partners, customers and consumers a way to identify and learn about the various eco-conscious features and solutions that Canon has to offer, including possible cost savings through energy efficiency.

In addition, components from the recycled cartridges can be turned into materials for other products. Close the Loop’s innovative products include felt-tip pens and markers made from inkjet plastics and inks; industrial colorants made from recycled ink; recovered metals that can be recycled into new steel and aluminum ingots; and scrap plastics that can be turned into the company’s synthetic “eLumber” and various eLumber products.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2010†, with global revenues of more than US $45 billion and is listed as number five in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2011 list. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Close the Loop, Inc. is an innovative materials recovery company, specializing in the collection and recycling of toner and inkjet cartridges, toner bottles as well as other print consumables. Founded in early 2001 on the principles of resource recovery and zero waste, the company has developed many innovative production processes and reuse applications specific to the complex category of imaging consumables.

Sims Recycling Solutions (www.us.simsrecycling.com) is the world’s largest electrical and electronics recovery and recycling company with 49 sites across the globe. Sims Recycling Solutions recycles all types of electronic equipment and enables businesses to meet both their social and legal obligations in the treatment of surplus electronics. The company’s asset management and recovery service enables businesses and public sector organizations to sustain the value of IT and electronic equipment, in a legally compliant, data secure, fully traceable and environmentally sustainable manner. In North America, Sims Recycling Solutions operates 13 sites in Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, Ontario, South Carolina and Tennessee.

† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

The LUMIX GF3 Body Weighs Just 7.83oz and Produces High-Quality Photos, Full-HD Video Recording Capabilities and Smart Touch-Screen Controls

SECAUCUS, NJ (June 13, 2011) – Panasonic today announces its latest compact system camera (CSC), the mirror-free Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF3 is the company’s smallest and lightest digital interchangeable lens camera with a built-in flash*1, with its body size comparable to that of a smartphone and weighing just 7.83oz (body only), less than a standard 8oz cup of coffee. The Panasonic’s LUMIX GF3 realizes all the features desired from a traditional DSLR interchangeable lens camera, only it accomplishes them in an ultra-compact body that is lightweight and simple to master.

This remarkable reduction in size and weight is thanks to advancements in new mirror-free camera technology, and large DSLR format sensors that are more compatible with a new class of compact Micro Four Thirds (MFT) System lenses. This new class of Compact System Cameras offers a weight and compactness not seen in traditional DSLRs, yielding greater portability and creative control. The DMC-GF3’s image quality comes from a large DSLR-sized 12.1-megapixel sensor and newly advanced image processing technologies.

The LUMIX GF3 digital camera is based on the Micro Four Thirds standard of lenses, which includes Panasonic’s 3D lens, thus the LUMIX GF3 not only provides outstanding still photos, full-High Definition 1080/60i video, but is also capable of shooting 3D still photos.

The Panasonic LUMIX GF3 produces high-quality photos with true-to-life details, thanks to excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction; high-grade lens options; and extremely precise Auto Focus (AF). Plus, the LUMIX GF3 creates the right balance between resolution and noise reduction, thus producing life-like images with accurate auto exposure and white balance, creating rich colors. Taking a page from the renowned LUMIX GH2‘s image quality, the LUMIX GF3 boasts full sized DSLR like Image quality thanks the same Venus Engine FHD image processor. The Venus Engine FHD image processor makes impressive low noise images from its 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor. Notably, images shot in low-lit situations at high ISO sensitivity setting, are stunningly clear with extremely sharp resolution. The image processor also excels in energy consumption by extending the battery life, despite its smaller size.

Thanks to a new mount, the LUMIX GF3 is approximately 16.7% smaller and 16.2% lighter than its predecessor, the LUMIX GF2. Despite its small size and unlike many CSC cameras in this class, the LUMIX GF3 still maintains a built-in flash and features a new pop-up mechanism that helps prevent the vignetting effect due to short distances between the flash unit and the interchangeable lens. With a newly-designed aluminum body that incorporates an ergonomic grip, and a well-designed control dial combined with a 3-inch touch enabled screen, the LUMIX GF3 is extremely intuitive and easy to use.

“The Panasonic GF3 compact system camera is extremely small and its newly-designed rounded body is quite attractive, which we expect to be popular among those users wanting to step-up from a point-and-shoot, yet who view traditional DSLRs as bulky and overly complex,” said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “While the size and weight of the GF3 has been greatly reduced, Panasonic does not compromise what is at the core of every LUMIX, which is exceptional photo and video quality with an easy-to-use interface.”

All models in Panasonic’s LUMIX G Series of digital cameras feature Contrast AF for their focus system, as opposed to phase-difference AF systems, used in traditional DSLRs, which is susceptible to a mechanical margin of focus errors at wide apertures. With a Contrast AF system, focusing is controlled by the image sensor so that mechanical margin of error is reduced to achieve precise focusing, thus boosting higher number of in focus shots, especially when shooting in low light with wide open lens aperture. As a result, when the LUMIX GF3 is used with Panasonic’s new wide aperture interchangeable lens, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH, also announced today, the performance of the Contrast AF system is optimally maximized.

The Panasonic LUMIX GF3 features a high-speed and extremely precise Contrast AF system that locks in approximately 0.18 seconds. Taking further advantage of Contrast AF, the LUMIX GF3 incorporates full-area focusing which makes it possible to set focus on any point in the field- of-view. The LUMIX GF3 also features Light Speed AF, an extremely fast AF which measures at approximately 0.1 seconds*2, which is achieved by reducing the detection time for focusing by doubling the sensors drive speed from 60 fps to 120 fps. With the combination of touch-control shooting, focusing on close up macro or still life objects is evermore quick and accurate thanks to the newly adopted Pinpoint AF that unlike a DSLR, offers near pixel level touch control focusing.

Manual control over focus is available in the DMC-GF3 and now features a quick 4x magnification feature. By simply touching the subject, that subject is then enlarged in a small window, allowing you to keep the rest of the image in view as a framing reference. Beyond 4x, that small window fills the monitor so even more control over focus fine-tuning can be achieved. This handy feature is available from both the MF (Manual Focus) Assist and AF + MF focus modes.

At the heart of the LUMIX GF3’s simplified functionality is a large 3.0-inch touch enabled LCD (460k- dot) that allows for intuitive touch control of menus and most shooting, focusing, playback and effects controls. Menus can be customized using simple drag-and-drop actions similar to those on some touch-enabled smartphones. This allows for a custom user interface, giving Quick Menu access to functions that can be tailored to any user’s expertise level. Users can also release the shutter using the touch-screen. Once locked onto a subject, the LUMIX GF3 tracks the subject with the AF Tracking feature and another touch allows the user to select the size of the AF area. In addition, Pinpoint AF function allows even more precise focus setting by further enlarging the focusing area. With increased customization, users can set the touch shutter and touch AF ON/OFF based on their preference. Touch-control also makes playback of photos and videos easy to flip through like pages in a book.

For those who miss the tactile feel of a traditional DSLR mode dial, the DMC-GF3 offers an innovative mode thumb wheel that quickly cycles though all available modes with visual feedback provided on the large 3’’ touch-enabled LCD.

The LUMIX GF3 records 1920 x 1080 full-HD video in the AVCHD format, which features almost twice the recording time in HD quality than the conventional Motion JPEG. A dedicated video record button on the top lets users instantly start recording video, without having to hassle with any menu settings. The LUMIX GF3 allows for Touch AF in video recording, enabling professional-like features, such as rack focusing. For instance, by touching the subject on the screen, the focus is shifted to the subject.

Contributing to its ease-of-use, the LUMIX GF3 features Panasonic’s acclaimed iA*3 (Intelligent Auto) mode – and the new advanced iA Plus mode – are automatically engaged once the iA button is pressed, helping to make shooting video and photos with the LUMIX GF3 extremely simple – even to users new to compact system cameras. Panasonic’s iA features include MEGA O.I.S. (included in several lenses), Intelligent ISO Control, and Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent D-range Control and Intelligent Resolution. With the new iA Plus mode, the LUMIX GF3 easily enables commonly desired manual enhancements not available from standard camera auto modes such as peripheries defocusing around faces, exposure compensation, and color balance adjustments which are visually adjusted by moving an on screen slider with the user’s finger or the thumb wheel,.

The LUMIX GF3, like all CSCs in the Panasonic LUMIX G Series, is equipped with a highly-efficient Dust Reduction System. In some system cameras, if dust or other foreign matter gets inside the digital camera while the lenses are being changed, it’s possible that the debris could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. However, the Panasonic Dust Reduction System helps to eliminate this problem by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor that vibrates vertically approximately 50,000 times per second – thus repelling dust and other particles from the LUMIX GF3’s sensor.

Two modes – Photo Style and Creative Control – let users at any skill level get creative with their photos. With Creative Control, the user can choose the most-frequently-used color modes (Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic and newly added Miniature Effect*4 mode) with easy access. In Miniature Effect mode, the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized so the photos look like a diorama. The Photo Style mode revitalizes the conventional film mode with settings in Standard, Vivid, Natural, Monochrome, Scenery, Portrait presets while enabling finer adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction.

The LUMIX GF3, like all the CSC in the LUMIX G Series of digital cameras, is compatible with other Micro Four Thirds lenses and the full sized Four Thirds System standard via an optional mount adaptor. Other accessories available to the LUMIX G Series include external flashes, PL and ND filters, leather cases, straps, and more. The Panasonic LUMIX GF3 will be available in black, white, red and brown bodies for a suggested retail prices of $699.99 with the 14mm lens kit system starting in July 2011, and $599.99 with the 14-42mm lens kit system starting in late August 2011; and. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX G Series compact system cameras, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 For an interchangeable lens system camera with a built-in flash as of June 13, 2011

*2 Approximately 0.1 sec with LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm / F4.0-5.8 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S., approx. 0.18 sec with LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH. and with LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S..

*3 Some functions in iA mode may be unavailable depending on the lens that is mounted

*4 Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] in Creative Control Mode and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long).

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

* Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds and Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds Logo marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Olympus Imaging Corporation, in Japan, the United States, the European Union and other countries.

* The “AVCHD” is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.

* All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective corporations.

* This unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

By Derek Gordon , Monday, June 13, 2011

A picture is worth a thousand words. Which is great when you’ve got lots of space to fill and don’t have the resources to fill it with a thousand actual words. 

But what sort of photos work best in the context of a marketing strategy? Also, how can photos help with SEO? And how and where should you use them?

As I’ve been writing these last weeks, content marketing is not only central for SEO success, it’s also the key to audience engagement.  Photos, together with videos, are the most effective ways to engage audiences. Whether a single photo, multiple photos stacked on one page, or a single photo gallery containing many photos, images always help to capture the eye and increase metrics like time on page, social sharing and page views.

What Images to Use 

Unfortunately, too many marketers use staged shots of products, models or executives in blog posts, websites and newsletters — which are often beautiful and effective in places like catalogs, but aren’t particularly personal.  To get at more engaging and essentially human images, think about using photos of your employees, customers, manufacturers or distributors interacting in real-life settings.   

If you’re a vintner, show people harvesting your grapes. Or if you’re a manufacturer, show how things are assembled and by whom. Or if you sell software, show your engineers at the white board. And definitely show the social settings in which business gets done — real people going about the real work of actually living…..

Read more:

http://www.mediapost.com/publications/?fa=Articles.showArticle&art_aid=152271