Olympus E-P1 ‘digital Pen’ – in depth preview + samples

After a carefully constructed teaser campaign Olympus has officially launched the E-P1, its first Micro Four Thirds camera and the worst kept secret in the photography industry, thanks to a deluge of leaked information ahead of launch. It's a compact mirrorless interchangeable lens camera that mimics the styling of the company's Pen range that was popular in the 1960s and 70s. The camera is built around an image-stabilized 12 megapixel sensor and incorporates a 3.0" LCD. The E-P1 is available with a 14-42mm kit lens that retracts into its barrel when not in use, much like the lens of a compact camera. Check out the news story, lots of samples and our full hands-on preview after the link. Update: Second gallery of shots from the European launch in Berlin, including the new 17mm pancake lens now added.

Panasonic announces firmware update for DMC-LX3

Panasonic has announced a firmware update for its Lumix DMC-LX3 digital compact camera. Version 1.3 improves auto white balance and general performance of the camera. It also rectifies minor operational issues. The latest version will be made available for download on the 1 June, 2009.

Sigma issues DP2 firmware update

Sigma has posted a firmware update for its DP2 large-sensor digital compact camera. Version 1.01 improves auto focus and reduces the intermittent freezing of the camera that can occur under certain conditions. The update is available for immediate download from Sigma's website.

Ten Recommended Compacts: Number 3

Number 3 is the Sigma DP1. In my own print comparisons, the Sigma DP1 has the best image quality of any digital compact camera. "Best" may not be the optimal word since there are those who prefer the coarse rendering of small sensors or want the highest resolution possible, which the DP1 does not offer. However, the exceedingly clean DP1 files - with their smooth tonal transitions, high dynamic range, open shadows, and resilience during tone mapping - have the best image quality as far

Ricoh releases firmware update for GR Digital II camera

Ricoh has released a firmware update for the GR Digital II compact camera. Version 2.30 includes manual flash control as well as the ability to to save white balance compensation values under 'my settings'. A new feature, 'Today's Shots' displays the number of images recorded on a particular date when the power is turned off. The update follows the recent firmware update (v1.16) for the CMOS-based CX1 which rectifies a few minor issues.

Next Page »