The best DSLR for a beginner professional photographer

Well, the time has come for me to update my digital camera. Coming from 35 mm classical film, all manual settings camera and a Canon G6, the only way I’m going is to buy a DSLR.

While this may seem as a straight forward solution to the fact that I’ve finally reached the capabilities of my trusted Canon G6, there are a lot of factors to consider: my style of photography, the subjects, future needs and most importantly COST.

With limited financial resources, I need to find the best DSLR + lenses that will cover all my needs for at least 1 – 2 years from now on. I also need a system that will allow me to shoot landscapes, nature, macro photos and portraits in studio.

My Canon G6 main specifications look like this:

Body:

• Max resolution: 3072 x 2304 pixels
• ISO rating: 50, 100, 200, 400
• Auto focus type: TTL, 9-point, FlexiZone
• Min shutter: 15 sec
• Max shutter: 1/2000 sec
• Storage types: Compact Flash (Type I or II)

Lens

• Aperture range: F2.0 - F3.0 / F8
• Zoom wide (W): 35 mm equivalent
• Zoom tele (T): 140 mm equivalent
• Normal focus range: 50 cm
• Macro focus range: wide 5 cm / tele 15 cm

Taking this camera to its limits in the field and also in a small studio, I’ve discovered that I really need:

Body:

• Max resolution: at least 10 megapixels (12 megapixels would be ideally)
• ISO rating: 100, 200, 400
• Auto focus (fast, but not very fast, I “shoot” mostly static subjects)
• Min shutter: 15 sec (more would be better)
• Max shutter: 1/2000 sec

Lens(es):

• Wide: at least 28 mm equivalent (I really need it for buildings and landscapes)
• Normal + portrait: 50 – 80 mm equivalent, as good as can be
• Macro: 100-150 mm equivalent, the best possible for small objects (like fruits, vegetables, etc)

After 2 months of reading all possible camera and lenses reviews, here are my conclusions, hopefully you’ll find them useful if you’re looking for the best digital system that your limited financial resources can buy:

1. ALWAYS start with the lenses, the DSLR is as good as the lenses you put on it.
2. ANY DSLR is far better in terms of its capabilities than you can use (as a beginner, of course), YOU are the one who is supposed to take those capabilities to their limits.
3. Except for differences in style of photography, DO NOT choose your camera based on a brand preference (I obviously prefer CANON, but I’ve found quite a few reasons that would make me buy a Nikon).

With cost in mind, I’ve limited my “preferences” to two cameras: Nikon D80 and Canon 400D (Rebel XTI) - I think that both cameras would be more than enough for what I want to do with them, it does not matter witch one I buy, is just the matter of lenses that will make the difference.

The thing that I like about these cameras: Canon’s 400D low noise throughout the sensitivity range and EOS Integrated Cleaning System versus Nikon’s D80 bright viewfinder and support for SD and SDHC cards.

The rest of the options, settings, etc. are more or less the same, with 10 megapixels each, a cropped field of view for lenses of 1.6 for Canon 400D and 1.5 for Nikon D80, with the mention that there are a few settings on the Nikon (like customizable automatic sensitivity - ISO) that would make it a better candidate.

The really important factor in deciding what camera to buy is the COST OF THE LENSES:

If I buy the CANON, here are my options:

1.Going really cheap:
a. Landscape, architecture, portrait - kit lens – Canon EF- S 18-55 mm (28 – 90 mm equivalent) F/3.5-F5.6 to F/22
b.Portrait, nature, macro - Tamron AF 55-200mm (90 – 320 mm equivalent) F/4-5.6 Di II LD Macro

Total price = 886 USD
Canon Digital Rebel XTi SLR with EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens = 707 USD
Tamron 55 - 200mm F/4.0-5.6 DI-II LD Macro = 179 USD

2. Going for far better lenses:
a. Landscape, architecture, portrait - Canon EF-S 17-55mm (27 – 90 mm equivalent) F/2.8 IS USM
b. Portrait, nature - Canon EF 70-300mm (112 - 480mm equivalent) F/4-5.6 IS USM
c. Specialized macro lens - Tokina AF 100mm (160 mm equivalent) F/2.8 Macro 1:1 AT-XM100 Pro D

Total price = 2560 USD
Canon Digital Rebel XTi SLR = 620 USD
Canon EF-S 17-55mm F/2.8 IS USM = 1000 USD
Canon EF 70-300mm F/4-5.6 IS USM = 540 USD
Tokina AF 100mm F/2.8 Macro 1:1 AT-XM100 Pro D = 400 USD

3. A compromise:
a. Landscape, architecture, portrait - Canon EF-S 17-55mm (27 – 90 mm equivalent) F/2.8 IS USM
b. Nature, macro - Tamron 70-300mm (112 - 480mm equivalent) F/4-F5.6 Di LD 1:2 Macro

Total price = 1790 USD
Canon Digital Rebel XTi SLR = 620 USD
Canon EF-S 17-55mm F/2.8 IS USM = 1000 USD
Tamron 70-300mm F/4-F5.6 Di LD 1:2 Macro = 170 USD

If I buy the NIKON, here are my options:

1. Going for a kit + macro:
a. Landscape, architecture, portrait, nature - kit lens – Nikon 18 - 135mm (27 – 202mm equivalent) F/3.5-F5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX
b. Nature, macro - Tamron 70-300mm (105 - 450mm equivalent) F/4-F5.6 Di LD 1:2 Macro

Total price = 1320 USD
Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera with 18-135 F/3.5-F5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX = 1150 USD
Tamron 70-300mm (105 - 450mm equivalent) F/4-F5.6 Di LD 1:2 Macro = 170 USD

2. A better deal (despite of the higher price):
a. Nikon 18mm - 200mm (27 – 300mm equivalent) F/3.5-F5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR with macro capabilities

Total price = 1600 USD
Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera Body = 850 USD
Nikon 18mm - 200mm F/3.5-F5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR = 750 USD

As a conclusion, I need to decide what configuration suits my needs better:

CANON
Total price = 1790 USD
Canon Digital Rebel XTi SLR = 620 USD
Canon EF-S 17-55mm F/2.8 IS USM = 1000 USD
Tamron 70-300mm F/4-F5.6 Di LD 1:2 Macro = 170 USD

NIKON
Total price = 1600 USD
Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera Body = 850 USD
Nikon 18mm - 200mm F/3.5-F5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR = 750 USD

CANON system advantages:

1. Zoom range 28 – 480mm equivalent
2. Superb image quality from the Canon EF-S 17-55mm F/2.8 lens
3. Better macro
4. EOS Integrated Cleaning System
5. Low noise throughout the sensitivity range

CANON system disadvantages:

1. No image stabilization for the Tamron lens
2. Slightly higher price

NIKON system advantages:

1. A single lens – great versatility
2. Zoom range 28 – 300mm equivalent - Vibration Reduction throughout the zoom range
3. Minimum focus range: 0.5m (1.6 ft.)
4. Great “user experience”

NIKON system disadvantages:

1. Barrel distortion at 17mm
2. Zoom range to 300mm (compared to 480mm)

Lense tutorial, understanding camera lenses

While looking for lenses to buy for a digital camera, I’ve realized that there are many things about lenses that I didn’t know about and are important in determining the overall performance of a particular lens.

For example: Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM macro

Except macro and 60mm f2.8, the rest of the info should be researched in order to understand what “EF-S + USM” mean, especially on a digital camera.

Since I’ve already done my research (and not only for Canon lenses), here are my conclusions:

CANON lenses notations:

• EF - The EF lens mount allows all the Canon EF lenses to be used on any of the Canon EOS. EF stands for “Electro-Focus”: automatic focusing on EF lenses is handled by a dedicated electric motor built into the lens. All communication between camera and lens takes place through electrical contacts; there are no mechanical levers or plungers.
• USM - Ultrasonic motor drive - EF lenses equipped with USM drives have fast, silent and precise auto focus operations, and consume less power compared to other AF drive motors. There are two types of USMs, the ring-type USM and the micromotor USM. Ring-type USM is always preferred because of its superior performance and efficiency, and it allows for full-time manual focus operations without switching out of AF mode.
• IS - Image stabilizer - the Image Stabilizer (IS) counters camera movements and shakes by optically correcting such shakes with accelerometers and lens groups that move in relation to the shakes, thus minimizing or even eliminating minute vibrations from the image. A general rule-of-thumb to overcome such vibrations would be to set the shutter speed equal to or faster than the reciprocal of the lens focal length (e.g. 1/125s for a 100 mm lens). IS lenses can improve on this rule by up to three stops. That is, the same 100 mm lens could be used at 1/30s.
• L - series lenses - top of the line Canon EF lenses are designated as L-series. L-series lenses have superior optical performance and are typically built with a solid construction to withstand constant use and harsh conditions. They can be recognized by a red ring around the front part of the lens. Most recent L lenses have sealing to help resist dust and water. L-series lenses are more frequently used by professionals and serious amateurs due to their high price and large mass.
• EF-S - The lens mount is a derivative of the EF lens mount created for a subset of Canon digital single-lens reflex cameras with APS-C sized image sensors.

NIKON lenses notations:

• Nikon F-mount refers to a lens mount developed by Nikon for its 35 mm SLR cameras
• AF - auto focus designation, indicating focus driven by a motor inside the camera body.
• AF-S - Auto focus-Silent. Uses a “Silent Wave Motor” (ultrasonic motor) to focus quietly and quickly. Similar to Canon’s “USM” technology
• AF-I - Auto focus-Internal - driven by a coreless DC motor.
• ED - “Extra-low Dispersion” glass incorporated to reduce chromatic aberration. “Super ED” glass has been introduced as well.
• IF - Internal Focus - focusing is accomplished through the movement of internal lens groups, eliminating extension and rotation of the front lens element.
• DX - Lens designed for Nikon DX format sensors. The image circle matches the smaller sensor area of Nikon’s digital SLRs. A vignetted image may be produced if used on a 35mm format camera, although some DX lenses cover the full 35mm frame at longer focal lengths.
• VR - Vibration Reduction - uses a moving optical group to reduce the photographic effects of camera shake. Similar to Canon’s Image Stabilizer, Sigma’s OS
• D - Distance/Dimension - indicated after the f-number number. It means the lens is capable of using Nikon’s 3D Matrix Metering on bodies that support it. The lens transmits focus distance information, which is incorporated into the camera’s exposure calculations.
• G - Indicated after the f-number. G lenses do not have an aperture ring, and the aperture can only be controlled electronically by the camera body
• GN - Guide Number - aides in making flash exposures on cameras without automatic flash metering.
• Micro - Micro lenses are capable of high reproduction ratios for macro photography.
• N - Indicates the Nano Crystal Coat, a new type of lens coating that originated in Nikon’s semiconductor division.
• PC - Perspective Control - lens includes movements to control perspective and depth-of-field.

SIGMA lenses notations:

• APO - Apochromatic lens element(s)
• OS - In lens “Optical Stabilization”, analogous to Nikon VR or Canon IS
• HSM - “HyperSonic Motor”, in-lens ultrasonic motor, analogous to Nikon AF-S or Canon USM
• EX - “Excellence”, professional series.
• DG - Coatings optimized for Digital SLRs, still usable on 35mm or full frame
• DC - Lenses for DSLRs featuring APS-C size sensors only
• DF - “Dual Focus”, lens features clutch to disengage focus ring when in AF mode
• HF - “Helical Focusing”, front element of lens does not rotate (for when using circular polarizing filters)

TAMRON lenses notations:

• Di — “Digitally Integrated”, featuring coating optimized for digital SLRs, but still usable on 35mm or full frame
• Di II — Lenses for DSLRs with APS-C sized sensors only
• SP — “Super Performance”, professional lenses
• IF — “Internal Focus”
• LD — “Low Dispersion” elements
• XR — Extra Refractive Index glass
• VC — “Vibration Compensation”, in lens stabilization analogous to Nikon VR or Canon IS

TOKINA lenses notations:

• AT-X - “Advanced Technology-Extra” - lenses that are manufactured without compromise, using the most advanced design and fabrication technologies available
• F&R - the largest aspherical elements being employed in optical designs today. These give outstanding performance with very even illumination in the corners and correction of spherical aberration
• SD - Super Low Dispersion - to eliminate chromatic aberration, Tokina uses special glass material having super - low dispersion (SD) properties.
• HLD - High-refraction, Low Dispersion. Having higher refractive index and lower dispersion properties, HLD glass is far less likely than standard optical glass to create lateral chromatic aberration.
• Multi-Coating - Reflections off the surface of lens elements are reduced or eliminated by bonding multiple layers of a transparent anti-reflection chemical to the surface of the glass
• Floating Element System – many Tokina lenses employ floating element systems to provide optimum correction of astigmatism from minimum focus distance to infinity.
• IFS - Internal Focus System - The internal focusing system used by Tokina move each element group within the lens, but does not change the overall length of the lens.
• Focus Clutch Mechanism - Tokina AT-X PRO series lenses all feature the patented “Focus Clutch” Mechanism for switching the lens between auto focus and manual focus modes.

References:
www.canon.com
www.nikon.com
www.tokinalens.com
www.tamron.com
www.sigmaphoto.com

Basic photography tips

There are three technical elements that “make” an image

• Aperture
• Shutter speed
• ISO speed (sensitivity of the digital sensor)

1. Aperture

The aperture determines the amount of light that gets to the digital sensor. A SMALL number indicates a LARGE aperture, good lenses start with a maximum aperture of 2, better and more expensive lenses start at 1.1!

Apart from the quantity of light that is allowed to get through, the aperture also determines the DOF (depth of field).

The numbers you see on the side of a lens usually look like this:

F 22 | 16 | 11 | 8 | 5.6 | 4 | 2.4At F 22, the lens lets in a very small amount of light, it is at minimum aperture. At F 2.4, the lens lets in the maximum amount of light that it has been designed for.

Each number represents a double increase (or decrease) of the quantity of light that is allowed through the lens.

For example: at aperture 5.6 you allow 2 times more light than at aperture 8, and 2 times less light than at aperture 4

On “point and shoot” digital cameras you do not see this numbers on the side of the lens, the process of opening and closing the aperture is controlled electronically and has also increments like: 5.9 or 8.2

2. Shutter speed

The shutter is the device that controls the exposure time of the photo. The exposure time usually begins at 1/2000 sec. and goes up to 30 sec.

At 1/250 sec. exposure time, the shutter will let in 2 times more light than at 1/500 sec. and 2 times less than at 1/125 sec.

The exposure time determines how a photo will look, if it will be “shaken” or crystal clear. For example: you want to take a picture of a water fountain. You have two options, use a short exposure, or a long one. A short exposure (of 1/2000 sec.) will “freeze” the water droplets in mid air; the detail of every droplet will be clearly visible in the photo. A long exposure time (of 1 sec.) will create a special effect where the falling droplets traces unite to create streams of water.

Aperture Priority | Shutter Speed 1/25 | Aperture Value 8 | ISO Speed 50

Aperture Priority | Shutter Speed 1/1000 | Aperture Value 3.2 | ISO Speed 50

3. ISO speed

ISO speed is the third element that “makes” a photo. It is usually expressed with the following numbers:

50 | 100 | 200 | 400 | 800 | 1600 | 3200These numbers tell you how “fast” does the digital sensor react to the light sent through the aperture and shutter.

A small number means that it takes a relatively long time to take a photo, a large number, a very short time.

But things are relative in using the right ISO setting. On an average digital camera, the ISO goes from 50 to 400. The ISO speed 50 is usually used on bright sunny days, while the 200 and 400 ISO is used in low light conditions (like interiors or at night)

There is also a problem with the image quality regarding the ISO speed. At large numbers, 400, 800, the image will contain “noise”, so use the low ISO speed as much as possible.

Here is a table that will further explain how the aperture, shutter speed and ISO speed are used TOGHETHER to “make” an image. I’ll give a theoretical example of how this three indicators work together: At ISO speed 100 you select an aperture of 8 and the shutter speed is calculated by the camera at 1/250 sec. The same image*, mathematically speaking, can be created using the following settings:

ISO speed	Aperture	Shutter speed
100	16	1/60
100	11	1/125
100	8	1/250
100	5.6	1/500
100	4	1/1000

same image* - the same in theory but with different effects on the final, real image

As you can see, with the ISO speed constant, the aperture and exposure time increase or decrease in connection with each other; if the aperture allows more light into the camera, the shutter speed decreases to compensate and give the perfect exposure.

But what happens to these theoretical numbers if you set the ISO speed at 50? Take a look:

ISO speed	Aperture	Shutter speed
50	11	1/60
50	8	1/125
50	5.6	1/250
50	4	1/500
50	2.8	1/1000

You can modify the aperture, keeping the shutter speed constant, or you can modify the shutter speed, while keeping the aperture values constant:

ISO speed	Aperture	Shutter speed
50	16	1/125
50	11	1/250
50	8	1/500
50	5.6	1/1000
50	4	1/1250

full copyright, text&images © www.digital-cameras-help.com / published: January/20/2006

How to take beautiful landscape pictures

Fill the frame for dramatic effect

Look carefully at the picture you’re framing before you click the button. Experiment by moving the camera up and down, side to side. Tilt the camera to various angles and see what it shows you. Fill the frame with the object that interests you most. If your digital camera has an LCD screen, you can use it to improve your sensitivity to the entire scene.

Change your perspective

There’s no need to shoot everything from a standing position. Sometimes sitting, crouching or getting higher can produce a more interesting shot.

Color

The presence of colors is probably the best hint of a great photography potential. Red is the most pleasant color for the eye. If you manage to find this color or a hue in nature, even in small spots, set up your tripod and prepare your camera. If you also pay attention to the position of these colored spots in the image, it is very possible that you obtain a good picture.

For increased drama, you can easily convert color photos to black and white by using your favorite image-editing program. With some camera models you can even do this in the camera before downloading the image to your computer. Once the image is on your computer, you can use your image-editing program to adjust contrast and brightness. Silhouettes look terrific in black and white, as do old buildings. The effect adds drama.

Clouds

The most beautiful ones are the clouds above the horizon, close to the landscape area that you have in view. At twilight or crack of dawn these clouds may have astonishing colors. They may create a dynamic and complementary center of interest that may give intensity to the center of interest in the picture.

Calmness

A calm, windless atmosphere may sometimes be very useful for the landscape photographer. The wind alters flowers, leaves, trees, grass, lakes and water basins. Do you take pictures of the landscape you will probably not see very soon holding the camera in your hand? It would probably be more cautious to use a tripod, preferably a good one.

Weather

Bad weather may be very good for taking pictures. Fog, mist, snow or rain may give fantastic power and impact to some every day landscapes.

Geographical position

Whenever possible, try to place yourself at north or (especially) south from the landscape you want to take pictures of, because you will thus benefit from lateral light. This sort of light emphasizes the relief and textures, the shapes and shadows.

Close-up

The best landscapes are usually those containing a powerful close-up. Trees, bushes, rocks, bunches of grass or moss, dunes of sand, flowers, almost every subject may be used to create a particular depth in the image. Such a detail may give a three-dimensional illusion, which is very important for the impact of the image.

Reflections

Peaceful waters offer perfect occasions for taking mirror images. This effect may be used in order to double the beauty of a landscape.

Zoom

This feature is probably the most talked about property of a digital camera. From the 10x, 12x, 4x lenses to more traditional language like the “35 mm equivalent“, the zoom of a particular lens is a subject of a lot of confusion.

To put things in order, let’s start with the 10x, 4x expression of zoom. First of all, it appears to be a very good standard. A camera with 10x zoom can be seen as a far better one than a 4x. I mean, 10 is a larger number than 4; but there is a problem�

10x what?, 4x what?

This is the big problem with this system, you have no reference point. It simply tells you that a 10x zoom will give you a 10 x magnification of the image that you get at 1x zoom.

But how large is the field of view at 1x? Big question! You practically cannot compare two digital cameras this way because of the lack of a reference point.

So, how about the “35mm equivalent” system? Well, with this system, things get very tricky if explained properly. It involves a lot of technical things but I believe that you need a clear, simple answer!

The explanation starts with the understanding of the field of view. On lenses specifications you’ll find something like 35-140 mm equivalent zoom. At 35 mm equivalent, on this particular lens, you get the largest field of view, you can put a lot of scenery in a photo. At 140 mm equivalent, the field of view shrinks by a factor of 4.

To simplify the problem, you will need to take a look at your feet:

As you see, it is an effort of imagination. At 25 mm equivalent, you get a field of view of 90°. At 50 mm equivalent, you get a field of view of 45°. Closing your feet even more, at half of 45° (22.5°), you get a 100 mm equivalent!

Digital Camera Tips: Megapixels

How Many Megapixels Should I Get?

The answer depends on what you’re going to do with
your pictures. Let me explain what I mean by that.
The first thing to understand is that a megapixel simply refers to a million pixels.

That naturally leads to the question — “What is a pixel?”

Pixels are very small dots of color that make up the
images in your digital photographs. They’re the most
basic (and smallest) elements of digital pictures.

“Pixel” stands for “picture element.” Using the
abbreviation Pix for picture and El for element, the
two are put together like this :
Pix + Element = Pixel.

It takes a lot of pixels to make a picture. Remember, it takes a million pixels to make one megapixel.

Pixels also make up what is called the resolution.
The more pixels in the image, the higher the resolution.

That simply means more information can be captured in a larger data file. It’s kind of like a big, fat file folder stuffed full of papers and documents vs. a skinny little file with only a few papers. Obviously the fat file contains more information and details.

It’s the same with resolution. You get more information and details in a higher resolution image than a lower resolution–and it results in better colors, more definition, clarity and smoother color gradations. That’s why higher resolution usually means a better-looking picture. Of course, the quality of the lens and sensor also influence the image quite a bit.

But generally, when you have more megapixels, not only can you get more details, but you can also print bigger pictures or make enlargements.

For example:

- 6 megapixels and up will look great from a thumbnail all the way up to a 16×20 poster.

- 5 megapixels will look great from a thumbnail all the
way up to 11×17 inches.

- 4 megapixels will print up nicely as an 8×10 and will still look pretty good up to 11×17 inches.

- 2 megapixels will just barely print an 8×10 - but will do a better job with smaller pictures like 5×7’s or 4×6’s.

- 1 megapixel - Don’t even try printing an 8×10 with 1
megapixel. Stick with a 4X6 or smaller or email the picture.

Putting up a picture online or sending it by email doesn’t require a lot of megapixels. In fact, you’re better off with less. If you have too many, you might crash your email or have a webpage that takes forever to load.

So, you see, the way you plan to use your pictures
determines how many megapixels you should get.

If all you want to do is email your pictures to friends and family, one MG (or even less) is enough. But that’s NOT enough if you want to print out 5×7 or 8×10 prints.

However… storing pictures with higher megapixels takes a lot more space. You have to have lots of storage in your hard drive and lots of RAM. Or you’ll need to put your pictures onto some sort of permanent storage like CDs to make sure you don’t use up all of your computer’s hard drive.

For most people (and most families) 3.2 megapixels is
perfect. It gives you nice detail without taking too much space on your computer. And you can print out nice looking 5×7s and 8×10s.

Next: In a couple of days, we’ll talk about how easy it is to use a digital camera, the types of digital cameras there are and how much they cost.

Digital Camera Terminology

What Do All Those Strange Words Mean?

Digital photography includes many terms not used in
traditional photography. If you’ve been wondering what some of them mean, here’s a short glossary that could help you better understand advertisements and reviews of digital cameras:

Digital Camera Terminology — What Do All Those Words Mean?

Aperture — An adjustable diaphragm of overlapping
blades that adjust the size
of the lens opening.

Automatic Mode — A setting that sets the focus, exposure and white-balance automatically.

Burst Mode or Continuous Capture Mode — a series of pictures taken one after another at quickly timed intervals with one press of the shutter button. It’s perfect for action shots because it eliminates lag time for a series of pictures.

CCD — A light sensitive chip that converts light into
electrical charges.

CMOS — Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductors (pronounced Seemoss). Refers to a standard manufacturing process of making chips for computer microprocessors and memory. This process is also used in digital cameras.

Compression — The process of compacting digital data, images and text by deleting selected information.

Digital Zoom — Cropping and magnifying the center part of an image.

Dynamic Range — The ratio between the brightest and darkest parts of an image or scene.

JPEG — The predominant format used for image compression in digital cameras that compresses digital picture information to its lowest common value. It produces relatively small files from large amounts of image data by discarding certain information (lossy).

Lag Time — The pause between the time the shutter button is pressed and when the camera actually captures the image(exposes the shot). Lag time varies according to camera model.

LCD — (Liquid-Crystal Display) is a small screen on a digital camera (like a miniature computer monitor) for viewing images. Once the image leaves the CCD sensor, it can be viewed on the LCD to check for accurate composition and exposure.

Lens — A circular and transparent glass or plastic piece that has the function of collecting light and focusing it on the sensor to capture the image.

Megabyte — (MB) Measures 1024 Kilobytes, and refers to the amount of information in a file, or how much information can be contained on a Memory Card, Hard Drive or Disk.

Menu — A listing of camera functions usually displayed on the LCD screen.

Metering — The autoexposure mechanism that “measures” the light in the scene and determines the optimum exposure for the image, which allows compensation for difficult lighting situations.

Noise — The visible effects of electronic interference in the final image from a digital camera appearing as random spots, dots, or flecks of dust.

Optical Zoom — The magnification difference between minimum and maximum focal lengths in the lens system.

Pixels — Tiny units of color that make up digital pictures. Pixels also measure digital resolution. One million pixelsadds up to one megapixel.

RAM — Random Access Memory, the volatile memory used to temporarily store information for processing.

RAW —A lossless image format that captures raw data as it comes directly off the CCD, without in-camera processing, resulting in smaller files than TIFF. (Lossless means pixels are not discarded.) RAW files require a plugin to open.

RGB — Refers to Red, Green, Blue colors used on computers to create all other colors.

Resolution — Camera resolution describes the number of pixels used to create the image, which determines the amount of detail a camera can capture. The more pixels a camera has, the
more detail it can register and the larger the picture can be printed. Monitor and printer resolution are different from camera resolution.

Scene Modes — Preset exposure/shutter speed combinations which include white balance and exposure compensation.

Storage Card — The removable storage device which holds images taken with the camera, comparable to film, but much smaller.
Also called a digital camera memory card.

Thumbnail Index — A page that displays 9 or more miniature digital pictures in a grid. It can be compared to “contact sheets” of traditional photography.

TIFF — Tagged Image File Format (TIFF), an industry standard raster file format consisting of the image and header information. It is a “lossless” image format that doesn’t throw away information in the compression process.

Viewfinder — The optical “window” to look through to compose the scene. It can be optical, electrical, or TT.

White Balance — White balancing adjusts the camera to compensate for the type of light (daylight, fluorescent, incandescent, etc.,) or lighting conditions in the scene so it will look normal to the human eye.

Pricing of Digital Camera's

Digital Camera Prices…or
How Much Do I REALLY Need To Spend On A Digital Camera?

Digital camera prices are only one of the factors to consider in buying a camera. Perhaps even more important is whether the camera suits your needs. We’ve already discussed some of the factors to consider when buying a digital camera. But,
understandably, the price of your digital camera can’t help but factor into your final decision. So here are a few thoughts on digital camera prices…

Digital cameras are a developing technology — as they improve and more digital cameras are manufactured, prices tend to go down. The fact is, every year, more innovations and features are added and more prices drop.

But don’t think that means you should wait — digital camera prices are already very affordable. These days, you can get a great digital camera between $200 to $300 dollars. In a year or so, you might be able to get an even better camera for less.

Let’s do a quick review of the types of cameras and how much they cost :

- $100 to $200: Basic point-and-shoot models (equivalent
to simple film cameras). Features usually include 1 to
2- megapixels, built-in flash, some type of removable
storage like a flash memory card, and either a fixed focal length,possibly 1X or 2X
zoom.

- $300 to $500: 3 to 5 megapixel consumer models ranging from easy-to-use, point-and-shoot cameras to more sophisticated models that have larger zoom ranges and some advanced controls. Some with multiple scene modes and manual controls.

- $400 to $600: 5 or more megapixels. These cameras generally include add-on accessories, customizable settings, more zoom, optional exposure modes, etc. They come in many shapes and sizes (tiny pocket models to standard size).

- $700 and up: 8 megapixel advanced compact consumer cameras. High-powered sensors, ED glass, reduced or no lag time, longer battery life, faster and better autofocus, wide-angle lenses, noise reduction, image stabilization and more. They are essentially lightweight versions of professional digital SLR
cameras.

- $1,500 to $8,000: Professional digital SLR 6 to 14 megapixel cameras. The ultimate in durability, speed and quality. Rugged body, no startup delay, no shutter lag, RAW format, low noise, full range of metering options, tremendous optical flexibility, full control over shutter-priority and aperture.

Biggest drawback: weight and expense. Most weight over 2 lbs. Add lenses and a flash to your case and it gets heavy to haul around. Extra lenses are necessary, and usually not included with the camera. Usually beyond the needs of the average photographer.

That said, the lines between categories are blurring rapidly, especially between the Pro-Amateur and Amateur D-SLRs. Many amateur digital cameras have features identical to pro cameras, but are lighter weight and less expensive then their pro counterparts. They also lack the rugged weather sealing and other durability features of pro cameras.

On the other end, when you have 7 megapixel digital cameras built into cellphones, the category lines are blurred even further! One can only speculate on how complex cell phone camera features will become in the future (zoom…metering…RAW capture?)

One thing is for sure, innovations will continue, the lines will keep blurring and new categories will emerge. And they’re sure to surprise us.

Remember, there are other necessary accessories like memory cards and rechargeable batteries to budget for. These run from $20 to $55 for memory cards and $15 to $40 for rechargeable NiMH batteries. A bit more for proprietary batteries (some are included with the camera).

The thing to understand is that there’s a digital camera in every price range and for just about every budget. You can get started with a simple, point-and-shoot camera, or save up for the features you can’t live without.

Digital camera prices not withstanding, once you get a taste of the freedom, creativity and mobility of digital photography, you’ll be hooked!

And another thing’s for sure — wherever you purchase your camera, you’ll no doubt be offered an extended warranty. Do extended warranties offer any real value or are they a rip-off? Find out in the next lesson about digital camera extended warranties.

Olympus ZUIKO Digital 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens

Description:

This 3x standard zoom lens is the smallest and lightest* in its class and features a closest focusing distance of only 25cm. The ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and two aspherical lens elements correct aberrations without increasing lens dimensions. The circular aperture diaphragm enables beautiful defocusing - one of the big advantages of this lens. Excellent mobility is assured by a weight of less than 190 grams.

Olympus ZUIKO Digital ED 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 SWD

Description:

Designed to meet the needs of the professional photographer, Zuiko Digital lenses were born of an uncompromising commitment to performance. The lenses feature high resolving power, to get the most out of the imaging element. Zuiko Digital lenses allow light to strike the image sensor at a near-perpendicular angle, minimizing degradation and light loss. This large, award-winning family of lenses is perfectly matched to work exclusively with digital cameras so every pixel is properly exposed.

In combination with the E-3, this lens delivers the fastest autofocus speed in the world. It covers a zoom range equivalent to 24mm to 120mm on a 35mm camera lens. This lens also boasts impressive close-up shooting capability, allowing users to shoot from as close as 25cm throughout the zoom range. Autofocus is powered by Olympus' breakthrough SWD. Designed to be the world's fastest AF system, this extraordinary autofocus drive provides both high speed and high precision while operating with extremely low noise.

• The extraordinary autofocus drive provides both high speed and high precision while operating with extremely low noise.
• Designed to meet the needs of the Professional photographer, Zuiko Digital lenses were born of an uncompromising commitment to performance. The lens features high resolving power, to get the most out of the imaging element.
• Zuiko Digital lenses allow light to strike the image sensor at a near-perpendicular angle, minimizing degradation and light loss.
• This large, award-winning lens is perfectly matched to work exclusively with digital cameras so every Pixel is properly exposed.

Olympus 7-14mm F/4.0 Zuiko ED Zoom Lens

Olympus IR-500 Digital Camera

Description:

View Virtual Product Tour

Compact and powerful. Four megapixels. 30x total zoom. Cool flip style 2.5" Semi-Transmissive LCD. And the ability to directly connect with Olympus's optional 4"x6" dye-sub printer and/or 40GB hard drive for high-quality photo printing and increased storage capacity from wherever your creativity may take you.

• 4.0 megapixel CCD
• 30x total seamless zoom (2.8x optical + 11x digital zoom). 40mm-112mm (35mm equivalent)
• New flip style 2.5" Semi-Transmissive TFT color LCD for clear and crisp image capture and review, even in bright conditions.
• New docking station so you can charge the battery and connect to the optional 4"x6" dye-sublimation printer and/or 40GB Hard Drive (coming soon)
• Includes an Album and Calendar function so you easily manage your images and view your precious moments right from your camera. You can also upload folders from your PC to an xD-Picture Card and turn your IR-500 to a digital photo album
• Easy to use scene mode dial
• 18 selectable shooting modes so you get optimum results in various shooting situations
• TV quality VGA QuickTime Movie mode with audio
• TruePic TURBO Image Processor increases speed of camera functions including a faster camera start-up time and less shutter delay along with helping provide higher image quality
• The IR-500 is able to directly connect to any PictBridge-enabled printer so prints can be made quickly and conveniently...no computer necessary
• xD-Picture Card^TM compatible (16MB card included). xD-Picture Cards are available in capacities up to 512MB
• USB Auto-Connect means simple connectivity with virtually any solution/computer with a USB port without the need for any software installation
• Li-Ion rechargeable battery

Olympus Stylus 1030 SW Water & Shockproof Digital

Description:

Scuba divers, mountain climbers and adventurers worldwide rejoice today as Olympus unleashes the new 10.1-megapixel The Stylus 1030 SW is one tough camera. The Shockproof, Waterproof, Freezeproof and Dustproof design gives active people the confidence to take this camera anywhere and shoot in nearly any condition. Plus, the wide-angle lens lets users capture more of what they see. Great for divers, surfers, rafters, skiers and anyone with an active lifestyle.

Stylus 1030 SW, the toughest point-and-shoot camera in the world. This shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof, crushproof and dustproof model builds on the Olympus Stylus SW series' reputation of delivering amazing images while enduring extreme expeditions and everyday adventures, including life with kids.

Even more durable than its predecessors – it can withstand a drop from 6.6 feet – the camera has also been pumping up its power with a 3.6x wide-angle optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD screen and digital imaging advances, including Face Detection, Shadow Adjustment Technology, and a TruePic™ III Image Processor to capture rich, vibrant detail with every shot.

Shockproof and Crushproof Design
Afraid the mountain winds might sweep a camera out of your gloves� Never fear, the Stylus 1030 SW can withstand a 6.6-foot drop with its shock-absorbing technology, which minimizes the impact on the lens and circuitry. In addition, the Stylus 1030 SW features a crushproof body that can withstand up to 220 pounds of crushing pressure.

Waterproof for Underwater Photos
The Stylus 1030 SW performs as well underwater as it does on land because its lightweight, stainless steel and aluminum exterior is matched with interior rubber gaskets and O-rings to seal out the elements. It can be fully submerged to capture beautiful images down to 33 feet (10 meters) underwater, and features a built-in manometer, making it ideal for more serious underwater adventurers who want to know the depth of where their images were taken. The inclusion of four preset underwater scene modes makes the Stylus 1030 SW perfect for taking photos while snorkeling or scuba diving. Additionally, movies are simple thanks to an underwater movie mode. The camera also features a water-repellant lens coating to prevent water droplets from forming on the lens to get crystal-clear shots no matter how wet the shooting environment.

Freezeproof for Icy Action
Unlike other point-and-shoot cameras that freeze up in frosty weather, the Stylus 1030 SW still performs when the temperature dips well below freezing (14 degrees Fahrenheit; -10 degrees Celsius) so it is ready to climb the mountain or hit the slopes when you are.

Dustproof for Desert Winds
The rugged Stylus 1030 SW is an ideal companion for an expedition in the Sahara because its airtight construction is impervious to dust, dirt and other particles. When the camera gets dirty, just rinse it off with your canteen.

Advanced HyperCrystal™ LCD
The Stylus 1030 SW – the flagship of the SW line – boasts an advanced HyperCrystal II LCD, which is Olympus' next generation of LCD technology. It reproduces true colors with a dynamic contrast ratio of more than 180 percent and a color reproduction performance of more than 160 percent compared to HyperCrystal LCD.

Wide Optical Zoom in Ultra-Slim Body Design
The Stylus 1030 SW features a 3.6x wide optical zoom (28-102mm equivalent in 35mm photography, f3.5-5.0) so that even more of the subject makes it into each shot – perfect for underwater photography. The lens does not protrude from its body so it is further protected from harsh conditions.

Face Detection
Face Detection tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses (Face Detection AF) and optimizes exposure (Face Detection AE) for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

Digital Image Stabilization
The Stylus 1030 SW features Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) to capture crisp, clear pictures. By boosting the camera's ISO sensitivity and shutter speed, DIS freezes the action and provides blur-free images, even when you or your subject is moving.

In-Camera Panorama
In-camera panorama mode captures three images and stitches them together to create one amazing panoramic picture. Simply press the shutter button and slowly pan across a panoramic scene. The second and third images will be captured automatically and stitched together with the first image – resulting in one seamless panorama-size picture. To create the ultimate panoramic picture, consumers can use the Olympus Master Software 2 to stitch up to 10 images together.

Shadow Adjustment Technology
Shooting outdoors in bright daylight can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark shadowed areas and bright sunlit areas. While the human eye is capable of detecting the nuances between dark and light and all the details in between, image sensors traditionally have not been quite as sensitive. The Stylus 1030 SW addresses this challenge head-on with Shadow Adjustment Technology, which compensates for extreme contrast where the shadow areas are underexposed and lack visible detail. With this technology, users can preview and capture images with the same contrast as the naked eye.

Perfect Shot Preview
The Stylus 1030 SW features a Perfect Shot Preview mode that enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-window screen before snapping the shot. Perfect Shot Preview enables users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It is an ideal way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as zoom, exposure compensation, white balance and metering.

Perfect Fix In-Camera Editing
The Stylus 1030 SW offers Red-Eye Fix and Shadow Adjustment Edit, in-camera editing features such as resizing, frames, text options, and saturation adjustments, enabling users to edit photos right in the camera. With the Perfect Fix function, multiple editing features can be applied at once.

LED Illuminator
An LED Illuminator works like a mini-flashlight on the front of the camera to enhance focus and exposure for macro shooting – great for underwater close-ups where light is scarce. The LED also works in conjunction with Bright Capture to help illuminate your subject when taking low-light portraits.

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

Memory
All Olympus digital point-and-shoot cameras accept xD-Picture Card media. The Stylus 1030 SW will also come equipped with an adapter, which will enable microSD memory cards to be used when capturing images. The microSD cards are emerging in consumer electronic devices, including mobile phones and PDAs. Users can also easily display photos on their HDTVs.

New Powerful Battery
The Stylus 1030 SW includes the new LI-50B Li-Ion battery, which charges 2.5 times faster (two hours instead of five) than its predecessor. The new 925-mAh battery boasts a 25 percent increase in power.

Practical and Fashionable Accessories
Olympus offers a number of optional accessories, specifically designed for the Stylus 1030 SW. For users looking to capture their underwater adventures deeper than 33 feet (10 meters), Olympus offers the PT-043 underwater housing, which enables users to take pictures as deep as 130 feet (40 meters). A highly visible floating wrist strap frees users' hands when swimming or chasing the next big wave. Stylish silicone skins protect the camera from scratches. Skins are available for the Stylus 1030 SW in a new stealth gray color.

Additionally, Olympus offers premium cases in a variety of colors, including a new cream plaid, a new gray plaid as well as camel and red leather. The premium cases are now also available in a new brown leather wallet-like design. Durable, sporty neoprene cases are perfect for active or outdoor expeditions. The neoprene cases are available in black and a new olive color. Carabineers now come with the neoprene cases so they can be hooked to a bag, swimming suit or hiking shorts.

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

Availability
The Stylus 1030 SW will be available in March 2008. It includes: a wrist strap, camera WIN/Mac USB cable, audio/video cable, LI-42B Li-Ion rechargeable battery and charger, manual, warranty card and OLYMPUS Master 2 software (CD-ROM).

Olympus Stylus Verve Digital Camera

Description:

• All-weather.
• 4 megapixels.
• 2x optical zoom. 4x digital zoom. 8x seamless zoom.
• Virtual mode dial (right) with 16 selectable shooting modes, including Portrait, Self-Portrait, Landscape, Beach & Snow, Indoors and more.
• QuickTime movie mode with audio.
• HyperCrystal LCD is a bright 1.8-inch display with 134,000 pixels of sharp resolution that lets you clearly view your vivid images straight on or from an angle, without a swivel, and even under bright conditions.
• Direct Print capability so you can directly connect to any PictBridge-enabled printer (like the Olympus P-10).
• TruePic TURBO results in smoother, more color-accurate images. Fast start-up speed and less shutter delay.
• New Li-ion Rechargeable Battery and Charger keeps your Verve ready to go when you are.
• Olympus Master software lets you edit photos, make slideshows, email images and is designed to do a whole lot more.
• Available in six stylish colors: silver, white, red, black, blue, and copper.

Olympus Stylus 790SW Shock and Waterproof Digital Camera

Description:

THE CAMERA BUILD FOR LIFE'S ADVENTURES The Stylus 790 SW is packed with technology tailored for active people. The Shockproof, Waterproof, Freezeproof and Dustproof design means it's incredibly durable, but it's also sleek and stylish. The new Face Detection feature recognizes subjects' faces and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portraits. Whether you're playing volleyball at the beach, mountain biking or just hanging out at the pool, the Stylus 790 SW is a must-have vacation and party accessory.

SHOCKPROOF (5FT)
It's a tough little camera. The durable metal body, floating circuit board and innovative shock-absorbing construction protects your Stylus 790 SW camera and images from drops up to 5 feet.

WATERPROOF (10FT)
Don't just take it to the pool, take it in the pool. Innovative, waterproof seals and gaskets allow you to take amazing underwater pictures and movies in the pool or even in the ocean.

FREEZEPROOF (-10°C/14°F)
It's perfect for skiing, snowboarding, sledding and other winter fun, because it's winterized to perform at below-freezing temperatures. You can take great pictures even in extreme weather conditions.

FACE DETECTION
Automatically focuses on your subjects' faces and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

Features and Benefits

• The high-resolution, 7.1-megapixel image sensor delivers superior quality for larger prints without sacrificing detail.
• The precision-crafted 3x optical zoom Olympus lens delivers sharper, clearer images and brings you closer to the action without taking a step.
• The 2.5" HyperCrystal™ LCD provides an extra-wide viewing angle and anti-glare technology that make it easy to compose and shoot. Plus, it lets you share photos with family and friends even in bright, direct sunlight.
• Digital Image Stabilization combines high ISO sensitivity and faster shutter speeds so you can freeze the action to capture sharp, blur-free images.
• Accidents happen, but the Shockproof Stylus 790 SW is nearly accident proof. A rugged metal body and revolutionary shock-absorbing construction are designed to withstand a 5-foot drop, bump or other mishap.
• Take it swimming, snorkeling or to the water park. The revolutionary system of waterproof seals and gaskets keeps water out, so you can take movies and pictures as deep as 10 feet.
• It's the ideal camera for the slopes and sledding with the kids, because it's winterized to perform at below-freezing temperatures (-10° C/14° F).
• Face Detection makes it easy to take portraits. It tracks faces within the frame and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant photos.
• Shadow Adjustment Technology will help you capture all the amazing details exactly as you see them. You'll capture smiles, even in backlight scenes; you'll pick up detail, even in the shadows cast by bright sunlight.
• Developed for the professional digital SLR, the TruePic™ III Image Processor redefines image quality by delivering true-to-life color, smoother edges and less noise.
• Before you take the shot, let Perfect Shot Preview display the effects of various settings including zoom, exposure, white balance and metering - right on the LCD.

Olympus FE-340 Digital Camera

Description:

The FE-340 is ideal for anyone looking for an ultra-slim camera that offers a powerful zoom, easy-to-use features and amazing image quality. The super-slim, pocket-size body is easy to carry and comfortable to hold—perfect for taking great pictures on the go.

5x Optical Zoom Lens
This amazingly slim, all-metal camera gets you 60 percent closer to the action than a 3x with an ultra-compact, precision-crafted Olympus Lens.

Face Detection
Tracks faces within the frame and focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

Digital Image Stabilization
With high ISO sensitivity and faster shutter speeds, you can freeze the action to capture sharp, blur-free images even if you or your subject is moving.

AVI Movie with Sound
Shoot AVI movies with sound and share them on your TV or on the Web.

Smile Shot
Capture every spontaneous smile! The camera detects a smile on your subject's face and automatically fires off three consecutive shots so you never miss a perfect smile.

High ISO Sensitivity
With high ISO sensitivity and faster shutter speeds, Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) allows you to freeze the action and capture sharp, blur-free images. DIS Edit gives you the option of fixing blurry images right in the camera.

19 Shooting Modes
Always get the best shot with 19 Shooting Modes. The preset Shooting Modes optimize your camera's settings for sharp, brilliant photos. Modes include Portrait, Sunset, Night Scene, Sports, Landscape and many more.

2.7" High Resolution LCD
2.7" High-Resolution LCD provides easy composing, shooting and sharing of your images with friends and family.

Perfect Shot Preview
Using a live, multi-frame window on the LCD, Perfect Shot Preview lets you see the effects of various settings before you shoot, so you can always capture the perfect shot.

Correct Shooting Mistakes
Correct shooting mistakes instantly. With the touch of a button, lighten up shadows, remove red-eye and eliminate blur, so a less-than-perfect shot can still turn out perfect!

TruePic III
Developed for the professional Digital SLR, this new image processor delivers superior images with true-to-life color, sharper detail, and less noise.

Olympus Evolt E-520 Digital SLR Body Only

Description:

The Olympus E-520 delivers brilliant results thanks to advanced technologies that produce clear, sharp images.

The E-520's industry-leading Image Stabilization technology, which is built into the camera body, compensates for movement so you can capture blur-free shots with any lens -- even at slow shutter speeds. Autofocus Live View brings subjects into sharp focus; it is the perfect tool for macro, portrait or even landscape shooting. This camera was built to produce amazing results for photo hobbyists and serious digital photographers alike.

BUILT-IN IMAGE STABILIZATION.
The E-520's in-body Mechanical Image Stabilization has three modes for increased versatility. The IS-1 mode adjusts the sensor on both the X and Y-axes to compensate for movement by the photographer, so images stay sharp even at slow shutter speeds. To capture the action of athletes or animals, in-body Mechanical Image Stabilization offers two specialized modes: IS-2 and IS-3. IS-2 is ideal for capturing a racecar flying down the track -- by panning and holding the camera horizontally you can dramatically portray the car's high speed. For sharp images of moving subjects like a basketball player charging up the court, IS-3 allows a photographer the option of holding the camera vertically while panning for dramatic effects of action. The artistic effects of panning enhance the shot and render the subject in sharp detail with a motion-blurred background.

AUTOFOCUS WITH LIVE VIEW.
Two innovative technologies merge to create a unique digital experience. The E-420's on-screen Autofocus works as seamlessly as a point-and-shoot to display subjects, in focus, on the LCD the instant the shutter is pressed half way. And the Live View LCD enables photographers to hold the camera away from their faces and at angles they cannot easily reach by using the optical viewfinder alone.

SHADOW ADJUSTMENT TECHNOLOGY.
Shooting scenes with shadows can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark and bright areas. The E-520 addresses this challenge with Shadow Adjustment Technology that compensates for extreme contrast when shadowed areas lack visible detail. Shadow Adjustment Technology adjusts the exposure in the shadows while retaining all the detail in the bright areas. This technology works automatically when using Face Detection Mode, Live View and in Scene-Select Modes.

FACE DETECTION.
The E-520's Face Detection feature distinguishes between people's faces and the background and is shown right on the LCD. This innovative technology tracks up to eight faces within the image area and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

10 MEGAPIXELS.
Get amazingly detailed, colorful and clear images with the 10-megapixel Live-MOS image sensor. This high-resolution sensor captures all the detail needed to make large prints, or even crop without losing detail. The E-520 sensor's high dynamic range, accurate color rendition and low noise characteristics let you capture great images, even at high ISO settings.

DUST REDUCTION.
Life moves too fast to spend time worrying about dust ruining your images. Olympus' proven Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter™. The patented ultrasonic technology vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor and captures it on a special adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on. Change lenses in anytime, anywhere, without worry. 2.7" HYPERCRYSTAL II LCD. New and Improved HyperCrystal™ II Technology delivers twice the contrast and better viewing in extreme lighting conditions, a broader range of color detail, and a wider angle of view on the LCD so you and your friends can see it up to 176 degrees off-center.

20 SCENE-SELECT MODES.
With 20 preset scene-select modes for every imaginable shooting scenario from underwater photography to fireworks, and program, automatic modes and full manual controls, the E-520 offers a world of possibilities to photographers.

PERFECT SHOT PREVIEW.
Perfect Shot Preview enables you to view and select your favorite effect right on the LCD, and see how the image will look before you even capture it, so you know that what you see is what you get.

TRUEPIC III.
The 10.1 megapixel E-520's TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos with accurate color, true-to-life flesh tones, brilliant blue skies and precise tonal representation. TruePic III also lowers image noise by one step to reduce graininess in images shot at higher ISO settings, enabling great results in low-light situations.

WIRELESS FLASH.
If you decide to try your hand at advanced lighting techniques, the E-520 is ready to meet the challenge. The E-520 is compatible with the Olympus FL-50R and FL-36R wireless electronic flashes that are designed exclusively for digital photography. When these flashes are used in combination with the E-520, wireless multi-flash photography is possible.

Olympus Evolt E-500 Digital SLR

Description:

Premium picture quality and superb performance come easy with this comfortable to handle digital SLR. At a time when we want complex things to become simple, the EVOLT E-500 succeeds in doing so with a sleek, lightweight design for impressive portability and advanced controls and options that can be accessed with minimal effort. Bursting with speed and producing spotless pictures with exceptional color and detail, the EVOLT E-500 is tailor-made for anyone to use while capturing the imagination in the process.

• Patented Dust Reduction System uses our Supersonic Wave Filter (SWF) to loosen and remove any and all dust and debris from the image sensor. The SWF vibrates at a rate of 35,000 times per second upon start-up as well as when manually activated - and is unnoticeable to the user - for clear, aberration-free images. This removal of dust also means you never have to worry about changing lenses because if anything gets in, the SWF will get it out.
• Capture sharp, detailed photos quickly. The exclusive TruePic TURBO Image Processor provides accelerated performance such as a faster start-up time, rapid shot-to-shot speed, and quicker playback of smooth, detail-rich photos.
• The advanced 8 megapixel full frame transfer CCD uses less space on the chip for data transfer and instead utilizes more of the pixel area to capture data, thereby resulting in images with a higher sensitivity, higher dynamic range, lower noise and better overall quality.
• A large, high-resolution 2.5" LCD provides a big canvas with which to review and share pictures and features HyperCrystal technology so you can even do so up to a 160-degree viewing angle, left to right and up and down. The big screen also makes it easier to use the menu, identify icons and adjust settings.
• Compatible with the largest selection of digital specific lenses anywhere. Each Zuiko lens is precision-crafted to deliver pristine images and is perfectly matched to the camera's image sensor for amazing sharpness and color from one edge of the image to the other.
• Get great photos while barely lifting a finger with 15 scene modes. Just select the one you want from the menu - Beach and Snow, Portrait, Landscape, Sports and more - and press the shutter button. That's it.
• For a bit more say in your photos' appearance, choose between 6 basic modes (Auto, Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene Portrait, Macro, and Sports) while still leaving the aperture and shutter speed settings to the camera itself.
• Exercise total control with creative modes like Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual.
• Shoot using any of five metering modes including the new 49-point Digital ESP metering, center-weighted average metering, spot metering, highlight spot metering (for clean, true whites with detail), and shadow spot metering (for rich blacks with detail).
• Use the five most popular black-and-white modes - Yellow, Orange, Red, Green, and Normal (no filter) - to expand your ability to add even more drama to your black-and-white pictures.

Olympus Evolt E-330 Digital SLR

Description:

The EVOLT E-330 is the world's first digital SLR to offer "Live" viewing through the Color LCD, making it easier to compose and capture the perfect shot. This big 2.5" LCD also features HyperCrystalTM technology and is designed with advanced swivel capability so you can capture one dramatic result after another from up top, down low, and everywhere in-between. With innovations like these - combined with world-class optics and our patented Dust Reduction System - the E-330 lets you shoot like no other digital interchangeable lens SLR before.

• Three (3) Color Parameters (Vibrant, Natural, or Muted) allow you to control color saturation, contrast and sharpness within each parameter individually.
• Five (5) Black-and-White monochrome modes are available to add dramatic effect to your images.
• Select either of two (2) Color Space Settings for your work (sRGB or Adobe® RGB).
• Four (4) available Recording Formats (TIFF, RAW, JPEG, RAW+JPEG) offer the flexibility to control the quality of images and how they're used.
• Direct Print compatible (PictBridge-enabled).
• Delete images with the touch of a single button on the back of the EVOLT E-330.
• Customize the White Balance and ISO settings or change them on the fly with dedicated buttons on the back of the camera.
• Control your flash photos with the Pop-up flash and 6 flash modes, or attach an external flash such as the FL-36 to the Hot Shoe for even more illuminating options.
• Transfer images to a computer for viewing, editing, printing and more with a simple USB connection (USB 2.0 Full Speed), no software installation necessary.
• Give yourself a little extra time to get in the shot yourself or to perfectly set up a group or landscape shot with the self-timer (12 or 2 seconds) or optional infrared RM-01 Remote.
• Ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand with buttons and controls all conveniently placed and well within reach at all times.

Since the introduction of the first single-lens reflex (SLR) camera, photographers have prized SLRs because they can see with the naked eye, through an optical viewfinder, exactly what is passing through the camera's lens. The "reflex" of a mirrored shutter that bends light to the camera's viewfinder, and then snaps open rapidly to create exposures, makes this possible and gives the SLR its advantage. But this SLR advantage, while delivering high-performance speed and accuracy, has one drawback in the digital age. Because the image sensor is blocked by the mirror and shutter until the moment the shutter button is pressed, the mirror and shutter mechanism prevents a traditional digital SLR from viewing and composing a photo using only the camera's Liquid Crystal Display as a viewfinder.

As anyone who has used a compact digital camera knows, composing a photo just by viewing the camera's LCD is easy and commonplace, and many compact cameras do not even offer an optical viewfinder. Composing on an LCD has its own advantages, and Olympus engineers asked the question: How can we design a new digital SLR that delivers not only the traditional through-the-lens optical viewfinder experience of an SLR, but also adds the ability to frame photos with an LCD like a compact camera?

The solution to this technical challenge is the revolutionary Olympus EVOLT E-330 digital SLR - the world's first interchangeable lens digital SLR to feature a true "Live View" image on the LCD screen, in addition to the optical viewfinder, and unite the best of both worlds.

Live View is Designed to Do More
Users of the EVOLT E-330 will quickly realize that when composing an image on the LCD, they can do more with this camera than they could with comparable SLRs without Live View. Because the camera's LCD is "articulated" it can extend out from the camera body and swivel downward or upward so the E-330 can be held overhead to shoot over a crowd, or held at the hip or even placed on the ground - something that's not possible with a traditional SLR that relies on an optical viewfinder alone. Whether shooting from a low angle for dramatic composition or in close for detailed macro photos, with the exclusive Olympus Live View LCD photographers can follow action easily and capture just the right moment with greater creative control.

Large Live View 2.5-Inch HyperCrystal^TM LCD Monitor
Big and bright with 215,250 pixels, the E-330's 2.5-inch high-resolution HyperCrystal LCD offers many times the contrast of conventional LCD monitors, so captured images can be beautifully displayed in vivid color on the screen with exceptional clarity. Because photos are for sharing, the E-330 LCD features a wide, 160° viewing angle on the vertical and horizontal axis, ensuring excellent visibility and beautiful image quality even when everyone huddles around the camera to see what you've created. The larger LCD also means the icons and text on the camera's menu display are large enough for easy viewing.

Patented Dust Reduction System for Spot-Free Photos
Dust is all around us, and when swapping out a lens on a digital single-lens reflex camera there's a chance that a camera's electro-statically charged image sensor will attract micro dust that can ruin photos. Since the main advantage of using an SLR camera is the ability to change lenses for better imaging effects, Olympus has developed a way for photographers to enjoy the freedom of using all the lenses of the Olympus E-System in the most challenging, dusty environments without compromising image quality.

Olympus' Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter, a patented ultrasonic technology that shakes at 35,000 vibrations a second to remove dust from in front of the camera sensor every time you turn the camera on, and captures dust to prevent it from reappearing. These spot-free photos liberate users from hours spent retouching images at the computer. The new EVOLT E-330, like all Olympus digital SLR cameras, is equipped with this exclusive user-friendly technology, and only Olympus has a solution to provide spot-free photography in a digital SLR.

Digital-Specific Zuiko® Lenses
Olympus offers the largest selection of lenses designed for digital excellence, and they're all fully compatible with the E-330. Since each lens is perfectly matched to the camera's image sensor, light is received by each pixel. As a result, images are brighter, more colorful and super-sharp from edge to edge.

The E-330 outfit includes a compact, Zuiko Digital 14 - 45mm f3.5 - f5.6 Lens (equivalent to 28mm - 90mm in 35mm photography) that perfectly matches the imager so light strikes the sensor directly to ensure rich, accurate colors and edge-to-edge sharpness. Its 3.2x zoom covers the range most frequently used in ordinary photography and weighs just 10 ounces (285 grams) offering users an extremely dynamic, portable everyday-use zoom. Close-ups as near as 15 inches (38cm) are possible throughout the zoom range.

Ergonomic "Flat Top" Body Design
The E-330 camera body is lightweight with a smart design that fits naturally in your hand with a full-sized grip, and is light and compact enough to comfortably shoot with all day. In place of the traditional pentaprism design, the camera incorporates the exclusive Olympus TTL Optical Porro Finder coupled with an exclusive side swing mirror that gives the camera its unique "flat-top" appearance and makes it more compact for greater portability. This design also enables the camera's full-time Live View capabilities.

TruePic TURBO^TM for Clarity and Speed
Olympus' TruePic TURBO Image Processor provides fast camera response, operation and processing speed for more responsive camera operation. This is done by closely integrating the image processor and hardware elements to eliminate unnecessary processing tasks, accelerating camera operations.

Along with the speed advantages, TruePic TURBO also produces crystal-clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to provide you with the best digital images possible for every photo.

Olympus EVOLT E-510 Digital SLR (IS) w/ 14-42mm Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens

Description:

The Olympus EVOLT E-510 digital SLR is a great camera to help you evolve as a photographer. Only Olympus digital SLRs are engineered to be 100-percent digital. Simply put, this means your pictures will have stunning edge-to-edge sharpness that can't be beat. Olympus' Live View LCD technology is a unique feature that enhances your picture-taking experience. Whatever life brings, whatever you're photographing, you'll capture colorful memories with the E-510's proven Dust Reduction System and powerful, 10-megapixel imager.

The E-510 outfit includes a compact, Zuiko Digital ED 14 - 42 mm f3.5 - f5.6 Lens (equivalent to 28mm - 84mm in 35mm photography) that perfectly matches the imager so light strikes the sensor directly to ensure rich, accurate colors and edge-to-edge sharpness. Its 3x ED Glass zoom lens covers the range most frequently used in ordinary photography and weighs just 7.5 ounces, offering users an extremely dynamic, portable everyday-use zoom. Close-ups as near as 9.84 inches (0.25 m) are possible throughout the zoom range.

Your Life in Live View
We innovated Live-View LCD screens on our digital SLRs to make your shooting experience better. At Olympus, we trust what our customers have told us and we've learned that Live View technology will enrich your photography experience in any situation, from any angle.

What You See is What You Get
While you're shooting at the zoo on a sunny day you'll want to clearly see what's on your Live View screen. With the E-510, you can preview and review photos on a high-resolution, 2.5-inch HyperCrystal™ LCD. You'll see the screen with amazing clarity in bright sunlight and from angles up to 176 degrees.

Searching for Stability?
You're in a car. Or on a boat. Keeping the camera still is difficult. With the E-510's sensor-shift image stabilization, your pictures will come out clear. Inside, a gyro sensor tracks the image while the camera automatically adjusts for the motion. And the image stabilization mode can be activated to assist you in low light settings. Blurriness is minimized or even eliminated, and because it is in the body it works will all of the lenses, not just a few.

More Storage Options
The EVOLT E-510 has two memory slots that hold Compact Flash Type I and Type II, Microdrive and xD picture cards. Use the dual slot design to transfer images you want to save from one card to another. Manage your memories better.

Images as Big as Life
Get sharp, high-resolution and high-quality photos regardless of the print size with the E-510's 10-megapixel Live-MOS imaging sensor.

No Dust
Don't let the elements stop you, even when it's windy and dusty. When most cameras get a speck of dust on their imager, problems ensue. Not with the E-510 and its proven Dust Reduction System. It eliminates dust for spotless photos that you don't need to touch up.

Digtal Lenses
Using the Olympus E-System, with the largest selection of lenses designed specifically for digital photography, you're sure to get your most memorable shots. Whether you're zooming on the kids, or snapping wide-angle wedding shots, your pristine Zuiko Digital™ lens is going to get the job done.

Other features

• It is not always easy to use an optical viewfinder – in a crowd you can't see over the heads of those around you, and low angle close-ups can be hard to reach. With the E-510, you have another option - use the Live-View LCD screen to preview and review photos. And you'll see the screen with amazing clarity from almost any angle.
• The high-resolution, 2.5" HyperCrystal™ LCD screen (230,000 pixels) means you can compose your shots easily, even outside in sunlight.
• Advanced Image Stabilization keeps your images sharp even when the camera is moving. The E-510 uses Olympus' sensor-shift image stabilization technology to counter the effect of camera shake. The exclusive Supersonic Wave Drive motors provide two modes of accurate high-speed image stabilization. One mode provides blur-free photography for everyday situations like low-light settings. The other mode helps capture clear images even while panning during action shots. Olympus' Image Stabilization technology is built into the body of the E-510 so it works with every lens, unlike legacy film technologies built into the lenses.
• Keep dust spots off your photos. The Olympus dust reduction system is an industry first and a proven technology. Every time you turn on the E-510, our Supersonic Wave Filter™ - located between the shutter and the image sensor - silently vibrates an amazing 35,000 times per second. Dust is shaken away. You can take full advantage of all the benefits of Olympus SLR cameras and change lenses anywhere without worrying about dust.
• You'll see more details and you'll get stunning color in all your photos with the 10-megapixel Live-MOS image sensor. Create large prints, even after cropping.
• Portable, easy-to-handle body with grip design. The body is ergonomically designed for superior comfort. If you use a long lens, the E-510 feels balanced.
• Olympus' digital-specific Zuiko lenses provide edge-to-edge pixel-perfect clarity. Unlike older film lenses, these advanced, precision-engineered 100-percent digital lenses are designed to work perfectly with the camera's digital technology. The result? Your photos will have exceptional color and clarity. All Zuiko lenses are compatible with all Olympus digital SLR cameras.
• You'll find 29 exposure modes including 10 advanced modes and 19 Easy to Use Scene Select Modes. Simply select the right mode for your shot. The easy to use Scene Select Modes make you an instant expert, even with the most demanding shots. Choose from any of the 19 selections like Fireworks, Beach or Snow. The E-510 takes care of the rest.
• Get a great shot in any lighting situation with five metering modes including spot metering and the new 49-point ESP Meter.
• The E-510 provides the flexibility of two memory slots that hold Compact Flash Type I and Type II, Microdrive and xD picture cards.
• The new easier-to-read menu background color and the one-button access makes the EVOLT E-510 one of the easiest digital SLRs to set and use.
• Shoot using JPEG format for no-hassle sharing, printing, and viewing. Or shoot using RAW format for highest image quality and control.
• The new TruePic III™ processor gives you brilliantly clear, bright photos with accurate skin tones.
• Compatible with sRGB or Adobe RGB color spaces.
• Fine-tune your photo's colors with five modes: Vivid, Natural, Muted, Monotone, Sepia. Or shoot in black and white using five monochrome modes. Be as creative as your imagination allows.
• Choose all or any one of the three selectable AF points.
• Use the built-in, auto pop-up flash with six modes including auto and redeye reduction. You can even manually adjust flash intensity.

Olympus Evolt E3 Digital SLR

The new Olympus E-3 provides the high-precision performance demanded by professional and enthusiastic photographers. It combines speed and weatherproof durability for capturing exceptional images in any situation. Olympus pioneered Full Time Live View and Dust Reduction technologies for digital SLR cameras, leading where others have followed. Now, the new E-3 enhances those technical innovations and raises the performance bar with the fastest autofocus in the world. Body-Integrated Mechanical Image Stabilization to stabilize every lens, a 10-megapixel Live MOS image sensor to capture beautiful images, and a magnesium alloy body for dust-proof and splash-proof durability join the impressive innovations developed for the E-3, including:

• Speed: When coupled with three new ZUIKO DIGITAL Supersonic Wave Drive™ Lenses (SWD) announced today, like the ED 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 (24-120mm equivalent), the E-3 offers unmatched AF speeds, and the fastest AF speed in the world with that lens. It employs a newly-developed high speed 11-point biaxial cross type AF system, 5 frames-per-second continuous shooting, and 1/8000 second top shutter speed for the quickness required in any shooting situation.
• Superior Image Quality: In-Body Mechanical Image Stabilization with Supersonic Wave Drive technology ensures blur-free images for all lenses attached to the E-3, so now even low-light telephoto shots are clear and sharp when holding the camera in shaky hands. Its 10-megapixel Live MOS Image Sensor delivers high-resolution images for large format print sizes, and TruePic III™ digital processing engine ensures high-speed image processing, accurate color and improved detail with low noise. The camera's interior components combined with digital-specific lenses offer the edge-to-edge crystal clarity that only 100 percent digital optics can provide.
• Swivel Live View LCD: A dual-axis swivel 2.5-inch Live View LCD covers all the viewing angles from low to high and side to side, to assure accurate composition. Real-time image monitoring of white balance and exposure enables greater creative control of settings to secure the best possible photograph.
• Reliability: The E-3's large optical viewfinder provides a 100 percent accurate view and its 1.15x magnification makes it one of the largest and most accurate viewfinders for reliable composition. The proven effective built-in Dust Reduction System with the Supersonic Wave Filter eliminates spots from photos. A durable shutter mechanism with the lifespan of 150,000 exposures meets the demands of serious photographers. Also, the E-3's sealed magnesium alloy chassis is completely splash-proof and dust-proof for use with pro lenses on expeditions to the most extreme environments on the planet.

World's Fastest Autofocus
When it comes to measuring camera speed, autofocus is a key factor. If a camera's AF system does not meet photographers' demands and lock focus accurately and quickly, they will miss shots regardless of the camera's shot-to-shot speed or start-up time. The E-3's new AF system is the world's fastest in combination with the ZUIKO DIGITAL SWD ED 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 lens, to ensure fast focus for clear, sharp photos. Additionally, every lens attached to the E-3 benefits from faster AF, not just the SWD lenses, so the E-3 can lock focus on a fast-moving subject and capture that once-in-a-lifetime shot.

The secret to the camera's high-speed focusing is a unique Twin cross type (fully biaxial) 11 point AF sensor, based on proprietary Olympus micro-sensing technologies, that achieves equally effective performance on both the vertical and horizontal axis. With most biaxial sensors, performance on the vertical and horizontal axes is not equal, and there is often a perceived difference in response time when using different lenses. However, unlike systems that respond at nominally lower f-stop values simply by boosting sensitivity, the E-3's AF sensor features a totally redesigned hounds tooth-pattern phase detection sensor layout that uses micro-lamination technologies to achieve superior real-world performance.

AF accuracy is further ensured by precise alignment of the optical axis from the lens to the AF phase detection sensors, and accurate mounting of the sensors within the AF unit. The AF unit used in the E-3 is made of high-tensile engineering plastic, which is further protected by the camera's high-rigidity magnesium body. In addition, data from a dedicated temperature sensor is used to compensate for changes in operating temperature.

The 11 AF target points on the E-3 can be selected to work individually or dynamically in combination with adjacent target points. Once a photographer knows the general direction of a moving subject - a Formula One racecar zooming around a track for example - the AF area can be selected based on the anticipated motion to maintain accuracy.

The newly developed Olympus Supersonic Wave Drive (SWD) lenses on the E-3 enable auto focusing at ultra-high speed with precise and quiet operation. Quietness is essential when shooting in a situation where silence is truly golden, such as photographing exotic birds up close in the wild or musicians at a classical music quartet. But this technology truly shines in combination with three new Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL SWD lenses that employ Supersonic Wave Drive motor technology inside: the ED 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 SWD (24-120mm equivalent); ED 50-200mm f2.8-3.5 SWD (100-400mm equivalent), and the ED 14-35mm f2.0 SWD (28-70mm equivalent). The new ED 50-200mm f2.8-3.5 SWD lens focuses twice as fast as the previous ZUIKO DIGITAL lens with that focal length, and the new ED 14-35mm f2.0 joins the existing 35-100mm f2.0 (70-200mm equivalent) as the brightest lenses in their class. Mechanical focusing is also available for easy and accurate manual focusing by hand.

The E-3 can capture images at the highest image-quality setting at a rate of 5 frames per second. With shutter speeds of up 1/8000 second, it is possible to freeze action when photographing a cheetah in fast pursuit across the plain, or a fastball before it connects with the bat.

Superior Image Quality: Steady As It Goes
To prevent image blur caused by camera shake, which can occur in dim lighting or with longer telephoto lenses, the E-3 employs In-body Mechanical Image Stabilization, which compensates for camera movement up to 5 steps EV and delivers blur-free images taken with any of the ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses available for the camera. Moreover, built-in SWD Image Stabilization offers the advantage of image stabilization for every lens attached to the camera body, so there is no need to purchase image stabilized lenses at a premium price.

At the heart of the built-in image stabilizer unit are the Olympus-exclusive Supersonic Wave Drive motors with excellent responsiveness and control. The motors use information about camera shake gathered by a gyro sensor that detects and analyzes hand vibrations, and move the image sensor with a piezoelectric element.

The E-3's high-performance Live MOS image sensor delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity, and a new state-of-the-art amplifier circuit to eradicate noise and capture fine image details in both highlight and shadow areas.

The camera's Live MOS image sensor is complemented by Olympus' TruePic III Image Processor that produces crystal clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to provide the best digital images possible with accurate natural color, true-to-life flesh tones, brilliant blue skies and precise tonal expression in between. TruePic III also lowers image noise in images shot at higher ISO settings, enabling great results in low-light situations.

Swivel Live View LCD: What You See Is What You Get
Olympus Live View empowers users to easily compose their subjects live on the LCD and see precisely how the settings they select impact the image before the shutter is released and the image is captured. By altering settings like white balance and exposure, and visually confirming how these changes affect the final image, this real-time monitoring offers a level of versatility and creative control that cannot be achieved by other digital SLR cameras that only offer an optical viewfinder.

The E-3's 100 percent accurate swivel Live View HyperCrystal™ LCD can be rotated freely so photographers can compose with the camera held overhead or down low, enabling them to take shots from angles impossible until now without feeling like a contortionist. Because Live View enables an E-3 photographer to communicate face-to-face with subjects and still have everything in the frame with the camera body out of the way, an encouraging smile or wink of the eye can be used with a shy or nervous subject to get the desired results.

Live View
Live View provides an advantage for everyone who enjoys taking extreme close up macro shots, when composing on an optical viewfinder may be awkward, because it provides a magnification of the subject right on the LCD by a factor of 5, 7 or 10 times for sharp, pinpoint focus. The E-3 will also enable photographers to see over barriers because its swiveling LCD panel keeps subjects in view even with the camera held overhead.

2.5" Adjustable LCD
The bright 2.5-inch adjustable LCD displays 230,000 pixels in vivid color and includes HyperCrystal™ technology, which offers many times the contrast of conventional LCD monitors for easier viewing in both preview and playback. It also provides a wide viewing angle of 170 degrees, which ensures images can be composed from even the most obscure angles. The 2.5 inch LCD makes viewing icons and text on the camera's menu a squint-free process.

Reliability: Built for Adventure
The E-3 employs a large, easy-to-see optical viewfinder with 1.15x magnification and 100 percent accuracy. Photographers can rely on the E-3 to capture exactly what they compose through the optical viewfinder, so they aren't disappointed when viewing images back at the computer. This optical viewfinder also both reduces eyestrain and makes manual focusing easier.

Olympus' proven Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter™. The patented ultrasonic technology physically vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor, and captures the debris on a special adhesive membrane every time you turn on the camera. It can even remove dust attached by intermolecular force that cannot be removed by physical vibration or by discharging static electricity. These spot-free photos liberate users from hours spent retouching photographs at the computer or sending their cameras back to the manufacturer to remove dust trapped inside.

The E-3 is the ideal combination of strength and mass, and was built with a new casting technology to create a stronger magnesium chassis for greater durability. The camera is also sealed to make it splash-proof and dust-proof, and when used with Pro lenses it is sealed from the elements to perform in the most rugged conditions. Its classic penta-mirror design is portable enough to comfortably shoot with all day, and measures 5.59 inches (142mm) by 4.56 inches (116mm) by 2.93 inches (74.5mm), excluding protrusions, and weighs 28.2 ounces (800 grams) body only. Photographers will experience unparalleled ease of use - from menus that make sense and buttons on the body that are easy to understand and operate for total manual control, to customizable settings for every imaginable situation. Moreover, the camera's durable shutter mechanism is rated up to 150,000 cycles, so it will withstand heavy day-to-day use.

CompactFlash (I/II/UDMA/MicroDrive) and xD-Picture Card Support
Accepting both CompactFlash Type I & II, UDMA, Microdrives and xD-Picture Cards, the camera provides a choice of data storage options for enhanced flexibility, and it is possible to transfer image files from one card to the other right inside the camera.