That slice of friggin’ gorgeous right there is Olympus’ long-awaited entry into the professional market with its ground-breaking Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lens compact series. These cameras, unlike DSLRs, lack a mirror assembly, which cuts down on noise and drastically cuts back on size. Instead of the mirror, they rely on a live view feed to compose your images, often with the rear LCD. They offer most of the advantages of DSLRs in a package that can be notably smaller, especially in the lens department.

But, up until the past year or so, they’ve had a few weak areas. Auto-focus speeds, since they lack phase-detect AF, have been a mixed back, leaning towards slow. a problem which Olympus has soundly put to rest with the focus speeds of its third generation Pen bodies (E-P3, E-PL3, E-PM1), whose AF perform rivals–if not bests–my D700′s.

And then there’s been the matter of that live view thing. A lot of pros don’t like the idea of composing with an LCD, which forces you to hold the camera in an unsteady away-from-the-body stance, and can have issues in daylight. Some bodies have had built-in EVFs (electronic viewfinders), or optional ones, but they’ve been so-so to merely good. The OM-D E-M5 seeks to solve that as well, building in a new breed of high-resolution EVF with an impressive 120fps refresh rate. We’re still looking for the specs on res, but if they haven’t stepped back from their last optional ones, then the enhanced refresh rate should make this start rivaling an actual prism viewfinder.

So, what else is up with this new beast? One, it looks like a film SLR. A lot like it. But it’s small. Tiny. Not much bigger than the E-PL3 (and only then because of the viewfinder), and smaller than the Panasonic G3 overall. It’s made of magnesium, and sees the return of Olympus’ much-renowned weather-sealing (just look back through this blog to all the times I used my naked E-3 in the rain if you’re curious about how good that reputation is). The body is fully weather-sealed, as is the grip. The sealing is only complete, however, with a weather-sealed lens. of which there are few currently. The recently-announced 12-50mm is one. The newly announced 60mm f2.8 macro (true 1:1) is another. And more will likely be coming.

Additionally, there are dual control wheels on the top deck, like most advanced DSLRs, stylishly reworked to match the classic aesthetic. Above the viewfinder and below the hot-shoe you’ll find Olympus’ advanced accessory port, so this’ll continue to support awesome accessories like the LED macro light. The available HLD-6 grip is modular, and you can install a chunkier front grip, a vertical grip, or both. Both extra grips have a release and command dial built onto them. Like the NEX system, a small slip-on flash is provided, but none is built-in otherwise.

Specs on the E-M5 are equally swank past the body. It’s got a 16.mp Four Thirds sensor (2x crop), a revamped AF system that can read the image at 240fps during continuous drive to work its contrast-detect magic, 3D tracking (a la Nikon) added to the AF system, a world’s-first 5-way in-body IS system (horizontal, vertical, pitch, yaw, roll), 9fps in continuous high mode, a 3″ 610,000 dot multi-touch OLED tilt-screen, a TruePic VI image processor, ISO 100-25,600, and the usual compliment of Oly art filters. You get scene modes as well as PASM, and of course there’s raw support too.

To support the new OM-D (OM Digital) line, which Oly is seeing as a step-up form it’s existing Pen series, there’re two new lenses and a new flash announced too. The lenses are both primes, a 75mm f1.8 telephoto (150mm equiv), and a 60mm f2.8 macro (with a magnification scale instead of a distance one). The new FL-600R flash has a GN of 36 at ISO 100, a built-in LED so it can be used for lighting video, and wireless control so it doesn’t even have to be on your camera.

The OM-D E_M5 will be available starting at $999.99 body only, in silver or black. $1,099.99 will get you it in a kit with non-weather-sealed 14-42mm II, or $1,299.99 for a kit with the weather-sealed 12-50mm power zoom.

Interested in getting your hot mitts on one of the new OMs? We don’t blame ya, but we do suggest you hit the link below to get on our preorder list. Or, hit the jump for pictures of everything and the press release.

http://robertscamera.com/om-d-e-m5-body-only.html

CLASSIC OM DESIGN REVIVED INTO A NEW STATE OF THE ART DIGITAL CAMERA – THE BEGINNING OF THE NEW: OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5

The Olympus E-M5 Unites an Intuitive Built-In Electronic Viewfinder with the World’s First*15-Axis Image Stabilization and World’s Fastest*2 Autofocusing System inside a Powerfully Portable and Rugged Dustproof and Splashproof Body

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., February 7, 2012, 9:00pm – Today Olympus builds upon the 40-year legacy of the OM SLR film camera series and marks the beginning of the new digital imaging era with the launch of the Olympus E-M5, the first of the new Olympus OM-D (OM Digital) Series of Micro Four Thirds™ products. Designed to meet the needs of advanced photographers, the Olympus E-M5 is packed with a built-in electronic viewfinder, superior image technology, blazing fast speed and total creative control in a classic, rugged body ready for sand, sun, sleet or snow.

Evoking the classic design of the original OM Series introduced 40 years ago, and transforming it for the modern age, the Olympus OM-D Series is a new and entirely unique Micro Four Thirds camera system. It combines outstanding features found in the Olympus E-System DSLR line with those of the compact Olympus PEN® Series to meet the requirements of discerning photographers who demand more performance and portability from their interchangeable-lens cameras. The compact and ready-for-action Olympus E-M5 boasts breakthrough innovations inside, including:

• A built-in 120-fps (frames-per-second) refresh rate, high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with outstanding image quality, eye detect and intuitive functionality that enables real-time viewing of shooting conditions
• A 16.1-megapixel Live MOS Sensor and TruePic™ VI image-processing engine for superior image quality and high sensitivity
• The world’s first*1 5-axis image stabilizer to compensate for multi-directional camera shake during both still photography and HD moviemaking
• The world’s fastest*2 autofocusing system (FAST AF) plus new 3D AF tracking for improved performance following moving subjects at up to 9 frames-per-second
• A lightweight magnesium alloy body that is enhanced with the same dustproof and splashproof durability of the Olympus E-5 DSLR
• A tilting 3.0-inch touch screen OLED and new Movie Effects: One Shot Echo, for a semi-transparent frame at your whim and Multi Echo, for a multi-motion trail effect.

 

Intuitively Designed Electronic Viewfinder
The OLYMPUS E-M5 is the first Olympus interchangeable-lens camera to incorporate a 120-fps refresh rate, High-Definition electronic viewfinder with an eye sensor to seamlessly switch the display between the tilting, 3.0-inch touch screen OLED and the electronic viewfinder for ease-of-use, features a 100-percent field of view, maximum 1.15x magnification and an eye point of 18mm for fatigue-free viewing. Camera setting information, such as shutter speed, is displayed at the bottom of the viewfinder so photographers can concentrate on framing shots and take full advantage of an EVF’s ability to display the effects of various exposure adjustments and Art Filter effects – all without having to take the eye away from the viewfinder.

Superior Image Quality
The Olympus E-M5 uses a new 16.1 megapixel High-Speed Live MOS Sensor offering improved performance and exceptional clarity and speed in all aspects of image capture. Olympus’ TruePic VI image-processing engine dramatically improves image quality in low-light environments. The camera’s sensor allows for a maximum ISO of 25,600, and the dynamic range has been expanded for more faithful color reproduction.

Unprecedented 5-axis image stabilization
The Olympus E-M5 is distinguished by the world’s first 5-axis image-stabilization mechanism capable of reducing the effects of camera motion and image blur from five directions on stills and video, even including motion blur caused by the photographer walking or running. Previous IS mechanisms compensated for camera shake by addressing only two kinds of movement along the vertical and horizontal axis. However, camera shake can actually be caused by five different kinds of movement: horizontal shift, vertical shift, rotary motion, as well as the yaw and pitch. While some technology has attempted to correct for camera blur by building the Image Stabilization mechanism into the lens, the Olympus E-M5 IS mechanism is incorporated into the camera body itself so that all lenses mounted on the body can take advantage of this sophisticated technology, whether shooting stills or HD video.

Blazing Speed
Focus and shoot faster with record-breaking autofocus speed and imaging processing. The Olympus E-M5 employs the FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) AF system, introduced in the PEN E-P3, but with even greater speed. The 16MP Live MOS chip drives image data off the sensor at a blazing 240 frames-per-second, a 2X speed increase in Continuous Autofocus, with reduced image blackout enabling photographers to track fast action, Maximum frame rates have also increased more than 2X with a max frame rate of 9-fps in Single AF. A new 3D tracking AF system can follow the subject through the X-, Y- and Z-axes to dramatically improve focus on moving subjects. Paired with the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-50-mm f3.5-6.3 electronic zoom lens for optimum focusing speed, fast camera start-up times and operational speeds enable the photographer to keep up with the most challenging shooting situations, while dual control dials and dedicated function buttons help them adjust settings on-the-fly.

Creative Freedom
The Olympus E-M5 features a 3.0-inch tilting OLED touch-screen to enable photographers to get up high or down low for any shot. The touch screen interface offers intuitive focus and release of the shutter and review and enlargement of images in playback with the touch of a finger. The new Live Bulb feature updates the Live View image on the OLED screen at pre-set intervals during long exposures and enables the user to preview continually unfolding action such as fireworks or waterfalls and adjust the exposure time accordingly while capturing the image at the desired moment. An innovative new interface, EVF Creative Control, produces a tone curve overlay on the viewfinder screen to enable separate adjustment of highlight and shadow brightness, white balance, magnification and aspect ratio can also be manipulated via the EVF

 

A new “Key Line” Art Filter joins ten other available filters on the Olympus E-M5 and enhances the edge lines of the image to make it look more like an illustration. New “Cross Process II” and “Dramatic Tone II” Art Filters provide variations on the popular existing filters, and the two new Echo effect for movies leaves a momentary residual image of a subject’s movements when activated during movie recording. Users who like to perform their movie post-editing on a PC will particularly appreciate the Full HD 1080i movie recording function, which adopts the MOV format (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264).

Powerful Portability and Rugged Durability
The striking, iconic design of the Olympus E-M5 is more than just looks; its magnesium alloy body is rugged enough to stand up to severe environmental conditions like heavy rain and blowing sand. The Olympus E-M5 employs internal seals extensively and, when the new M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-50 mm f3.5-6.3 EZ lens is attached, this combination delivers an integrated dustproof and splashproof camera system. The electronic viewfinder section of the body is also made of magnesium alloy to ensure durability, and the FL-LM2 Electronic Flash that ships with the camera features the same dustproof and splashproof construction.

New Lenses and Accessories for Every Shooting Challenge
The HLD-6 Power Battery Grip, in the same dust- and splashproof construction as the Olympus E-M5 body, is an adaptable, two-part grip that can be used either as a landscape grip for easier handling or as a portrait grip with an additional shutter release. The portrait grip accommodates an extra lithium-ion battery to supplement the one in the E-M5, thus extending battery life. The FL-600R electronic flash (GN 50 at ISO 200 or GN 36 at ISO 100) offers improved recharge time and enhanced flexibility and operability for movie recording, and with a wireless control option. Equipped with a built-in LED, the FL-600R can be used to light movies and as a brighter AF auxiliary light. The MMF-3 Four Thirds mount adapter is designed for mounting a Four Thirds Standard-compliant lens on a Micro Four Thirds Standard-compliant camera body. The MMF-3, which also features dust- and splashproof construction, is ideally suited for use with Olympus’ similarly constructed High Grade and Super High Grade lenses.

The Olympus E-M5 is compatible with all Micro Four Thirds-compliant lenses, including two new lenses that Olympus will introduce later this year: the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 75mm f1.8 and the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 60mm f2.8 macro. The 75mm lens is a high-quality metal design with fast aperture settings for portraits and indoor sports shooting, while the dustproof and splashproof 60mm lens features 1:1 macro and a closest shooting distance of just 7.5 inches.

*1 As of February 2012. Among interchangeable-lens cameras.
*2 As of November 2011. Among interchangeable-lens digital cameras on the market, and using Olympus’ in-house test conditions. In C-AF Tracking mode, maximum frame rate is 4.2fps.

U.S. Pricing and Availability
The Olympus E-M5 will be available in April and ships in the following configurations: 
Estimated Street Price:
$999.99 (Body only, available in Black and Silver)
$1,299.99 (Black or Silver body with black M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-50 mm f3.5-6.3 EZ lens)
$1,099.99 (Black body with black M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42 mm f3.5-5.6 II R lens)
For a complete list of specifications, visit the Olympus website: http://olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1583

To find out more about the OM-D E-M5, visit the OM-D site at: www.olympusomd.com

Journalists interested in more information, review units and high-resolution images of the Olympus E-M5 should contact Keith Gordon, Mullen Public Relations, 212-885-3218, keith.gordon@mullen.com, or Jennifer Colucci, Olympus Imaging America Inc., 484-896-5719, jennifer.colucci@olympus.com, or visit the Olympus website: http://asset.olympusamerica.com/login/.

ABOUT OLYMPUS IMAGING AMERICA INC.
Olympus Imaging America Inc. is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.

Olympus Imaging America Inc. works collaboratively with its customers and its ultimate parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhance people’s lives every day. These include:

• Digital Cameras
• Professional and Interchangeable Lens System Cameras
• Related Underwater Products and Accessories
• Digital and Microcassette Recorders
• Digital Media
• Binoculars

 

Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.

*Specifications and design are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. All trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective holders.
©2012 Olympus Imaging America Inc.

# # #

Not quite content with it’s other entries this season, Canon has further expanded the old annual offering of digital compacts by another four models. Now in ye olde line-up are the PowerShot ELPH 320 HS, ELPH 530 HS, SX260 HS, and their second offering in the all-weather market, the PowerShot D20.

From most to least interesting:

The PowerShot D20 is Canon’s second effort at a waterproof camera, and for their second go they’ve wisely gone the styling route Casio also took, and away from the oddly bulbous D10. It’s waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, and freeze-proof to 14 degrees F. Beyond that, you’re looking at a 12.1 megapixel HS CMOS sensor with a DIGIC IV processor, a 5x optical zoom, GPS, and a 3″ touchscreen display. It’ll come out at right around $349.99

The SX260 HS has a 20x zoom that starts at 25mm equiv, strapped to a body a mere 1.29″ thick. The same sensor from the D20 is on-board here, so, no surprises to be had, but the processor gets a boost to a DIGIC V. Other features are 1080p video, GPS, and a continuous shooting mode of 10.3fps… for 10 frames. So, it’ll be a good second, baby. You’ll be able to have it black, green, or red for $349.99.

Down the line, we have the ELPH 530 HS, a .78″ thick box with a lens and shutter button strapped to it. With this magical box, you get a 12x zoom lens, 10 megapixel HS CMOS sensor, DIGIC V, and a 3.2″ touchscreen LCD. Oh, and did we mention it’s wi-fi enabled, letting you share pictures right from it to Flickr, Facebook, your phone, etc? Oh, well. it is. It’ll be in black or white for $349.99 (noticing a pattern here…)

Last, the PowerShot ELPH 320 HS is the “not the best, but not the worst” middle ground that’s actually the hardest to blog about. it’s well-enough specced to be attractive, with a 16.1 megapixel sensor, DIGIC V, 3.2″ touchscreen LCD, and the wi-fi inside, but otherwise doesn’t have any features that stand out. Still, for the retail price of $279.99, in black, silver, blur, or red and with those features, maybe it doesn’t need to stand out any more.

Press release and images after the jump.

New PowerShot Lineup Enables Photographers To Stay Connected While Capturing Legendary Canon Image Quality

Highlighted Features include Wi-Fi, Powerful Optical Zoom and Ruggedness

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 7, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the addition of four PowerShot digital cameras: the ELPH 530 HS, ELPH 320 HS, SX260 HS, and D20. Photographers no longer have to sacrifice image quality for the ability to instantly share images and videos with the use of the PowerShot ELPH 530 HS and ELPH 320 HS Wi-Fi enabled cameras. The PowerShot SX260 HS camera puts Canon’s amazing optical reach into a pocket sized camera, with a 20x optical zoom (25mm to 500mm) letting you pull subjects in close. Designed for the adventurous photographer looking to take spectacular photos, the rugged PowerShot D20 camera is ideally suited for the backpacker, snowboarder or tropical-traveler.

“Canon wants to help people capture the best images possible with the ability to quickly and easily share them with the world. With new PowerShot features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, people can quickly upload and share images on social networks,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “Whether it’s a powerful zoom, Wi-Fi or waterproof features, our new PowerShot lineup empowers people to be creative with their photography. There are good enough images and there are great images, we always aim to help people capture the best images.”

Mobile Sharing with Excellent Image Quality

The Wi-Fi functionality built into the two ELPH models allow for a variety of connection options to help photographers share, upload, or back-up images. Users can connect directly to a wireless network from their camera to upload photos and videos to the Canon iMAGE GATEWAYⁱ, an online service that lets registered users store images to an online album, and then post their content to social networks such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

In March, the Canon CameraWindow application is expected to be available on the Apple App Store for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touchⁱⁱ to further enhance the connectivity options. With this App, users can transfer and save images and videos from the camera to compatible iOS devices, which can then be directly uploaded to Facebook and YouTube or emailed. Photos and videos can also be shared on-the-spot with friends and family by transmitting to another current Wi-Fi-enabled Canon camera as well. A similar app is expected to be available in May for Android devices.

Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS Digital Camera

The flagship of the ELPH line, the .78 inches thick ELPH 530 HS camera has the classic style of the original ELPH design while also being Wi-Fi enabled and packing an amazing 12x optical zoom lens to capture great shots from a distance. Canon’s HS SYSTEM has been included where the 10-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor will work in tandem with the camera’s DIGIC 5 image processor to help produce high-quality images in low-light conditions. The ELPH 530 HS will also shoot 1080p Full HD video helping capture footage in crystal clear clarity. This new model sports a 3.2-inch LCD touch screen for simple and intuitive operation and menu navigation, Smart AUTO scene selection with 58 scenes, Face ID for optimal images of up to 12 registered subjects and the Intelligent Image Stabilization (IS) function. The camera will be available in black or white for an estimated retail price of $349.99 and is expected to ship in April.

Canon PowerShot ELPH 320 HS Digital Camera

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 320 HS camera makes the perfect on-the-go camera for the young and active photographer, with Wi-Fi connectivity for easy uploading of memorable moments. The HS SYSTEM has also been included on this model with the 16.1 megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS and DIGIC 5 image processor working together to produce high-quality, low-light images. For those users who value high-quality video, the camera has 1080p Full HD capabilities as well. A 5x-Optical Zoom 24mm wide-angle lens will help expand the shooting capabilities of the camera and a 3.2-inch LCD touch screen for simple and intuitive operation and menu navigation. This camera will also feature Smart AUTO scene selection with 58 scenes and Face ID in addition to Intelligent IS. The camera will be available in four eye-catching colors (black, silver, blue and red) for an estimated retail price of $279.99 and is expected to ship in March.

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS Digital Camera

Canon’s PowerShot SX260 HS camera delivers a powerful 20x Optical Zoom and 25mm Wide-Angle lens with Optical Image Stabilization delivers stunning images from up close or at a distance and measuring just 1.29-inches thick. The camera’s impressive zoom is accompanied by Canon’s HS SYSTEM for improved low-light shooting with a 12.1-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor. Combining this incredible zoom and high-image quality will allow photographers of all levels to capture great photos or 1080p Full HD video up close and at a distance, all in one portable, powerful digital camera. The Smart AUTO scene selection with 58 scenes and Face ID has also been included in this incredibly diverse yet compact device. The camera also includes Intelligent IS and GPS photo tagging with location and elevation information to help plot exactly where your travels have taken you. Adding to the feature-set is High-Speed Burst HQ allowing for approximately 10 high-resolution shots to be captured at a continuous rate at 10.3 frames per second. The camera will be available in three colors – black, green and red – and is expected to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $349.99.

Canon PowerShot D20 Digital Camera:

Waterproofⁱⁱⁱ, shock-proof,^iv and freeze-proof^v the PowerShot D20 is built with the active photographer in mind. Outfitted with an easy-to-access button, the camera enables users to switch from normal photo mode to snow or underwater mode, even with gloves on. To help make the underwater photos as great as those captured on dry land, the camera has a built-in underwater macro mode producing amazing pictures up close while diving or snorkeling. When recording video, the camera includes wind reduction technology to help capture clear audio even in breezy conditions. It touts an impressive array of features including the HS SYSTEM incorporating a 12.1-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, 1080p Full HD video and a 5x optical zoom lens. Also included is a 3.0-inch LCD screen, GPS-capabilities allowing users to track their locations and tag each photo with latitude, longitude, and elevation information and Intelligent IS.^vi The PowerShot D20 camera is expected to ship in May 2012 for an estimated retail price of $349.99.

For more information about the new Canon PowerShot cameras go to:www.usa.canon.com/powershot

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With more than $45 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks fourth overall in patent holdings in the U.S. in 2010†, and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2011. 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. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. 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.

###

† 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.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

ⁱ Canon iMAGE GATEWAY Online Photo Album available starting February 14, 2012. One-time registration will be required.

ⁱⁱ Compatible with iOS 4.3 or later versions.

ⁱⁱⁱ Down to 33 feet

^iv Up to 5 feet

^v As low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit

^vi GPS functions will not operate while the camera is under water.

So we get to drool a bit over the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM (pictured here), the EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM, and the EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM (pics after the break).

Why would you want IS on the wide angle? Our illustrious Web Guru (and recovering Four-Thirds user), Derek, says that there was a lot of good to be said about being able to just pick up your rig and shoot one-handed at all focal lengths. Also with the prevalence of HD video recording on D-SLR bodies having IS to smooth out your jittery cam-hands is a plus.

After the break, there’s a few comparison tables and MTF charts. By the way, those MTF charts should give you an indication about how much better this new 24-70 will be than the old.

	EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM	EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
Price	$1,399.00	$TBA
Focal Length & Maximum Aperture	24-70mm, 1:2.8	24-70mm, 1:2.8
Lens Construction	16 elements in 13 groups	18 elements in 13 groups
Diagonal Angle of View	84° – 34°	84° – 34°
Focus Adjustment	Front-focusing method	Inner-focusing with USM
Closest Focusing Distance	0.38m/1.25 ft.	0.38m/1.25 ft.
Zoom System	Rotating Type	Rotating Type
Filter Size	77mm	82mm
Max. Diameter x Length, Weight	3.3″ x 4.9″, 33.6 oz.(2.1 lbs.) / 83.2mm x 123.5mm, 950g	3.5″ x 4.4″, 28.4 oz.(1.76 lbs) / 88.5 x 113mm, 805g
MTF Chart Wide Angle
MTF Chart Telephoto

Fear ye not, oh faithful, our golden masters have not forsaken us! And, to show their love, Nikon has finally come clean with the long (long) awaited D800. And, as a surprise, it’s specialized brother, the D800E, which removes the anti-aliasing filter. Why? Well, let’s read on.

Starting with the base model, the D800, here’s what we’re looking at. Like its predecessor, the D700, the D800 is a compact pro body (magnesium chassis, weather-sealing, glass prism viewfinder) with a FX full-frame sensor. However, while the last model was content to be called a “DSLR,” the D800 picks up the “HD-SLR” moniker, indicating that’s it’s both a DSLR and an optimized HD video shooting machine. Powering that machine you’ll find a market-leading 36.3 megapixel sensor, which pretty much blows away most of the DSLR market, including Nikon’s own D3x. As a matter of fact, that’s so many megapixels that you’ll still have over 15 of them in DX crop mode, making this the first Nikon FX body where that becomes an appeaing ooption, especially for those looking to increase their telephoto range on a budget.  The 91,000 pixel metering system first announced for the D4 is present and accounted for here as well, as is the updated 51-point AF sensor with increased maximum aperture performance in the center point. The 1080p HD video mode looks pretty similar as well.. The 3.2″ 921,000 LCD is here too. Actually, once more, the D800 shares a lot in common with the big bro,as the D700 did.

The main differences between the D800 and the D4? Well, that 36.3 megapixel resolution and two predictable consequences of it: a smaller native ISO range (100-6400), and a notably slower continuous drive (4 frames per second).

Or, for you visual peoples, how about a table?

Additional things of note: the D800 is dual slot now, but uses the more tried-and-true CF and SD, unlike the D4′s CF/XQD slots. It still takes GPS via the GP-1 module as you’d expect. It takes a new battery, the EN-EL15 (same as the D7000), and as such needs a new grip, the MB-D12. There’s no indication anywhere the use of the grip with the D4′s battery will increase frame rate here, so, we can’t comment on that. The D800 will land on the market at $2,999.95.

And then there’s the D800E, which is the D800 but without the anti-aliasing filter. Why? Because the anti-aliasing filter, that thing that helps interpolate pixels, also reduces per-pixel sharpness and overall resolution. By leaving it out, you get sharper pictures yet. But, you also have to deal with all the reasons anti-aliasing filters are used in the first place, most notably moire effect. You know, that optical illusion you see when you have very fine mesh patterns at contrasting angles and distances. To help you with that, the included software will have a means of dealing with that. But the camera doesn’t, and as such you can milk every drop f resolution out of it for your studio and landscape needs. The D800E will cost you a few extra c-notes, at $3,299.95.

Press release after the jump. You can preorder the D800 here, and the D800E here.

Expectations Surpassed: The 36.3-Megapixel Nikon D800 Is The Multimedia HD-SLR That Shatters Conventional Resolution Barriers For Maximum Fidelity

The New Nikon D800 Offers Unrivaled Resolution and Features Designed for a Variety of Demanding Professional Photographic and Multimedia Disciplines, Videographers and FilmmakersMELVILLE, N.Y. (Feb 6, 2012) – Today, imaging leader Nikon Inc. announced the highly anticipated D800 HD-SLR, engineered to provide extreme resolution, astounding image quality and valuable video features optimized for professional still and multimedia photographers and videographers. A camera with an unmatched balance of accuracy, functionality and image quality, the Nikon D800 realizes innovations such as a high resolution 36.3-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor, a 91,000-pixel RGB Matrix Metering System, Advanced Scene Recognition System and many other intuitive features designed to create the preeminent device for the most demanding photo and video applications.Whether shooting high fashion, weddings or multimedia content, Nikon’s highest resolution sensor to date, a groundbreaking new 36.3-megapixel (7360 x 4912 resolution) FX-format CMOS sensor, affords flexibility and astonishing image quality to satisfy a myriad of client requests. The Nikon D800 incorporates the latest 91,000-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering III and the Advanced Scene Recognition System, coupled with an improved 51-point AF system for images with amazing sharpness, color and clarity. With its compact, lightweight D-SLR form factor and extensive video feature set, the D800 allows photographers to transition to multimedia to create an immersive story. Professional videographers will appreciate practical features that go beyond NIKKOR lens compatibility and Full HD 1080p video, such as full manual control, uncompressed HDMI output, and incredible low-light video capability. With this innovative combination of features, the D800 celebrates resourcefulness and a dedication to the flawless execution of an epic creative vision. All of this is driven by Nikon’s latest EXPEED 3™ image processing engine, providing the necessary processing power to fuel amazing images with faithful color, a wide dynamic range and extreme resolution.

“Whatever the project, visionaries need a tool that is going to help them stay on-time and on-task. The Nikon D800 re-imagines what is possible from this level of D-SLR, to address the needs of an emerging and ever changing market; this is the camera that is going to bridge the gap for the most demanding imaging professionals, and provide never before seen levels of SLR image and video quality,” said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. “The D800 is the right tool for today’s creative image makers, affording photographers, filmmakers and videographers a versatile option for capturing the ultimate in still image quality or full HD content, with maximum control.”Extreme Image Quality
The new Nikon developed 36.3-megapixel FX-format (35.9 x 24mm) CMOS sensor realizes Nikon’s highest resolution yet, and is ideal for demanding applications such as weddings, studio portraiture and landscape, where there is no compromise to exceptional high fidelity and dynamic range. Nikon’s first priority is amazing image quality above all else, and resolution of this magnitude affords photographers the ability to portray even the smallest details, such as a strand of hair, with stunning sharpness or crop liberally with confidence. Photographers also shoot with the assurance of NIKKOR lens compatibility, because only a manufacturer with decades of optical excellence can provide the glass to resolve this kind of extreme resolution.For shooting with minimal noise in a variety of lighting conditions, the D800 features a wide native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 50 (Lo-1)-25,600 (Hi-2). Nikon engineers have created innovative ways to manipulate light transmission to the sensor’s photodiodes, giving users the ability to shoot with confidence in challenging lighting conditions. Internal sensor design, an enhanced optical low pass filter (OLPF) and 14 bit A/D conversion with a high signal to noise ratio all contribute to a sensor capable of excellent low light ability despite the extreme resolution. Every aspect of this new FX-format sensor is engineered to deliver amazing low noise images through the ISO range and help create astounding tonal gradation and true colors, whether shooting JPEG or RAW. Images are further routed through a 16-bit image processing pipeline, for maximum performance. To further enhance versatility, users are also able to shoot in additional modes and aspect ratios such as 5:4 to easily frame for printed portraits or a 1.2X crop for a slight telephoto edge. For even more versatility, photographers can also take advantage of Nikon DX-format lenses for more lens options and enhanced focal range (1.5X), while still retaining sharpness and details at a high 15.4-megapixel (4800×3200) resolution.

Contributing to the camera’s rapid performance and amazing image quality is Nikon’s new EXPEED 3 image processing engine that helps professionals create images and HD video with amazing resolution, color and dynamic range. From image processing to transfer, the new engine is capable of processing massive amounts of data, exacting optimal color, rich tonality and minimized noise throughout the frame. Despite the immense data, the new EXPEED 3 also contributes to energy efficiency, affording the ability to shoot longer.

The D800 also features the Advanced Scene Recognition System with the 91,000-pixel 3D Color Matrix Meter III to provide unrivaled metering in even the most challenging of lighting conditions. At the system’s core is a newly designed RGB sensor that meticulously analyzes each scene, recognizes factors such as color and brightness with unprecedented precision and then compares all the data using Nikon’s exclusive 30,000 image database. Additionally, this new sensor now has the ability to detect human faces with startling accuracy, even when shooting through the optical viewfinder. This unique feature is coupled with detailed scene analysis for more accurate autofocus (AF), Auto exposure (AE), i-TTL flash control and even enhanced subject tracking. The Color Matrix Meter also emphasizes priority on exposure of the detected faces, allowing for correct exposure even when the subject is backlit. Even in the most difficult exposures the D800 excels, such as maintaining brightness on a bride’s face while retaining the dynamic range to accentuate the intricate details of a wedding dress beside a black tuxedo.

Advanced new automatic systems make it even easier to capture amazing images. The camera features a new enhanced auto white balance system that more accurately recognizes both natural and artificial light sources, and also gives the user the option to retain the warmth of ambient lighting. Users can expand dynamic range with in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture, and enjoy the benefits of Nikon’s Active D-lighting for balanced exposure. Another new feature is direct access to Nikon’s Picture Control presets via a dedicated button on the back of the body to tweak photo and video parameters on the fly, such as sharpness, hue and saturation.

True Cinematic Experience
The Nikon D800 has a compact and lightweight form factor that’s preferable for a production environment, yet is packed with practical and functional features. The D800 is ideal whether the user is a filmmaker on location or in the studio or a documentarian in the field who requires portability and the NIKKOR lens versatility and depth of field that only a HD-SLR can offer. Filmmakers have the choice of various resolutions and frame rates, including Full HD 1080 at 30/24p and HD 720 at 60/30p. By utilizing the B-Frame data compression method, users can record H.264/MPEG-4 AVC format video with unmatched integrity for up to 29:59 minutes per clip (normal quality). This format produces higher quality video data without increasing file size for a more efficient workflow. The optimized CMOS sensor reads image data at astoundingly fast rates, which results in less instances of rolling shutter distortion. The sensor also enables incredible low-light video capability with minimal noise, letting filmmakers capture footage where previously impossible or expensive and complex lighting would otherwise be necessary. Users are also able to have full manual control of exposure, and can also adjust the camera’s power aperture setting in live view for an accurate representation of the depth of field in a scene. Whether shooting for depth of field in FX-format mode, or looking for the extra 1.5X telephoto benefits of DX mode, the high resolution sensor of the D800 allows videographers to retain full 1080p HD resolution no matter which mode they choose to best suit the scene. Users are also able to easily compose and check critical HD focus through the 921,000-dot, 3.2-inch LCD monitor with reinforced glass, automatic monitor brightness control, and wide viewing angle.

For professional and broadcast applications that call for outboard digital recorders or external monitors, users can stream an uncompressed full HD signal directly out of the camera via the HDMI port (8 bit, 4:2:2). This output signal can be ported into a display or digital recording device or routed through a monitor and then to the recording device, eliminating the need for multiple connections. This image can also be simultaneously viewed on both the camera’s LCD and an external monitor, while eliminating on-screen camera status data for streaming purposes. The D800 also includes features concentrated on audio quality, such as a dedicated headphone jack for accurate monitoring of audio levels while recording. Audio output levels can be adjusted with 30 steps for precise audio adjustment and monitoring. The D800 offers high-fidelity audio recording control with audio levels that can be set and monitored on the camera’s LCD screen. A microphone connected via the stereo mic jack can also be adjusted with up to 20 steps of sensitivity for accurate sound reproduction. What’s more, recording can be set to be activated through the shutter button, opening a world of remote applications through the 10-pin accessory terminal.

Wield Speed and Performance with Astonishing Accuracy
Whether shooting the runway or fast moving wildlife, the enhanced 51-point AF system of the D800 delivers blazing fast AF with tack-sharp results. Nikon has enhanced the Multi-Cam 3500-FX AF sensor module and algorithms to significantly improve low light acquisition, for precise focus to an impressive -2 exposure value (EV). The focus system utilizes 15 cross-type AF sensors for enhanced accuracy, and the system also places an emphasis on the human face, working in conjunction with the Advanced Scene Recognition System to provide accurate face detection even through the optical viewfinder. The camera also utilizes nine cross-type sensors that are fully functional when using compatible NIKKOR lenses and teleconverters with an aperture value up to f/8, which is a great advantage to those who need extreme telephoto focal lengths (single cross type sensor active with TC20E III). For maximum versatility in all shooting situations, whether photographing portraits or static subjects, users are also able to select multiple AF modes, including normal, wide area, face tracking and subject tracking to best suit the scene.

The D800 delivers upon a professional’s need for maximum speed when it counts. The camera is ready to shoot in 0.12 seconds, and is ready to capture with super-fast AF and response speed. To photograph action in a burst, the camera shoots up to 4 frames per second (fps) in FX mode at full resolution, or up to a speedy 6 fps in DX mode using the optional MB-D12 Battery Pack and compatible battery. Further enhancing the speed of the camera and overall workflow, the D800 utilizes the new USB 3.0 standard for ultra fast transfer speeds.

Construction and Operability
The body of the D800 is designed to offer a compact form factor and a lightweight body for the utmost versatility. The chassis is constructed of magnesium alloy for maximum durability, and is sealed and gasketed for resistance to dirt and moisture. Users are able to easily compose through the bright optical viewfinder, which offers 100% frame coverage. For storage, the D800 has dual card slots for CF and SD cards, and offers users the ability to record backup, overflow, RAW/JPEG separation, and the additional option of shooting stills to one and video to the other. For high speed recording and transfer, data can be recorded to recent UDMA-7 and SDXC / UHS-1 cards. The shutter has been tested to withstand approximately 200,000 cycles, and the camera also employs sensor cleaning. The D800 also features a built-in flash and is compatible with Nikon’s acclaimed Creative Lighting System, including a built-in Commander mode for controlling wireless Speedlights.

D800E – Maximum Resolution Unleashed
In addition to the D800, Nikon will also be releasing a supplementary model for those professionals who demand even higher resolution and D-SLR versatility; the D800E. This model treads in medium format territory for studio work or landscape photography when there is no exception to only the highest fidelity and sharpness. This unique alternative model will effectively enhance the resolution characteristics of the 36.3-megapixel CMOS sensor by cancelling the anti-aliasing properties of the OLPF inside the camera. By doing this, light is delivered directly to the photodiodes, yielding an image resulting from the raw light gathering properties of the camera. A color moiré correction tool will also be available within Capture NX2 to enhance the D800E photographer’s workflow.

Price and Availability
The Nikon D800 will be available in late March for the suggested retail price of $2999.95.* The D800E version will be available in mid April 2012 for a suggested retail price of $3,299.95.* For more information about these models, NIKKOR lenses and other D-SLR cameras please visit http://www.nikonusa.com.

Press Contacts: MWW Group
Geoff Coalter | gcoalter@mww.com | 201-507-9500
Matt Kopacz | mkopacz@mww.com | 201-507-9500

*Suggested retail price listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

About Nikon
Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics as well as the new Nikon 1 advanced camera with interchangeable lens system. In 2011, production of NIKKOR lenses surpassed 65 million, creating a new milestone in Nikon’s heritage of superior optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visithttp://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon and other photographers on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/nikon and get the latest news and information from Twitter by following @Nikon_USA.

From the bottom up, we find ourselves starting with the L “Lifestyle” series of entry-level compacts. And one S. But we’ll let that slide for now. These are the cheaper, budget-conscious models,and they are also the ones that still use AAs for power, if you’re into that sort of thing. As usual, the marketing speak in these releases is just amazing, so, far be it for us to deprive you of the joy, we’ll introduce each model with Nikon’s promo line. Starting with:

COOLPIX L810: Zoom That Goes the Distance

And that distance is 26x (22.5mm-585mm). while 585mm isn’t the most ridiculous zoom we’ve seen on a point-and-shoot this season, it’s certainly a pretty big number to see on an entry model. Other things you can see here will be VR, 19 scene modes, 720p, a 3″ 921,000 dot LCD, and a $279.95 price tag sometime this month. You can pick it up in black, red, or blue.

COOLPIX L26: The Simple Way to Great Photos and Movies

The other true L entry is aimed squarely at the idiot-box end of the spectrum, and its focus is on letting it handle everything and letting you focus on just shooting whatever strikes your fancy. There’s a 5x (26mm-130mm) zoom, 720p, and a 3″ LCD of unspecified resolution to help you in that quest, along with a price tag of a mere $119.95. You’ll find it in red, black, or silver.

COOLPIX S30: No Muss, No Fuss – Ready for Action

The sheep in wolf’s clothing of the group, this is apparently a Stylish mid-series body day-tripping as a budget entry. But don’t worry, it came prepared for some rough encounters, and is drop proof to a toddler-friendly 2.6 feet, and waterproof to 9.8 feet, which should keep it safe from the odd stumble and spill. Otherwise, there’s 10 megapixels, a 3x zoom of indeterminate range, and some unspecified HD movie recording, which we’re guessing is 720p like the others. This model is also a mere $119.95, and will come in white, blue, or pink.

Next up the ladder is the S-series (like Capcom, the S is for Stylish). This is what most people think of when they think of point-and-shoots. Also, the use of proprietary rechargeable batteries means this line tends to be a bit trimmer than the one we just covered, for those of you who prefer pockets and purses to bags.

A Fashionable Zoom for Any Occasion

This tagline is for the entry point here, the Coolpix S3300, which answers the apparently very specific call for “a cost-efficient 16.0-megapixel camera with a 6x (26mm-156mm) optical Zoom-NIKKOR glass lens.” To which we can only say: OK. 19 scene modes, optical VR, and 720p video round out the package, which’ll set you back $139.95 in silver, black, pink, purple, or red.

The Touch Screen to Set Trends

So are we introduced to the Coolpix S4300, which is eerily similar to the S3300 there, except with a 3″ 460,000 dot touchscreen on back, and a different body design. It’ll run $169.95 in plum, black, silver, red, or white.

The Super-Zoom Goes Super Thin

And that super zoom in question is the Coolpix S6300, which has a 10x optical VR zoom mounted to a 16 megapixel backside illuminated CMOS sensor (you know, that knew sensor type that does better in low-light than the traditional compact sensors do). We finally see an upgrade to 1080p video at this point, and a 180 or 360 degree easy sweep panroama mode pops up, along with a few creative shooting modes. The S6300 will set you back all of $199.95 and come in red, silver, black, or blue.

The Ultra-Zoom That Fits in a Carry-on

The top of the S lineup is the S9300, and to earn its crown, you’ll find it’s an inch and a half thick shooter that nonetheless has an 18x optical ZR zoom (25mm-450mm), the same 16mp BSI CMOS sensor from above, 1080p, and built-in GPS. Aimed at people who like traveling, it’ll leave a little room in your vacation budget, setting you back only $349.95 in black, silver, or red.

And then,we get to the P-series (P is for Power, or Performance, or Professional). And this year’s refresh is so far two models deep: the zoomy P510, and the f1.8 graced P310.

The New COOLPIX P510: Setting a Higher Zoom Standard

Remember how the L810′s 585mm equiv wasn’t the biggest we’d seen? Well, the P510 turns out a better effort, packing a 42x optical VR zoom that ambitiously covers 24 – 1000mm equivalent. Combined with a 16.1 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, about 5fps continuous shooting, 1080p, manual controls, built-in GPS, and a 3″ 921,000 dot vari-angle LCD, and you can probably figure out where the $429.95 price tag comes from. Hey, you even get a choice of red or black.

The New COOLPIX P310: Low Light, No Problem

And, for the “but, I want a camera that fits in my pocket” crowd, the S310 goes back to a compact body, and in exchange for the much more timid 4.2x zoom (24-100mm), you get an aperture starting at f1.8 on the wide end. You also get full manual controls and built-in HDR, but no raw here. A zoom-memory button is also on board, giving you quick access to popular prime lengths in that zoom range with no guessing. Otherwise, if you guessed it probably has a 16.1 megapixel BSI CMOS and a 3″ 921,000 LCD, well, you win the prize. And since we’re out of prizes, you reward is the knowledge that this camera will run $329.95, and Henry Ford would nod approvingly at your color options: black. Or black, we suppose. And, for those of you feeling a bit wild: black.

Olympus Imaging Corp. and Panasonic Corporation jointly announced the Micro Four Thirds System standard in 2008 and have since been working together to promote the standard. Now we are pleased to announce that three more companies have recently declared their support for the standard and will be introducing products compliant with the Micro Four Thirds System standard.

ASTRODESIGN, Inc., a developer of advanced imaging-related equipment, such as the 4K camera system, that incorporates the latest technology; Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd., one of the world’s leading manufacturers and developers of interchangeable lenses for digital and film SLR cameras; and Tamron Co., Ltd., an internationally renowned manufacturer of precision optics who has been providing powerful, high-quality lenses for a wide variety of fields for more than half a century. With the addition of exciting new products from these companies, the Micro Four Thirds lineup will become much more diverse, further increasing the potential of this advanced digital imaging system.

As the originator of the Four Thirds System and Micro Four Thirds System standards, Olympus Imaging Corp. will continue to develop and enhance the product lineup for both standards to meet the diverse needs of our customers.

ASTRODESIGN, Inc.

A Japanese company established in 1977 that designs and develops professional video equipment and measurement/analysis-related equipment. Well known for developing the world’s first programmable signal generator and the Ultra HDTV image processor devices used at Expo 2005 Aichi, Japan.

ASTRODESIGN, Inc. Website
http://www.astrodesign.co.jp/english/

Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd.

A Japanese company established in 1957 that designs and develops a wide variety of photographic supplies and optical products. It is Japan’s largest manufacturer/seller of lens filters.

Kenko Tokina Co., Ltd. Website
http://www.kenkoglobal.com/

Tamron Co., Ltd.

A Japanese company established in 1950 that designs and develops interchangeable SLR camera lenses, lens units for surveillance, as well as ultra-precision optical components based on the integration of advanced optical, electronic and precision machinery engineering technologies.

Tamron Co., Ltd. Website
http://www.tamron.co.jp/en/

The outlines of the standards can be checked at the Four Thirds website

http://www.four-thirds.org/en/
http://www.four-thirds.org/en/microft/index.html

After a rough battle for nearly the past decade with declining marketshare, Eastman Kodak has today filed in the US for chapter 11 bankruptcy. Founded back in 1892, Kodak is one of those companies that really needs no introduction, it’s such a household name. Among many products and services, Kodak has been perhaps the most successful manufacturer of photographic films, with such popular lines as  Ektar, Portra, T-max, and Kodachrome (which even got a song). Their films were so popular that to this day particularly sentimental moments are still called “Kodak moments.”

Also of particular note, both to our current field and to Kodak’s own filing, in 1975 Kodak’s research labs created the first digital camera, with a 100x100pixel sensor, and in the 1990′s Kodak produced the first commercially available digital camera bodies by retrofitting existing Nikon and Canon ones. The modern photographic landscape owes so much to work from Kodak that it’s hard to even comprehend. Even the Bayer filter, the common means of interweaving red, greed, and blue pixels on a sensor to create accurate colors, is due to Kodak.

Those interested can read the surprisingly hopeful press release after the jump, for further details on how this will affect Kodak’s operations.

Eastman Kodak Company and Its U.S. Subsidiaries Commence Voluntary Chapter 11 Business Reorganization

Flow of Goods and Services to Customers to Continue Globally in Ordinary Course

Non-U.S. Subsidiaries Are Not Included in U.S. Filing and Are Not Subject to Court Supervision

Company Secures $950 million in Debtor-in-Possession Financing in U.S.

Kodak’s Reorganization to Facilitate Emergence as Profitable and Sustainable Enterprise

ROCHESTER, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Eastman Kodak Company (“Kodak” or the “Company”) announced today that it and its U.S. subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions for chapter 11 business reorganization in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.

“Kodak is taking a significant step toward enabling our enterprise to complete its transformation”

The business reorganization is intended to bolster liquidity in the U.S. and abroad, monetize non-strategic intellectual property, fairly resolve legacy liabilities, and enable the Company to focus on its most valuable business lines. The Company has made pioneering investments in digital and materials deposition technologies in recent years, generating approximately 75% of its revenue from digital businesses in 2011.

Kodak has obtained a fully-committed, $950 million debtor-in-possession credit facility with an 18-month maturity from Citigroup to enhance liquidity and working capital. The credit facility is subject to Court approval and other conditions precedent. The Company believes that it has sufficient liquidity to operate its business during chapter 11, and to continue the flow of goods and services to its customers in the ordinary course.

Kodak expects to pay employee wages and benefits and continue customer programs. Subsidiaries outside of the U.S. are not subject to proceedings and will honor all obligations to suppliers, whenever incurred. Kodak and its U.S. subsidiaries will honor all post-petition obligations to suppliers in the ordinary course.

“Kodak is taking a significant step toward enabling our enterprise to complete its transformation,” said Antonio M. Perez, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “At the same time as we have created our digital business, we have also already effectively exited certain traditional operations, closing 13 manufacturing plants and 130 processing labs, and reducing our workforce by 47,000 since 2003. Now we must complete the transformation by further addressing our cost structure and effectively monetizing non-core IP assets. We look forward to working with our stakeholders to emerge a lean, world-class, digital imaging and materials science company.”

“After considering the advantages of chapter 11 at this time, the Board of Directors and the entire senior management team unanimously believe that this is a necessary step and the right thing to do for the future of Kodak,” Mr. Perez continued. “Our goal is to maximize value for stakeholders, including our employees, retirees, creditors, and pension trustees. We are also committed to working with our valued customers.

“Chapter 11 gives us the best opportunities to maximize the value in two critical parts of our technology portfolio: our digital capture patents, which are essential for a wide range of mobile and other consumer electronic devices that capture digital images and have generated over $3 billion of licensing revenues since 2003; and our breakthrough printing and deposition technologies, which give Kodak a competitive advantage in our growing digital businesses.”

Mr. Perez concluded, “The Board of Directors, the senior management team and I would like to underscore our appreciation for the hard work and loyalty of our employees. Kodak exemplifies a culture of collaboration and innovation. Our employees embody that culture and are essential to our future success.”

Kodak has taken this step after preliminary discussions with key constituencies and intends to work toward a consensual reorganization in the best interests of its stakeholders. Kodak expects to complete its U.S.-based restructuring during 2013.

The Company and its Board of Directors are being advised by Lazard, FTI Consulting Inc. and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. In addition, Dominic DiNapoli, Vice Chairman of FTI Consulting, will serve as Chief Restructuring Officer to support the management team as to restructuring matters during the chapter 11 case.

More information about Kodak’s Chapter 11 filing is available on the Internet at www.kodaktransforms.com. Information for suppliers and vendors is available at (800) 544-7009 or (585) 724-6100.

Kodak will be filing monthly operating reports with the Bankruptcy Court and also plans to post these monthly operating reports on the Investor Relations section of Kodak.com. The Company will continue to file quarterly and annual reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which will also be available in the Investor Relations section of Kodak.com.

Up first is the Bloggie Live HD (also known by it’s technical name of MHS-TS55/S, for those of you who are more fluent in cyborg than I am). Starting with the hardware, you’re looking at a metal body, in which is housed a fixed 37mm equiv lens, a backlit Exmor sensor that does 1080p video or 12.3 megapixels for still, a 3″ touchscreen, 8GB of internal memory, a flip-out USB dongle, built-in interfacing software for Mac and PC, and a wi-fi card.

Using that wi-fi, you can do more things, like upload direct to social sites (YouTube, Facebook, etc). And going even further, it can now do live streaming (something a lot of the press could probably use out at CES this week). Honestly, this is probably the best spiritual successor to the Flip I’ve seen announced, and anyone who’s been looking to fill that hole in their life should gaze long and hard at this beauty. It might just be the way to go. Especially for the relatively painless retail of @249.97.

But, if you need something a bit more… durable, don’t worry, the Bloggie line now has you covered there, too, via the Bloggie Sport HD (MHS-TS22/L in the cyborgese). If you’re willing to trade down to a 2.7″ screen, a 5 megapixel still function, and the wi-fi, you can add on waterproofing down to 16 feet, and drop protection up to 5 feet. Which ought to make this a gem for adventuring types. For some reason I’m still thinking kayaks. I think I have a fixation, here.

And, because there’s apparently a law that waterproof things need to look sporty, the Bloggie Sport HD does indeed sport it up, though not without a certain sleekness. And it’ll do so for you in your choice of blue, red, or black (all adorned with black rubber trim). You also get to shave some scratch off the price, dipping down to $179.97 for this one.

It’s worth noting before we leave that both models also feature Sony’s sensor-shift IS, LED lights, and auto-focus with face detection. Which pretty much rounds out what you’d expect from a pocket cam.

The W610 starts us off with some pretty typical entry specs: 14megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom (28-114mm equiv), 2.7″ LCD, face detection, smile detection, blink detection, sweep panorama, dynamic range optimizer, and a rather curious “Natural Flash.” And five colors: green, black, blue, red, silver. No HD video, though. VGA only. Price will be $109.99 for this one.

The W620 is up next, and features the return of pretty much all of the above, except the lens moves up to a 5x zoom (28-140mm equiv), and the video mode goes up to 720p. You do lose some color choices here, though, with only black, red, and silver being offered. Still, if that’s fine by you, you can pick up that better lens and movie mode for a mere $10 over the W 610, or $119.99.

Lastly, we skip a few numbers ahead to the W650. And, as you might assume from such a jump, the features leap forward a bit as well. You get to keep the 5x 28-140mm zoom, but you upgrade to 16.1 megapixels. The movie mode remains stuck at 720p, but optical image stabilization makes an appearance finally. You also get a 3″ LCD. Firmware-wise, all the usual and previously mentioned Sony technologies stick around, so you can detect blinks and sweep panoramas to your heart’s content.  at least, you can if you don’t mind black, silver, or red and a $139.99 price tag, that is.