Kodak EasyShare C143 Digital Camera (Blue) On Sale For Only $55.61

Here's another great deal from Amazon, they're offering you this Kodak EasyShare C143 Digital Camera (Blue) for only $55.61 (normal price $79.95). This compact camera features a 12-megapixel CCD image sensor, a 3x optical zoom lens, a 2.7-inch LCD screen, a 32MB of internal memory, an SD/SDHC card slot, a USB 2.0 port and 640 x 480 VGA video recording capabilities at 30fps.
source: TechFresh

Powershovel CLAP Digital Camera

Japanese design studio Powershovel today introduced the CLAP digital camera. Measuring at only 1.4-inch x 2.8-inch x 0.59-inch and weighing 24 grams, the camera has a 2-megapixel F2.8 (3.2mm) lens that can capture JPEG images at 1280 x 1024 resolution and AVI videos at 720 x 480 resolution. The Powershovel CLAP also features a microSD slot (up to 16GB) and a USB 2.0 connector, which is used to export files and recharge the camera's internal Li-ion battery. The Powershovel CLAP is priced at $49.95 each.
source: TechFresh

DSLR Solutions brings follow focus to film-makers on a budget

Using DSLR to shoot and record videos these days are not unheard of. After all with the improvements in camera technology, certain DSLR's will even allow you to shoot in HD quality. In fact here's a little trivia – for those of you who follow the television series House, the last episode of season six, “Help Me”, was filmed using Canon EOS 5D Mark II cameras. Granted DSLR cameras won't be overthrowing dedicated video cameras used for movies any time soon, but the point is that due to the kind of quality they can achieve nowadays, amateur film-makers and those on a budget will find it more value for money to shoot on a DSLR.

However one of the challenges that film-makers face is the ability to land the focus on the right spot while shifting focus. For example if you had two people talking and you have the camera focused on the first person talking, then when the second person starts talking, naturally you'd want to focus on that person instead, but for those who are not so experienced, landing the focus precisely on the second person might prove to be rather tricky. Professionals use a device called a follow focus to avoid this problem but those can prove to be costly, and over the amateur film-makers budget.

Enter the DSLR Follow Focus, which is a product by DSLR Solutions. As the name implies, it has been designed for DSLR cameras in mind. Unlike the more expensive follow focus devices used by professionals, this is entirely operated by hand, which might explain why it's cheaper. The long handle is also said to prove more ergonomically-friendly compared to using your fingers to manually focus your DLSR's lens. Start and stop markers can also be used, so while switching focus, all the user would have to do is pull/push the handle, slowly shifting focus, until they touch the marker. This should help users hit that focus point.

They come in two sizes, original and large, and both cost $59.95 each, although you could get them together for $89.95. Check out the video below for an explanation on how the DSLR Follow Focus is used, or head on down to DSLR Solutions' website to place your order.
source: Ubergizmo

Glasses convert 3D movies into regular 2D

3D movies are all the hype these days, in fact just about every major release will come with a 3D option and to be honest, not every movie needs 3D. I could understand James Camerson's Avatar's need for 3D as it really brought out the beautiful scenery, but for certain other movies it would have been just as good/bad without 3D.

There are some folks out there who avoid 3D movies, not only because they're more expensive but because it can sometimes induce headaches, and even nausea, but that is the price they have to pay if they want to go see the latest movie with a bunch of 3D-happy friends. However if you really have no choice, then perhaps these De-3D glasses will solve your problems.

Typically how 3D movies work is by showing two overlapping images on the screen, with one image that is meant to be seen by the right eye and the other is meant to be seen by the left eye. What 3D glasses do is that they darken the eye that is not meant to see the image.

How the De-3D glasses works is that it apparently takes the image intended for the right eye, and delivers it to both eyes, delivering the movie to you in good old 2D. The system is said to work in any cinema that uses Real 3D technology. They're available for $8.99 at ThinkGeek's website. Does anybody else find this ironic?
source: Ubergizmo

Porsche Design Studio has largest outdoor TV to date

Most of us would associate the name Porsche with fast supercars that look sleek, but do remember that the company also has an offshoot in the form of the Porsche Design Studio, churning out highly attractive items to tempt you in parting with your hard-earned money. Among the latest releases would be the 201 C SEED, which is claimed by them to be the largest outdoor TV in the world, thanks to a collaboration with Global Bright Group. We don't think we are going to dispute that claim considering this LED display will sport 201″ of viewing goodness.

Needless to say, being an outdoor TV would mean having it receive some sort of structural “reinforcements” so-to-speak, and one of the more important points would be to ensure it is waterproof. To make it all the more desirable, the C SEED will rise from the ground, where its screen will unfold into seven panels within 25 seconds to truly inspire awe and wonder from your expectant audience.

Even in the summer, it is said that the C SEED has a high brightness level, letting you view images even in direct sunlight, accompanied by 270-degree rotation, a three-way audio system with 15 speakers and a wireless remote control. This monstrosity has an equally large price tag of $810,000 when it arrives this September. Guess waiting for the iPhone 5 is the much more affordable option then.
source: Ubergizmo

World's Smallest Digital Video Recorder (CVFR-DV54-N1)

Smaller than a Zippo lighter, the CVFR-DV54-N1 from Chinavasion is claimed as the world's smallest digital video recorder. This micro DVR can be functioned as your Car DVR, webcam or spy camera. In terms of specs, it features a small LCD display, a microSD card slot (2GB included), a built-in microphone, a USB 2.0 port, a built-in 350mAh battery and can capture 640 x 480 video in AVI format (30fps). The CVFR-DV54-N1 retails for just $42.97.
source: TechFresh

Holga Twin Image Maker does 3D images on the cheap

In the world of High Definition and digital photography, many of us have already forgotten about lo-fi photography. Well, we are glad to report that the latter niche is still not quite dead yet, as it focuses more on creative experiments alongside inexpensive film cameras to create works of art. The Holga Twin Image Maker (TIM) is one of them, burning a small $60 hole in your pocket, and yet sporting a couple of lenses that enables it to shoot either 3D images or half frames. Not only that, it will also pave the way for multiple exposure of a single frame, sporting a detachable flash with color filters to boot.

The TIM will feature a couple of fixed focus plastic lenses (f/8, 29 mm) which will work together simultaneously to deliver 3D images, where you as the user will have total control of opening and closing their covers. With a multi-exposure button, bulb mode for long exposures and 5 flash covers (red, green, blue, yellow and one clear diffuser), it will open up your eyes to the world of lo-fi photography.

The camera itself does not need any batteries to work, although the flash will call upon the reserves of two AA batteries. Anyone given it a go already, and how do you find taking a different path compared to pure digital photography?
source: Ubergizmo

Hasselblad acquired by Ventizz Capital Fund, will explore ‘brand new markets'

Change may be afoot over at Hasselblad, now that the high-end camera maker has been acquired by Ventizz Capital Fund IV — a private equity firm based in Switzerland and Germany. Neither party disclosed any financial details, but Ventizz said it will implement “no major structural or key management changes” at its newly acquired company. It remains to be seen whether or not this acquisition brings about any changes at the strategic level, though Hasselblad CEO Larry Hansen said his company is looking forward to exploring “brand new markets”. Hopefully that includes the “sub-$10,000″ category.
source: 2DayBlog.com

Play with camera settings using CameraSim's online simulator

So you've just bought yourself a brand new camera, or perhaps it was given to you as a gift, but like all budding amateur photographers, the dials, the numbers and the deep menus will probably confuse you quite a bit. So instead of poring through the camera's manual or buying a guide book on how to use your camera, how about this online camera simulator that will let you experiment with the basic features of a camera in a more fun and easy way.

CameraSim apparently requires no registration whatsoever, so you can just pop on down to their website and start using the simulator right away with absolutely zero fuss. You are then presented with a sample "view" of a girl in a playground, holding a spinning pinwheel in her hand with a variety of basic camera features for you to mess around with.

You have "Lighting" (white balance), "Distance", "Focal Length" (zoom), "ISO" (film speed), "Aperture", and "Shutter Speed". Play around with the settings and click "Snap photo!" and you will be presented with the results of what your photo would have looked like had you used those settings on an actual camera. It's a pretty fun simulator, of course the results will vary from camera to camera but we're guessing that it should at least provide the basic knowledge of some of the features and what they do for those who may be new to a camera.
source: Ubergizmo

SVP Aqua HDV1000 Waterproof Digital Camcorder

Check out this affordable waterproof digital camcorder from SVP, the Aqua HDV1000. Priced at only $87.99, this pocket-friendly digital camcorder (waterproof up to 3 meters) sports a 5.0-megapixel CMOS image sensor, a 2.0-inch LCD screen, a microSD card slot (16GB card included), an HDMI port and can capture both 720p HD video as well as up to 8.0-megapixel digital still images.
source: TechFresh

Underwater Boat Camera With Sony Super HAD CCD

The Underwater Boat Camera from Chinavasion allows you to explore and check the bottom of your ship from the cabin. This waterproof camera features a powerful 1x3-inch Sony Super HAD CCD chipset (420TVL), allowing you to see clear images of sea water species and ocean floor up 10-meter under your boat. If you are interested, you can buy the Chinavasion Underwater Boat Camera for $152 each.
source: TechFresh

Powershovel's CLAP Digital Camera Is Tiny

Looking to do some espionage? Or perhaps you want a camera that can fit into your pocket without creating unnecessary bulge, or perhaps you're just looking for a novelty item. Either way, Powershovel's CLAP digital camera could be what you're looking for.

Measuring in at 1.4-inches x 2.8-inches x 0.59-inches, it weighs only 24g and it has a very minimalist look, very means it could pass off as being rather discreet. The CLAP camera is reported to feature a 2MP F2.8 (3.2mm) lens and can shoot images at 1280 x 1024 resolution (which is usually more than enough for regular use) while saving them as JPEG files. It is also said to be able to record videos at 720 x 480 resolution which will then be saved as AVI files.

It also comes with USB 2.0 connector which can be used to transfer files as well as to charge the camera's Li-ion battery, as well as a microSD card slot which supports up to 16GB. The camera is available at Amazon's website and is listed for $49.95 and you will be able to choose from six different colors.
source: Ubergizmo

Olympus FL-300R Flash

Olympus is bringing you their newest flash ‘FL-300R' for Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds cameras. Powered by 2x AAA batteries, this extremely compact flash offers an approximately 75 degree angle of coverage and features a built-in wide panel that allows the flash to be used with ultra-wide lenses such as the M.Zuiko Digital 9-18mm f/4-5.6. The FL-300R sells for 140 GBP (about $224). [PhotographyBlog]

Olympus PEN E-PM1

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 is a small and lightweight 12-megapixel compact system camera that comes equipped with 35 AF points and an AF assist light. Dubbed as the PEN Mini, the camera features a top shutter speed of 1x4000th second, a 5fps continuous shooting mode, a top sensitivity setting of ISO 12800, a hot-shoe, an accessory port and the ability to record 1080i high-definition videos with stereo sound. The Olympus PEN E-PM1 will be available in early Autumn 2011.
source: TechFresh

Sony Launches New Projector Handycam

Filming family trips and outings is fun, and it's a great way to record those memorable moments. However when we want to playback the video, we either have to wait for the video to be transferred onto the computer or we can crowd around the camera person and watch the playback via a tiny LCD screen. As it stands there are certain digital cameras that allow playback via projection, but perhaps it won't be as powerful or clear as what Sony is offering up.

The Sony Handycam HDR-PJ50 was just launched in India and not only can the Handycam shoot and record in HD (1920×1080), but thanks to a projector attached to the swing-out LCD screen, it can project them too. We can't vouch for the quality of the projector's image, but it's supposed to be able to project up to 60-inches diagonally at a distance of 3 meters in a dark environment. We're guessing that this should be useful when you want to playback certain videos and share them with friends and family, but once again we're not sure if the quality projected will actually be able to replace a dedicated projector.

The HDR-PJ50 sports a 12x optical zoom, which Sony claims can be extended to 17 and also comes equipped with a 220GB hard drive. The device is said to be able to double as a still camera that can shoot up to 7.1MP images.

The series of Handycam Projector devices are also said to come with a Clear Phase 5.1 channel stereo speaker with S-master digital amplifiers to produce clear, dynamic sound, but if you're trying to project a big audience, we're not sure if these speakers are up to the task. Alternatively the Handycam is apparently also able to connect to an external 5.1 home cinema system through the 3.5mm audio input.
source: Ubergizmo

How It Works: Backside Vs. Frontside Illuminated Camera Sensors

Friday seems like a great time to stop working, kick back with a beverage and read up on something that you have been wondering about since, like forever. So today we bring you one of the most pressing issues of the day: backside vs. frontside illuminated camera sensors.

What's the difference? In construction, not much. But in use, they're like night and day — almost literally. The always fascinating Preston Scott over at Camera Technica has the in-depth explanation, but the quick version is surprisingly interesting.

Frontside and backside refer to where the circuitry sits on the chip. Delicate silicon is made thick to stop it from breaking, and then the pixels are added. On top of this goes the circuitry. To stop the wires which connect each pixel from getting in the way, they are routed around the edges, “like city blocks,” in Preston's words. As these stacks get higher with ever bigger pixel-counts, they shade the pixels in the same way Manhattan's tall buildings shade the streets.

The solution? Flip it over and grind away the silicon layer to reveal the pixels. It's like putting all those skyscrapers underground and then enjoying the uninterrupted sunshine in a beautiful flat field. More light gets to the sensor, making it much more sensitive.

There's more too it than that, of course, and you should read Preston's great article. In fact, photo nerds should just subscribe to the Camera Technica RSS feed.

Technology Demystified: Backside Illuminated Sensors [Camera Technica]

Rollei Bullet HD – Rugged All-Action Camera

Protected by a robust aluminum body, the Bullet HD is the latest rugged all-action camera from Rollei. This high-definition camcorder is guaranteed dust-proof, impact-resistant and unsusceptible to vibrations. On top of that, it also sports a 12.0-megapixel CMOS sensor, a super wide-angle lens of 170 degrees, a microSD card slot (up to 32GB), a mini USB 2.0 port, a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery (up to 2 hours) and has the ability to capture both 720 HD video at 30fps as well as up to 4032 x 3024 digital still images. The Rollei Bullet HD will hit stores in late July for 249.95 Euro (about $360). [Rollei]

Olympus E-PL3 12MP Compact Digicam

The Olympus PEN E-PL3 offers state-of-the-art technology in an easy-to-use package. The camera comes equipped with a 3-inch tiltable display making it easy to capture stand-out images in awkward situations. The PEN E-PL3 also features 35 AF points, a low-light AF Illuminator, a sensor-shift image stabilization, a 5fps sequential shooting, 1080i HD video recording, a maximum sensitivity of ISO12800, a hot shoe and an accessory port. The company will launch the Olympus PEN E-PL3 in Autumn 2011. [LetsGoDigital]

Olympus reveals PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 interchangeable lens cameras

Want some micro-four third but don't want the awesomely new Lumix GF3? Well Olympus just went live with the PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1, three 12.3 megapixel interchangeable lens cameras with Live MOS sensors, TruePic VI image processors and an ISO ceiling of 12,800. Yes, all the awesome bells and whistles.

You'll also get a reengineered autofocus system, a 1080i HD video mode, newly designed user interfaces and a variety of Art Filters. The E-P3 is outfitted with an all-metal body and “the world's fastest autofocus” (really?), while the rear is dotted with a 614,000 pixel OLED touchscreen. The E-PL3 steps it up with a 3-inch tilting LCD, while the smallest and lightest of the PEN line (yeah, the E-PM1) will be shipping in a half-dozen hues.

The outfit also revealed a new pair of prime lenses, a camera grip and a FL-300R flash, all of which are detailed in the source links below. But what about the damage? Only the P3 is being priced at the moment thought, with $900 landing you a new kit this August.
source: 2DayBlog.com