EOS M: At Last, Canon Announces Compact Mirrorless Camera

The last of the major camera makers to unveil a mirrorless camera, Canon today announced the compact interchangeable lens (ILC) EOS M. With an 18-megapixel APS-C size CMOS image sensor (familiar to Canon DSLRs) and a Powershot-size body, the EOS M is both recognizable and entirely new to Canon shooters.

The first Canon ILC to abandon the mirror box, the EOS M operates with an entirely new lens system, designed specifically for this format. So far the system includes two lenses---the EF-M 22mm f/2.0 STM kit lens and the EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, and, fortunately, with a mount adapter the camera can also use any Canon EF and EF-S lens. The EOS M features an ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 25600 in H mode) for stills and ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800 in H mode) for video. It uses the Movie Servo continuous AF function for shooting video that was first unveiled with the Canon T4i DSLR, which allows you to lock focus on subjects as you pan around a scene or track a single, moving subject and keep it in focus. The camera also features a 1,040,000 dots smudge resistant, 3-inch touchscreen LCD with pinch-to-zoom and swipe scroll controls.

The Canon EOS M---with the new EF-M 22mm f/2.0 STM kit lens---will be available in October for $799.99, and the EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens will be available at the same time for $299.99.

(Canon)

Panasonic Announces Lumix G5 Micro Four Thirds Camera with Touch AF

Panasonic has announced the latest in their Lumix G lineup of mirrorless, interchangeable lens cameras---the Lumix DMC-G5. Among the updates from the G5's predecessor, the G3, is a 920,000 dot resolution, 3-inch, rotating rear LCD, which is equipped with a new Touch AF function that let's you set the focus on any point in the framed shot with a swipe of your finger. The camera also has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) that offers 100% field of view as well as a new Electronic Shutter mode for silent operation in quiet places. The 16-megapixel G5 also shoots full HD video and records to MP4 format, and the Touch AF function also works during video capture.

Though dates haven't been released, we know that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 will be available with a body color of either black, white or silver in various kit options. Currently, the G3 is listed at $599.99 (body only).

(Panasonic)

Samsung Announces Three New NX-Series Mirrorless Cameras with Built-In Wi-Fi

Samsung today announced three new mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras to their NX-series lineup. Samsung is calling the new NX1000, NX210 and NX20 "SMART cameras" because they feature built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for sharing and storing photos straight from the camera. Each of the new cameras also features a Samsung-designed 20.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and is compatible with all of the NX-series iFunction lenses.

No pricing information is yet available for the new cameras.

(Samsung)

Pentax Announces K-01 Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera

Pentax today announced the K-01 interchangeable lens camera. Right off the bat it's worth noting that unlike other manufacturers' forays into the compact ICL system market (and there are now several, many of whom are years ahead of Pentax in this genre), the Pentax K-01 is compatible with Pentax K-mount lenses, which means that your arsenal of K-mount lenses won't be rendered useless if you get into the new system. This feels like a classic Pentax move to me; they've always seemed most interested in offering loyal shooters the best ways in which to capture the world, frame by frame. That being said, the camera does come in a kit option with the new Pentax DA 40mm F/2.8 XS "unofficial" interchangeable standard lens, which Pentax claims is now the world's thinnest interchangeable lens.

The K-01 also looks quite different than other cameras in its genre. Having been designed by acclaimed London-based designer, Marc Newson, it features an eye-catching pop of yellow on its bubbly little body. (If the bold yellow is too much for you, the camera also comes in black or white.) Pentax is calling the camera more than a photographer's tool; it's also a design object. And while this particular aesthetic might not be my favorite, the design junkie in me can definitely appreciate the collaboration.

But what matters most is the guts of the camera, because it needs to take inspiring photos, not just look interesting hanging from your neck. The K-01 features a 16-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS image sensor, a 3-inch 920K dot LCD display, an ISO range of 100-25600, and shoots full 1080p HD video.

The K-01 will be available in March for $749.95 (body only) or $899.95 (with DA 40mm XS).

(PENTAX)

Nikon Announces Mirrorless "Nikon 1" Camera System

Nikon has announcedthe Nikon 1: the company's first mirrorless, interchangeable lens camera system. This marks the first time one of the Big Two camera makers has stepped into the genre ring alongside early adapters Olympus, Samsung, Panasonic and Sony. The "1" system is comprised of two bodies so far: the J1 and the V1. Both cameras feature a newly developed CX-format 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor that measures 1-inch in size---drastically smaller than the APS-C size sensor of manyDSLRs, and still much smaller than the Micro Four Thirds sensor of Olympus and Panasonic fame.

The Nikon 1 features a new 73-point AF system for capturing fast moving action, and can shoot at full resolution up to 60 fps, which is "the world’s fastest continuous shooting speed." It shoots full High Definition (1080p) video, and features "Motion Snapshot" for capturing stills while recording video. The V1 is the more powerful of the two new models and is the world's smallest and lightest EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder, Interchangeable Lens) camera at this time. It features a 1.4 million dot high resolution electronic viewfinder that "automatically activates when the user raises the camera to their eye," a magnesium alloy body, a mechanical shutter and a multi-accessory port and stereo mic input for video.

Nikon has also announced the 1 NIKKOR lens system of lightweight lenses, including 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (27-81mm 35mm equivalent); 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 lens (81-297mm equivalent); 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 pancake lens (27mm equivalent); and 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 (27-270mm equivalent);---Nikon's first power zoom lens. A mount will be available sometime in the future, according to Nikon, so that photographers can use lenses from their existing NIKKOR lineup.

The Nikon J1 and V1 will be available beginning October 20th. The J1 kit will be an estimated $649.95; the V1 kit will be an estimated $899.95. See the full release from Nikon below.

From Nikon:

MELVILLE, N.Y. (Sept 21, 2011) – Nikon Inc. today announced a revolutionary new digital imaging system built from the ground up to empower users with new ways to tell stories through photography, driven by imaginative next-generation technology. The iconic new Nikon 1 system is designed to become one with the user and their lifestyle, providing a unique form of expression with amazing image quality, speed and portability.

From Nikon, a company with more than 75 years in imaging excellence, the Nikon 1 J1 is an advanced camera with interchangeable lenses that opens the door to a fresh way to capture pictures and High Definition (HD) movies. This Nikon 1 system represents a new category of camera that challenges conventional thinking, emphasizing a pocketable form factor with unbelievable speed, combined with the high image quality that only Nikon could create. Thanks to a wealth of innovative technologies, the Nikon J1 camera is a simple to use conduit for creativity, seemingly anticipating a consumer’s needs in any situation. Moments are instantly captured using amazingly fast new hybrid Autofocus (AF), and blazing fast speed with continuous AF. Users can also shoot with confidence knowing that the Smart Photo Selector will automatically capture the best possible image without a second thought. Furthermore, just a touch of the shutter button instantly captures a high quality image while simultaneously recording Full HD 1080p movies, and the exciting new Motion Snapshot mode captures fleeting moments like never before with a combination of moving and still images, bringing memories to life. To accompany this exciting new form factor, Nikon created the entirely new 1 NIKKOR lens system that seamlessly integrates powerful precision optics into a camera platform to capture more of the world around the user.

“The needs of the consumer are changing and the world is becoming one of visual conversation, which paves the way for the next chapter in image capture devices. The new Nikon 1 system is the culmination of more than 75 years of optical excellence and relentless pursuit to the unrivaled technological advancements in camera technology,” said Bo Kajiwara, Director of Marketing, Nikon Inc. “Nikon’s new 1 J1 camera allows consumers to have confidence in a new way to express themselves, with amazing speed, versatility, ease of use and portability.”

One Purpose: A Revolutionary New System The new Nikon 1 system is a completely original concept, engineered specifically to strike the ultimate balance of performance, intuitive simplicity and portability to chronicle life like never before. This breakthrough platform lays the foundation for future technologies, and the Nikon 1 system has been created for the consumer who wants to capture, share and connect to life. The fully electronic lens system enables the camera to keep pace with an active lifestyle and delivers amazing images and Full HD 1080p movies to connect with friends and family. Whether it’s a spontaneous outing or a planned trek abroad, the versatility of interchangeable lenses in a convenient form factor will allow a consumer to take the camera with them wherever life leads. Furthermore, the J1 camera makes a personal style statement with a variety of matching colored camera bodies and lenses.

The heart of the new J1 camera is the new Nikon developed CX-format, 10.1 megapixel High-Speed AF CMOS sensor that helps make this camera the pinnacle of portable performance.  The newly developed CMOS sensor has been engineered for amazing image quality in a variety of lighting conditions, with a native ISO range of 100-3200 (6400 Hi-1) for maximum versatility. Images captured with this new sensor exhibit striking colors, vivid hues and rich detail so lifelike, it’s the next best thing to being there as memories unfold.

Nikon’s exclusive new EXPEED 3™ image processing engine drives the system and is the catalyst behind the camera’s rapid response, fast AF and high-speed performance. In addition, the new dual core EXPEED 3 processor works to maximize battery efficiency while yielding images and movies with low noise and vibrant tones. The Nikon J1 is engineered for maximum ease of use, featuring a clean button layout and intuitive graphical interface. Distractions and menus are minimized; creating a clear path to the camera’s advanced functions, further unleashing creative potential.

The Fastest One From first steps to first date, life moves fast and the Nikon J1 is the camera to keep pace. The camera seemingly anticipates action with amazing autofocus, response time and operation. The new advanced hybrid AF system is the world’s fastest autofocus1, allowing consumers to capture more of their world than ever before. The Nikon J1 features new focal plane phase detection AF that reacts instantly to deliver incredibly fast, split-second response. Wherever action is happening in the frame, the 73-point AF system will get the shot. This newly developed hybrid system continuously evaluates the scene at hand for optimal results, and can switch between phase detection and contrast detect AF to best suit the scene. Whether shooting in low-light conditions like a late night block party, or a fast moving pick-up game, photographers can capture details with confidence.

When the action is happening, users can also shoot at a fast 10 frames per second (fps), with full adaptive AF for frame after frame of images with incredible sharpness and detail. Additionally, the scene can be captured at full resolution up to a staggering 60 fps (AF locked), which is the world’s fastest continuous shooting speed. So go ahead and capture a best friend’s high dive at the next pool party, and then confidently share every aspect of the leap with stunning detail.

The One That Inspires a New Way to Capture with Motion Snapshot Motion Snapshot is a new approach to capturing images that will dramatically alter the way we perceive digital photography. By selecting the Motion Snapshot icon from the Mode Dial at the back of the camera, consumers can capture fleeting moments with staggering depth and emotion like never before. The result unites a frozen still image with a slow-motion movement set to a built-in audio soundtrack to create a portrayal of an occurrence with maximum impact. With Motion Snapshot, users are now able to relive memories in stunning detail, as real movement and depth are included in the image. Motion Snapshot provides a way to once again experience someone’s hair flowing in the breeze or relaxing scenes like waves crashing or rustling leaves that evoke an emotional response.

Consumers are also able to create masterpieces of moving images from multiple files using the included Short Movie Creator software. This easy-to-use, intuitive software works in conjunction with Nikon’s View NX2 to make managing photos and movies fun and easy. With these programs, users are empowered to organize, share and edit photos, Motion Snapshots and HD movies.  Users are also able to connect and share Motion Snapshot files using Nikon’s my Picturetown, an online resource at www.mypicturetown.com.

The One to Set Trends Both the camera technology and exterior design were inspired by the pursuit of balance, as a device that lives in perfect accord with any lifestyle. The lines are clean and minimalist, the colors are vibrant, creating a stylish accessory for every personality. The design is meant to inspire creativity, with a simple interface and easy-to-use camera controls, intuitively placed for any user. Switching from modes and accessing advanced features is easy, enabling the user to further push creative boundaries, whether trusting the smart automatic settings or creatively exploring the full manual control modes.

Control highlights include a Mode Dial, with the four main common functions readily available, in addition to a Command Dial with common camera settings. The new “F” (feature) button is a new design element to Nikon cameras, which automatically brings up relevant menus and options based on what mode the camera is set.

The Nikon 1 system is further complemented by fashionable, premium accessories tailored to perfectly fit a user’s lifestyle. These accessories include a custom fit body case set available in a variety of colors, as well as fashionable, color coordinated leather neck and hand straps.

The Smart One: Nikon’s Smart Photo Selector The new Nikon J1 is an advanced camera with interchangeable lenses that features new technologies aimed at creating better pictures, easier. Nikon’s new Smart Photo Selector feature strives to deliver a perfect image every time. When a “can’t miss” photo opportunity arises, users can switch to the Smart Photo Selector mode which uses the camera’s pre-cache to start shooting and storing images. All of these images are analyzed within the camera, and the best photo is selected based on a number of factors including exposure, focus and advanced facial recognition. While the camera suggests the best image, five frames are recorded, providing the user a choice of their favorite photo.  What’s more, the J1 also includes favorite core Nikon technologies, such as Active D-lighting, Auto Scene Selector and Picture Controls.

One Device That Also Captures HD Movies The new CX-format CMOS sensor produces breathtaking Full HD movies at 1080p (30 fps). Users can also shoot at a rapid 60 fps (1080i), or elevate the production with additional 30/60/400 and 1200 fps modes for super slow motion effects. The J1 is made to be flexible, and can capture both HD movies and high resolution images simultaneously. Simply press the shutter while recording to freeze the action with a high quality image file with sharp focus.

Additionally, the Nikon J1 applies noise reduction to movie files, giving the user amazingly sharp, crisp movies with deep black levels. This feature makes this the ideal camera for shooting movies when light is less than ideal, such as indoors or at night. A full HD movie can record a full 29 minutes, while the senses are further treated to sound sampled in full stereo for lifelike reproduction.

One Vision, Two Distinct Cameras The Nikon J1 is the model designed for those consumers who use a camera as part of their connected lifestyle; always carrying it to bring passion and depth to visual storytelling. Both the camera and the lenses come in a variety of matching stylish colors, including white, pink, red, silver and black. Photos and movies are easily composed and shared on the bright 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD monitor. With the aid of the concealed pop-up flash, consumers can easily add fill flash as needed or shoot in most conditions including low-light.

The Nikon 1 V1 is for photo enthusiasts who value interchangeable lens versatility and desire a small form factor. In fact, it’s the world’s smallest and lightest camera in the world with interchangeable lens versatility and an electronic viewfinder (EVF)3. Aimed at the user excited about creating amazing images and movies, the Nikon V1 has added features including a 1.4 million dot high resolution EVF that automatically activates when the user raises the camera to their eye. In addition to the high-speed electronic shutter, the magnesium alloy body conceals a high performance mechanical shutter that affords tactile feedback and expanded shooting options. The V1 camera also features Nikon’s new Multi-Accessory Port for attaching options such as the new SB-N5 compact speedlight, or the GP-N100 GPS module. For those making movies, the V1 has a stereo microphone input for professional quality audio.

1 NIKKOR Lenses and Accessories Building upon a 75 year legacy of NIKKOR lenses and optical excellence, the new 1 NIKKOR lens system has been developed to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Experience as the world leader in optical engineering has driven Nikon to create a compact, lightweight lens system that provides users with stunning image quality. New technology in these lenses includes a Silent Stepping Motor (STM) for whisper quiet AF and zoom during operation and while shooting movies. Additionally, this high performance system places Nikon’s VR II image stabilization technology inside lenses to minimize instances of camera shake. The result is sharp images in a variety of challenging lighting conditions, even while handheld.

The new system offers a lens for every occasion. The camera kit includes a color-matched 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (27-81mm 35mm equivalent) for optimal focal range in a small lens. For those needing maximum versatility, a 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 lens (81-297mm equivalent) is available, or users can explore their creative side with a color matched 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 pancake lens (27mm equivalent). For the movie enthusiast, a new 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 (27-270mm equivalent) power zoom lens will be available. This new lens is Nikon’s first powered zoom, and provides smooth and silent changes in focal length while recording movies. Additionally, the FT-1 F-mount adaptor for legacy NIKKOR lenses will be available in the future, so that photographers can utilize their collection of quality NIKKOR lenses.

Price and Availability The Nikon J1 and V1 will be available throughout the United States beginning October 20th. The Nikon J1 camera with 10-30mm lens kit will be available at a suggested retail price4 of $649.95. The Nikon V1 camera with 10-30mm lens kit will be available for a suggested retail price4 of $899.95. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

(via Nikon)

Hands-on with Samsung NX200, MV800, and WB750 Cameras

Hands-on with Samsung NX200, MV800, and WB750 Cameras Text and Images by Lynne Eodice

Last week we reported on the newly announced Samsung NX200 mirrorless interchangeable lens compact camera. I was able to get a hands-on look at the camera on the show floor at IFA Berlin, as well as take it for a test spin around the historic German city. I also got to check out the other brand new Samsung cameras: the multiview MV800 with a Flip-Out touch screen LCD display, and the WB750 ultra compact camera with the longest zoom lens that Samsung offers.

Samsung NX200

Samsung NX200 test shots, click to enlarge

Samsung’s brand new NX200 (pictured at top) boasts a 20.3-megapixel sensor, and in the vein of EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder, Interchangeable Lens) cameras, blends high quality with a compact size. This makes it an ideal choice for the pro-level photographer who would prefer not to lug around a heavy camera and equipment while traveling, or for a photo enthusiast looking to step up from a point-and-shoot while avoiding the bulk of a DSLR. It offers a choice of several different interchangeable lenses, and offers High Definition movie recording among its array of features. I had a wonderful opportunity to test the NX200 with Samsung’s 18-200mm lens in Berlin, Germany, and was immediately impressed with its light-gathering qualities in the early evening. I photographed iconic locations, such as a long portion of the Berlin wall that’s still standing (which has been painted by international artists in a mural project), Checkpoint Charlie, and the Brandenburg Gate. The NX200 also enables you to experiment with ten different Smart Filter effects, as well as “Magic Frame” technology, which as we've seen in other Samsung models allows you to imbue your images with 13 diffent stylized frames, from “magazine covers” to holiday themes.

Samsung MV800

hands-on with Samsung MV800, click to enlarge

Samsung’s compact MV800 gives you the chance to shoot great pictures from all angles. It offers a 3-inch  flip-out LCD touch screen that tilts up and down and allowed me to frame and view each shot no matter what the angle was. By positioning this screen in various ways, I was able to shoot over people’s heads easily in a crowd, and shoot from very low points of view without getting down on the ground. This tiny camera boasts a 16.1MP CCD image sensor for high picture quality, a 5x optical zoom, and a 26mm wide-angle Schneider-KREUZNACH lens. Other fun creative functions include a Magic Frame feature, which includes 12 background templates, a Funny Face feature that allows you to bend and stretch portraits to distort facial features, and a Picture-in-Picture function, which lets you insert one image into another.

Samsung WB750

The tiny WB750 boasts an 18x optical zoom lens with 24x Smart Zoom technology, which makes this longest zoom lens in Samsung’s camera offerings. It also features a 12.5MP CMOS sensor that is designed to reduce image noise and distortion in both still images and video. This was a fun camera to use because of its very long zoom lens, as well as its speed--- it can capture still images up to 10 fps in its high-speed continuous mode. Samsung offers its proprietary Dual Capture function in several camera models, including the WB750, which allows you to shoot 10MP images while simultaneously recording video in full 1080p HD quality. Other features include a built-in HDR feature for amazing color and vibrant images, as well as an Action Panorama mode. And finally, the WB750 offers a Creative Movie Maker mode, so that you can combine still photos and video, create special effects, and add music instantly, eliminating the need for video-editing software in post-production.

Sony Announces NEX-C3 Compact Interchangeable Lens Camera

Sony has just announced the NEX-C3 digital camera---the smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital camera on the market, according to the manufacturer. Featuring a 16.2-megapixel EXMOR sensor (24mm APS-C size) and "press and rotate" operating with real time preview of different effects, the NEX-C3 comes on the heels of last year's ground-breaking NEX-5 and NEX-3, which were “the world’s first interchangeable lens cameras with an APS-C sensor to continuously adjust focus and exposure while recording video.” A new feature for this generation of the NEX lineup is called Picture Effects (essentially, art filters), which includes a Background Defocus effect to create the look of shallow depth of field in a photograph. A bonus to Sony's new Picture Effects is that multiple effects can be applied to one shot and previewed simultaneously.

The NEX-C3 will be available in August for $599.99 (16mm f/2.8 kit) and $649.99 (18-55mm kit). Ten new lenses will be available by 2012 in addition to the three existing E-Mount lenses that are now available, turning the system into a lasting investment for those photographers who find the NEX system preferable to the DSLR format. More images and Sony's official press release below.

images via Sony; click thumbnails to enlarge

From Sony:

Sony Announces NEX-3 and NEX-5 Compact Interchangeable Lens Cameras

At PMA in February, we brought you the news that Sony had plans to unveil a compact interchangeable lens camera this year. Well, that time has come. Sony has just announced two new mirrorless a (alpha) compact interchangeable lens digital cameras---the NEX-3 and the NEX-5. Both offer the image quality of a D-SLR with the portability of a compact camera. According to Sony, "these models are the world’s first interchangeable lens cameras with an APS-C sensor to continuously adjust focus and exposure while recording video." They will be compatible with three new E-Mount lenses. An optional LA-EA1 Mount Adaptor extends compatibility to the α family of 30 lenses, plus a huge range of other legacy A-mount lenses (Manual Focus only). The cameras and lenses will be available in July. Find additional images and the full press release from Sony below for specs and pricing.

From Sony:

SAN DIEGO, May 10, 2010 – Sony today introduced two innovative α (alpha) compact interchangeable lens digital cameras (models NEX-5 and NEX-3) that provide the quality of a digital SLR in a compact body that is easy to slip into a small purse or jacket pocket for ultimate portability.

“Consumers want better picture quality in a smaller form factor. Sony has made that a reality with these cameras. The NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras truly embody Sony’s make.believe spirit,” said Kristen Elder, director of Sony’s alpha digital imaging business. “These new cameras are the game-changers everyone has been waiting for and will revolutionize the consumer experience by offering outstanding picture quality with a totally pocketable size.”

With breakthrough video performance, these models are the world’s first interchangeable lens cameras with an APS-C sensor to continuously adjust focus and exposure while recording video. The NEX-5 camera offers Full HD movie capture (1080i AVCHD and 720p MP4) with Full HD 60i recording.

These cameras are perfect for point-and-shoot users looking to advance from snapshots to creative photography as well as existing DSLR users searching for a no-compromise compact alternative.

Innovative Design

Unlike conventional DSLR models, the “mirrorless” construction of the new models reduces the thickness of both camera bodies to just about an inch at their slimmest point (excluding grip and mount portions). The NEX-5, constructed from magnesium alloy, and the NEX-3, with a polycarbonate casing, offer a newly developed 14.2 megapixel Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor. About 60 percent larger than the sensor in micro four-thirds cameras, this sensor is key to the exceptional image quality, extremely low image noise and creative defocus background effects that are familiar to DSLR users.

HD Movie Recording and Fast, Silent Autofocus

The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are the first α  cameras to offer the extra convenience of high definition video recording. In addition to 720p HD recording, the NEX-5 also captures

Full HD (1920 x 1080i) video in high-quality AVCHD files that can be easily enjoyed on a compatible HD television via the cameras built-in HDMI™ terminal (cable not included). The NEX-3 shoots 720p HD video as compact MP4 files.  Both Sony cameras include built-in stereo microphones for high-quality audio recording.

Still and video image quality is further refined by Sony’s powerful BIONZ® processor that ensures quick DSLR-style shooting response with fast, precise autofocus and minimal shutter lag. Both cameras can also capture fast-moving action with a high-speed burst of full-resolution images at up to 7fps (AF/AE fixed from first frame).

Sweep Panorama The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are the first α  cameras featuring Sweep Panorama. Capturing large group shots is as easy as press-and-sweep. Sweep Panorama mode lets consumers capture breathtaking shots up to 226-degree horizontal or 151-degree vertical shots.

Both models will be ready for 3D Sweep Panorama this July (with firmware update). With 3D Sweep Panorama mode, these cameras can shoot 3D panoramic still images with a single lens. The high-speed burst of frames is stitched together using innovative processing techniques to automatically create detail-packed 3D panoramas. These files can be enjoyed in stunning 3D on compatible 3D televisions (other accessories may be required).

These cameras provide the advantages of multi-frame capture featured in Cyber-shot® cameras, including Hand-Held Twilight and Anti-motion Blur modes, which offer extraordinary low-light performance.

Simple To Use Overcoming the complexity and intimidation that often come along with DSLR use, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras have a new easy-to-use interface. It makes their performance advantages and features—including the techniques of creative photography—simple to master for consumers stepping up from compact digital still cameras and simultaneously offers easy access to the important camera controls that DSLR users demand.

Images and camera settings are displayed on the 3-inch (diagonal) wide-type Xtra Fine LCD™ display with TruBlack™ technology and 921k dot high resolution LCD that tilts up or down for comfortable viewing in any shooting position. The screen features an auto-brightness control function for excellent visibility, even outdoors. TruBlack screen technology enables an even more vivid, high-contrast view of images and camera settings. E-Mount Lenses Three new E-mount lenses are being introduced, including a 16mm F2.8 wide angle prime lens (model number SEL16F28), an 18mm-55mm F3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens (model number SEL1855) and an 18mm-200mm F3.5-6.3 (model number SEL18200) high magnification zoom lens.

The E-mount lenses provide the cameras with extreme compactness as well as the performance required for quiet continuous auto focus and auto exposure during HD video capture.  These all new lenses are of premium construction, with brushed aluminum barrels and steel mounts.  An optional LA-EA1 Mount Adaptor extends compatibility to the α family of 30 lenses, plus a huge range of other legacy A-mount lenses (Manual Focus only).

Ideal for everyday shooting, the low-profile E 16mm F2.8 lens minimizes bulk, allowing the camera to easily be carried in a coat, pants pocket, or purse. This lens’ creative possibilities can be expanded even further by the VCL-ECU1 Ultra Wide Converter which provides a 12mm view, and VCL-ECF1 Fisheye Converter that delivers impressive curvi-linear distortion.

Featuring in-lens Optical SteadyShot™  image stabilization for clearer handheld images, the E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS zoom is a perfect travel partner. The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are available in kit form with either the 16mm prime or the 18mm-55mm lens.  The E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS zoom lens offers a powerful 11x magnification range plus Optical SteadyShot image stabilization with Active mode that is used in the most advanced Handycam® camcorders. Accessories Both cameras are supplied with a super-compact clip-on flash that attaches via the smart accessory terminal when needed. Other optional accessories include the FDA-SV1 Optical Viewfinder plus stylish cases and shoulder straps.

As an option, the accessory shoe on both cameras accepts a compact ECM-SST1 Stereo Microphone that captures even more high-quality sound for HD video recordings than the cameras’ built-in stereo recording.

The new cameras accept both Memory Stick PRO Duo™ (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media (all sold separately). Sony’s new Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX offers 30MB per second transfer rates that save you time when downloading images.

Pricing and Availability The NEX-5A and NEX-3A cameras, which are supplied with SEL16F28 lens, will cost about $650 and $550 respectively. NEX-5K and NEX-3K cameras, supplied with SEL1855 lens will cost about $700 and $600 respectively. The NEX-3 will be available in silver, black and red, and the NEX-5 in silver and black.

The SEL16F28 and SEL1855 lenses will be available for about $250 and $300. (The SEL18200 zoom lens will be available this fall for about $800.)

The cameras, lenses and a range of accessories will be available in July at Sony Style® retail stores (www.Sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide.