Digital Photography News and Digital Camera Reviews

Digital Camera - Sony CyberShot DSC-W130

The Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 is a 8.1 megapixel compact digital camera with 4x optical zoom and a 2.5 inch LCD screen. Available in various colors like pink, black and silver, the DSC-W130 digital camera is targeted at women and other casual photographers. The new camera also features Sony's face detection to detect smiles and the faces of children as well as image stabilization technology to reduce blur.

Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Compact Digital Camera

Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Digital Camera

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 23, 2008 – Sony is introducing a line of colorful W-series Cyber-shot® digital cameras with new imaging technologies for easier photo capture.

The 10.1-megapixel DSC-W170 and 8.1-megapixel DSC-W150 models feature Carl Zeiss® 5x optical zoom lenses with wide angles of view, 28 mm – 140 mm and 30 mm – 150 mm, respectively, and 2.7-inch LCD screens along with eye-level viewfinders. Rounding out the series are the 8.1-megapixel DSC-W130 models and 7.2-megapixel DSC-W120 units with 4x optical zoom and 2.5 inch LCD screens.

The lineup features a wider range of color choices than previous models – from playful pink and blue to sophisticated champagne gold and red.

Newly-available on the W-series cameras is Sony’s “smile shutter” mode, which automatically captures an image when your subject smiles – without having to press the shutter. This function even lets you prioritize adult or child faces to capture photos only when the intended subjects smile.

Smart Technology to Capture Better Photos

Each of the new W series models includes Sony’s improved face detection technology, which, like the smile shutter technology, can now distinguish between the faces of children and adults. You can select “child priority” or “adult priority” and the camera will detect up to eight faces in the camera frame and optimize focus, exposure, white balance, and flash control.

The W170 and W150 cameras feature new intelligent scene recognition (iSCN) technology, which allows the camera to automatically select the optimal scene mode for a variety shooting situations. In advanced iSCN mode, the camera will take a photo based on the user’s settings. If the camera determines that another setting would yield better exposure, it will automatically take a second photo with that setting. The user ultimately has two images to choose from.

Powerful Features for Outstanding Images

The series features a number of powerful features, including: Sony’s D-Range Optimizer to retrieve picture detail in photos with harsh highlights or dark shadows; semi-manual focus that allows you to select the focusing distance based on your subject’s location; an improved auto focus system that includes macro ranges; Super SteadyShot image stabilization; high sensitivity settings up to ISO 3200; and in-camera editing functions such as “unsharp mask” to sharpen images.

Enhanced Playback Options

The W170 and W150 units are equipped with advanced image management functionality. Filtering options allow you to search for photos by date and smile. Images can be viewed by date or in a helpful calendar view, and organized in the cameras’ “favorites” folder for quick retrieval of beloved images.

The slideshow function of W170 and W150 has also been upgraded. Photos can be selected using the same advanced filtering options available in playback mode and transitions have been improved through the application of face detection technology. Now your subjects can take center stage as the slideshow moves through sophisticated pans, fades and wipes. Improvements to the background music function include a choice of more tracks, longer tracks, and multiple tracks for longer slideshows.

Price and Availability

In pink, blue, black and silver, the DSC-W120 camera will be available for about $200 in March. The DSC-W130 model will be offered in pink, black and silver for about $230 that same month. The DSC-W150 model will hit retail in sophisticated champagne, red, black and silver for about $250 in April. The DSC-W170 model will also be available then in those same colors for about $300.

The new models can be purchased online at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style® retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail), at military base exchanges, and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on Jan. 31 at www.sonystyle.com.

Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Digital Camera Related Links

Official Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Digital Camera Website
Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 User Manual

Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Digital Camera Reviews

CNET - Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Digital Camera Review
Imaging Resource - Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Compact Digital Camera Review
Steve's Digicams - Sony CyberShot DSC-W130 Camera Review

Photography 101: Digital Photo Formats

Although JPEG is the overwhelmingly popular choice for digital photo compression, there are several other options available that offer better image quality at the expense of higher file sizes.

Digital Photo Formats

The format of a digital photo depends on the type of compression used to store the image file. The letter at the end of the file name of a digital photo, something like ".jpg" or ".tiff" indicates the format in which your file has been saved. There have been numerous file formats throughout the history of digital photography but only a few have become the standard. The difference between the formats has to do with compression.

What is digital photo compression?

Compression is how digital device like computers and cameras reduce the size of a file by removing information that is unlikely to be noticed by the naked eye. Fine details and subtle gradations will be lost during compression and these changes will only be visible under strong magnification. Compression is required to make the size of digital photo files small enough for practical uses. More digital photos can be stored on a storage device when the size of each file is smaller.

What are common digital photo formats?

JPEG, which stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, has become the industry standard for digital photo compression. Indicated by the .jpg file extension, JPEG achieves about 10 to 1 compression without much perceivable loss in image quality, making it ideal for digital photos. Most compact digital cameras offer only JPEG format for digital photo output, but more advanced cameras offer other choices like RAW and TIFF, which have their own advantages and disadvantages.

File Sizes and Digital Photo Formats

A typical 5 megapixel digital photo in JPEG format takes up about 2 MB on a memory card or hard drive. This means about 500 such photos can be stored on a 1 GB memory card. In comparison, a similar digital photo stored in the RAW format takes anywhere between 30-40 MB of space, meaning only 25 such photos can be stored on a 1 GB memory card. This difference in file size makes JPEG the popular choice for most consumers.

Disadvantage of the JPEG file format

JPEG looses quality each time a digital photo is edited or saved. This loss is a result of the compression used for JPEG digital photos. Therefore it is important to save a master copy of a digital photo and edit copies of that file. Alternatively, ‘lossless’ compression formats such as TIFF prevents quality degradation due to edits and saves. Advanced digital cameras allow photos to be saved in these formats right off the camera, or digital photo editing software can be used to convert JPEG formats to TIFF or RAW.

RAW and TIFF digital photo formats

RAW is the format for digital photos where absolutely no compression has been applied, meaning it preserves every bit of information captured by the image sensor of the digital camera used. With the obvious downside that file sizes can be massive for digital photos stored in the RAW format, it is the purest form available for digital photographs. Furthermore, a RAW image has to be saved in another format such as JPEG or TIFF once it has been edited or manipulated.

TIFF retains almost as much information as RAW, but is much smaller and allows for easy editing using software. TIFF is also good for retaining color information. Typical file sizes for TIFF digital photo files are in the 4 to 10 MB range compared to the 30 to 40 MB range for the RAW format.

Related Links

Image Types: JPEG & TIFF Files

Digital Camera - Olympus SP-570 UZ

The Olympus SP-570 UZ digital camera has 10 megapixel resolution and an astounding 20x optical zoom lens for superior image quality. Wit the ability to ultra zoom into any scene, the Olympus SP-570 UZ is a powerful digital camera without the frills of a full-blown SLR camera. The SP-570 UZ has a 2.7 inch LCD screen and comes with the latest digital camera technologies available. This versatile camera is ideal for sports, outdoor and travel photography.

Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera

Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera

Amazing Optics, 10 Megapixels, Wide-Angle and Telephoto Lens, Dual Image Stabilization, and 2.7-Inch HyperCrystal LCD Screen Top the List of Innovative Features

Center Valley, Pa., January 22, 2008 — Olympus today announces its new powerful and versatile SP-570 Ultra Zoom digital compact camera, which stands out from the crowd with an astounding precision-crafted 20x, wide-angle optical zoom (26-520mm equivalent) and 10 million pixels of resolution for superior image quality in any shooting situation.

The SP-570 UZ offers the advanced manual controls that experienced photographers demand and find on a digital SLR (single lens reflex), including a new zoom ring and hotshoe for external flash, and RAW format capture. At the same time, users can easily set the camera to operate like a simple point-and-shoot with automatic scene modes. Beyond its impressive lens and pixel count, the SP-570 UZ delivers other key innovations, including:
  • Dual Image Stabilization combines the benefits of Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization and Digital Image Stabilization to compensate for both camera shake and moving subjects, ensuring beautiful, blur-free images in any situation;
  • Face Detection continually tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses, and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures even if your subject is moving;
  • Shadow Adjustment Technology enables users to preview and capture images as the human eye sees them, compensating for difficult lighting situations and maintaining detail in highlights while improving the detail in the shadows to produce more balanced photos;
  • Perfect Shot Preview takes the guesswork out of great photography by allowing users to preview and select various photographic effects live on the LCD screen, before snapping the shot; and
  • Large 2.7-Inch HyperCrystal™ LCD with anti-glare technology improves visibility in bright sunlight and provides a wider viewing angle (176 degrees in every direction) for easier composition and viewing of images during playback.
"The SP-570 UZ is the best choice for anyone who wants to dive deeper into digital photography with a sophisticated yet simple-to-use camera that will match their growing skills," said Mark Hoffman, director, Product Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "Thanks to its compact design and easy-to-use advanced technologies, the perfect image is only a click away."

Capturing It All, Far and Wide

Precision optics is fundamental for producing quality images, and the SP-570 UZ comes fully equipped with the equivalent of three lenses in one complete camera. The bright, f2.8-4.5 lens provides the equivalent of 26-520mm focal length with 100x total seamless zoom (5x digital zoom). Users can get close to the action with the camera’s versatile yet compact 20x super telephoto zoom and at the same time, the wide-angle (26mm) lens captures more in each frame. Its super-macro capabilities capture the subtlest details from as close as one centimeter.

The compact lens construction combines high-refractive, aspherical and extra-dispersion (ED) lens elements to deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity. Whether it is capturing fast-action sports or for everyday use, this sturdy compact body with a wide-angle and telephoto lens provides the versatility to get the job done.

Dual Image Stabilization

Dual Image Stabilization enables users to take crisp, clear pictures in virtually any shooting situation – adjusting for camera shake and a moving subject. Olympus’ mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization keeps images sharp by adjusting the CCD to compensate for camera shake, which often occurs when zooming in on your subject and in low-light conditions when shutter speeds are slower. Digital Image Stabilization freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blur caused by a moving subject.

Full Manual Control

The Manual, Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority modes give users versatility and control for optimal performance in any situation. Users can express their creative vision – adjusting the f-stop for detailed portraits with softened backgrounds, or slowing the exposure speed to create the blurred effect of motion, or just sit back and let the camera do the thinking through the use of the automatic settings. Manual focus is also available for users who want to have full creative control.

Hotshoe for External Flashes

The SP-570 UZ offers a hotshoe for connecting an external flash, providing greater versatility for different lighting effects. Additionally, the SP-570 UZ supports wireless flashes, enabling a user to capture beautiful images even in difficult lighting situations.

Face Detection

Face Detection tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) quickly for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures. Now, your subject’s face is in focus whether it is in the center of the target area or not.

High-Speed Sequential Shooting and Pre-Capture

The SP-570 UZ is capable of capturing images at an incredible 13.5 frames per second (with a reduced image size of 3 megapixels). The inclusion of Pre-Capture technology, which works in conjunction with High-Speed Sequential Shooting, enables users to capture the action before and after fully pressing the shutter button. Pre-Capture begins working as soon as the focus is locked, automatically archiving five frames in the camera’s buffer memory prior to the shutter release – virtually guaranteeing that none of the action will be missed even if the user’s reaction time is slow. Perfect for situations where timing is essential, such as photographing a tennis player serving, children playing or a whale breaching.

2.7-Inch HyperCrystal LCD

The SP-570 UZ utilizes a HyperCrystal LCD designed to offer a wider viewing angle without glare or shadow. Now, images and movies appear crisp and clear on the LCD with a greater than 140-degree viewing angle (left-to-right or up-and-down), while composing or reviewing an image. Its electronic viewfinder is very sharp and includes a diopter to adjust to one’s own eye strength when not wearing glasses.

Shadow Adjustment Technology

Shooting outdoors in bright daylight can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark shadowed areas and bright sunlight areas. While the human eye is capable of detecting the nuances between dark and light and all the details in between, image sensors traditionally have not been quite as sensitive. The SP-570 UZ addresses this challenge head-on with a new Shadow Adjustment Technology, which compensates for extreme contrast where the shadow areas are underexposed and lack visible detail. With the new technology, users can preview and capture images that have the same contrast as seen with the naked eye.

Perfect Shot Preview

The SP-570 UZ features a Perfect Shot Preview mode that enables users to preview and select various photographic effects (such as zoom, exposure compensation, white balance and metering) on a live, multi-window screen before snapping the shot. Perfect Shot Preview enables users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It is an ideal way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques.

Perfect Fix In-Camera Editing

Olympus’ Perfect Fix feature offers quick solutions for unanticipated image quality issues, which may be caused by several adverse conditions. Lighting Fix can be used to adjust any underexposed areas and Red-Eye Fix can be used to reduce the effects of red-eye sometimes caused by a direct flash. Additional in-camera editing functions can be quickly accessed right in the camera by the touch of a button; features available include resizing, trimming, frames, text options, black and white, and sepia.

TruePic III Image Processor

Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III also captures sharp images at high ISO settings, which are traditionally associated with increasing image noise or producing grainy photos.

31 Shooting Modes Including Multi-Fireworks

The SP-570 UZ makes it easy to take great photos in a variety of scenarios and lighting situations with 31 shooting modes, including a Multi-Fireworks mode. To capture the most stunning fireworks displays, this multi-exposure feature overlays the fireworks to create the memory of a lifetime. To activate any of the camera’s pre-set modes, simply select the desired mode for portraits, landscapes, night scenes, fast-action and more.

OLYMPUS Master 2 Software

OLYMPUS Master 2 software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums and searchable by date in Calendar view. Also, with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or e-mailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee™ Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates.

Availability

The SP-570 UZ will be available in March 2008. It will also include: Neck Strap, WIN/Mac USB Cable, Audio/Video Cable, four AA Batteries, Manual, Warranty Card and OLYMPUS Master 2 Software CD-ROM.

U.S. Pricing

SP-570 UZ Estimated Street Price: $499.99 (U.S.)


Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Reviews

CNET Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Review
PCMag Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Review
Steve's Digicams Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Review

Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Related Links

Official Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Website
Olympus SP-570 UZ Digital Camera Manuals

Digital Camera - Nikon COOLPIX S600

Nikon's new COOLPIX S600 is a 10 megapixel compact digital camera which features a 4X optical zoom lens and optical vibration reduction image stabilization technology. The Nikon COOLPIX S600 digital camera also has a 2.7 inch LCD screen and weighs only 4.6 oz. The COOLPIX S600 is aimed at casual point-and-shoot photographers.

Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera

Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera

Nikon UK is pleased to announce the introduction of the COOLPIX S600, a stylish new camera that combines swift start-up time, advanced functions and outstanding photographic performance into the world’s most compact body*. Built on a custom application of Nikon’s innovative EXPEED digital image processing concept and incorporating the precision optics of a NIKKOR lens, the COOLPIX S600 offers the added pleasure of sophisticated design.

The 10 megapixel COOLPIX S600 boasts ultra-swift response, and maintains image clarity even at sensitivity settings as high as ISO 3200. A 4x Zoom-NIKKOR lens featuring Nikon’s optical lens shift VR image stabilisation enhances compositional freedom with 28mm wide-angle capability (35mm format equivalent) and has the range to cover scenes from panoramic landscapes to close-up portraits.

The COOLPIX S600 delivers high-speed auto focus performance and the world’s fastest start-up time*1, 2 within 0.7 seconds. The clean lines, solid feel and reassuringly firm hold of its metallic body demonstrate dedication to quality materials and fine craftsmanship. Large buttons and the user-friendly rotary multi-selector are also carefully positioned to provide intuitive operation, whilst the clear, bright image offered by large 2.7-inch LCD monitor makes it a pleasure to use. The COOLPIX S600 will be available in a choice of Titanium Silver, or Urban Black body colours. (Colour availability may vary according to region.)

*1 Among compact digital cameras equipped with 28mm (35mm format equivalent) zoom lens and optical vibration reduction as of January 29, 2008 (according to research conducted by NIKON CORPORATION). *2 Based on CIPA industry standard.


Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories, and release schedule may differ by country or area.

Nikon COOLPIX S600 Feature Highlights

Proven lens shift VR image stabilization for sharper results Optical lens shift VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization helps achieve sharper results by applying field proven technology originally developed for Nikon SLR camera lenses to counteract camera shake in lower light or when shooting moving subjects. Active full time, VR also stabilizes images displayed on the 2.7-inch high-resolution LCD monitor for easier framing and more reassured shooting.

ISO 3200 capability provides extended shooting range Extended light sensitivity range with manual settings up to ISO 3200 adds the power to shoot more effectively in lower lighting conditions, or to capture moving subjects with outstanding clarity. Automatic sensitivity control is also available, freeing you to concentrate on the shot while the camera selects the optimal setting across a range between ISO 100 and ISO 800.

Large 2.7-inch LCD monitor for quality viewing and easier menu operation Practically defying the COOLPIX S600’s compact body proportions is a high quality 2.7-inch LCD monitor with improved shooting displays and revised icons. Features include approx. 230k-dots of high resolution and a wide 160-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angle.

New Active Child mode for carefree shooting with beautiful results Active Child mode joins the lineup of 14 different scene modes and three movie modes tuned to produce the best results to match the moment. In Active Child mode, simply frame and select your subject before shooting. The camera then tracks and focuses on that moving subject as you shoot for faster, more reassuring operation with clearer results.

Nikon COOLPIX S600 Other Features

  • Three Unique Nikon Image Innovations – Face-priority AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, D-Lighting
  • Active Zoom allows smoother zooming for close-ups
  • New Pastel mode produces bright images with a watercolour effect
  • Macro shooting from as close as 3 cm (1.2 in.)
  • Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations
  • SDHC card compatibility
  • Approx. 45 MB of internal memory
  • USB connectivity
  • PictBridge support

Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera Reviews

CNET Nikon COOLPIX S600 Review
Trusted Reviews - Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera Review
About.com Nikon COOLPIX S600 Compact Digital Camera Review

Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera Links

Official Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera Website
Nikon COOLPIX S600 Digital Camera Brochure
Nikon COOLPIX Digital Camera User Manual

Reader's Digest names Canon the 'most trusted' brand

Reader's Digest has named Canon the 'most trusted' camera brand in Europe for the eighth straight year. The Reader's Digest Most Trusted Brands Survey 2008 was found to have the highest reputation among consumers in 16 European countries for digital cameras.

LONDON, May 2008 – Canon, world-leader in imaging solutions, has been chosen as Europe's top camera brand for the eighth consecutive year in the Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands Survey 2008, an annual pan-European survey of consumer attitudes to brand products and services.

Reader’s Digest, the world’s best-selling monthly magazine, asked its readers in 14 languages across 16 European countries to nominate the brand they trusted most in a range of consumer categories, including cameras. Respondents were drawn from the Reader's Digest customer database of 4.5 million homes in Europe, and a total of 23,651 questionnaires were analysed across the 16 countries.

Canon was one of only four brands nominated as ‘most trusted’ in 13 or more countries including newly added Russia. All brands were judged on quality, image, value for money, environmental responsibility and ethical standards.

James Leipnik, Chief of Communication and Corporate Relations for Canon Europe said: “At Canon, we are focused on providing our customers with excellent imaging solutions that enable them to harness the power of the image at home and in the workplace. It is gratifying that so many readers of the Reader’s Digest across Western and Eastern Europe continue to trust us to deliver solutions and service of the highest quality.”

"Consumer trust is vital to successful brands. Maintaining trust in a fast changing world is one of the biggest challenges facing companies today, especially in the technology sector. For Canon to have improved its position as the most trusted brand of camera in many countries in Europe is impressive" said Gavin Murray, Regional Advertising Director, Europe, Reader’s Digest.

The 13 countries that selected Canon as ‘most trusted’ camera brand were Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

Epson Stylus NX400 Printer

Epson has launched its latest flagship all-in-one printers aimed at meeting the printing, scanning and copying needs of any household - the Epson Stylus NX400. With outstanding image quality, the Epson Stylus NX400 is a good option for printing digital photographs quickly and conveniently.

Epson Stylus NX400 Printer

LONG BEACH, Calif. – June 3, 2008 – Epson America Inc. today launches the flagship model of a new generation of all-in-one printers designed to meet any household’s printing, scanning and copying needs – the Epson Stylus NX400. The full-featured, well-priced all-in-one offers a combination of performance and ease-of-use delivering value, convenience and superior results on plain, photo or specialty papers.

“With intuitive features and outstanding image quality, the Epson Stylus NX400 is ideal for any household juggling day-to-day projects that require one central printer to print, scan or copy just about anything,” said Kristi Lanzit Fox, product manager, Consumer Ink Jet Printers, Epson. “Whether printing book reports, driving directions, presentations or party invitations, the Epson Stylus NX400 turns ordinary projects into amazing output. Its versatility, high-performance, durability, and affordable price make it the best solution for everyday home printing needs.”

Using Epson’s resilient DURABriteĆ¢ Ultra ink, important documents like airline boarding passes or treasured family photos can be trusted to resist smearing and smudging. Unlike many competitors’ inks, Epson’s DURABrite Ultra ink won’t even smear or run if exposed to moisture or humidity. Additionally, plain paper prints produced by the Epson Stylus NX400 can last up to six times longer than those from comparable competitive brands.1 Its fast print speeds, image-enhancing tools, such as photo restoration, and Epson’s exclusive DURABrite Ultra pigment ink make it a supreme solution for printing documents, photos and creative projects with prints that are smudge, water, fade, and highlighter resistant on all supported paper types.2

The Epson Stylus NX400 offers impressive print and copy speeds, delivering up to 34 ppm for black and color text documents, 4” x 6” borderless photos in as fast as 26 seconds, and up to 30 cpm for both black and color copies.3 Its excellent copying and scanning capabilities make it easy to archive important documents and photos electronically with one-touch color copying and high-quality scanning. The all-in-one also integrates a one-touch, standalone copying feature for photos and documents, with the option to reduce and enlarge black and white or color copies from 25 to 400 percent and quickly enlarge 4” x 6” and 5” x 7” photos up to letter size.

The Epson Stylus NX400 offers additional technologies that are significant and will add value for customers, including:
  • Epson’s exclusive MicroPiezo® print head technology: Epson’s unique print head features DX3™ technology with smart nozzles that can each produce and precisely place three sizes of ink droplets. As a result, fewer nozzles are needed to quickly create exceptional photos and documents, making the nozzles more efficient than those that can only produce one droplet size.
  • Individual ink cartridges and one standard set: For added value and convenience, the Epson Stylus NX400 features individual ink cartridges to allow consumers to replace only the color needed. Additionally, having one standard ink set for both documents and photos eliminates the inconvenience of having to switch cartridges based on the print job.
  • High-speed, multipurpose card slots and preview monitor: Supporting all popular memory formats, the Epson Stylus NX400 has high-speed card slots and a 2.5-inch tilt LCD to easily and quickly transfer files, as well as select, copy and print brilliant photos without a computer.
  • BorderFree® photo printing: White borders can be eliminated from photos with the Epson Stylus NX400. The all-in-one supports BorderFree photo printing in various sizes, including 3.5” x 5”, 4” x 6”, 5” x 7”, 8” x 10”, and letter sizes.
  • Auto Photo Correction with advanced face detection: This innovative technology is similar to having a photo lab technician built into the printer. It sharpens and corrects dark or poorly exposed images, while distinguishing people from scenery to enhance skin tones and increase the richness of the scenery in photos.
  • Epson Easy Photo Fix®: Consumers can restore the colors in old, faded or discolored photos back to their original brilliance with the Easy Photo Fix scanning technology. This software, combined with the all-in-one’s hardware, makes it easy to scan, restore, print, and share old memories.
  • PictBridge® compatibility: Printing superior images directly from a digital camera is straightforward and effortless with the PictBridge interface.

Connectivity and Operating Systems

The Epson Stylus NX400 supports Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and is compatible with Windows Vista™, XP, XP Professional x64, and 2000, as well as Macintosh® OS X 10.3.9, 10.4.x and 10.5.x.

Support and Availability

Enjoy product protection you can count on. The Epson Stylus NX400 includes a one-year limited warranty, lifetime phone and Web-based customer support and technical assistance (telephone toll charges may apply), and convenient and quick service options.

The Epson Stylus NX400 is now shipping and will be available for an estimated street price of $99.99 through major retail stores nationwide, mail order, PC manufacturers, the Internet, and Epson’s own retail site. More information about Epson and its products is available by calling 1-800-GO-EPSON (1-800-463-7766) or visiting the Epson Web site.

Summer Digital Photo Tips

The Digital Photo Academy has published its list of “hidden gem” digital photo opportunities in some of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. With interesting sites at the top 10 travel destinations in the US, Digital Photo Academy also has digital photo tips for photographers at all levels.

Secaucus, NJ (June 19, 2008) – In anticipation of summer vacation planning, Digital Photo Academy by Panasonic LUMIX is helping travelers find “hidden gem” photo opportunities in some of this year’s most popular U.S. hot spot destinations. The expert instructors of the Digital Photo Academy, a nationwide series of digital photography courses, also are sharing their professional photo tips, which are easy enough for beginners, and can assist travelers at any skill level to capture their summer vacation memories with beautiful images worthy of being shared year-round.

According to the American Society of Travel Agents’ “2008 Summer Hot Spots” survey, the top 10 domestic travel destinations, in order of popularity are: Orlando, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Seattle, New York City, Honolulu, San Diego and Washington, DC.

Read Full Article - Summer Tips by Digital Photo Academy